Weather in Pemba

To ensure your trip brings only positive emotions, it is important to find out what the forecasters predict in advance. Below are the current updates and weather forecast in Pemba.

Pemba is an emerald gem in Tanzania's crown, often remaining in the shadow of its more famous neighbor, Zanzibar. This island, which locals call the "Green Island," is famous for its lush hills, dense forests, and vast clove plantations that fill the air with a spicy aroma. It is an ideal destination for those seeking seclusion, authentic culture, and a peaceful retreat away from mass tourism.

The island offers incredible opportunities for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The coral reefs surrounding the coast are considered some of the most beautiful and pristine in East Africa, making diving and snorkeling here truly breathtaking. Between dives, you can explore mangrove forests, visit the ruins of ancient settlements, or simply enjoy the silence on the white sandbanks that appear during low tide.

When planning a trip, it is worth considering the local climate features. The weather here is warm year-round: the average temperature ranges from a comfortable 25°C in July-August to 28°C in February and March. However, it is important to remember the rainy seasons: April and May are the wettest months, when the number of rainy days can reach 27. The most favorable time to visit is during the dry periods at the beginning of the year or from July to October, when the sun shines brightly and the chance of precipitation is minimal.

The climate on the island of Pemba is distinguished by enviable stability: it is warm and comfortable here throughout the year. Since the island is located in the tropical zone, there are no sharp temperature fluctuations. The hottest period falls at the beginning of the year — from January to March. At this time, especially in February and March, the average thermometer readings confidently stay around the +28°C mark, creating ideal conditions for lovers of true tropical warmth.

The so-called "winter," which lasts from June to September in the Southern Hemisphere, brings only a slight drop in temperature, making the weather milder and more refreshing. The "coolest" month is considered to be August with an average value of about +24.8°C. Even during this period, the air remains warm enough to enjoy nature and the ocean while avoiding the exhausting heat characteristic of the beginning of the year.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the surprisingly small amplitude between day and night temperatures. Daily fluctuations here are practically unnoticeable: the gap between the average minimum and maximum is often only 1–1.5 degrees. This means that evenings and nights in Pemba are just as warm and velvety as the days, so tourists are unlikely to need warm clothes for evening walks.

When planning a trip to the picturesque island of Pemba, it is important to consider the seasonality of precipitation characteristic of this tropical corner. The weather here is changeable, and rains are distributed unevenly throughout the year. The most pronounced wet season occurs in the middle of spring. April and May are the times when an umbrella might be needed most often: April sees a record number of rainy days (up to 27), so the sky is often cloudy.

A second period of high humidity is observed towards the end of the year. In November and December, the frequency of precipitation increases again, reaching 18–19 rainy days per month. However, even in these months, rains are often replaced by sunshine, allowing you to enjoy nature and the warm ocean.

If your goal is to catch the clearest weather possible, you should pay attention to February. This is statistically the driest month of the year, when the number of days with precipitation is minimal (about 4). January and September also delight with relatively stable and comfortable weather, when the probability of rain is significantly lower than at the peak of the wet season.

When packing for your journey, remember that Pemba welcomes guests with warmth year-round: the average air temperature here remains stable in the comfortable range from +25°C to +28°C. The basis of your luggage should be light clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen, which will help you tolerate high humidity more easily. Be sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, as the sun at these latitudes is very active.

Despite the eternal summer, it is worth considering the seasonality of rainfall. In April, May, and November, the number of rainy days increases significantly (up to 20–27 days per month), so a light waterproof raincoat or a compact umbrella will become indispensable companions. Since the rains are often short-lived and warm, clothing should be quick-drying.

For walking around the island and excursions, choose comfortable, broken-in shoes, for example, flat sandals or light sneakers. Also, do not forget sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 30-50) and repellents, as in the tropical climate, especially in the evenings, protection against insects will be useful. You are unlikely to need warm clothes, as even at night the temperature rarely drops below +24°C.