Zanzibar, immediately situated to the south of the equator, is ruled by a tropical warm climate. The annual average temperature amounts 26.5°C. It is especially warm from December to March and the hottest month is February. At that time the thermometer rises temporarily up to 39°C. This warm period is removed by the first rainy season (masika) which continues from March till the end of May and is marked by strong rainfall. The average precipitation in this time amounts to 249 mms. During the second rainy season (vuli) from November to December some drifting clouds move sporadically over the island. Moderate downpours are possible. The ideal holiday season for tourists lies between these two rainy seasons from July to October. Then, a fresh sea breeze blows over the island and provides for pleasant temperatures about 25°C. The average water temperature at the beaches of Zanzibar amounts 27°C.