Occupancy is high
eight months of the year.
Conservative short-term rental models assume 60–70% annual occupancy. OCGS data suggests the actual island-wide average is closer to 64% — with three months exceeding 75%.
Zanzibar's average annual hotel occupancy rate is approximately 64%, with peak occupancy reaching 92.4% in December 2024. Even the lowest months (April–May, during the long rains) maintain 27–30% occupancy, while July–August and November–December consistently exceed 70%.
| Month | Avg. occupancy | Classification | Bed-nights sold (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 77.8% | High | 60,560 |
| February | 76.9% | High | 54,300 |
| March | 49.3% | Mid | 37,800 |
| April | 27.6% | Low | 20,700 |
| May | 29.6% | Low | 22,950 |
| June | 55.3% | Mid | 41,460 |
| July | 77.7% | High | 60,150 |
| August | 83.0% | High | 64,200 |
| September | 57.6% | Mid | 43,200 |
| October | 68.5% | Mid | 53,000 |
| November | 70.4% | High | 52,800 |
| December | 92.4% | High | 71,500 |
| Annual average | 63.8% | — | ~582,600 |
Planning around the calendar
High season (Jan-Feb, Jul-Aug, Nov-Dec)
Occupancy of 70%+ with premium ADR achievable. December peaks at 92.4% — near full capacity. Bookings are typically made 3–6 months in advance during these windows.
Shoulder season (Mar, Jun, Sep, Oct)
Still profitable occupancy in the 49–69% range. Lower competition for bookings makes this a good window for promotional pricing that builds repeat guest loyalty.
Low season (Apr-May)
The long rains reduce travel, dropping occupancy to 27–30%. Budget for two months of conservative cash flow rather than assuming flat returns across the year.
Annual planning
An annual average near 64% occupancy means even the least popular months maintain positive cash flow at Fumba and Paje ADR levels — see the full yield model.