Weather Comparison
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
| Metric | Zanzibar | Dar es Salaam | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 28°C (82°F) | 28°C (82°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 24°C (75°F)▲ | 23°C (73°F) | Zanzibar |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days | 20 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 150 mm | 130 mm▲ | Dar es Salaam |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 82% | 82% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 4 | 4 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h | 17 km/h▲ | Dar es Salaam |
Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Zanzibar sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Dar es Salaam is also comfortable at 28°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.
Zanzibar reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Dar es Salaam averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.
Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.
Zanzibar receives approximately 150 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Dar es Salaam sees 130 mm over 20 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.
Highs of 28°C, lows of 24°C, 20 rain days
Highs of 28°C, lows of 23°C, 20 rain days
Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month. May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Zanzibar | Dar es Salaam | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 30°C | 10d | 31°C | 11d |
| Feb | 31°C | 8d | 31°C | 10d |
| Mar | 30°C | 22d | 30°C | 23d |
| Apr | 29°C | 25d | 29°C | 26d |
| May | 28°C | 20d | 28°C | 20d |
| Jun | 27°C | 11d | 28°C | 9d |
| Jul | 27°C | 8d | 27°C | 6d |
| Aug | 28°C | 7d | 28°C | 7d |
| Sep | 29°C | 7d | 29°C | 7d |
| Oct | 29°C | 11d | 29°C | 12d |
| Nov | 29°C | 18d | 30°C | 18d |
| Dec | 30°C | 20d | 30°C | 18d |
Zanzibar Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Dar es Salaam Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities