Packing for Zanzibar can feel a bit overwhelming if it’s your first time visiting the Spice Islands. The weather shifts between dry, breezy, sunny, and humid across the year — and knowing what to pack saves space, money, and stress.
This guide covers your packing list, from exactly what to wear, what to bring, what to expect in each season.

Whether you’re kitesurfing in Paje, exploring Stone Town, or relaxing in Nungwi, this is the only Zanzibar packing list you’ll need.

Understanding Zanzibar’s Seasons

Before you pack, it helps to know how Zanzibar’s seasons work — especially if you’re planning activities based on weather.

Dry Season (June to October)

• Warm, low humidity

• Breezy evenings

• Ideal for the beach

• Great time for tours and exploring

Short Rains (November to December)

• Quick tropical showers

• Mostly sunny days

• Still perfect beach weather

Hot Season (January to March)

• Hottest time of the year

• Perfect for diving + kitesurfing

• Light clothes essential

Long Rains (April to May)

• Heavy showers, lush scenery

• Fewer tourists

• Some roads may be muddy, which affects how to get around Zanzibar

What to Wear in Zanzibar, here is the packing list

Light Clothing for Hot Days

Zanzibar stays warm year-round, so pack breathable clothing such as:

• Linen or cotton shirts

• Light shorts

• Sundresses

• Swimwear (at least 2–3 sets)

Because the heat varies depending on the month, dressing lightly can help you feel airy during hot days.

What to Wear for Stone Town

Stone Town is conservative, so dress modestly:

• Maxi skirts

• Loose pants

• T-shirts or blouses

• Light scarf (optional but respectful)

If you’re walking the narrow streets or taking local transport — you’ll feel more comfortable blending in.

Beach + Water Packing List

Pack:

• Rash vest (sun protection)

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Water shoes (helpful in some areas)

• Sunglasses

• Microfibre towel

If you’re planning excursions, many boat trips depart from Paje, Kendwa, or Nungwi — so staying beach-ready saves time.

Footwear on our Packing List

• Flip-flops for beaches

• Sandals for daily walking

• Lightweight sneakers for excursions

• Water shoes for rocky areas

Light footwear also makes a difference depending on how you get around Zanzibar, especially if using scooters or walking through Stone Town’s alleyways.

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen (higher SPF recommended)

• After-sun lotion or aloe

• Mosquito repellent (very important)

• Basic first aid kit

• Travel-size toiletries

Most shops on the island stock limited brands, so ad your favourites to your packing list.

Electronics & Travel Gear

• Portable charger

• Universal adapter

• Waterproof phone pouch

• Underwater GoPro (optional)

• Lightweight daypack

These come in handy when planning how to get around Zanzibar using taxis, tours, self-drive or scooters.

Documents & Money

• Passport

• Yellow fever card (if required by your route)

• Printed accommodation bookings

• Small USD notes

• Local SIM card (buy at the airport)

These documents help streamline how to get around Zanzibar, especially for checking into hotels, booking drivers, or hiring cars.

Special Items for Each Season

Dry Season (June–October)

• Light jacket for evenings

• Shawl or wrap

• Extra swimwear

Hot Season (January–March)

• Cooling towel

• Extra sunscreen

• Hydration salts

Rainy Season (April–May)

• Waterproof bag

• Light rain jacket

• Spare sandals

• Anti-slip shoes

Final Zanzibar Packing Checklist

✅ Clothing

• Linen shirts

• Shorts

• Sundresses

• Swimwear

• Light scarf

✅ Accessories

• Sunglasses

• Beach bag

• Hat

✅ Toiletries

• Sunscreen

• Mosquito repellent

• First aid items

✅ Electronics

• Power bank

• Adapter

• Waterproof case

✅ Travel Essentials

• Passport

• USD cash

• SIM card

• Daypack

Planning ahead ensures you pack smart, stay comfortable, and enjoy a smooth, unforgettable island holiday.
Zanzibar is a very laid back and relaxing island and waiting for you to explore it.

Here are two more inciteful articles to read.

• WHO Travel Health Advice
  https://www.who.int/travel-advice

• Weather Spark – Detailed Zanzibar Climate Data
  https://weatherspark.com/y/99936/Climate-in-Zanzibar-Tanzania-Year-Round/