Stone Town in July

June through September brings the coolest temperatures and least rain — perfect for wandering the alleys without melting. The trade winds pick up during these months, making rooftop dining actually pleasant. December through February offers another dry window, though it gets hotter. Ramadan can fall in different months depending on the lunar calendar, and while it's culturally fascinating, many restaurants close during daylight hours. The long rains from March to May turn the coral stone streets slippery and many guesthouses close for maintenance. October and November see short rains that come and go quickly — still manageable for travel but pack an umbrella.