If you’re planning a trip to Pemba, it’s smart to know when the weather’s on your side. This coastal city in northern Mozambique sits in a tropical climate zone, with a pretty clear split between wet and dry seasons.
The best time to visit Pemba for ideal weather is from May to October, when it’s warm, dry, and the skies usually stay clear.
You’ll get comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and calm seas during these months. Swimming, diving, and just hanging out on the beach all feel easier and more fun.
From December to April, the wet season rolls in. Heavy rain, high humidity, and the occasional storm can make outdoor activities tricky and travel plans less reliable.
If you understand how Pemba’s climate shifts, you can pick the season that fits your plans. Maybe you’re after long sunny days, cooler evenings, or just want to dodge the rain—knowing what’s coming lets you make the most of your trip.
Overview of Pemba’s Climate and Seasons
Pemba gets a tropical climate with clear wet and dry spells. You’ll notice high humidity, warm sea temperatures, and steady warmth all year, though rainfall and sunshine hours change by season.
Tropical Climate Characteristics
Pemba’s weather falls into the tropical monsoon type. Basically, you get two main seasons—a hot, rainy stretch and then a drier, cooler one.
Humidity usually stays above 75% most of the year. Coastal winds help a bit, especially in the dry months.
The Indian Ocean’s influence keeps sea temperatures between 25.5°C and 29.5°C. You can swim any time of year, honestly.
Sunshine averages about 7–9 hours per day. You’ll see brighter skies in the dry season, while the wet season brings more clouds, but you’ll still get a few sunny hours even then.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
The rainy season hits from December to April. You’ll see heavy showers and thunderstorms, with March usually topping out at around 200 mm of rain in a month. It feels muggy, and the humidity gets pretty high.
From May to October, things dry out. Rain drops off fast—September might only get 2 mm. Skies clear up, winds pick up, and it’s just a lot more comfortable for being outside.
November is a bit of a wildcard, with rising temps and some showers before the wet season really kicks in.
Temperature Ranges Throughout the Year
Air temperatures in Pemba stay warm all year, with only small changes. The hottest stretch is November to March, when daytime highs often hit 30–31°C. Nights never really get chilly, usually staying above 21°C.
From June to August, things cool a little. Highs hover around 27–28°C, and lows dip to about 19–20°C. Even then, it still feels warm compared to a lot of other places.
Here’s a quick snapshot of average monthly temps:
| Month | Min (°C) | Max (°C) | Mean (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 31 | 27.7 |
| July | 19 | 27.5 | 23.3 |
| December | 25 | 31 | 27.9 |
With this steady warmth and inviting sea, Pemba’s always ready for beach lovers and water sports fans.
Best Time to Visit Pemba for Ideal Weather
Pemba’s tropical climate means you’ll spot a clear difference between the wet and dry periods. It’s best to plan your adventure when rainfall is low, skies are clear, and temperatures are just right for being outdoors.
Dry Season: May to October
The dry season is hands-down the most reliable time for pleasant weather in Pemba. Rainfall drops off sharply—July and August sometimes see less than 10 mm. Skies usually stay clear, and you get plenty of sun.
During these months, temperatures range from about 23°C to 29°C. It’s warm, but not stifling. July tends to be the coolest, averaging 23°C, while October starts to heat up again, heading toward 26°C. Humidity drops compared to the wet season, so the air feels a lot more comfortable.
This is also prime time for water activities. The sea’s still warm—between 25°C and 28°C—and diving visibility is often fantastic. Winds stay steady but don’t usually mess with beach days.
If you want reliable weather, little rain, and lots of sunshine, May to October is your sweet spot for a Pemba trip.
Peak Tourist Months and Weather
Most travelers show up between July and September. The weather’s steady, with daytime highs sticking between 27°C and 29°C. Nights get cooler, dropping to around 19°C, which actually makes sleeping easier—no need for blasting the AC.
Rain almost disappears in September, which averages just about 2 mm. Sunshine shoots up to 8–9 hours per day, perfect for squeezing in those outdoor adventures. Humidity drops to around 73–74%.
Because these months are so popular, hotels and tours book up fast. If you’re looking for a quieter vibe, try June or October—they’re just as nice, but not as crowded.
Transitional Months: April and November
April wraps up the wet season. Rainfall drops to about 120 mm, and humidity starts to let up. Temps hang near 27°C, and the sea stays warm at around 29°C. You might get the occasional quick shower, but nothing like the earlier months.
November swings the other way, leading into the wet season. Temperatures climb to about 27°C, and rainfall rises to 40 mm, spread over a few days. Humidity ticks up too, but you’ll still see mostly sunny skies with about 9 hours of daylight.
These months give you a nice mix: fewer tourists, better prices, and mostly good weather. If you don’t mind the odd shower, April and November can work out well for a Pemba getaway.
Rainy Season and Rainfall Patterns
Pemba’s tropical climate means you’ll see a strong split between wet and dry months. Most of the rain falls in summer, bringing heavy showers, high humidity, and more clouds. Winter months are way drier, with hardly any rainy days.
Rainy Season: December to March
Rain starts in December and keeps going through March. You can expect frequent downpours, usually short but intense. January is the wettest, often getting more than 250 mm of rain.
These months also bring muggy, overcast days. Outdoor plans might get rained out, and roads can get muddy, especially outside the city.
If you visit during this season, plan some indoor activities, or get out early in the mornings before the rain hits. Even with the rain, daytime temps stay around 28–31°C, so it’s still warm and sticky.
Monthly Rainfall Variations
Rainfall in Pemba jumps around a lot month to month. January through March get soaked, while June through August are dry.
- January: ~255 mm, about 15 rainy days
- February: ~200 mm, around 13 rainy days
- March: ~180 mm, around 11 rainy days
- July: ~14 mm, only 3 rainy days
This shows just how much the seasons flip. By July, rain is pretty much gone, and the skies clear up. From May to November, rainfall stays low, making it a great stretch for outdoor adventures and beach time.
Humidity and Cloud Cover Trends
Humidity sticks around all year but spikes during the wet months. February often hits 80% or more. In July, it drops closer to 70%, which feels a lot nicer.
Clouds follow a similar pattern. February’s the cloudiest, with less than 6 hours of sunshine per day. October, on the other hand, can see almost 10 hours of sun.
So, if you want less rain and more sun, avoid December to March. The rest of the year brings clearer skies and lower humidity.
Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown
Pemba’s tropical climate means steady warmth, but rainfall and sunshine bounce around. The difference between wet and dry months really shapes how you’ll experience the city.
Weather Highlights for Each Month
Temperatures in Pemba stay warm all year, typically between 28°C and 32°C (82°F–90°F) during the day. Nights cool off a bit, usually between 21°C and 26°C (70°F–79°F).
From December to March, heavy showers are common. January and February get the most rain, often more than 200 mm per month. Humidity climbs, so the air can feel heavy.
May through November brings the drier season. Rainfall in July can be as low as 14 mm, and you might only see a couple of wet days. These months are much better for getting outside, especially near the water.
April and November are in-between months. You’ll get a mix of sunny spells and quick rain showers.
Hottest and Coolest Periods
The hottest stretch usually lands in November and December, with daytime highs around 32°C (90°F). Nights stay pretty warm too, often not dropping below 25°C (77°F). With humidity rising, it can feel pretty intense.
June and July are the coolest months, with daytime temps dipping to about 28°C (82°F). Nights can go down to 21°C (70°F), which is much more comfortable for sleeping.
Even in the coolest months, the sea stays warm enough to swim. You won’t need heavy clothes, but light fabrics and sunblock are always smart.
Sunshine and Cloudiness by Month
Sunshine changes a lot with the seasons. During the wettest months (January–March), skies are often gray, and you’ll only see about 5–6 hours of sun per day.
As you move into the dry season, sunshine picks up. October is one of the sunniest months, with nearly 10 hours of sun daily. That’s perfect for the beach or diving.
From August to October, cloud cover is at its lowest, and the skies are mostly clear. February stands out as the cloudiest month, with lots of overcast days.
Special Weather Considerations for Travelers
When you’re planning a trip to Pemba, Mozambique, remember how the climate shapes your daily plans, sea conditions, and even local events. The area’s hot temps, seasonal rains, and changing humidity can affect your comfort and how much you get to explore.
Impact of Weather on Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun in Pemba really depends on the season. The dry months from May to November work best for hiking, diving, or wandering local markets. Rain’s rare, and daytime temps sit around 28°C to 30°C, making it pleasant to be outside.
From December through March, heavy rainfall can slow things down. Roads might get muddy, and some rural spots are tough to reach. Afternoon downpours happen a lot, so you’ll want to plan indoor activities or get out early in the day for sightseeing.
Humidity also matters. It spikes above 80% during the rainy months, which can make even short walks feel draining. If you’re sensitive to heat and humidity, stick to outdoor stuff early in the morning when it’s cooler.
Sea Temperatures and Beach Conditions
Pemba’s coastal waters stay warm all year, usually between 26°C in July and 29°C in November. You can swim, snorkel, or dive pretty much anytime you want.
Rainfall and wind patterns, though, can really change things. When the rainy season hits, runoff from the land makes the water cloudy, so the coral reefs look duller than usual.
Winds pick up, too, and the sea gets choppier, which can make things tricky for smaller boats. Honestly, it’s best to check local weather before heading out.
During the dry season, you’ll find calmer seas and much better visibility. Places like the Quirimbas Archipelago become fantastic for diving.
If you just want to relax on the beach, September and October usually bring warm water and long, sunny days. That’s hard to beat.
Events and Festivals Influenced by Weather
Seasonal climate shapes local events in Pemba. People tend to hold cultural gatherings and festivals during the dry months, since it’s easier to get around and outdoor venues are more dependable.
The rainy months make big outdoor celebrations tough, but folks still host smaller indoor events. You might catch village ceremonies or music performances moving inside when afternoon storms roll in.
Tourism events like diving festivals or fishing competitions usually happen in the dry season. Organizers pick this time for safer seas and bigger crowds.
If you want to experience both the culture and the outdoors, visiting during the dry months just makes sense.
Uncommon Weather Events in Pemba
Pemba’s tropical climate keeps things steady and warm, but you might still run into some odd weather. Forget about snow, but heavy rains, strong winds, and the occasional storm can mess with your plans.
Snow in Pemba: Is It Possible?
You’re not going to see snow in Pemba. The climate just doesn’t get cold enough. Most days, temperatures sit between 28°C and 32°C (82°F–90°F), and even at night, it rarely dips below 20°C (68°F).
Honestly, snow isn’t just rare—it’s impossible with the current climate here. The warm Indian Ocean keeps temperatures stable and stops any real cold from settling in.
Instead, get ready for high humidity and seasonal rainfall, especially from December to March. Those months bring heavy showers and plenty of clouds, but the heat sticks around.
If you’re hoping for cooler weather, the dry season from May to August does offer a bit less humidity and slightly more comfortable days, though it’s still nowhere near chilly.
Storms and Extreme Weather
Storms actually matter more for your travel plans than cold weather does. Pemba sits up on the northern Mozambican coast, so it gets hit with tropical rains and occasional cyclones.
The rainy season really gets going from January to March. Monthly rainfall can easily top 200 mm. During these months, you’ll probably run into intense thunderstorms, some brief flooding, and visibility on the roads can drop fast.
Strong winds often whip up when tropical systems sweep through the Mozambique Channel. Direct cyclone hits don’t happen that often, but the region has definitely faced damaging storms before.
If you want to avoid headaches, try visiting during the dry season (May–November). Rainfall drops way down, skies usually stay clear, and the chance of severe storms goes way down. Outdoor activities like diving or hitting the beach feel a lot more dependable then.