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The Latest Zanzibar Vacation Packages

The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town

Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024

The Residence Zanzibar

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Kijiji Villas Nungwi

Kiwengwa Beach Resort

Reviewed on Jan 26, 2024

Zanzibar Essential Information

Prepare for your zanzibar vacation with our essential travel info, zanzibar hotel deals.

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in zanzibar, nungwi beach.

Enjoy a beautiful stretch of white sand and blue sea surrounded by plenty of amenities, as well as a turtle conservation site.

Mnemba Island

Stay in a palm-leaf cottage on this idyllic resort island, dive along the coral reef and look for dolphins and whales.

Jambiani Beach

Cycle like a local, go snorkeling near rocky outcrops and beachcomb through the seaweed harvest along this secluded haven of tranquility.

What to do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar: rock restaurant and cave tour visit, zanzibar full-day excursion- min 2 pax (for clients already in zanzibar), zanzibar: north coast and turtle sanctuary tour, other vacations you might like.

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The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

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• Last Updated On: September 10, 2023

Zanzibar has a very rich history and was once one of the most important areas in East Africa. Following Vasco de Gama’s visit in 1499, Zanzibar was ruled by the Portuguese and remained this way for almost two centuries.

Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular beach destinations in Africa and with good reasons. Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world, but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on. On the east coast, waves break over coral reefs and sand bars offshore, and low tide reveals small pools of starfish, small minnows, and anemones. Up north, ocean swimming is much less susceptible to the tides, and smooth beaches and white sand make for dazzling days in the sun.

I spent numerous months traveling around Zanzibar as you can read in my detailed cost of living breakdown of Zanzibar . I stayed in numerous areas all over the island, really allowing me to get a feel of the place. This guide will serve to give an overview of all the things you need to know about traveling here!

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How to get to Zanzibar

Zanzibar is easily accessible from the world now. It’s built itself as the premier beach destination in East Africa and it’s accessibility proves it. It’s not as upscale as the Seychelles and positions itself as a place both budget and luxury travelers can visit.

Zanzibar island is well connected by international flights around the world. Qatar flies direct from Doha allowing travelers from Europe and America to easily visit. In addition, Ethiopian Airlines has directs flights from Addis Ababa to Zanzibar allowing for easy international connections. Flights are getting cheaper by the day and it’s easy to use miles nowadays to book trips to Zanzibar. 

From Tanzania, you can quickly reach Zanzibar by air from popular places like Kilimanjaro and Arusha. If you’re staying deep in the Serengeti like Seronera, you can take direct flights to Zanzibar.

Take the ferry to Zanzibar

If you are traveling through Tanzania and on a tight budget (or just want to take a ferry on the high seas), there are regular ferry services from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar. This is a popular way to get to the island as it’s fast and cheaper than a flight. While flights will be roughly $60-80 one way, the ferry is half the cost.

From Dar Es Salaam’s main port, there are four ferries a day making this trip. The ferries are mostly newer with plenty of outdoor space allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the views. They seem to make new ferries every few years and on my recent trip in 2020, the ferry took 1h 45min to make the trip from Dar to Stone Town .

When you purchase your ticket in Dar Es Salaam, just make sure to reject the swarms of people that will offer to take your bag to the ferry. This is unnecessary and although they’re trying to make a living, you don’t need anyone to take your bags. The ferry terminal is pretty standard with a waiting room that you can absolutely get to yourself.

Entry Visas

As Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, it is subject to the same visa and entry requirements of the mainland. For most Western travelers, you will need a visa to enter Zanzibar/Tanzania.

The entry visa can be:

• Purchased on arrival at the airport. The cost of this is $50 for every nationality besides the US which is $100.
• Purchased online as an e-visa before arrival

In recent years, you can even pay for the visas by using a credit card ! No need to pay using USD cash anymore.

When to visit Zanzibar – best time of year

Zanzibar enjoys warm weather year round. The sun is strong and all your tropical beach dreams will be fulfilled here. Nevertheless, there are some times that are better than others. Here is a breakdown of the seasons in Zanzibar.

High Season: June to October

Right after the stormy season, starting from June is when the high season begins. This time of year sees cooler temperatures but almost no rainfall. It’s popular as many people will visit the Serengeti during this time to witness the Great Migration and come to Zanzibar for beach time afterwards.

Second High Season: Dec to Feb

December to February is the next high season. The temperatures are much warmer during these months and there’s a general low amount of rainfall. This is also the high season for winds which makes places like Paje extremely popular for kitesurfers.

Rainy Season: Mar to May

The big rainy season in Zanzibar is between March and May. During this time, lots of the resorts close down as you can see torrential downpours for weeks on end. Many of the people I spoke with said this time of year sees almost no tourists but it’s a welcome reprieve from the unbearable heat in the months prior.

November is the “small rainy season” where you can see spotty rain showers at various points of the day. I actually spent a month in Zanzibar during this month and did not find it bad at all. Sure there were some days where it rained, but for the most part, it was sunny and beautiful throughout my trip.

Different areas of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a huge island. From north to south it is over 200km and 100km from east to west. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to explore the whole island on a trip if you have anything under a month.

If you’re visiting just to go to a resort for a week or less, it’s likely you’ll stay in one area and never leave that part of Zanzibar. Having spent over a month on the island, I was able to explore most of the island without much effort.

For the most part, Zanzibar is beautiful all around. You will find beautiful beaches, stunning properties and picturesque ocean views everywhere.

The capital of Zanzibar is where everyone will start off. Whether you fly or take a ferry, you will stop in Stone Town. Whether you choose to spend a night or two in the vibrant capital is up to you. If you’re looking for beautiful tropical beaches, this is not the place.

The town is worth a night or two in my opinion if you have the time on your trip.

Nungwi and Kendwa

Located in the far north, Nungwi and Kendwa have in my opinion the most beautiful beaches on the island. The tides are not so extreme and you don’t see the crazy amounts of seaweed and sea urchins that you will find elsewhere. Think of stunning blue beaches and white sand for as far as you can see.

Nungwi is also home to all the huge luxury resorts. If you’re keen for upscale all inclusive 5* resorts with beautiful beaches, Nungwi is your place. Resorts like the Riu, Zuri, and Gemma will satisfy all your desires. Nungwi gets very busy during the high season. In recent years, it’s become somewhat of the party spot. In addition to ultra luxury resorts, there are plenty of budget options here which has kind of turned it into the Phuket equivalent of East Africa.

Kendwa, the town just south of Nungwi is a great option if you want to enjoy the same beaches without the big crowds of people. Both options are prime for enjoying sunsets as the areas in the east, while beautiful, don’t enjoy such things!

Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pongwe, and the northeast

Matemwe is an area in the northeast of Zanzibar. It’s roughly 1.5 hours from the Stone Town airport by car.

Matemwe is known to be a chilled out beach side area with a collection of boutique hotels. Unlike Nungwi with its huge resorts, there are few standalone restaurants here and no huge hotels. It’s much more chilled, laid back, and offers beautiful views of the beach. Being on the east side, the beaches here have huge high and low tides.

During low tide, the beach extends 500m out to where the reef breaks. It’s fascinating watching the tides come in and out twice a day. I stayed at a beautiful Boutique resort called Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas which had Makuti style bungalows right in front of the beach.

It’s also the launching point to visit the famous Mnemba Atoll which is the private island off the coast of Zanzibar. This beautiful island is home to a protected Marine park and is home to endless options for scuba diving/snorkeling.

Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi in the southeast

In the southeast of Zanzibar is another very popular area for tourists to stay. This part of Zanzibar has perhaps the best beaches outside of Nungwi. The tides are extremely dramatic but the beaches are mostly sand as opposed to corals and urchins in the north.

Paje is the biggest town here and is the kitesurfing capital of Zanzibar. The winds blow east to west here almost the entire year. Nearby towns like Jambiani, Bwejuu, and Michamvi are also crowd favorites.

The most famous restaurant in Zanzibar, The Rock , is located in this peninsula. It’s well worth the visit if you decide to stay here!

How to get around Zanzibar

Zanzibar being a huge island requires planning to get from place to place. If you’re only staying for a few days, it’s unlikely you’ll need to read up on this because you’ll likely just take a taxi to your resort and call it a day. Here are some general price ranges for taxis that I found from taking taxis all over the island.

Note that these are just broad estimates. Your ability to negotiate and the desperation of your cab driver on the day will dictate your fee. Alternatively, ask your accommodation what they can offer. If you are booking a hotel with a super fancy resort, expect to pay much more than if you’re staying at a more personalized guesthouse.

Stone Town to Matemwe: $30-40

Stone Town to Nungwi: $40-50

Stone Town to Paje: $30-$40

Stone Town to Kiwengwa: $30-$40

Nungwi to Paje: $50-60

Paje to Michamvi: $10-$15

Matemwe or Kiwengwa to Nungwi: $25-30

Budget traveling in Zanzibar

For those that aren’t keen on taxis, then know that Zanzibar is serviced primarily by dala dalas which are the local forms of transport. Think old school hippie style vans. These are common throughout Africa and are the preferred method to get around for those on budgets. Some dala dalas are just trucks with the trunk converted as seating.

This method will be significantly cheaper than taking a taxi and especially useful if you’re a solo traveler. For example, Stone Town to Paje or Stone Town to Nungwi is roughly $2. Of course, with cheaper prices, you can expect it to be much slower. I’d budget for at a dala dala to take 2x as long as a taxi given how often it must stop to pick up and drop off people.

Which areas do I like the most?

Having spent much time on this island, I’ve been able to visit most of the areas. For most tourists, it’s likely you’ll stay at one hotel and stay in that area for the duration of your stay.

It’s not so feasible to just rent a car in Stone Town and cruise around the island. I’ve heard of some people doing this, but the police road blocks on the island make it less than ideal. However, if you are stuck on where to concentrate your efforts, then hopefully this part will help.

If you want the most beautiful beaches

The best beaches in Zanzibar are in the Nungwi and Kendwa area in my opinion. Paje and the area in the southeast are also very beautiful.

If you like the big 5* all inclusive resorts

If you are keen for the big luxury resorts with multiple pools, big dining areas, and fancy common areas, then I think Nungwi will be your best bet. The beaches are fantastic here but the all inclusive style resorts here are big and luxurious.

Recommended Hotels

• Riu Palace Nungwi All Inclusive
• Zuri Zanzibar

If you like boutique hotels on the beach

If you fancy upscale or midscale boutique hotels with beautiful beach views and luxurious accommodations but with few people, then my favorite areas are Matemwe and the southeast. The area of Michamvi is the boutique hotel capital in my opinion. Bwejuu, Paje, Jambiani all have really nice hotels as well.

The beaches here are also very nice in this part of the island.

• Zawadi Boutique Hotel (The Ultimate hotel)
• Matlai Boutique Hotel
• Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas
• Jua Retreat

If you want cheap accommodation

The beauty of Zanzibar is that it is quite developed for tourism and there are budget options in almost every part of the island. However, I’d say the cheapest places you can find accommodations are in Nungwi, Paje, and of course Stone Town.

• MITI Beach bungalows
• Villa Kiota
• Baladin Hotel
• Michamvi Spirit Lodge

How much do things cost in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a big island and has been really developed for tourism in the past decade. Zanzibar offers a variety of accommodation options throughout its 2,500 square km of space.

Whether you’re a luxury honeymooner with an unlimited budget or a budget backpacker, there are options available for everyone.

Africa in general is an expensive area to travel around so right off the bat, I would temper your expectations if you’re a budget traveler with ideas of Southeast Asia or Central American prices. It is much more expensive here and you will not find delicious $1 pad Thai on the streets.

There is not much a of a street food scene in Zanzibar that compares to that of Asia. For the most part, you’ll visit tourist centric restaurants run by locals or tourist centric restaurants run by foreigners. The price for a main dish of grilled calamari with rice will be around $6-$10.

There are some restaurants that are part of hotels and the more upscale that hotel is, you can expect to pay more. Local beers like Serengeti and Safari can be had for about $3 for a 500ml bottle and liquor based drinks are slightly more.

Of course, local prices will be lower than this but you will need to find the local spots which are always away from the main beach area.

Zanzibar is an island through and through

Zanzibar is a beautifl tropical island and feels like it. The different areas of Zanzibar are all tourist focused and life mostly revolves around the hotels and resorts. This means, there isn’t much life outside of the beach and hotels surrounding them. The exception is of course in Stone Town which is a proper city.

Zanzibar is large in size but you won’t really travel much between the different towns. You can rent a scooter yes but there are so many police checkpoints that will probably force you to pay bribes that it isn’t a feasible option to travel around.

Zanzibar is very different than say Bali which is also an island with a village like vibe in places like Canggu and Pererenan but offers total first world amenities like trendy restaurants, bars, cafes, and the like. If you’re a digital nomad looking to spend extended time in one place, I would highly recommend Bali over Zanzibar . The infrastructure on Bali is much more developed and the cost of living in Bali is half of what it would be on Zanzibar.

The currency in Zanzibar

Zanzibar uses the Tanzania Shilling (TZS). For almost all tourist centric hotel, prices will be quoted to you in dollars to keep things simple. While you’re at the resort, costs of services and goods will also be in USD. If you stay in a more rustic guesthouse or backpackers spot, it’s more likely you’ll see prices in Shillings.

If you dine outside your resort at a local restaurant, you can expect to pay in shillings. In essence, locals mostly always use shillings so it’s good to have some Tanzanian cash on you.

Hotels mostly accept credit cards but expect to pay a surcharge of 4-5%. Restaurants and bars outside of a big resort are mostly on a cash basis.

ATM Fees are outrageous

One thing that really stood out to me was just how crazy the costs of using ATMs are. They must be some of the most expensive ATMs I’ve ever seen.

Having traveled in Zanzibar for over a month, I had to visit the ATMs numerous times because many things are done in cash. ATMs are extremely pricey, with fees ranging from $6-9 per use!

Even worse, the ATMs cap out at 400,000 shillings which is $180. This won’t get you very far if you need to pay hotel bills in cash! You will need to visit the ATM numerous times and pay that fee each time. If you do not have a no fee debit card like Charles Schwab (US readers only sadly), then you should look into bringing USD or EUR cash and exchanging them in Stone Town.

Diving and Snorkeling in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a paradise for lovers of underwater life. I spent many days diving in Zanzibar so I have lots of advice to offer. Although Zanzibar doesn’t compare to the diving I did on the nearby islands of Mafia Island and Pemba Island , it will offer vacation goers with more than enough to satisfy.

As Zanzibar is a huge island, there are numerous areas to scuba dive in. Depending on where you stay (refer to the sections above), it will likely dictate where you can dive. For example, if you are staying in Nungwi, it’s unlikely you’ll want to go scuba diving in the southeast area of Paje. The drive alone would be almost 2 hours each way.

Mnemba Atoll

The most popular place in Zanzibar to scuba dive and snorkel is without a doubt the Mnemba Atoll . Located in Zanzibar’s northeast, this is a stunning marine park with crystal blue waters and loads of underwater life. It’s incredibly popular and everyone staying in the area like Nungwi , Kiwengwa, or Matemwe will be able to visit this area for a day of underwater activities.

The diving here, while popular, is not that great. The corals have been bleached to hell and there’s a ridiculous amount of over tourism. It’s completely packed full of people on all days making it not so enjoyable.

Diving in the southeast area of Paje

I dove in the southeast with Rising Sun divers while staying at the beautiful Zawadi Resort . This area is by far the most beautiful diving in Zanzibar. It’s undiscovered and untouched by the other dive shops making it a much more enjoyable experience.

Activities in Zanzibar

As you’d expect, there is as an endless amount of things to do in Zanzibar. Once you’re tired of laying on the beach, you can choose to do a variety of different tours from all around the island. I can’t list all of them because I don’t know all of them.

If you walk through Stone Town, you’ll find a huge list of activities that all the tour agents offer and the price is of course negotiable. While extremely popular, I would actually recommend a visit to one of the spice farms in Zanzibar . It seemed like a super touristy thing to do but I found it to be so educational and interesting, I did it twice!

Other than that, here are a list of things that are popular to do in Zanzibar:

• Mnemba Island visit
• Dolphin Swim tour (this is an ethically terrible tour so don’t do it)
• Prison Island tour
• Safari blue day trip
• Scuba Diving (all over the island)
• Snorkeling (literally everywhere)
• Jozani Forest to see the primates
• A visit to the Rock restaurant
• Kitesurfing in Paje
• Low tide reef tour
• Parasailing in Nungwi
• Dhow cruises (literally everywhere) for sunset or day time

Get out of Zanzibar

Zanzibar has more than enough to keep you occupied for weeks. The island is huge and different areas will give you something different.

However, surrounding Zanzibar is a sea of other options. Outside of the standard safari options like the Serengeti , the Selous, Ngorongoro crater etc, there are nearby islands that are worth visiting.

Mafia Island

If you’re a scuba diver, then you will want to visit Mafia Island. While there are endless diving options in Zanzibar, they do not compare whatsoever to Mafia Island . This is perhaps the best diving in East Africa offering crazy amounts of fish life and beautiful corals.

Mafia Island is also much more rustic and lesser developed than Zanzibar. The beaches are more wild and you won’t any large resorts nearby. From Zanzibar, you will need to take a fligh tto Dar Es Salaam, and onwards to Mafia island.

Pemba Island

Of the three Tanzanian islands, Pemba Island is without a doubt the least visited. This is good for those that are looking for a breathtaking and undiscovered tropical paradise. Pemba’s natural beauty is unmatched in my opinion. The beaches here are incredible and devoid of the beachboys and crowds that are all over Zanzibar. The hotels like the Aiyana are absolute paradise.

The island itself still feels like it lives in the old ways and while driving around, you will feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The diving on Pemba is also spectacular although not quite as amazing as Mafia Island. However, if you want great diving and great beaches, then Pemba is your place.

There are only a handful of hotels on this big island so expect to pay more for your trip here. This is not a budget travel destination so plan for it that way.

Continue Reading:

• Visiting Nungwi, Zanzibar: A Detailed Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Travel and Kitesurfing Guide to Paje, Zanzibar
• Visiting The Rock: Zanzibar’s Ultimate Restaurant With A View

Cost of Living in Zanzibar: How Much It Costs To Live In Paradise

Hotel review for the park hyatt zanzibar: luxury in stone town, review of the matlai boutique hotel, zanzibar: paradise in michamvi.

• The Ultimate Guide To Diving & Snorkeling Mnemba Atoll, Zanzibar
• The Ultimate Travel Guide For Stone Town, Zanzibar

The Ultimate Pemba Island Travel And Diving Guide

• Review of Zanzibar Sunrise Bandas: Matemwe’s Paradise Getaway
• Staying At the Dreams Of Zanzibar Hotel

Aiyana Hotel Review: Pure Luxury In Pemba Island

• Zawadi Hotel Detailed Review: Zanzibar Paradise Defined
• Review Of The Residence Hotel, Zanzibar: Average At Best

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Thank you SO much for this blog! I am going for 2 weeks and my brain is spinning a little bit. I have my diving certification and deciding whether to stay in one area of which hotels halfway through, etc.

Hi Joslyn, glad you found it helpful! Enjoy Zanzibar, it’s realy amazing!

Awesome information here! Me and my family will travel to Zanzibar this December/January. We love snorkeling and while I have found loads of info on snorkeling the Mnemba Island online, there really isn´t much info beside that.

Is it possible snorkeling directly from the beaches in Zanzibar as opposed to taking boat trips all the time? In that case, which beach would you recommend for snorkeling directly from the beach?

We plan to split our time between Kendwa (heard that the reef isn´t that good but more for general hanging around and swimming) and some place on the eastern side. Is it possible for instance to walk all the way to the reef during low tide on the eastern beaches and just kind of jump in and start snorkeling?

We will be dividing our time between Zanzibar and Mafia Island so no biggies if beach snorkeling in Zanzibar isn´t worth it, but it sure would make for more fun beach days =)

Once again, thank´s for an awesome blog, you are a real inspiration!

Hi Mike, Zanzibar is a big place so it relaly just depends on where your hotel and resort is and if there is a good reef nearby. When I stayed at the Zawadi hotel there was a local reef that I could reach as the tides were rising and it was amazing. I would say that most places on the island don’t have an easily accessible reef nearby. Of course, you can always just pick up a snorkel and fins and try your luck but you’re likely not going to see much. But otherwise, save the diving for Mafia and relax while in Zanzibar!

Hey Johnny, thank´s for fast reply! Ok so follow up question (this should probably be posted in your section on Mafia Island instead but oh well). Same question but for Mafia Island, is it possible to snorkel directly from the beach, either in Kilindoni area or in Utende area, or do you need to take boat out every time? Especially in the marine park, it seems it would build up to a lot of money pretty fast together with the daily conservation fees.

Yes definitely in mafia can snorkel from the beach in the marinr park side !

At last what a great blog !!, bookmarked and taking this with me for referencing, just one point I might have missed how long can I stay without renewing my visa. I’m Just arranging flights hope to stay from December until April. Once agian well done much appriated

Hi Jonathan, glad you like the blog. The Tanzanian visa is good for 90 days and you can extend it inside the country for another 90 days for a total of 6 months. It’s quite easy to do and you just need to visit the immigration office in Nungwi or Stone Town. I’m not sure what the cost is but i wouldn’t be surprised if this changed from person to person.

Great Blog! We are looking to go to Zanzibar next Jan/Feb. We love snorkeling so wanted to ask you where the best place is to snorkel from the beach. I read it is possible to wait for low tide, then walk out to the reef edge to snorkel. I heard this was possible in the Kiwengna Mstemwe areas. Have you got any advice? I know we can do snorkel trips, but it would make it rather expensive to do those daily and we are on a budget. Thanks for any help!

Hi Judith, yes you can snorkel at low tide in matwmwe. Just watch out for the sea urchins! I never did it but my hotel informed me it was possible.

Thanks for sharing this amazing blog with us. I appreciate your efforts to write this blog in detail.

Thank you. Appreciate it.

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Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island is a jewel in the ocean, surrounded by beaches that rate among the finest in the world. Here you can swim, snorkel or just lounge the hours away, while shoals of luminous fish graze over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.

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An icon of Stone Town, the House of Wonders rises in impressive tiers of slender steel pillars and balconies overlooking the waterfront. Its enormous…

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Old Dispensary

With its peppermint-green latticework balconies and sculpted clock tower, this 19th-century charitable dispensary is one of the most attractive landmarks…

Princess Salme Museum

Carefully curated by the renowned historian Said al Gheithy, this delightful little museum tells the story of Princess Salme, a sultan's daughter who…

Anglican Cathedral

The tall spire and grey-yellow walls of the Anglican cathedral dominate the surrounding streets in this part of Stone Town, while the dark-wood pews and…

Palace Museum

Occupying several large buildings along the waterfront, this was the palace of Sultan Seyyid Said from 1828 until it was largely destroyed by the British…

Jozani-Chwaka National Park

Jozani Forest is the largest area of indigenous forest on Zanzibar Island. Situated south of Chwaka Bay on low-lying land, the area is prone to flooding,…

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The top 7 destinations for travel in February 2024

10 delicious dishes you should definitely eat in Zanzibar

Since when is Mt Kilimanjaro in Kenya? 5 wildly inaccurate misconceptions about Tanzania

7 reasons why your next adventure should be in Tanzania

Island time: why beautiful Zanzibar deserves your attention

Life’s a beach: why are we so drawn to the ocean?

Zanzibar at a glance

Capital city.

Zanzibar City

Swahili, English, Arabic

(GMT+03:00) Zanzibar City

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) and Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Zanzibar

Culture and customs.

The Zanzibar archipelago is an eclectic melting pot of cultures, customs, and religions. Within the streets of Stone Town, you’ll find mosques and churches standing literally side by side. While Zanzibar is a primarily Muslim region, it shares a history of cultural influences that spread as far wide as the Middle East,  India , and ancient Persia. Previously a protectorate of Britain and officially a part of Tanzania since 1964, the archipelago has a long history of bureaucratic changes and tensions. 

Currently, the population of Zanzibar is largely divided. Many still champion for independence from Tanzania and seek to have Zanzibar declared its own country. Despite their political differences, the discussion remains respectful between the locals. You are just as likely to see them passionately debating politics in town centers as you are to see tropical fruit farmers hawking their produce roadside all around the islands. But one thing everyone in Zanzibar has in common is their love of soccer. Head to any beach in the late afternoon and you are almost guaranteed to witness the locals coming together for a friendly game of beach soccer.

Eating and drinking

The variety of food in Zanzibar rivals anywhere in the world. It owes this entirely to its geography: being at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, the locals have picked up a thing or two about worldly cuisines.  Whether it is yam and plantain-based dishes from the Bantu peoples of Eastern Africa, Indian inspired masala curries featuring many of the spices the island is famous for, or the sweet date and hazelnut bread is traditionally eaten to celebrate the end of Ramadan – you will be spoiled for choices to fill your plate! Unsurprisingly for an island, seafood takes pride of place in Zanzibar and seafood lovers will rejoice at the wide range of dishes available at restaurants and markets.   An absolute must for anyone visiting Stone Town is the Forodhani night market. As soon as the sun sets each night, beachside Forodhani Park transforms into an open-air food market filled will vendors tempting you to try their dishes. Our pick is the Zanzibar pizza – filled with whatever fresh ingredients take your fancy at the time. Wash it all down with fresh coconut juice (direct from the coconut of course!)

Perhaps the most famous export from Zanzibar is its spices, including pepper, cinnamon and ginger to name a few. Visit a spice plantation to sample countless types of spices directly from the source. Don’t forget to pick up a selection from the local markets before you leave.

Zanzibar has a large Muslim population, so bear in mind that Ramadan is the fasting month for all Muslims. During this month, no food, drink or smoking is permitted during daylight hours. While non-Muslims aren't expected to fast, it's recommended to try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Must-try foods in Zanzibar:

1. pweza wa nazi.

 Octopus boiled in coconut milk to create a curry-based dish with cinnamon, cardamom, garlic and lime juice.

2. Barbecued lobster  

 Enjoy a lobster grilled to perfection at one of the many beachside eateries around the island. 

3. Spice cake

 A typical local dessert made using pastry with a mix of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and chocolate.

Geography and Environment

Zanzibar is an island province of Tanzania located off the coast of East Africa. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean on all fronts, it is covered mostly in lush rainforest and encircled by white beaches and coral reefs.

Zanzibar is actually an archipelago made up of many small islands and two prominent, main ones: Pemba Island and Unguja Island – the largest, often mistaken as ‘Zanzibar Island’, where the majority of the province’s population lives.

While there are various swanky stores in main hubs like Stone Town, specializing inexpensive trinkets and homewares, you simply can’t visit Zanzibar and not take an afternoon stroll through one of its lively, colorful markets. Lose yourself amongst the hustle of Darajini market in Stone Town, where you will find stores piled high with spices, vegetables, fabrics and dried snacks. The market is so jam-packed, stores often spill out into the tiny laneways nearby.

Things to buy in Zanzibar

Don’t leave the island without purchasing a selection of the many spices still grown on plantations today. Pepper, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg are among the islands’ specialties. But you can find almost every type of spice imaginable here!

2. Woven handicrafts

Pick up a handmade ukili bag, placemat, rug or even a sun hat. The locals have perfected this handicraft and are widely available throughout Zanzibar. A great way to support local initiatives and talent.

Festivals and events

Festival of the dhow countries .

The highlight of the Zanzibar International Film Festival, the Festival of the Dhow Countries is a cultural celebration of international film, music, theatre, and performing arts. One of the biggest annual cultural festivals in Africa, it takes place over the first two weeks of July. Film screenings, exhibitions, and craft classes are on offer during the day, while at night beach parties are a fun way to interact with locals.

Sauti Za Busara Festival 

If you are lucky enough to visit Stone Town in early February, you’ll be treated to a hypnotising swell of Swahili music and dance during this vibrant celebration of East African culture. The festival concludes with a beachside festival of crafts, cuisine and entertainment.

Further Reading

Zanzibar travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is tipping customary in Zanzibar?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Zanzibar but a little generosity will be received positively, especially when considering the low wages that service workers are typically paid in Zanzibar.

Setting aside a small amount for porters, guides and drivers is wise, as is leaving spare change or rounding up the bill at restaurants.

What is the internet access like in Zanzibar?

Internet access is widespread throughout the main islands of Zanzibar. However, if visiting smaller islands there will be limited to no access available.

What are the toilets like in Zanzibar?

Western-style flushable toilets are generally available in most hotels, tourist attractions and other modern buildings in Zanzibar.

I n rural areas squat/pit toilets are the general standard for local amenities.

Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper as these are rarely provided.

What will it cost for a…?

• Street snack = US 0.45 
• Bottle of beer = US 0.90 
• Plate of food from a local eatery = US 1.35 
• Dinner in an international restaurant = US 4.50 – US 9

Can I drink the water in Zanzibar?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Zanzibar.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water.

Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available.

It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Zanzibar?

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and Western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors.

Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

What is ATM access like in Zanzibar?

ATMs are easily found in urban centers such as Stone Town but are rarer in rural areas and villages.

Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the built up areas as ATMs aren't always an option.

Is Zanzibar a safe destination for LGBTQI-travellers?

Tanzania is a conservative country and homosexuality is still officially illegal, including in Zanzibar. While prosecutions might be rare, penalties can be severe with potential imprisonment as punishment.

For this reason, public displays of affection (even between members of the opposite sex) is considered taboo and not advised.  

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   Smartraveller   before you travel.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

TANZANIA: Australia: Yes - Visa required Belgium: Yes - Visa required Canada: Yes - Visa required Germany: Yes - Visa required Ireland: Yes - Visa required Netherlands: Yes - Visa required New Zealand: Yes - Visa required South Africa: Yes - Visa required Switzerland: Yes - Visa required United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required USA: Yes - Visa required It is recommended you purchase your visa in advance at any Diplomatic or Consulate Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania abroad. The cost is approximately US$100 depending on nationality and should take 1 business day. At the present time you do not require a multi entry visa to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). However if your trip visits Tanzania twice after a visit to a country other than those listed above, you may need to purchase two visas. For the purpose of the visa application you can use the following address: Kibo Palace Hotel PO Box 2523 Old Moshi Road Arusha - Tanzania Phone: +255 272544472 It is also possible to obtain a tourist's visa for a single entry at any one of the following main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration and health requirements: -Dar es Salaam International Airport -Zanzibar International Airport -Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) -Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya border point) -Kasumulu Border crossing  -Isebania Border crossing

This is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 28/11/2023

What public holidays are celebrated in Tanzania?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 12 Jan: Zanzibar Revolutionary Day
• 7 Apr: Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day
• 14 Apr: Good Friday
• 17 Apr: Easter Monday
• 26 Apr: Union Day 
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 25 Jun: Iddi El Fitry / End of Ramadan
• 26 Jun: Iddi El Fitry Holiday
• 7 Jul: Maonyesho ya Saba Saba
• 8 Aug: Wakulima ya Nane Nane / Peasants' Day
• 1 Sep: Iddi El Haji / Feast of Sacrifice
• 14 Oct: Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Day
• 30 Nov: The Prophet's Birthday
• 9 Dec: Republic Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Please note, Tanzania public holidays may vary.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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How to plan a trip to Zanzibar

Want to plan your holiday to Tanzania’s island paradise? Here is our guide on how to plan a trip to Zanzibar on your own. This guide is written from a South African perspective.

Booking a Package Holiday through AfricaStay

Booking a package deal (return flights and accommodation all in one) can definitely work. Packages can often end up being cheaper than booking the same resort and your own flights independently.

We recommend using AfricaStay when shopping around for packages to Zanzibar. They are known for their impressive and affordable all-inclusive package deals. This is where we have found the best specials. *Not a collab or advert – just our personal recommendation.

What happens if you find an amazing package through AfricaStay but it’s only for 4 nights and you want to go for a week or longer?

Although they don’t always advertise this you can always extend your return flight home by a couple of days. Just contact AfricaStay before booking and ask them to change the date of your flight home. This way you can book the special package (saving money on flights etc) and still enjoy a few more days doing your own thing inbetween.

For example: Your package through AfricaStay offers return flights (JNB to Zanzibar) and 4 nights at a resort on the East coast. Now extend your return flight by 5 nights and book a guesthouse in Stone Town and a bungalow in beautiful Nungwi before flying home.

How to book a trip to Zanzibar, Directly

We did a lot of research to determine whether it would be cheaper to book a package deal (like above) or to book everything separately and directly ourselves. The answer to this question will differ depending on your circumstances.

If you are looking for a 3-5 star resort stay then the above AfricaStay packages will almost always come up cheaper (if you grab one of their specials). If you would prefer to book more rustic beach bungalows or self-catering Airbnbs then you may find it cheaper to book everything directly.

We have Multiply rewards through our Momentum medical aid so we got a 40% discount on our Mango flights to Zanzibar – this made it cheaper for us to book everything directly.

Is it cheaper for you to book a package deal or to rather book your flights & accommodation independently?

Do a quick check. Find your ideal AfricaStay package and jot down the price. Now go to the Mango Airlines site and play around with dates and times to find the cheapest flight to Zanzibar.

Research the resort directly through their website as well as Agoda and Booking.com to find the best price for your dates (remember to put in your dates to view accurate prices).

Now compare your own flight and accommodation costs to the package deal cost. Remember to factor in the cost of food and drinks if your package deal includes an all-inclusive food and drinks package.

Getting to Zanzibar

There are a few airlines that fly to Zanzibar from South Africa but we won’t recommend them – they’re not direct and take roughly 12 hours instead of 3,5 hours with Mango. You can search on TravelStart for the best flight deals.

Mango Airlines departs Johannesburg (OR Tambo Airport) at 7am (Tuesdays & Saturdays) and at 10am (Thursdays & Sundays).

This means that if you’re not able to get to OR Tambo Airport by 5:30am on a Tuesday or Saturday morning you will have to fly to Johannesburg the night before. *This happened to us, not ideal.

We flew to Zanzibar on a Tuesday morning so we had to book our CPT to JNB flight for the Monday evening (this way we didn’t lose another leave day). We really recommend staying at the Protea Hotel by Marriott OR Thambo which is literally at the airport and so convenient.

You end up saving money on Ubers as they offer free pick up and drop off from the airport and the hotel. You can also wake up later since you’re literally at the airport.

Vaccinations and Visas for Zanzibar

There are no compulsory vaccinations to enter Zanzibar as a South African (at the moment). You will receive a 90 day visa on arrival free of charge (so there is nothing you need to arrange before hand).

See visa regulations if you’re not a South African resident.

How to plan a trip to Zanzibar around the Weather

Zanzibar has warm, sunny weather throughout the year so you can go anytime. If you are flexible then here’s some tips:

Go when there is the least rain and the most clear, blue skies which is June to October. Avoid the long rains which start end March until about end May and the expensive peak season which is from September to January.

Booking Accommodation in Zanzibar

Searching for accommodation can sometimes feel time consuming and tedious. However finding the right spot can really make or break your trip. Here is how we recommend and personally find great accommodation options:

You can either use Agoda or Booking.com which are great options to search through accommodation by using filters (select your price range, location of choice, facilities needed and so forth). We often find Agoda to be the cheapest for the same places found on other platforms.

Or you can search on Airbnb for houses or small apartments.

Review your top choices to make sure it is what they advertise!

We all know hotels can mislead us. We all know at least one person who has booked a beautiful hotel and arrived to a construction site or to facilities that have aged 10 years since their website’s photographs. So please review your top choices by looking at the guest reviews and their personal “unphotoshopped” images on Agoda, Booking.com or Tripadvisor.

We like to “review” accommodation through Instagram. Just go to your search bar on Instagram, type in the resort’s name, click on either their hashtag or location and then browse through all the “normal people” posts. This is a great way to see real traveller’s photos of how blue the pool really is ;). See below our personal search of Langi Langi Beach Bungalows:

Hire a Car or Catch a Taxi

So you’re staying in Stone Town but want to visit ‘The Rock Restaurant’? Or maybe you’re in Nungwi and you want to explore the ‘Kuza Cave’?

If you don’t love scheduled tours, are planning to move around alot and really enjoy flexibility – then definitely rent a car.

We rented a car and drove ourselves around the whole island. You can use the offline app called ‘Maps.Me’ to get yourself around.

We loved the freedom of this!!

We rented a car and organised a taxi from a man in Stone Town called Tamin (you can contact him on whatsapp +256 717 716 035).

Money and ATMS?

Most big resorts, guesthouses and shops will accept credit card. Otherwise you will need to withdraw Tanzanian Shillings from the ATMs. There are ATMS in Stone Town and outside most banks in each town.

What to Pack on your Zanzibar Trip

This is also very personal and dependent on what your island getaway entails. Here are just a few highlighted items we can definitely recommend.

Mosquito/insect repellent, suncream, water shoes for walking along rocky coastlines or reefs, long skirts/sarongs/light pants for covering up in Stone Town or any of the culturally conservative villages and perhaps your own snorkelling gear.

And finally, the most exciting part of ‘how to plan a trip to Zanzibar ‘!

Where to go in Zanzibar?

If you’ve decided to book your own accommodation then it’s time to decide where to go. We will try and give you our honest, summarised advice below on the 4 main accommodation areas that we’ve visited:

Stone Town in the West

You may either love it or hate it. We LOVED IT!! It’s a truly cultural experience that we cannot recommend enough. Old narrow streets, antique stores, harbour sunsets, fish markets and friendly people. There are incredible heritage hotels which are worth adding to your itinerary. It is also close to the famous Spice Tours and smaller island excursions.

Beaches in the North

Beautiful swimming beaches at Nungwi and Kendwa with turtle sanctuaries, dhow sunset safaris, fishing villages and Mnembe Island scuba diving opportunities.

Resorts along the East Coast

This long strip of coastline offers an array of accommodation options. The East is known for their beaches with extreme tides and affordable beachfront resorts.

In the North East you have beautiful Matemwe (a close drive to the northern beaches). In the middle you have Kiwengwa which has the benefit of being central to most Zanzibar attractions.

Further South you have Paje and then Jambiani. Their slightly windy beachfront resorts are a nice and close drive away from the ‘Rock Restaurant’, Zanzibar Butterfly World, Jozani National Park and the Kuza Cave.

Private Islands off Zanzibar

If you’re looking for something very secluded and special (slightly more expensive), then book a night or two at a private island off Zanzibar. We stayed at Chapwani Private Island just off Stone Town and it was an absolute spoil!

Now that you know how to plan a trip to Zanzibar – go ahead and plan it! It’s an amazing African island holiday!

View our Zanzibar page to see all of our top accommodation recommendations and experiences.

Jen and Rudi Raath | Married | South African | Travel Lovers | Nature Wanderers | In search of paradise |

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Zanzibar Tour Packages

Compare zanzibar tours & packages from top travel agents, why visit zanzibar:.

• Stunning Beaches: Zanzibar boasts some of the world's most breathtaking beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you're relaxing on Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, or Jambiani Beach, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun.
• Rich History and Culture: Zanzibar's history is a tapestry of influences from Arabic, Indian, African, and European cultures. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant markets. Visit cultural attractions like the Palace Museum and Old Fort to delve into the island's heritage.
• Spice Tours: Zanzibar is known as the "Spice Island" for its thriving spice industry. Take a guided spice tour to discover aromatic treasures like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, and gain insight into the island's spice trade history.
• Exquisite Cuisine: Zanzibari cuisine is a fusion of flavours, blending Swahili, Indian, and Arabian influences. Savour dishes like biryani, pilau, grilled seafood, and tropical fruits. Don't miss the opportunity to try street food and dine in traditional Swahili restaurants.
• Pristine Marine Life: Zanzibar offers world-class snorkelling and diving experiences. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, encounter dolphins, and even swim with sea turtles. Mnemba Atoll is a renowned dive site for its diverse underwater ecosystem.
• Island Hopping: Beyond Zanzibar's main islands, there are smaller islets like Prison Island and Chumbe Island, each offering unique attractions such as giant tortoises and pristine coral gardens. Take a day trip to explore these nearby gems.
• Friendly Locals: Zanzibar is known for its warm and welcoming people. Interact with friendly locals, learn about their customs, and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture.
• Adventure Activities: For adventure seekers, Zanzibar offers water sports like kite surfing, windsurfing, and deep-sea fishing. Explore the island's lush interior on hiking or biking trails, or take a thrilling quad biking tour.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Zanzibar is the ideal place to rejuvenate. Many resorts and hotels offer spa treatments, yoga classes, and wellness retreats in serene beachfront settings.
• Breathtaking Sunsets: Zanzibar is renowned for its stunning sunsets. Watch the sky change colours over the Indian Ocean while sipping a cocktail at a beachfront bar or restaurant.
• Cultural Festivals: If you visit during the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) or the Sauti za Busara music festival, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the island's vibrant arts and culture scene.
• Gateway to Safari: Zanzibar serves as an excellent gateway to Tanzania's famous safari destinations, including Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Destinations Typically Clubbed with Zanzibar:

• Jambiani (Approx. 60 km from Zanzibar): Ideal for relaxation, pristine beaches, and water sports.
• Mombasa (Approx. 235 km from Zanzibar): Kenya's second-largest city, best for exploring its historic Old Town, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and enjoying water sports.
• Lake Manyara National Park (Approx. 300 km from Zanzibar): Known for tree-climbing lions and abundant birdlife, perfect for wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Approx. 300 km from Zanzibar): Offers a unique ecosystem with abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, including the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Mikumi National Park (Approx. 400 km from Zanzibar): Provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including elephants, giraffes, and lions, for a shorter safari experience.
• Tarangire National Park (Approx. 350 km from Zanzibar): Famous for its large elephant population, making it an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Kilimanjaro National Park (Approx. 400 km from Zanzibar): Ideal for adventurous travellers aspiring to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak.
• Dar-Es-Salaam (Approx. 100 km from Zanzibar): A bustling coastal city that blends modernity with history, suitable for business travellers and those seeking urban experiences.
• Lake Nakuru National Park (Approx. 1,700 km from Zanzibar): Home to flamingos and diverse bird species, offering opportunities to spot both black and white rhinos.
• Nairobi (Approx. 1,600 km from Zanzibar): A cultural hub and gateway to Kenya's national parks, featuring museums, markets, and giraffe centres, suitable for history and culture enthusiasts.
• Aberdare National Park (Approx. 1,800 km from Zanzibar): Known for unique treetop lodges and diverse wildlife, providing a unique treetop safari experience.
• Masai Mara (Approx. 1,500 km from Zanzibar): Famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
• Serengeti National Park (Approx. 200 km from Zanzibar): Synonymous with the Great Migration, offering a chance to witness this natural spectacle up close.
• Gombe Stream National Park (Approx. 400 km from Zanzibar): Ideal for travellers interested in primatology and chimpanzee trekking.
• Entebbe (Approx. 2,300 km from Zanzibar): A starting point for exploring Uganda's diverse landscapes, including gorilla trekking, safaris, and birdwatching.

Ideal Duration to Spend in Zanzibar:

Is it safe to visit zanzibar:, why buy packages for zanzibar:.

• Simplified Planning: Zanzibar packages typically cover flights, accommodations, transfers, and activities, making trip planning effortless.
• Cost-Efficiency: Bundled packages often offer cost savings compared to booking individual components separately.
• Local Insight: Tour operators have in-depth knowledge of Zanzibar, ensuring you get the best of the island's experiences.
• Time-Saving: Packages eliminate the need for extensive research and booking, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
• Travel Assurance: Many packages include travel insurance and provide support during your trip, enhancing peace of mind.
• Exclusive Adventures: Zanzibar packages may grant you access to unique tours and activities that can be challenging to arrange independently.
• Tailored Options: Most packages can be customized to match your preferences and budget, ensuring your Zanzibar experience is personalized.
• Ideal for Groups: Zanzibar packages are perfect for group or family vacations, with options to cater to everyone's needs.
• Special Occasions: Packages can be tailored for special events like honeymoons, anniversaries, or romantic getaways in Zanzibar.
• Enhanced Value: By choosing inclusive packages, you maximize the value of your Zanzibar adventure, making it a hassle-free and memorable experience.

How to Choose the Right Package for Zanzibar:

• Define Your Zanzibar Experience: Start by identifying what you want to experience in Zanzibar. If you're a beach enthusiast, look for packages which include beachfront accommodations, water sports, and beachside dining.
• Set Your Budget: Determine your budget range for the trip. For example, if you're on a tight budget, consider packages which feature affordable accommodations and a mix of free and paid activities.
• Accommodation Style: Choose a package that aligns with your accommodation preferences. If you prefer luxury, packages offer stays in 5-star resorts with spa treatments and gourmet dining.
• Special Occasions: If you're celebrating a special occasion, such as a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday, opt for packages like the "Zanzibar Honeymoon Holiday Package." These may include private dinners, couples' spa treatments, and romantic excursions.
• Activities and Adventures: Prioritize packages that offer activities you're passionate about. For instance, if you're into water adventures, consider packages with options like snorkelling in the Mnemba Atoll or diving in the Blue Hole.
• Combo Packages: Explore combo packages that pair Zanzibar with other East African destinations. For example, " 4-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari Expedition" combines your Zanzibar getaway with a thrilling safari adventure in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.
• Customization: Some tour operators offer customizable packages, allowing you to tailor your Zanzibar experience. You can choose specific activities, accommodations, and duration to create a personalized itinerary.
• Travel Dates and Duration: Check for package availability during your desired travel dates and consider the duration of the package. Some packages offer short getaways, while others provide extended stays, so choose according to your available time.

Best Time to Visit:

• January to February (Hot and dry season): Ideal conditions for sunbathing and beach activities at Bwejuu and Dongwe beaches. It's also an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Jozani Forest and witness the fascinating behaviours of the red colobus monkeys.
• March to May (Long rainy season): Heavy showers and average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F). While some outdoor activities may be limited, visitors can explore vibrant markets and cultural sites in Stone Town.
• June to October (Dry season): Pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F). Travellers can explore idyllic beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa, participate in the Zanzibar International Film Festival, snorkel at Mnemba Atoll, and observe the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest.
• November to December (Short rainy season): Warm temperatures continue (24°C to 28°C or 75°F to 82°F). Travelers can explore picturesque beaches, indulge in water sports, and enjoy New Year's celebrations.

How to Reach Zanzibar:

• By Air: Access Zanzibar through Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, a short distance from Stone Town. International flights operate from major African, European, and Middle Eastern cities, with a 30-minute flight from Dar es Salaam and one hour from Kilimanjaro Airport.
• By Sea: Travelers can take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once on the island, taxis, buses, and private cars are available for local transportation.

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5 Days Zanzibar Cultural Discovery & Nature Safari

4 Nights / 5 Days

Zanzibar (4N) → Jambiani (0N)

₹ 75,000* per person

₹ 75,000*

per adult on twin sharing

9-Day Highlights of Tanzania with Zanzibar Adventure

8 Nights / 9 Days

Arusha (1N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Serengeti (2N) → Arusha (1N) → Zanzibar (3N)

₹ 209,827* per person

₹ 209,827*

The Wonders of Zanzibar in 10 Days

9 Nights / 10 Days

Zanzibar (9N)

₹ 185,668* per person

₹ 185,668*

Tanzania Safari Package: 13-Day Wildlife & Beach Escape

12 Nights / 13 Days

Arusha (1N) → Tarangire (1N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Serengeti (2N) → Ngorongoro (2N) → Zanzibar (5N)

₹ 304,520* per person

₹ 304,520*

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14-Day The Ultimate Safari and Zanzibar Beach Excursion

13 Nights / 14 Days

Dar es Salaam (3N) → Nyerere (4N) → Zanzibar (6N) → Dar es Salaam (0N)

₹ 297,898* per person

₹ 297,898*

Dolphin Spotting - Zanzibar Safari Package

6 Nights / 7 Days

Zanzibar (6N)

₹ 115,458* per person

₹ 115,458*

Sensational Zanzibar Package: 7 Days of History, Culture, and Beach Bliss

Dar es Salaam (1N) → Zanzibar (3N) → Jambiani (2N) → Dar es Salaam (0N)

₹ 115,155* per person

₹ 115,155*

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12 Days Zanzibar Tour Package with Kilimanjaro Machame Route Hike

11 Nights / 12 Days

Moshi (1N) → Mount Kilimanjaro (5N) → Moshi (1N) → Zanzibar (4N) → Jambiani (0N)

₹ 207,724* per person

₹ 207,724*

10-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Tour Package: All-Inclusive Safari & Beach Getaway

Arusha (1N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Serengeti (2N) → Ngorongoro (1N) → Zanzibar (4N)

₹ 226,780* per person

₹ 226,780*

6 Days Zanzibar Honeymoon Holiday Package

5 Nights / 6 Days

Dar Es Salaam (0N) → Zanzibar (5N) → Dar Es Salaam (0N)

₹ 131,412* per person

₹ 131,412*

Mikumi Safari and Zanzibar Island Escape – 5 Days 4 Nights Package

Dar es Salam (0N) → Mikumi (1N) → Zanzibar (3N) → Dar es Salam (0N)

₹ 81,672* per person

₹ 81,672*

11 Days Tanzanian Wildlife Safari and Zanzibar Tour Package

10 Nights / 11 Days

Arusha (1N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Serengeti (2N) → Ngorongoro (2N) → Arusha (1N) → Zanzibar (3N)

₹ 267,283* per person

₹ 267,283*

8 Days Tanzania Romantic Getaway - Zanzibar Honeymoon Package

7 Nights / 8 Days

Arusha (1N) → Ngorongoro (1N) → Serengeti (1N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Zanzibar (1N) → Mount Kilimanjaro (2N)

₹ 210,273* per person

₹ 210,273*

12 Days Kenya and Tanzania Tour Package Including Zanzibar

Nairobi (1N) → Lake Nakuru (1N) → Masai Mara (2N) → Serengeti (2N) → Ngorongoro (2N) → Lake Manyara (1N) → Arusha (1N) → Zanzibar (2N) → Arusha (0N)

₹ 328,739* per person

₹ 328,739*

13-day Kenya & Tanzania Adventure Package

Nairobi (0N) → Masai Mara (2N) → Nairobi (1N) → Arusha (1N) → Serengeti (1N) → Ngorongoro (1N) → Arusha (1N) → Bagamoyo (1N) → Dar es Salaam (1N) → Zanzibar (3N) → Dar es Salaam (0N)

₹ 283,350* per person

₹ 283,350*

9 Days Incredible Tanzania Safari Package - Dolphin Tour

Arusha (1N) → Tarangire (1N) → Serengeti (1N) → Ngorongoro (1N) → Zanzibar (4N)

₹ 199,500* per person

₹ 199,500*

8 Days Romantic Tanzania with Zanzibar Tour Package

Tarangire (1N) → Ngorongoro (2N) → Manyara (2N) → Zanzibar(2N)

₹ 175,900* per person

₹ 175,900*

Mikumi & Zanzibar Tour Package: 10-Day Tanzanian Explorer

Dar Es Salaam (2N) → Mikumi (2N) → Zanzibar (5N)

₹ 189,604* per person

₹ 189,604*

11 Days Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania Tour Package

Entebbe (1N) → Bwindi (1N) → Queen Elizabeth (2N) → Zanzibar (3N) → Aberdare (1N) → Lake Nakuru (1N) → Masai Mara (1N) → Nairobi (0N)

₹ 245,000* per person

₹ 245,000*

9-Day Tanzanian Safari: Gombe, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire

Dar Es Salam (0N) → Gombe (2N) → Kigoma (1N) → Mwanza (1N) → Serengeti (2N) → Ngorongoro (0N) → Karatu (1N) → Tarangire (1N) → Zanzibar (0N)

₹ 259,912* per person

₹ 259,912*

4-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari Expedition

3 Nights / 4 Days

Zanzibar (0N) → Serengeti (1N) → Ngorongoro (2N) → Arusha (0N)

₹ 110,800* per person

₹ 110,800*

4-Day Beach and Culture Adventure: Zanzibar Tour Package

Zanzibar (3N)

₹ 56,664* per person

₹ 56,664*

7-Day Kenya Romantic Safari & Island Honeymoon Escape

Nairobi (1N) → Lake Nakuru (1N) → Masai Mara (2N) → Zanzibar(2N)

₹ 205,679* per person

₹ 205,679*

9-Day Highlights of Tanzania Honeymoon Package

14-day the ultimate honeymoon package: nyerere and zanzibar, packages with zanzibar.

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• Island Vacations

How to Enjoy the Charms of Zanzibar, According to a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor

With delicious food markets, stunning beaches, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zanzibar is an island destination with universal appeal.

Darren Humphreys is a native South African and the founder of Travel Sommelier, a travel company that designs custom itineraries for a sophisticated clientele. Darren gives insider advice on food, beaches, and sites to see in his articles for Travel + Leisure .

Zanzibar, an island off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa , is a unique crossroad of cultures. Disparate influences, like Swahili, Arabian, European and Asian all combine to deliver a heady mix of sights, sounds, and fragrances. The island is renowned as the birthplace of Farrokh Bulsara (aka Freddie Mercury) and has long been the culinary epicenter of the Indian Ocean and the Spice Islands .

As a travel specialist in East African safari and culinary trips, Zanzibar has long been one of my favorite destinations, and I recently returned from my latest visit with a renewed sense of appreciation. Here are my suggestions for how to experience the island's history, cuisine, arts and culture, and stunning scenery.

Start in Historic Stone Town

A visit to Zanzibar commences in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city delivers a startling sense of place—it is a town to truly get lost in, a town of rooftops and alleyways. Commencing the day in the city's old quarter delivers historical context. From the ancient slave market to the Sultan's Palace, the House of Wonders, and The Old Dispensary, there is much history to absorb.

The city is just six degrees from the equator and has an enviably warm year round climate. Fresh Madafu—coconut water poured directly from just picked coconuts— keeps the heat at bay. The markets include a staggering array of offerings, like spices, fish, meat, produce, juices and coffee.

Make your home base the Emerson Spice Hotel , a restored merchant's house.

Embark on a Culinary Tour

Culinary experiences are a highlight, starting with a progressive lunch. First up is Lukmaan restaurant. Enjoy fresh frilled prawns and octopus over Kachumbari salad, while sitting beneath the vast courtyard boabab tree—a quintessential Zanzibar experience.

Not to be missed is the ginger-lime-sugarcane juice vendor as you exit the restaurant. This ice cold beverage sustains you through alleyways lined with antique doors and ancient facades, until you come upon one of the finest food cart vendors I have ever encountered.

On offer is Urojo, a turmeric-based soup with chickpea falafel, sweet potato balls, cassava chips, egg, crispy onions, sweet and sour spices, and more. The result is a mouthwatering dish I like to call "Zanzibar in a Bowl."

South African wines are a perfect complement to these eclectic dishes. There is a diverse offering on the island, and there is no better way to sample them than to board a traditional dhow bound for a sand bar offering a panoramic view of Stone Town, especially if a visiting winemaker happens to be curating the tasting.

As evening draws near, rooftop vantage points in Stone Town are unrivaled: gaze at the Indian Ocean and hover above a sea of corrugated iron rooftops and captivating architecture. The Emerson Huzumi rooftop provides an opportunity to remove shoes, settle on a floor cushion and enjoy Swahili cuisine and local music.

Related : Why This T+L A-list Advisor Decided to Go on Safari During Covid-19

An after-dinner aperitif is best enjoyed in the Secret Garden at Emerson Spice, so atmospheric I half expected Humphrey Bogart to emerge from the shadows.

Consider an Agricultural Day-Trip

The pace slows markedly upon leaving Stone Town. One rite of passage is to visit a community-owned spice farm. A walking tour is immersive and educational as you taste all manner of roots, shoots, and vegetation, plus familiar spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, turmeric, and cloves.

I also visited a bivalve and fin-fish hatchery, to learn about how overfishing has impacted local marine ecosystems and the hatchery's plan to reinvigorate the waters.

Explore the Beaches and Art Scene

Some of the most magical facets of the island are showcased on its beaches, whether it is the Robinson Crusoe-esque Mnemba private island or the ultra refined Xanadu retreat , where Zanzibar cuisine is taken to a new level altogether.

Days can be spent learning to kite surf, planning whale shark diving excursions to adjacent Mafia Island or enjoying the shimmering turquoise sea where the water temperature seldom dips below 80 degrees.

When not at the beach, explore the robust traditional and contemporary art scene. Zanzibar is ground zero for bohemian chic: vibrant textiles, ornately carved doors and frames, and tanzanite jewelry in all forms.

The CAGZ Arts Gallery is a must-visit. This is an artist-in-residence program that arranges exhibitions and visits to workshops and studios, rather than an expansive standalone gallery. I love this concept because you get to meet artists, and see finished pieces alongside works in progress.

Remember: However You Like to Travel, Zanzibar Has It All

The great appeal of Zanzibar is that it can be enjoyed in so many ways: as an addendum to an East African safari in Tanzania or Kenya; as a standalone destination to enjoy unique gastronomy and barefoot beach luxury; or as a remote work-cation destination for digital nomads (broadband is fast and cell service is ubiquitous).

Zanzibar will leave an indelible mark on you, not only from the intricate henna tattoo you are likely to get, but because it has a rhythm and sway all of its own, and tastes and flavors so unique you will pine to return.

Travel + Leisure A-List member Darren Humphreys , of Travel Sommelier , designs combination East African safari and culinary trips to Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Zanzibar.

Zanzibar Travel Guide to Must-Sees: 25 Top Sights You Can’t Miss

By Deb Hendricks | March 15, 2024 | Updated March 16, 2024

Is Zanzibar – the Spice Island – on your lifetime bucket list?

It was for me, and it did NOT disappoint . I had a blissful stay there during a 6 month trip, before leaving Tanzania on my way to Botswana. This guide come from my own experience – you can be sure that you won’t miss a thing!

It’s where  I  learned the fine art of lying on the beach and soaking up the sunshine.  With an icy cold bottle of Kilimanjaro beer, of course. 

But as enjoyable it is to practice lying on the beach is, most of us can only lie do this for so long. Especially on an exotic island like this one. Here’s your guide to Zanzibar!

Your Zanzibar Travel Guide for 2024

Zanzibar is the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago and is also known as Unguja. The next larger island is Pemba, just to the north .

Let’s start our journey with Stone Town and the stories told by its structures.

Stone Town is the beautiful historic section of the island’s capital of Zanzibar City. It’s also a  UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It’s found on the west coast of Zanzibar Island, about 15 minutes north of the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Like a lot of historic urban centres along this part of East’s Africa coast, Stone Town is an  eclectic blend of cultures .

Seeing them meld together is a part of what makes Zanzibar so magical.

1. Visit the Old Dispensary

The structure was build as a hospital, but never fulfilled its original purpose. Instead, the main floor became a dispensary and the upstairs was turned into apartments.

There’s also a little museum in the building that focuses on the history of Zanzibar.

2. Wander on to the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

Originally a Portuguese church in the courtyard. As Stone Twn’s oldest building, the Fort has been through many incarnations.

An amphitheatre was added in the 90s and it’s now the site of the Zanzibar International Film Festival each June. It’s also home to festivals, souvenir shops, and a cultural centre. It’s also located on the main seafront. This is a fun spot to spend some time.

3. The Palace Museum & the House of Wonders

Just down the road, still on the waterfront, is the Palace Museum. It’s comprised of several large buildings along the waterfront and was built on the site of an older palace. Next door is the House of Wonders.

The Palace served as the Sultan’s Palace until 1964, when it was renamed the People’s Palace. The House of Wonders was the first building to have electricity, as well as an elevator, in East Africa.

Solo Travel Zanzibar

✻ If you’re travelling solo , I can assure you that Zanzibar is a lovely, safe place for a woman travelling alone to enjoy – just be cautious. The most important advice I can offer is to dress appropriately – cover knees and shoulders when not on the beach. Zanzibar is 99% Muslim, and very conservative.

The safety tips here also apply. Keep those in mind, refrain from overindulging, and you can relax and enjoy.

4. Visit Freddie Mercury’s Childhood Home

You may not realize it, but Freddie Mercury, the late frontman for the rock band Queen, spent part of his childhood in Zanzibar.

5. The East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition

The East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition at the Anglican church is a sobering memorial to an unforgivable time in history.

This memorial was constructed on the site of the area’s biggest slave market after it closed in 1873. It was the last acknowledged legal slave market to operate.

6. The Darajani Spice Market

While you’re in the Spice Islands, you won’t want to miss the Darajani Spice Market. This is one of my favourite parts of Stone Town.

Spices grown on and exported from Zanzibar are one of the mainstays of the island’s economy. Cloves are the principal spice grown on the “Spice Island” these days.

Around 5 pm, the inside traders pack up and a lively open-air market is set up just outside. Try to catch this as well, at least for a glimpse!

7. Jaw’s Corner

If you’d like to have coffee as the locals do, grab a cup at Jaw’s Corner. Jaw’s is a small square where the footpaths and the Vespa lanes intersect.

In the early mornings, you’ll find Zanzibari men gathered there to catch up with each other and discuss community events. Is that a euphemism for gossip? You decide.

Join them and feel like a local, with a cup of black Zanzibar coffee.The whisper of fresh ginger will add the flavour of the islands.

9. Take a Spice Tour!

You can’t visit the Spice Island without taking a tour of a spice plantation.

What you’ll see is a small farm growing a surprising number of spices and fruits for the area’s size. I was impressed at the number different things that I saw on my tour!

These are the special parts of the farms specifically for tourists to see. Day tours in Zanzibar aren’t done through the main, more boring commercial areas of the farms.

You’ll even get a lesson in the traditional ways to cook with these amazing spices. Imagine your next dinner party when you get home! Considering I don’t usually cook, I wowed a few people.

8. Visit The Iconic Rock Restaurant

In addition, there’s a well-known restaurant 10-15 minutes off Paje and Bwejuu Beaches called The Rock .

It has great food, but the draws are really the unique location and the views.

If you go at high tide, which I’d recommend, it will be completely surrounded by water. Someone from the restaurant will row to shore to get you. You can hire a taxi to get you that far.

If you’d like to try it, go to the website about 2 weeks before you leave home and make a reservation .

Find Your Favourite Beach!

It’s time to get your feet wet! I recommend staying on the beach, so you don’t have to waste time getting here in the morning.

There are over 25 Zanzibar beaches, and they each have a different vibe. Hopefully, you have enough time to explore a few.

** 🤿 If you’ll be doing any diving, remember to allow for the safety rest period of 24 hours between a dive in Zanzibar and your flight. Find more info on diving in Zanzibar in its own article.

The northern shore beaches tend to be the resort beaches.  You’ve also got a view to the west, so the sunsets are spectacular.

The diving and snorkelling around Zanzibar are world-class.

Here’s a quick Zanzibar travel guide to the best of them:

• On the northern tip of the island. Nungwi Beach is lined with hotels and hostels, with lots of people and activities.

10. Kendwa Beach:

• On the northwest side, is geared a little more those backpacking Zanzibar. You can also find luxury resorts here. It’s a bit quieter than Nungwi, with fewer people.
• Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel is the place to be if you love a beach party, especially if there’s a full moon coming up!

11. Matemwe:

• South of Nungwi, a lovely, long Zanzibar beach lined by some of the most beautiful beach resorts in Zanzibar. It’s the place to come if you want a peaceful and relaxing day at the beach.
• Part of the Matemwe experience is a trip out to the Mnemba Atoll conservation area. The Atoll is about 2 km offshore and has world-class diving and snorkelling on the reefs.

* On March 10, 2024, in a tragic incident on Mnemba Island, several individuals lost their lives after consuming turtle meat. This event underscores the potential dangers of eating wildlife, as turtle meat can contain toxins harmful to humans. The incident has raised awareness about food safety and the importance of understanding the risks associated with consuming certain types of wildlife, prompting discussions on conservation and health precautions to prevent future tragedies.

12. Bwejuu Beach:

• If you’re looking for some quiet, privacy, and maybe a sail on a dhow, then Bwejuu Beach is one of Zanzibar’s best beaches for you.

13. Paje and Jambiani: 

• Similar southern beaches on the southeast shore, quiet and tide-dependent. The reefs offshore host beautiful marine life, and the winds make for great kitesurfing, especially at Paje.
• At low tide you’ll see women harvesting seaweed in the shallows. The seaweed is exported for use in cosmetics and for food.

See the Wild Side of Zanzibar

The areas worth seeing are closest to Bwejuu and Paji Beaches. Any or all of them are a great day trip.

You can reach them by taxi or dala dala. They’re about 1 hour from Stone Town, but only 30 minutes or so from Bwejuu and Paje.

Do NOT forget the insect repellent that you brought from home, with the high percentage of DEET. Trust me .

14. Jozani Natural Forest Reserve

The Jozani Natural Forest Reserve is the home of the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey. The colobus is one of the rarest primates in Africa, and is endemic to Zanzibar.

You could also see tree hyrax, chameleons, geckos, and a variety of species of birds and butterflies.

15. Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

The centre is a small community-run enterprise, and the entry fee goes back into their efforts.

It’s really a fantastic experience, and you’ll learn a lot about butterflies and their lifecycle. You’ll also be introduced to the centre’s chameleons, which happen to be a favourite of mine.

16. Jozani Sea Turtle Sanctuary

Also nearby is the Jozani Sea Turtle Sanctuary. This is another tourist attraction, along with Prison Island, that I’m hesitant to recommend.

Especially if you’ve seen these creatures in the wild, it’s a sad thing to see them kept in small concrete ponds and enclosures.

I feel like this is a better place to see giant tortoises, though.

25. Take a Sunset Dhow Cruise

There is no more spectacular way to enjoy a sunset on Zanzibar than on a Dhow cruise. This is another favourite thing to do in Zanzibar.

You can find cruises at most of the beaches, as well as in Stone Town. They vary in what they include and may offer live music, snacks, and soft drinks.

💲 Currency in Zanzibar : Tanzanian Shilling

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Zanzibar : July-October

🔌 Electricity : Plugin Type D or G; 220V & 50 Hz

Zanzibar Maps

Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places mentioned below. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. 

Summing It Up: Zanzibar Travel Guide for 2024

Zanzibar is the perfect spot to reminisce over your safari, rest up from a trek up Kilimanjaro , or just have an amazing vacation. It’s a place I think everyone should visit at least once. No matter how long you get to stay, it won’t be long enough.

In just four days, you can immerse yourself in the unique culture of the island and take part in all of Zanzibar’s activities. Try snorkelling, scuba diving, kitesurfing and sightseeing tours.

With its stunning beaches , fascinating history and island wildlife , Zanzibar is truly a magical destination. It will leave you with wonderful memories for years to come.

Leave the rest of the world left behind and enjoy!

Happy travels!

You might also like:

➵  Spectacular Tanzania Beaches: Decadent Destinations ➵  The Truth About Drone Use on Safari in Tanzania ➵  17+ Awe-Inspiring Reasons to Visit Tanzania

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I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

Zanzibar Travel Guide & Tips – Everything You Need To Know

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Zanzibar is a dream destination, with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches surrounded by lush tropical forests. This Zanzibar travel guide will make sure that you get the most out of all that this east Africa archipelago has to offer.

Located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar Island has captivated travelers with its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, the historical Stone Town, and vibrant culture.

Whether you’re looking to soak up some sunbathing on beautiful stretches of beach or explore ancient Stone Town which is steeped in history and tradition, Zanzibar promises an unforgettable vacation.

To help ensure your best trip possible, this Zanzibar travel guide offers insight into getting there, getting around during your stay, different beaches you can visit as well as attractions to check out along the way.

Plus recommendations for local restaurants and bars where you can sample delicious Swahili cuisine as well as travel tips to keep in mind while visiting!

• Overview of Zanzibar – History and Culture

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, known for its exotic beaches, ancient culture, and unique cuisine.

The history of the Zanzibar Archipelago has been marked by significant events. Historians believe the islands have been inhabited for over 20,000 years; in the 12th century, it was part of a trading empire including Ramallah, Karachi and Mogadishu. The country has a rich culture comprised of African and Arabic roots, with influences from India, Persia and Europe.

Over many centuries Zanzibar served as a major trading port, which contributed to its distinctive cultural mix. Today locals go about their daily lives against the breathtaking backdrop of palm-fringed shorelines so beautiful you’ll just want to dive right in.

Zanzibar Visa

When to visit zanzibar, dala-dalas – public transportation, 10 days in zanzibar, places to stay, nungwi beach, kendwa beach, pingwe and michamvi beaches, jambiani beach, visit the house of wonders, stroll through the old fort, shop at the forodhani market, relax on nungwi beach, visit jozani forest, go snorkeling or diving, take a spice tour, visit stone town, go on a dolphin safari, prison island, sunset cruises, mafia island, pemba island.

The Rock Restaurant

Visit Markets

Local restaurant – luckmann restaurant, zanzibar travel guide: the tropical paradise, zanzibar travel tips.

How to Get to Zanzibar

Now, getting to Zanzibar is easier than ever with Zanzibar’s new international airport.

There are direct flights to Zanzibar from many African cities and the Middle East, direct flights from Europe, and flights from America with one or two stops.

Flights from Dar Es Salaam take 20 minutes and with just a little planning will be the same cost as the ferry.

A journey from Dar Es Salaam, on mainland Tanzania, to Stone Town is made easy with the four daily ferries, many of which are modern and spacious.

The ferry takes 1h 45min on board one of these vessels and you can sit back and relax and take in the breathtaking views.

Especially in the busy season, it is best to book ferry tickets in advance.

Note: As you arrive at the ferry terminal before departure (either Dar E Salaam or Stone Town, do not be intimidated by those offering to take your bags. A firm no thank you (or two) will suffice

Exploring the idyllic coral-sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters of Zanzibar is an unforgettable experience.

As Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, the visa entry requirements for Tanzania apply.

Fortunately, the Zanzibar visa situation for Western travelers is fairly straightforward.

Most Westerners will be able to obtain either an e-visa or a Visa on Arrival. The cost is $50 per visa, with US residents required to pay $100.

You can read more information on gaining a Tanzania/Zanzibar visa on arrival or an e-visa on the Tanzania Immigration website .

Zanzibar is an all-year destination with a tropical climate, thanks to its closeness to the equator.

With temperatures usually between 29 and 32 Celsius (even at night), it’s no wonder visitors flock here – especially during the dry season (also the high season) of July through September.

For those looking for both beach time plus safari fun in Tanzania, June or October are perfect shoulder seasons that also peak when on safaris.

Due to consistent heavy rains, the months of April and May are considered the low season, where many resorts close due to the combination of the rainy season and lack of tourists.

Getting Around Zanzibar – Transportation Options

Exploring the sights and sounds of Zanzibar is a must for any traveler interested in experiencing the best of this magical island. When figuring out how to get around, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the range of travel options available.

Taxis and minivan rides provide convenient door-to-door transport. Taxis are particularly useful for transfers from the airport or Zanzibar City to the beach hotels in the villages, especially with luggage.

Airport transfers can be arranged through your hotel, and many taxi drivers are waiting in the busier areas meaning some ‘shopping around’ is possible.

Dala-Dala’s are a unique and exciting way to travel around Zanzibar! These colorful minibus taxis zip through the streets, filled with locals commuting from one destination to another.

Given the stop-and-start nature of dala-dalas, the trip will take much longer than the same trip taken in a taxi.

Zanzibar’s vibrant streets are alive with the distinctive sound of tuk-tuks – a unique and colourful way to explore this remarkable African island.

Using tuk-tuks is a time and money saver when traveling around Stone Town.

How Many Days in Zanzibar?

7 to 10 days would be the perfect time to spend in Zanzibar. You can experience the beauty and culture of Zanzibar in just a few days, or extend the trip to a week or two and have a relaxing trip by the beach! From its powder-white beaches to exotic wildlife, this small island off Tanzania’s coast offers plenty to explore within your Zanzibar Itinerary. Perfect to blog Zanzibar.

Spending 10 days in Zanzibar is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and sightsee gorgeous beaches.

Start off by biking around Stone Town to get an introduction to the area and explore the largest ancient town in East Africa.

Then, while the day away on one of Zanzibar’s many secluded beaches, taking time to snorkel through coral reefs and lush tropical scenery.

If you’re looking for more of an adventure, book a guided tour into Jozani Forest Reserve where you can observe incredible wildlife like monkeys and elephants living off the land.

To end your trip on a calm note, take advantage of one of the countless spas offering relaxing massage treatments or enjoy a stroll along the Old Fort Walkway with its stunning views of terracotta rooftops and blue-washed alleyways. Regardless how you choose to spend your 10 days in Zanzibar it is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Where to Stay and Visit

Step back in time and explore the stunning city of Stone Town, located on the exotic island of Zanzibar. The narrow cobbled streets are filled with character and charm as you wander around traditional market stalls bustling with life.

Discover unique architecture from a bygone era that reflects both Arab and European influences within its many grand buildings adorned with ornately carved doors – providing an exciting insight into the cultural heritage.

Shaba Boutique Hotel

Best Beaches on Zanzibar Island

Nungwi Beach is a stunning coastal destination with its gleaming white sand and sparkling turquoise waters. In addition to its breathtaking beauty, Nungwi Beach is also known for being a hotspot for activities like windsurfing, scuba diving and snorkeling, with plenty of options to explore local wildlife.

Located on the north coast of Zanzibar, Kendwa Beach is a stunning stretch of sand perfect for relaxing or enjoying some exciting watersports. It is quieter than the nearby Nungwi, and is also home to full moon parties.

Unwind at the serene village of Pingwe and Michamvi nestled on a beautiful peninsula between the central and southeast coasts. Here, your soul will be soothed by untouched natural areas amid idyllic powdery white sand beaches with incredible sunsets – though beware of its drastic tides! Boutique hotels line this perfect getaway spot for those seeking peace away from busy cities.

Jambiani Beach is a stunning seaside paradise located on the east coast of Zanzibar. Its picturesque white sand, crystal-clear water and coral reef make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging in the sunshine. Life moves at a slower pace here – visitors can enjoy strolling around the beach village, meeting friendly locals who offer homemade handicrafts and freshly caught seafood. Nature lovers will also appreciate its abundance of marine life, including turtles and manta rays.

Zanzibar’s east coast is an idyllic destination for backpackers and beach-goers alike. With a stunning strip of sand, surrounded by turquoise waters, this location offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation or adventure. From kitesurfing to sunbathing on its expansive shoreline – there truly is something here for everyone!

Things to do in Zanzibar

This Zanzibar travel guide includes more than 10 things to do in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The archipelago consists of two islands, Unguja and Pemba, each with its own distinct culture and sights to explore.

Due to its strategic location along historical trading routes over the centuries, visitors will find numerous interesting monuments sprinkled throughout the islands ranging from mosques, Arabic houses, and even ancient tombs.

Whether staying in Stone Town or basing yourself at a beach hotel, there is something to inspire everyone in this stunningly beautiful paradise

The House of Wonders is one of the most iconic buildings in Zanzibar, and a visit here is a must-do. The building was constructed in 1883 and served as the sultan’s palace. Today, it houses a museum that is well worth exploring.

The Old Fort is a great place to get a feel for Zanzibar’s history and culture. The fort was built by the Omanis in the 17th century, and today it houses several museums and art galleries. Be sure to wander through the atmospheric streets surrounding the fort as well.

Forodhani Market is the place to go for street-food, spices, some souvenirs, and our favorite local oddity – Zanzibar Pizza.

It is also a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmoshphere of Stone Town.

Nungwi Beach is one of Zanzibar’s most popular beaches, and it’s easy to see why. The water is crystal clear, and the beach is lined with palm trees. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some time in nature.

Jozani Forest is home to Zanzibar’s only national park, and it’s a great place to see some of the island’s unique flora and fauna. Be sure to keep an eye out for red colobus monkeys, which are endemic to Zanzibar.

With its clear waters and abundant marine life, Zanzibar is a great place for snorkelling and diving. There are many operators offering tours, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” so a spice tour is a must-do when visiting here. You’ll learn about the different spices grown on the island, and you’ll even get to sample some of them!

Stone Town, a UNESCO world heritage site, is the capital of Zanzibar, and it’s full of history and culture. Be sure to explore the narrow streets, visit the markets, and see some of the historic buildings such as the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.

One of Zanzibar’s most popular activities is dolphin watching, and there are many operators offering tours around Kizimkazi village. This is a great activity for nature lovers, as you’re sure to see some amazing wildlife!

Prison Island on Zanzibaar is an infamous place, attracting the attention of visitors from all over the world. at the centre of the island lies an imposing prison complex. Rumours abound about strange cults and dark rituals conducted within its walls, and visitors often report feeling mysterious energy emanating from the structure itself.

For centuries, East Africa has been graced with the presence of Dhows – majestic boats that have their roots in either India or Arabia. With an iconic single sail and crafted from wood, these vessels offer a beautiful sight to behold. Enjoy breathtaking views as you set off for a relaxing sunset cruise from many parts of the island.

For those looking for an alternative to Zanzibar, look no further than Mafia Island. Located off the coast of Tanzania, this remote island paradise is home to perfect white sand beaches and turquoise waters, as well as plenty of wildlife and nature spots to explore.

It’s a beautiful place for scuba diving and snorkelling, with its coral reefs offering unique and vibrant marine life, especially during the summer months when the ocean teems with diverse aquatic species such as green turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, manta rays and even humpface wrasse.

Whether you’re after some tranquil relaxation in a secluded beach setting or a thrilling plunge beneath the waves on a scuba dive adventure; Mafia Island has it all!

Pemba island near Zanzibar is a serene paradise full of magnificent ocean views and opportunities for exploration.

From beach-hopping to kayaking, there are many options for entertainment on this beautiful island. For the more adventurous travellers, some dive sites allow snorkellers and divers alike a chance to explore and discover life underwater.

Pemba island has deep cultural roots with nearby villages that offer a great insight into traditional Swahili customs and culture, such as the art of dhows (sailing vessels) building.

Lovers of nature will be in heaven here; the island is full of unique flora and fauna, such as exotic trees like wild mangoes and cashews, along with countless bird varieties.

The Rock Restaurant, just off the Michamwi Pingwe Peninsula, is not just a place to grab a bite to eat, but an experience worth having. This restaurant is literally built into a rock right at the edge of the Indian Ocean.

Take your seat on one of their terrace tables and watch breathtakingly beautiful sunsets. They serve seafood and a variety of other culinary delights in flavors that they claim only come from Zanzibar. Price-wise, it’s slightly higher than other restaurants nearby, but worth it for the unique atmosphere and terrific views.

There are many lively markets on the island, full of vibrant colors, exotic sounds, and delicious smells. A highlight is Darajani Bazaar in Stone Town, where you will find spices, tropical fruits , vegetables, and fresh seafood for sale.

Who knows what awaits someone prepared to explore this stunning part of the world?

Food in Zanzibar

Dining in Zanzibar is an unforgettable experience as the local cuisine is an exciting fusion of Indian, African , Middle Eastern, and other Southeast Asian flavors creating many distinctive dishes.

Whether exploring the street food scene or local restaurants, there are many must-try dishes on the menu.

Read here for a comprehensive look at the food in Zanzibar .

Must-try dishes include Pilau Rice, Zanzibari Biryani, Zanzibar Mix, Zanzibar Pizza, and a range of coconut curry dishes including octopus and shrimp.

Zanzibar is a destination for any traveler who is looking for a unique, unspoiled experience.

From the stunning beaches to the vibrant culture and fascinating history, there’s something in Zanzibar that will cater to every type of visitor.

With budget-friendly flights and secure accommodation, this island paradise is surprisingly easy to reach.

Accommodation options are plentiful and transportation around the island can easily be arranged, meaning getting around quickly become effortless.

Not only can you enjoy tanning on one of several beautiful beaches around Zanzibar, but you can also explore the local markets, check out historical attractions like Fort Jesus or spend your days strolling through Stone Town.

Eating local cuisine is a must-do activity in Zanzibar, with lots of options from street food to high-end restaurants.

For anyone looking for an exotic holiday destination with plenty of discovery opportunities, use this Zanzibar travel guide to make the most of your trip.

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One Week Itinerary For Zanzibar: The Ultimate Guide The Spice Island

A week in Zanzibar offers everything you could possibly want – palm-fringed beaches, powdery white sand, historical villages and towns, colourful markets, and. This offbeat island, just off the east coast of Africa, is ideal for travellers who enjoy going off the beaten path. Here’s a low-down on everything you need to plan an ideal week-long holiday in Zanzibar

Why Choose Zanzibar?

After spending 2 weeks in Zanzibar, we would say Zanzibar is ideal for 3 kinds of travellers

• Those who want to experience the gorgeous panoramas of places like Seychelles or Maldives, but on a budget. Unlike those 2 countries, Zanzibar has several all inclusive resorts that are quite budget friendly
• Those who love acquainting themselves with the rich culture and complex history of a new country but also want scenic panoramas and gorgeous beaches.
• Those who want a luxurious yet unique honeymoon destination or romantic getaway . There is no shortage of uber-luxurious resorts and hotels in Zanzibar. This ensures honeymooners have access to the best of amenities while exploring the little villages, spice plantations, and remote beaches of Zanzibar

  View this post on Instagram   How do I articulate the slow seduction of the present, as it unravels one moment at a time, under the African sun? ??? #lostforwords #nevercomingback A post shared by Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Nov 22, 2018 at 4:30am PST

Know before you go

• You need to furnish yellow fever vaccination certificates upon reaching Zanzibar, so make sure you have them on you upon reaching the country
• Tanzania offers Visa On Arrival to citizens of most countries including India, UK, and USA for a fee of USD50. You will be asked to fill a short form upon arrival, following which the visa is granted. It was a pretty seamless process for us and we were not asked for any supporting documentation.

Best time to visit Zanzibar

June to October is the best season to visit Zanzibar as the weather is cool yet dry. However December to February is a great period too. The weather is hotter but it is dry and crowds are lesser. We visited Zanzibar during November and while some afternoons got too hot, we enjoyed the overall experience.

Getting In To Zanzibar

A lot of tourists who are already on mainland Tanzania take the direct ferry from Dar es Salaam (3 hours) or a short flights (15 minutes). You can also take a short flight from Serengeti or other parts of Tanzania

But if you are flying directly to Zanzibar, you will find the island itself is pretty well connected to most countries. We were in India before this trip, so we flew from New Delhi to Zanzibar with Ethiopian Airlines (roughly GBP 500 per person for return flights) because of a convenient connection. However the plane was messy, the food bad, and the service well, non-existent! We’d recommend choosing another airline if you can find one that offers convenient connections to Zanzibar from your port of departure 🙂

Transfers within Zanzibar

It is best to have a taxi, which will take you from the airport to your hotel, booked before you land in Zanzibar! You can compare the prices offered by your hotel with a local taxi provider. Usually private transfers cost anywhere between USD 10 (Airport – Stone Town) and USD 50 (Airport – Chwaka Bay).

We booked all our transfers with Lukman after reading good reviews about him on Tripadvisor . It is best to contact him over Whatsapp at +255 776 416 155. We got his number from Tripadvisor – he was prompt in responding and punctual when it came to pick ups and drop offs. The prices he charged were competitive, so no complaints there. Would recommend him if you’re visiting Zanzibar. Say hello to him from us 🙂

Budgeting for your holiday in Zanzibar

You budget will depend vastly upon the kind of accommodation you choose. It is possible to book nice hotels starting at USD30 but if you’re there to spend a special occasion or a honeymoon, then there are some expensive but stunning luxury hotels too.

In addition to the cost of flights and hotel bookings, expect to spend about USD 70 per person per day (on transfers, occasional activities, and 2 meals per day) when you budget for your trip. Of course this indicative cost can increase or decrease depending on variables such as how much you intend to move around on the island, whether you enjoy fine dining or street food, or whether you are a heavy drinker on holiday.

One week Itinerary for a holiday in Zanzibar

When you are crafting your itinerary for a week long holiday in Zanzibar, we would suggest spending 2-3 days of the week in historic Stone Town and 4-5 days of the week in a beach-side hotel.

Staying in Stone Town

We’d highly recommend combining your stay at a beach-side hotel with a short stay in the historical and cultural capital – Stone Town, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Most tourists visit Stone Town on a day trip but we recommend spending at least 2-3 days absorbing it’s sights and sounds. There are plenty of hotels in the area. We suggest choosing a boutique hotel in the old town for a real experience. But do beware of the following factors:

• Due to historic buildings and risk, there are no electric kettles in the rooms
• You can expect lots of stairs and winding pathways as these are old buildings, so not disabled friendly
• There can be a lot of mayhem in the town, so expect to hear the sounds of Stone Town early in the morning

If none of these things bother you, then we would highly recommend a unique stay in Stone Town. It is an unparalleled feeling to be in the midst of so much history, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the market. There is no better option than Emerson on Hurumzi – this gem is a refurbished historic building with the most scenic terrace restaurant in Stone Town. Rooms are colourful and full of character. Try opting for a room with a private terrace but you could literally pick any room and you’ll fall in love. Their home-cooked breakfast is hearty and delicious but the Zanzibari feast ($35 per person, including a 4 course meal and entertainment) at their famous rooftop teahouse and restaurant is unparalleled – book a place and arrive before sunset. Watch the sun set over Stone Town and dig into scrumptious fare as local singers regale you with their tunes.

Staying at the beach

When it comes to choosing beach side properties, there is no dearth of options in Zanzibar. If you like partying, then choose a beach-facing hotel or guesthouse in the villages of Nungwi or Kendwa. If you’re on a budget and you like really quiet places, then Resort Filao Beach is a good option. The hotel is affordable and scenic and the staff is lovely. However there is absolutely nothing to do in the area and there are no shops or restaurants. This means you are confined to the premises of the hotel – great if you’re after some privacy but not for you if you’ want to explore the island. The only walking excursion here is a visit to Chwaka village and its fish market.

Mnemba Lodge – A Luxurious Haven

If you’re on your honeymoon or celebrating a truly special occasion (like us- we were there for our tenth anniversary!), then we’d recommend an exquisite private island getaway at AndBeyond Mnemba Island . Here barefoot luxury reigns supreme. Open-air villas are enveloped by trees and white sands. Both the colour of the water and beach sand at Mnemba Island are right out of a picture postcard – it’s easy to spend hours just relaxing by the beach, sipping on cocktails.

Each villa comes with its own private butler, so you can have said cocktails and all your meals wherever you want – by the beach, in your villa, lying down in a canopy in the middle of nowhere, or even on a float in the middle of the ocean. Everything from local delicacies and freshly-caught fish to continental salads and main courses is on offer.  We loved their desserts, especially their chocolate fondant. Just writing about it makes me want to go back for more

A stay here isn’t without its cons – open-air villas can get a tad hot during peak summer months, despite the fans. They are also not apt for light sleepers – there are plenty of doves on the island, which make for impeccable photographs but can be disturbing for light sleepers. For this reason we’d deem it ideal for adventurous luxury travellers. Other than that, AndBeyond Mnemba is the perfect island getaway in Zanzibar – an ideal way to relish an indulgent beach break with your partner in paradise.

Mnemba Atoll is ideal for water sports, especially snorkelling and diving. But we would also urge you to try their dhow boat cruise in the evening – watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean as you sip on sundowners and feel the wind in your hair.

Things to do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a unique destination in the sense that there aren’t too many landmarks you would want to ‘see’. Instead some of the richest things here can be experienced just by staying in the middle of the action and wandering in the by lanes or by a beach. Having said that, here are ten things to do and experiences we would definitely recommend in Zanzibar

• Watersports – diving, snorkelling, boating – you can take your pick! Mnemba Atoll has some of the clearest waters for water sports
• Walk to the fishing villages in Chwaka bay (if you’re staying in the area) and interact with the locals
• Sample street food at Forodhani Market – try the Zanzibari pizza, samosas, and freshly-squeezed fruit juices or if you don’t have a strong tummy, just soak in the atmosphere
• Acquaint yourself with local spices and local fare at Darajani Market in Stone Town
• Book a meal at the scenic restaurant The Rock. To be honest, the location is gorgeous but the food at The Rock could be better for the price. For this reason, we’d suggest dropping by for a drink or starters.
• Walk around Stone Town exploring historic gems such as the Old Fort and shopping for souvenirs. Walk along the port at sunset
• Party the night away at the full moon party at Kendwa Rocks
• Make friends with giant turtles at Canguu (Prison Island) on a day trip
• Enrol yourself in an experiential activity such as a cooking class, a village walk, or a school visit
• Admire the sunset from a dhow cruise – did you know dhow boats have been used by merchants coming to Zanzibar since the Spice Route days? Even today, goods are transported from Tanzania’s mainland to Zanzibar on dhows each day. If you’re holidaying on the island, you MUST hop on an old-school dhow boat and sail on calm waters as the sun sets around you

That’s it. Everything you need to know about planning a week long holiday to Zanzibar. If you have any other questions, please leave them down below 🙂

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46 thoughts on “ one week itinerary for zanzibar: the ultimate guide the spice island ”.

wonderful write-up as-usual.. never knew Tanzania was so beautiful… you guys keep rocking and stay blessed 🙂

Thanks – this week in Zanzibar was a real surprise for us too 🙂

seriously guys.. you can make the worst places look the most fascinating.

Thanks Anjali. Zanzibar however is one of the nicest gems we’ve discovered in recent years 🙂

What a great guide- Zanzibar wasn’t even on my radar but after watching you guys there on Instagram and reading this blog it’s been added to the list for sure! What blue waters and what a beautiful historical town! And as usual, the way you describe destinations has me wanting to book a plane ticket immediately!

Thank you so much Adele – Zanzibar was quite a revelation to us as well 🙂

The article is too good and meaningful. Thank you for showing me the great value Zanzibar brings

Nice write up Savi..will it be too hot in December end??

Hey Vani – yes it will be hot but it’ll also be dry which is why December is one of the good months to visit Zanzibar (blue waters, no rain)

Hi savi n vid… I was waiting for your write up on Zanzibar. We will Be in Zanzibar for 3 nights after our Masai Mara visit. What all we must do in our time as we want to rest for 1 day at least at our beautiful resort The Zanzibari. Thanks ?

Hey Neha – you can pick and choose your favourites from the above but I’d definitely recommend a visit to the Old Town and some time to relax at the beaches 🙂

Lovely write up….? never knew this place even existed until read your blog!!!

Savi. I have one query. What currency is widely accepted in Zanzibar. Dollar or their shillings. Which is more convenient to use. And thank you so much for showing us a precious gem that we can visit.

Hey the local currency is more widely accepted in Zanzibar 🙂

Such a wonderful post guys. Thank you! Just one question-I have been reading up a lot on Tanzania and most guides ask to dress conservatively in Zanzibar. I totally understand that you need to respect the culture of the place you are visiting but do you think as a single woman there is any extra precaution to be taken?

Hey Akanksha – Not really. As long as your elbows and knees are covered and you’re not flashing very expensive equipment, you’re good 🙂

Not more than what you would take in a country like India 🙂

Other than that, just wear covered clothes when going to religious places

I wanted to ask if you decided to spend a week in Zanzibar instead of spending that week in mainland Tanzania? If so, was it worth it to spend the entire time in Zanzibar, having travelled all the way to Tanzania?

I am currently deciding on whether I ought to spend three/four days in Zanzibar, and three days near Arusha (to make short trips to surrounding safaris)

Hey Jin – Your plan sounds great. We had recently been on safari and wanted a relaxed break, hencewhy we opted to fly in and out of Zanzibar 🙂

Hi – Did you book the Dhow boat cruise ahead of time? I am planning my trip to Zanzibar right now, so appreciate any pointers on this!

Hey you don’t need not book the Dhow cruise in Zanzibar ahead of time. Just a day in advance works – so you can book it upon getting there 🙂

Moving around the island ends up being one of the biggest expenses for people visiting Zanzibar. Obviously using the dala dala would keep transport costs down, but for those people who don’t want to travel in hot, cramped buses for hours at a time there are shuttles instead! These effectively work like shared taxis, collecting you directly from your accommodation and dropping you at the next place. The price is only $10 p/p to go anywhere on the island and quite often you get the car to yourself anyway! Only downside is that departure times are set… so check the schedule fits with your plans.

Thank you! We have also included details for private transfers should someone wants that!!

Thank you for this guide, super helpful! Had a few questions, do you think Zanzibar is safe to travel alone for a female? Also did you tip daily? In terms of getting around the Island, is this difficult? Appreciate any tips 🙂 love reading your blogs from little NZ 🙂

Don’t think there should be any problems in solo travel. It seemed safe. You can get around the island either by private car hire or local transport which is not a hassle. Tipping is not expected but always appreciated 😉

Hey savi & Vid, I’ve read your articles on Zanibar a million times only in the hope to make it there one day. It’s finally happening next year, but do your tips and advice remain the same post covid?

Is it a good destination to travel now in such times?

Yes, just make sure that you follow the country specific Covid rules 🙂

Hey was wondering if I could club Zanzibar with safari trips in Tanzania… Will 8-10 days be sufficient to do both? Also have u heard or been to the animal safaris in Tanzania?

That’s the best plan and most people do that. 10 days should be enough for that. Unfortunately we haven’t been to any safaris in Tanzania

Lovely website, especially the photos. I am planning a trip in November, still haven’t finalised a destination but Zanzibar is definitely in the list. However, i wanted to know how safe is the stone town? is there a strict code of decorum to be followed here (i have heard they can be quite conservative)? I am someone who loves immersing myself in different cultures and Zanzibar does look enticing.

It’s safe. Not quite sure what you mean by strict code of decorum 🙂

It didn’t feel stifling or anything of that sort. We loved Zanzibar.

Hey, I was planning for a Honeymoon trip to Zanzibar in Feb’20. My only concern is temperature. Is it going to be really hot or if it is ok yo go in Feb.

Hey Aakash,

You might find more reliable information on Google weather 🙂 we went in November and the weather was beautiful at that time. Not quite sure about Feb

WONDERFUL POST AND FROM THE PHOTO YOU GUYS HAD A VERY GOOD TIME THERE.

Zanzibar is outstanding! I have visited Clove Island in Makunduchi Beach last year and I completely fell in love with the island!

Thank you very much for putting this post together. Savy, you should totally run an IG channel or something on the dresses you wear! They are stunning and I would buy them! I visited Zanzibar as the last destination before the world went into lockdown. I remember visiting Emerson on Hurumzi but they only allow people who had prior appointment (or least so was the case back in December 2019)! I plan to visit Koh Samui next and thanks again for all the suggestion you have put up on the post.

thanks for the ideas, these are handy. !

Would you recommend the company you went with for the sundowner ,dhow boat cruise ? Was it a private cruise ? any details would be appreciated.

Hey there – yes most hotels operate their own private cruises or have tie-ups with local dhow boat companies 🙂

Hi, has anyone here travelled to Zanzibar in March? all articles I have read say March is monsoon season, but I so badly want to be in Zanzibar on my 30th Birthday which is on the 12 March. Does it literally rain every single day in March?

Great write up!!

Would like to know about the dressing scene in Zanzibar. is the place a little too conservative to flaunt skin? Just an observation made in your photos ( using cover ups/pants)

Nothing of the sort in the beach facing hotels. But if you do go to the local markets etc, best to cover up 🙂

Beautiful one

Thanks for sharing the useful information with us. It will help me to rent a car in Zanzibar.

I love this!

Off the beaten path trips are my favourite so this is very helpful for planning our next trips!

thank you so much for sharing your tips! 🙂

I am visiting Zanzibar next month. Thanks for the write up. My grand father was a trader and he used to frequent Zanzibar often. I had heard stories of Zanzibar from him as a child. I am not 62, lol. Your write up was the same as depicted by him during bed time stories. Thanks and now I am planning Zanzibar, an ode to my grandfather. I shall looking out for his foot prints and follow his foot steps.

What a fascinating story! I hope you have the best time in Zanzibar

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Ten Days in Zanzibar: An Itinerary for First-Timers

Located just off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is an archipelago with a fascinating and colorful history. Today, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous zone within the nation of Tanzania, after having experienced several different periods of colonization by a number of different world powers. Throughout this time, however, Zanzibar was a major hub for slavery in the African Great Lakes region, as well as Stone Town being a busy port city. 

Today, this history is reflected in the extensive cultural diversity among Zanzibari people, an ethnic mixture of backgrounds ranging from Persian and Arab to African. The vast majority of the population is Muslim, although there are small factions of other religions present in the archipelago, and Swahili is the locals’ first language.

Visiting Zanzibar offers you the opportunity to enjoy two major sides of what the archipelago has to offer – an incredibly rich cultural and historical experience, as well as a gorgeous seaside holiday. Of course, there are many destinations around the world where you can experience vibrant cultures, fascinating history, and pristine beaches, but there aren’t many places where you can tick all these boxes within 565 square miles. That’s the dream, right? 

My trip to Zanzibar was quite unlike anything else I’ve experienced before. I’d read a lot about the plethora of things to see and do, ranging from visiting the old slave market in Stone Town to swimming with dolphins off the north-eastern coast of the main island. However, when I was finally able to do these things myself, I found myself in awe of how incredibly multifaceted Zanzibar is as a holiday destination. 

The hustle and bustle of the busiest parts of Stone Town make you feel like you’re in a North African riad, while the white sandy beaches of the east coast are comparable to the picture-perfect honeymoon locations of Mauritius and the Seychelles – just quieter and a little more authentic! 

But the best part of all is that Zanzibar is relatively cheap. Whether you’re looking for a budget holiday or a middle-of-the-road type of trip, Zanzibar is a holiday destination that’ll allow you to have an epic experience and do plenty of activities without having to break the bank. I wrote a detailed guide on how to visit Zanzibar on a budget , if you’re interested.

Zanzibar has so many things to do that it can be overwhelming at first, but the good news is that because the main island is small, it’s absolutely possible to experience a little bit of everything without feeling like you’re being run off your feet. It’s all about striking a balance between experiencing the history and culture while also making time to sit back, relax and enjoy your gorgeous surroundings, and in my opinion, this is the perfect place to do just that.

Today, I’m going to share with you some things that I wish I’d known when first visited Zanzibar, along with a comprehensive itinerary of where to go, what to do, and where to stay during your ten days in Zanzibar. 

My itinerary will take you all over the island – you’ll start in Stone Town and see the most important historical sites and do a traditional spice tour, among other things. After that, I’ll guide you through the best way to see the whole island – from doing a dhow cruise in Nungwi to hanging out on the beaches in Kiwengwa, to exploring the legendary Jozani Forest, to finally enjoying a little bit of paradise in Kizimkazi. I’m going to give you advice on where to go, what to do, and where to stay so that you can have an epic trip without any bumps in the road (metaphorically, of course). 

Whether you follow my guide from A to Z or just pick out a few fun places or useful tips, I hope that my experience can help you plan the perfect holiday to East Africa’s most underrated tropical paradise. Now, let’s dive right into our 10-day Zanzibar itinerary!

Day 1: Exploring Stone Town

Prepare to be greeted by Stone Town’s bustling atmosphere the minute you arrive – you’ll be surrounded by friendly locals, bustling storefronts, and remarkable architecture. To be in and amongst the action is the best way to properly experience Stone Town, so I’d suggest exploring on foot as much as possible! I found that it allowed me to really appreciate the complexities of my surroundings – from the colonial buildings to the exquisitely designed wooden doors. The best part of this is that Stone Town is pretty small, so you can absolutely walk it!

Take the plunge and start your adventure at the Darajani Bazaar, arguably the biggest and most popular market in Stone Town. There’s nothing quite like wandering around a traditional market – surrounded by local merchants and families doing their grocery shopping, this is one of my favorite things to do in Zanzibar. There really is no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture! But remember, you will, most likely, stick out like a sore thumb as a tourist, so don’t allow any vendors to take advantage of you and charge you the world for produce or products. 

Next, take a quick stroll down Market Street to the Old Slave Market, probably the most important stop of your Zanzibar itinerary. Be warned – this is, as you may have anticipated, a somber experience. But, having said that, it was truly enlightening and educational too. I’d advise doing a proper tour, during which your guide will show you around the site and explain the distressing history of slavery in Zanzibar. 

The site includes several statues and memorials for the people who died during this period, and the atmosphere is palpable. The former slave market serves as a harsh reminder of the shadows of darkness that are cast by the island’s colonial history of oppression, appearing in stark contrast to the beautiful old colonial buildings that line the streets of Stone Town – but it’s an important reminder, nonetheless.  

Next up, on a slightly different note, head on over to Freddy Mercury House. Yep, you heard me! If you didn’t already know this, you may be surprised to hear that Freddy Mercury grew up in Stone Town and you can visit his former home. You can’t go inside, but you’ll be able to admire the beautiful, traditional door and read all about his life on the plaques positioned outside the house. I found this to be quite a fun and unexpected pitstop, but then again, I’m a bit of a Queen fan girl – so it may not be as much fun if you’re impartial to them (the greatest rock band of all time, cough, cough). Each to their own!

Making a jump to a bit more local history, wander up to the Old Fort, otherwise known as the Arab Fort. The oldest building in Stone Town, the Old Fort was built in 1699 and has been used as a prison and a train terminal, among other things, over the years. Today, it’s well set up for tourists and it even has a visitors’ center and a restaurant.

Across the street from the Old Fort, you’ll find the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum, two of Zanzibar’s landmark museums. They’re both culturally significant, the former being the most modern building in the archipelago at one point in time, and their architecture combines European and Zanzibari styles, adding to their sublime uniqueness. Make sure you take a moment to have a look at these buildings when you leave the Old Fort. Viewing them from the outside should be sufficient, however, because they’re not as well kept as the fort, so don’t waste too much time here!

End your day with a cultural experience that is sure to be an absolute blast! By now, you’re bound to be absolutely dying to try some local Zanzibari street food, and where better to do this than at a local night market? As the sun sets, the Forodhani Gardens, located at the Palace Museum, transforms into a hustling and bustling food market. 

Here, you’ll be able to spend the evening wandering around, meeting locals, and trying out some of the most interesting and delicious food! My favorite things are Zanzibari pizza (which is nothing like a typical pizza), Chapatti, and Urojo! My mouth is watering just thinking about these delicious treats.

Where to stay in Stone Town: Stone Town boasts loads of accommodation options, but I personally think that since you’re going to be doing a lot of exploring and spending significant time outdoors, it’s nice to have a really nice and comfortable place to stay – that’s why I’d recommend Sharazad Wonders Boutique . Its location is super central – only 150 meters from the main beach and close to the Old Fort – and it offers handy extra services like the use of free bikes and air-conditioning in the rooms. 

Day 2: Traditional Spice Tour from Stone Town

No trip to Stone Town is complete without a traditional spice tour! Now, I was a little bit skeptical when I was first told that I had to do a spice tour while in Zanzibar – I’m not particularly interested in spices, nor am I much of a cook (or so I’ve been told). Luckily, however, my curiosity got the better of me and I did it anyway, and boy am I glad it did! 

A Zanzibari spice tour is about more than just spices, it’s a full-on cultural experience. Not only do you get to see and try a vast array of traditional spices, but you get to spend the day with locals away from the business of the town, cook with them, and even share a meal.

Your morning starts at 9:00 where you’ll meet your guide at the entrance of the Old Fort – yes, the one you visited yesterday. From there, you’ll be driven out to the spice farm by means of their arranged transport, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Best of all, the journey is fairly quick, 20 to 30 minutes maximum, and you’ll get to see Stone Town from a different vantage point along the way.

When you arrive, your guides will show you around the farm, telling you all about their different spices – you can even taste them fresh from the fields which I’d highly recommend. You’ll see things like vanilla, cardamom, and nutmeg that ought to be familiar to you, as well as a few more unusual things as well, it’s all part of the fun. 

After the tour, you’ll be invited to take part in a cassava leaf harvest, a coconut milk-making tour, and finally, you’ll have an intimate cooking lesson with the locals, using a collection of local ingredients and spices. As if the cooking lesson wasn’t fun enough, you get to eat the final product! 

But in all seriousness, I really believe that few traveling experiences come close to sharing a meal with locals, no matter where you are in the world. And here, you get to (literally) break bread with people from a completely different walk of life as they share with you their culture and traditions. It really is an epic experience!

However, from a practical perspective, be warned that you’ll be spending much of the day in the sweltering sun. So make sure you take a hat, sun cream, water, comfortable shoes to walk in, and cash to buy some spices of your own afterward!

You’ll get back to the Fort in the afternoon and will most likely be rather knackered, so I’d suggest that you spend the rest of the afternoon chilling. But if you do feel up to doing something more, consider checking out the Persian baths, the Malindi Mosque, St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, or just going for walk along the beach.

When you’re ready for dinner, I found that the best way to find the most delicious food was to simply take a stroll around town until you found something you like the look of. The streets are bustling in the evenings, and you’ll have no trouble finding a place for dinner – whether you grab something from a street vendor or sit down at a proper restaurant!

Day 3: Changuu Island Day Trip from Stone Town

Get ready for a proper island-style day out when you do a day trip to Changuu Island . Meet at the Old Fort in the morning (yeah, it’s a common meeting place for tours) and you’ll be taken down to the coastline where you’ll hop on a little boat and your guide will drive you out to the island. Although the boat itself is nothing special, it’s always fun to be out on the water. And don’t panic if you get seasick, it’s not a long ride and you won’t spend any time bobbing around!

Changuu Island, colloquially known as Prison Island, is incredibly significant in Zanzibar, naturally, culturally, and historically. The island was purchased by Lloyd Matthews, Zanzibar’s first-ever British Prime Minister back in 1893, and its initial purpose was, you guessed it, to be a prison. However, these plans didn’t materialize and the island was later used as a location for local yellow fever patients to quarantine – yikes!

When you arrive, you’ll be able to wander around and learn about the local history from your guide. But it’s not all about colonial history! Animal lovers will be pleased to hear that the island is inhabited by at least 50 tortoises. In fact, some will be older than you, as there are even a few who are older than 100 years old! You’ll be able to see the local animals and even feed them if you’re brave. Your guide will give you some background as to what these little guys (who aren’t always so little) are doing there. And keep an eye out for peacocks and antelope too!

Once you’ve seen and learned about the island, wander back down to the beach to cool off in the picturesque waters. Your guides will even bring along snorkeling gear, so if you’re keen to check out what’s below you, grab some goggles, flippers, and a snorkel and hit the water!

When you’re tired, lunch will be waiting for you, cooked for you by your guides. You’ll have the pleasure of enjoying a traditional Swahili feast including local fare, a seafood BBQ, fresh fruit, and delicious cheeses.

After your lunch has settled, you’ll jump back on the boat and enjoy a leisurely ride back to the main island. You’ll probably be full from lunch, so if you’re not too tired, wander around and find a spot on the beach for some sundowners – I’d suggest 6 Degrees South or Mercury’s – and get an early night. 

Day 4: Chill Out on the Coast at Nungwi

Start your day bright and early and head up north to Nungwi. There are four ways to get there – by bus, shuttle, taxi, or rental car. When I did the trip, I hired a car and drove myself because I wanted the freedom to stop as I liked. But if you’d rather let somebody else do the driving, my recommendation would be to pre-order a taxi. You can take a bus or shuttle, but you may be in for some delays, multiple stops, and just a generally full and uncomfortable journey. Of course, it’s all about preference! But if you are going to take a taxi, make sure you book it in advance and settle on a price beforehand – this goes for the rest of your trip too!

When you arrive (the drive is only about an hour and fifteen minutes if you go directly), check into your accommodation and spend the day exploring the village and relaxing on the beach.

If you’re an active person, however, and sitting still just isn’t your cup of tea (I get it, I always need to be busy), there are loads of things you can do without going too far. Head down to Nungwi Beach and you’ll find loads of space to lay down your towel and read a book, as well as several operators offering cool things to do. This may include things like hiring snorkeling or diving gear or going surfing. 

For dinner, I’d highly recommend, um, Sexy Fish Restaurant. They serve the most delicious African-European fusion seafood made with locally sourced ingredients – it’s to die for. 

Where to Stay in Nungwi: Nungwi is a fairly touristy part of the island – by Zanzibar’s standards – but Canary Nungwi Hotel and Spa is the perfect escape from the business you may experience elsewhere. It’s only a few hundred meters away from Nungwi Beach and a few kilometers from Royal Beach and Kendwa Beach (which, by the way, is divine). 

Canary Nungwi Hotel is one of my personal favorites, not only because of its location but it’s got a laid-back vibe while still offering you all the amenities you need. It even has its own restaurant, so if you’re needing a quick and easy meal, you don’t have to go far. And their food is delicious too!

Day 5: Visit the Turtles and Go for a Sunset Dhow Cruise

You’ve seen local tortoises, and now it’s time to hang out with their aquatic counterparts! Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond in Nungwi, a natural aquarium, and see these little local wonders with your very own eyes. 

At the conservation pond, you’ll be able to learn all about the local turtle population and the aquarium’s conservation efforts. If you’re keen, you’ll even be able to feed and swim with the turtles – a truly special experience! Entrance fee is $10 which goes towards their conservation efforts, which is pretty worth it if you ask me.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and in the sun before heading out on a sunset dhow cruise . In my humble opinion, this was one of the coolest things I got to do while in Zanzibar. Being out on the open ocean in a traditional Zanzibari dhow with a glass of wine – it doesn’t get better than that. Depending on the weather, you may even have the option of jumping in the water for a snorkel when you arrive at the reef, and you’ll be serenaded with local live music on the boat while you enjoy your sundowners. 

Day 6: Visit the Kiwengwa Caves on the Northeastern Coast 

It’s time to hit the road – you’re going to Kiwengwa! This is when it comes in handy to have hired a car, but don’t fret if you don’t – you can, once again, pre-order a taxi (for about $25) or catch a local bus. It’ll only take you about 45 minutes to get there.

Kiwengwa is a popular destination for tourists, and it’s no wonder why. It boasts a gorgeous beach and several cool attractions – also, the beaches in the North Eastern part of Zanzibar are known to be the best, and I can absolutely attest to that!

When you arrive, drop off your bags and enjoy a relaxing morning. Then put on some active clothes, comfy shoes, and get ready to do some exploring, because you’re going to the Kiwengwa Caves! 

There are actually two caves – one is 150 meters long and the other is 200 meters long – and they differ in shape and height. They’re a pretty awe-inspiring sight and when you get there, you’ll be surrounded by bats and exquisite birds, making this an epic excursion for animal lovers, especially ornithologists. The caves are full of massive trees and their roots, as well as stalactites hanging from the roof of the caves. 

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby little village of Pongwe. It’s a quaint local village with a beautiful beach boasting pristine, calm waters and a protected coral reef. Wander around the village and meet the locals, and spend some time lazing around on the beach and in the water.

Head back to Kiwengwa and have dinner at La Base Jungelkite, a local seafood and fish restaurant. Now, don’t be thrown off when you realize it’s also a kitesurfing school – their food is excellent and there’s always a cool atmosphere! 

Where to stay in Kiwengwa: When you’re visiting Kiwengwa, you absolutely have to stay at Ndoto Africa Bungalows . Here, you’ll be treated to all the comforts of home along with a typical East African touch. The rooms are separate little bungalows so you can enjoy your privacy and there’s a lovely pool that you’re sure to want to use to cool off after long, hot days in the sun.

Their breakfasts are also an absolute must – they serve a variety of options, including an a la carte menu, continental breakfast, as well as several Italian-style options if you’d like to try something different. 

Day 7: Kiwengwa

Today is all about relaxing. After all, Kiwengwa, along with the rest of the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, is renowned for its sublime beaches and epic swimming spots. And after a busy week, you’re most likely aching for a day in the sun and the sand doing whatever the heck you want. 

So, start your morning in the most relaxing way possible and down to the Yoga Bar. Enjoy a yoga class at the beach at this special family-run establishment and stick around for a coffee and a healthy breakfast afterward.

Spend the rest of the day hanging out on the beach and taking a walk out on the sand banks at low tide. Hit the water and do some snorkeling, or, if you really feel like being active, why not try out a kite surfing lesson? I’d recommend either making your way back to La Base Junglekite or try out One Love Kite Surfing – they’re both popular kite surfing schools and you’re bound to have a fun day out! 

In the late afternoon, head to the Beach Lounge for sundowners and enjoy a laid-back evening.

Day 8: Visit Jozani Forest from Jambiani

Hit the road and head from Kiwengwa to Jambiani – the drive should take you just over an hour (if you travel directly) and a taxi will cost you between $35 and $40. Jambiani is a quaint little village, slightly quieter and less touristy than some of the northeastern parts of Zanzibar. It’s known as a fishing and seaweed farming village and wandering around the streets and up the seven-kilometer-long beach is a beautiful and fascinating experience.

Spend the morning exploring the village, enjoying the beach, and frolicking in the water before getting ready to head out for a little afternoon adventure. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothes head on out to Jozani Forest – either drive or hop in a taxi. The forest is located inside Jozani Chwaka National Park – Zanzibar’s only national park. 

For the full experience, I would absolutely recommend doing a guided forest tour. That way, you’ll be shown around the forest by a local guide, and they’ll tell you all about the natural vegetation and the wild animals that call the forest home. One of the most unusual animals you’ll see are Red Colobus Monkeys – they’re only found in Zanzibar, so they’re a pretty special sight!

After your day in the forest, head back to Jambiani to enjoy an evening on the beach. If you’re into seafood, I’d highly recommend going to Casa Del Mar – they serve Sea Cigal which is a local breed of lobster, and it’s absolutely to die for! And if you’re into Instagrammable settings, take a taxi up to the Rock for dinner: the instafamous restaurant that’s located on a rock in the ocean!

Where to stay in Jambiani: Since you’re only staying one night, why not treat yourself to a full-on resort experience? And there’s no better place to do it than at Zen Boutique Resort .

The resort offers visitors everything you could possibly dream of – from a pool with crystal clear water to a top-notch restaurant and vibey bar. Ideally, it’s only about 30 kilometers from Jozani Forest and there’s even a shared lounge, which I’ve always found is a really fun way to meet other travelers!

Day 9: Enjoy the Beach at Kizimkazi

The time has come for you to head to your final destination of your trip to Zanzibar – Kizimkazi. It’ll only take you about half an hour to get there (once again, either by driving yourself or by taxi) so have a slow morning in Jambiani before you head down south. 

Kizimkazi is the ideal place to relax and just enjoy the tropical paradise that is Zanzibar during your second last day on the island. My favorite beach to visit when I was there was Aya Beach – it may not boast the white sandy beaches you see on postcards, but I actually think that in many ways, it’s better! It’s a beautiful piece of shoreline and you can walk along the beach no matter the tides. 

Spend the day enjoying the outdoors and hanging out on the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not go snorkeling? The water is warm and it’s crystal clear! 

For dinner, head down to Mnana Lodge. Here, you’ll find an awesome spot that serves Italian-Zanzibari fusion food – it’s exactly what you never realized you’ve been missing in your life! Honestly, the food is incredible and it’s super well-priced, you simply can’t go wrong with Mnana Lodge. 

Where to stay in Kizimkazi: Last but certainly not least is Kamelon Blue in Kizimkazi – my favorite place that I’ve stayed at on the island! Kamelon Blue just has such a cool atmosphere. It’s relaxed but professional, and you’ll have access to a gorgeous pool and cool bar on the property (make sure to try out a few of their signature cocktails, they’re amazing). 

The setting is absolutely gorgeous, with the private rooms situated in and amongst greenery all around the property, so walking back to your room tonight makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the forest!

Day 10: Enjoy a Blue Safari 

It’s your last day in Zanzibar, but don’t let that get you down! Spend your final morning going on what the locals call a blue safari – a day trip on a boat to marvel at some of the island’s most incredible scenery and wildlife! Best of all, you’ll even get to hop in the water and come face-to-face with some of them. 

Now, before you head out, it’s essential that you’re properly prepared – it gets pretty darn hot out there, so make sure you pack a hat, sun cream, and clothing that won’t make you too hot. Definitely wear a swimsuit and if you have a second skin, take it along! The last thing you want is to get a gnarly sunburn just before you have to travel home.

When you’re deciding which tour operator to pick, my advice is to look carefully at what the tours include and make a decision based on how long you want to be out on the water and which activities most suit your interests. Some of the activities they include are visiting Menai Bay which is Zanzibar’s largest marine protected area, going snorkeling in special locations, viewing dolphins, and even swimming with dolphins. Some will offer all, especially if it’s a private tour, while others tend to focus on either sightseeing at Menai Bay and learning about the conservation side of things or swimming with the dolphins. 

Honestly, all these options are epic. But since you have limited time, I’d say you should prioritize swimming with the dolphins. I mean, how often do you get that kind of opportunity?

After a special day out on the water, surrounded by phenomenal scenery and beautiful animals, you ought to feel pretty fulfilled! And while you may be sad to leave, the one upside is that your trip back out to Stone Town, from where you’ll depart (either by plane or ferry) will only take you about an hour by taxi. 

Final Thoughts on How to Spend 10 Days in Zanzibar

Well, there you have it! I’ve done a fair bit of traveling in different parts of the world, but there’s just something special about Zanzibar. It’s the locals, the food, the incredible scenery, and the fact that the archipelago has such a rich and deep history just waiting to be explored. The true essence of Zanzibar is tangible wherever you go and whatever you do, and in my opinion, it’s something that everybody should experience. 

So, now that you’ve heard my take on the best way to see Zanzibar in ten days, all there’s left to do is start booking and pack your bags!

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Zanzibar Vacation Packages

The Zanzibar Archipelago, is a breathtaking spot to escape from the world. Most visitors will enjoy clear, turquoise-blue water; shallow sandbars perfect for wading; and many small, nearly deserted islands virtually unvisited by tourists. Explore the World Heritage Site of Stone Town, Zanzibar City’s old quarter. Or just go beach to beach between tiny fishing villages, each one's better than the next. The North Coast is probably the most popular area of Zanzibar for travelers. Due to its location, it's pretty much unaffected by the changing tides, proving uninterrupted beach access all day long. The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in Zanzibar and they're ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Best Zanzibar Vacation Packages:

The best of zanzibar island, 8 nights from $1,616 *.

Unforgettable vacations in the exotic Tanzania, in its main Archipelago! . Beautiful Zanzibar Island is a dream destination for many: It retains its exotic mystique and is full of activity. The Spice Island is home to spices plantations like: nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, cardamom and black pepper and idyllic beaches. With this flexible vacation package you can experience the rich history and culture as well as the unparalleled natural beauty of the island!. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

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Other Zanzibar Vacation Packages:

Cape Town - Kruger National Park - Johannesburg - Zanzibar

Muscat - Zanzibar by Air

Cairo - Nairobi - Zanzibar - Johannesburg by Air

Zanzibar and Doha by Air

• Flight into Cape Town and out of Zanzibar
• Hotel for 2 nights in Cape Town
• Flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit Airport
• Transfer from Hoedspruit Airport to Hotel in Kruger
• Hotel for 2 nights in Kruger National Park
• Transfer from Hotel in Kruger to Hoedspruit Airport
• Flight from Hoedspruit Airport to Johannesburg
• Hotel for 2 nights in Johannesburg
• Flight Johannesburg to Zanzibar
• Hotel for 2 nights in Zanzibar

• Flight into Muscat and out of Zanzibar
• Hotel for 3 nights in Muscat
• Flight from Muscat to Zanzibar
• Hotel for 3 nights in Zanzibar
• Ramadan is a month of spirituality and purification during which participants abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking. Ramadan is typically celebrated in late winter or early spring. Please verify dates before booking travel because food and entertainment services in hotels and other public places may be affected.
• Fligh into Cairo and out of Johannesburg
• Hotel for 3 nights in Cairo
• Flight from Cairo to Nairobi
• Hotel for 2 nights in Nairobi
• Flight from Nairobi to Zanzibar
• Flight from Zanzibar to Johannesburg
• Flight from Zanzibar to Doha
• Hotel for 3 nights in Doha

Hotels & Activities

Suggested zanzibar vacation packages:.

• Flight into Dubai and out of Zanzibar
• Hotel for 3 nights in Dubai
• Flight Dubai to Zanzibar

• Hotel 3 nights in Johannesburg
• Hotel 3 nights in Zanzibar
• Flight Zanzibar to Cape Town
• Hotel 3 nights in Cape Town
• Flight from Dubai to Kigali
• Hotel for 3 nights in Kigali
• Flight from Kigali to Zanzibar
• Flight from Dubai to Zanzibar
• Flight from Zanzibar to Muscat
• Hotel for 2 nights in Muscat
• Transfer from Airport to Hotel In Kigali
• Hotel for 4 nights in Kigali
• Transfer from Hotel in Kigali to Airport
• Flight from Kigali to Zanzibar Island
• Hotel for 4 nights in Zanzibar Island Sample of Included Tours:
• Guided City Tour in Kigali
• Day Trip to Akagera National Park from Kigali
• Visit the UNESCO Site Stonetown in Zanzibar
• Day Trip to Jozani Forest Park from Zanzibar
• Tanzanian Cooking Class Your price will only include confirmed available tours; if an included tour becomes unavailable there may be alternate options available at an additional cost.
• Flight into Nairobi and out of Zanzibar Island
• Transfer from Nairobi Airport to Hotel
• Hotel for 4 nights in Nairobi
• Transfer from Hotel in Nairobi to Airport
• Flight from Nairobi to Zanzibar Island
• Hotel for 4 nigts in Zanzibar Sample of Included Tours:
• Guided City Tour in Nairobi
• Dinner Experience in Nairobi
• Visit Ntnl Park Game Drive - Safari in Nairobi
• Visit to Nairobi Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center in Nairobi
• Transfer from Cairo Airport to Hotel
• Hotel for 4 nights in Cairo
• Transfer from Hotel to Cairo Airport
• Hotel for 3 nights in Nairobi
• Transfer from Hotel to Nairobi Airport
• Transfer from Johannesburg Airport to Hotel
• Hotel for 4 nights in Johannesburg
• Transfer from Hotel to Johannesburg Airport Sample of Included Tours:
• Guided City Tour in Cairo
• Visit to Giza Pyramids and Sphinx from Cairo
• Visit to Egyptian Museum in Cairo
• Nile Dinner Cruise from Cairo
• Soweto and Apartheid History Tour in Johannesburg
• Visit the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO Site from Johannesburg
• Lion Reserve Safari Experience in Johannesburg Your price will only include confirmed available tours; if an included tour becomes unavailable there may be alternate options available at an additional cost.

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Orientation

• Experience Zanzibar
• Where to Stay
• Getting Around Zanzibar
• Zanzibar FAQ
• Best Time To Visit
• Tipping in Tanzania

Cities in Tanzania

• Zanzibar   
• close X Zanzibar The <b>Zanzibar</b> Archipelago, is a breathtaking spot to escape from the world. You'll enjoy clear, turquoise-blue water, shallow sandbars perfect for wading, and many small, nearly deserted islands virtually unvisited by tourists. Explore the World Heritage Site of Stone Town, Zanzibar City's old quarter; or just go beach to beach between tiny fishing villages - each one's better than the next!<br> <br> Visit Stone Town, Prison Island, The Zanzibar Beaches, the Sultan's Palace, Jozani Forest and so much more!
• Arusha   
• close X Arusha If you've ever dreamed of an African adventure, consider <b>Arusha</b>. This Tanzanian city is a wonderful base for Mount Kilimanjaro climbers and safari enthusiasts, thanks to its location in the Great Rift Valley. The prosperous Arusha is the gateway to all the northern national parks of Tanzania and therefore often the starting point of many memorable safaris. Here you can go through some of the world's most beautiful and bountiful landscapes, such as Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara. Arusha city is a nice place to relax after arriving at Kilimanjaro airport, and to acclimate before your exciting safari starts. <br> <br> Visit Mount Meru Hotel, Gran Melia Arusha, Cultural Heritage Centre, and so much more!

Tanzania & beyond

• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates

My 2 Week Trip to Zanzibar (beach huts, local food, activities and more)

Never did I think I would make it to this island off the coast of mainland Tanzania but somehow, like most of my travels, it just happened.

After bouncing around Kenya and Tanzania for a while, it was time to take it easy and catch up on work, and Zanzibar seemed like a logical, and nearby, option. All we hoped for was a relatively quiet beach in a tropical setting, close to a local village, and where accommodation wasn’t too expensive.

And it didn’t take long to find our ideal setup. For two whole nights at least.

The place we chose to stay at is the Promised Land Lodge , located on the very southern tip of Zanzibar. Beautiful setting on the wild coast, large jungle bungalows on a cliff overlooking the shining water, great local food, hammocks, a beach bar, a nice swimming pool and the village of Kizimkazi only 20 minutes walk away.

For $50 per night, with breakfast included, we were truly giddy over this gem of a find.

So, after two nights there, we packed up and left.

This is the downside of working online. The location of this lodge proved to be one of the last spots on Zanzibar without 3G internet coverage, so our SIM cards and data packages were useless. The internet provided at the lodge, as expected, didn’t work too well either. As a result, it was quite difficult for us to get our work done and we had no choice but to leave.

Off we went, quite bummed, in search of another option.

You can then imagine our surprise when, amazingly, with very little research and a lot of luck, we found another accommodation setup that rivaled, or at least matched, what Promised Land had offered.

Suddenly, our trip to Zanzibar took us to the village of Jambiani, on the southeast coast, where we happily threw down our bags at the welcoming and idyllic Mango Beach House .

We stayed here for eleven nights. And it was absolutely perfect.

Here’s how our stay went down…

If you’re looking for a quiet white sand beach with a laid-back vibe, local village life, perfect sunrises, warm ocean water, a good scattering of places to eat and that feeling of being in paradise, Jambiani is the place to go. I’ll admit that we didn’t really explore too many other parts of Zanzibar but once we found this ideal corner, we were more than happy to stay put.

What a crazy, beautiful beach! I have never, in all my travels, seen the ocean act as weirdly as it did in Zanzibar. In Jambiani at least, the tide would be one kilometer out when low and then, in what seemed like a remarkably fast period of time, the tide would suddenly be high, very high, covering almost all of the beach. And the colors changed all day long, with such an impressive array of blues and greens sparkling away. It was strange, mesmerizing and spectacular all at the same time.

When the tide was high, this beach was great for swimming. The only downside, at least in March, is that the water temperature was basically ‘hot’.

Go swimming in the morning though, before 9am, and in the evening, around 6pm, and it will be cooler at those times, offering a refreshing way to start and end your day!

Accommodation

There are probably 20 or so accommodation options to choose from along the three kilometers of Jambiani beachfront, ranging from inexpensive, basic rooms in a simple house (around $25 USD per night) to nicer guesthouses with tropical settings and more comfortable rooms (around $50 – $60 per night) and all the way up to fancier bungalows and hotels for $90 – $200 USD per night.

We must have checked out 15 of these places in our search for accommodation. In the end, though, as soon as we stepped through the gate of the Mango Beach House , we knew it was the place for us.

The local owner, Kiddo, was super kind, the rooms were spacious, colorful, airy, well-decorated and with a clear view of the ocean, the grounds were filled with palm trees and flowers, there were swinging beds, lounge chairs and raised platforms to hang out on and there was a cozy open-air cafe and restaurant.

Here’s a quick video tour I created:

The place was spotless, the entire team of four staff were extremely helpful and there were only four rooms, making it feel almost like a private retreat.

At around $50 USD per night (for 2 people), with breakfast included and a common kitchen to use, it was by far the best deal that we found in Jambiani. If I ever take another trip to Zanzibar, this is exactly where I would stay again.

At the Mango Beach House, like at most small accommodation on Zanzibar, if you let the staff know ahead of time that you want dinner, the in-house chef will cook you up some dishes. From fresh seafood to vegetable curries to grilled chicken, salads and more, for about $8 USD per person, we had an excellent evening feast several times.

On other nights, and for most lunches, we would venture out into the village or along the beach where we found:

Local restaurants ($5 – $7 USD per person) – Stone Culture was our favorite, right next to Mango Beach Guesthouse…we came here 4 or 5 times for inexpensive, tasty local dishes cooked by the friendly owner/chef

– Pishi Restaurant in the center of the village was another decent, cheap option

Other hotel restaurants ($7 – $10 per person) – The food at the Mamamapambo Boutique Hotel was wonderful, and great value, especially for lunch…try the masala iced tea and you’ll end up coming back every day (located next door to Mango Beach Guesthouse)

Western food ($5 – $10 per person) – Bahari Pizza is an Italian owned place with a perfect spot on the beach, great pizzas, excellent service and plenty of other quality dishes

– Mr. Kahawa in Paje (the next village up the beach, about 5 kms from Jambiani) serves fresh and delicious sandwiches, salads, wraps, fruit juices, coffees and pastries in a funky, minimalist beach cafe setting

Those are all the places where we ate. Not a ton of options, but definitely enough for a two week stay!

The Village

Jambiani is small and quiet, with about 1500 people spread out along a three kilometer stretch of beach. It’s a collection of sandy ‘roads’ and narrow sandy paths that weave between very simple homes and huts, some small shops and fruit stands and several mosques. The people are generally friendly, especially the younger generation who seem to have had more contact with foreigners. The locals working in the guesthouses and restaurants are really friendly and you can easily have a conversation with any of them. They are more than happy to discuss local life and answer any questions.

The village, like most of Zanzibar, is conservative and all local females have their arms and legs covered while outside. Most females, including young girls, also have their hair covered. Nobody seemed to mind travelers wearing more western clothing but you’ll definitely stand out and receive plenty of stares if you don’t dress somewhat conservatively while walking around the village. You don’t need to put on pants and a long sleeve shirt but wrapping a sarong around yourself while in the village seemed to be the method of choice.

On the beach itself, things were more relaxed and swimsuits were much more acceptable. Nobody appeared to mind beach clothing being worn at the beach.

We would go for a walk through the village once or twice per day more or less, usually to pop into a small store to buy water, snacks or bananas and to grab a local dinner. There isn’t much to do in the village apart from that but interacting with the kids, shopkeepers and others in the streets was always good fun while out and about.

Nearby Activities

Paje – The next village up the beach, here you’ll find a wider stretch of white sand, a smaller village, a lot of kitesurfing schools and a lot more foreigners. We preferred Jambiani but I did enjoy the 1 hour walk along the beach up to Paje every now and then for a change of scenery. You can also take a taxi for around 10000 TSH ($3 USD).

Jozani Forest – About 15 minutes by car away from Jambiani, this forest/national park is one of the last places in the world where you can encounter the red colobus monkeys.

You can always rent a car for around $30 USD per day to drive to other parts of the island. There are plenty of more beaches and villages out there than Jambiani so a couple of day trips would be a great option for those looking to explore during their trip to Zanzibar. Other popular areas are Nungwi (way up on the northern tip of Zanzibar), Matemwe (northeast coast), Pongwe (east coast) and Bweeju (about 11 kilometers north of Jambiani).

Additional Details

Internet – If you need internet like we do (to work every day!), the connections offered at most accommodation will be very poor at best. However, if you buy a SIM card in Zanzibar City (the capital and main entry point of Zanzibar), you can get solid 3G connection if you’re staying in an actual village on the island, such as Jambiani. We found Airtel offered the most reliable service on the island and was quite inexpensive (3 GB for around $8 USD).

Taxi costs – Getting from Zanzibar City/Stone Town to Jambiani or Kizimkazi or pretty much any of the main beach areas on the north, east or southern coast should cost between $25 – $40 USD. A taxi from the airport to the center of Stone Town should cost around $8 – $12 USD. There are also local trucks/vans that have set routes around the island. Often very crowded and much slower than a taxi, they are indeed cheap, allowing you to travel a good distance for just a dollar or two. If you do plan to visit many parts of the island during your trip to Zanzibar, you might want to look at renting a car instead of using taxis as it will save you a good amount of money.

Tours and activities – If you’re looking to be more active than just sitting on the beach, there’s a long list of possible activities on Zanzibar, including snorkeling, scuba diving , surfing, kitesurfing, dolphin trips, fishing, visiting outer islands, spice tours and more. Plenty of people will approach you on the beaches offering such tours. Keep in mind that these people are just middlemen and usually not connected in any way to the company that actually offers the activity. It’s worth talking to the staff at your hotel or guesthouse as they should have direct contacts with reliable tour operators, boatmen, drivers, etc and it avoids huge markups. It’s also perfectly acceptable to negotiate the price for any tour/activity.

Money – The main currency is the Tanzanian shilling but many prices are quoted in USD or Euros as well. Keep in mind that the only ATMs on the island are in Zanzibar City/Stone Town so it’s best to take out local currency there before you head off to your beach location. Otherwise, you’ll need to travel 45+ minutes back to Zanzibar City every time you need money and that can cost $60 USD roundtrip by taxi. Money exchange options are also limited on the beaches (Jambiani didn’t have any!) so if you don’t have enough local currency, you’ll have to pay in USD or Euros. Some restaurants and accommodation will accept visa credit cards but do add on a 3%-5% bank fee.

Stone Town – We also stayed in Stone Town, which is the old section of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar. And it’s definitely worth visiting. We spent one night there when we first arrived on Zanzibar and two nights at the end. You can spend an entire day getting lost in the winding maze of lanes, eating lunch at the excellent Lukmaan Restaurant , visiting the educational former slave market, spending time inside the House of Wonders (aka the best worst museum in the world ), wandering through the colorful main market and enjoying a refreshing drink on the beach at sunset. It’s a cool place to hang out for a couple of days.

In Stone Town we stayed at the incredibly friendly and comfortable Zenji Hotel and at the more centrally-located Tausi Palace . Both were excellent budget options and I’d simply choose whichever one has the best rate on any particular dates.

Overall Costs of a Trip to Zanzibar

On a tight budget, your trip to Zanzibar could cost you as little as $25 USD per day if you stay in a hostel or simple room/hut and eat at the most local of restaurants and food stalls.

For $50 USD per day, you can stay in a quality beachfront guesthouse or beach hut (such as Mango Beach House, when split between two people) and throw in an extra activity/excursion every few days.

At $70 USD per day, along with your beachfront room, you could also eat some more expensive meals/dishes and hire a car to really explore the island.

Zanzibar is one of those destinations that can fit into any budget!

Getting There

Getting to Zanzibar from mainland Tanzania is quite easy. There are several ferries per day to/from Dar es Salaam with the company Azam Marine . The journey takes around 2 hours and costs approximately $35 USD per person.

Before you book the ferry though, be sure to check out Precision Air , one of Tanzania’s local airlines. They offer Zanzibar – Dar es Salaam flights for as low as $40 USD per person. That’s what we paid for the 15 minute flight and it came with gorgeous views of the island and the Tanzanian capital en route!

Any questions about Zanzibar? Any additional advice from those who have already been to this island?

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86 Comments

Good day me and my boyfriend want to visit zanzibar we are a gay couple where will be the best place to book an 2week stay

Hey Adriaan – I only know the place where we stayed, which was awesome. I’m not too sure about all the other options on the island unfortunately.

Hey – I just found your information via the Every Passport Stamp presentation you just did. Lots of good info. Will be subscribing to your newsletter.

Question – it looks like you count Zanzibar as one of the countries you travelled to. Is it listed as an actually country? I’m not being nit picky – I’m just at the 98 country mark and am wondering to count it on my list o’ countries. I always just thought it was part of Tanzania. Thanks!

Hey Michelle – Thanks for signing up and I appreciate you watching the Q&A! As for your question, I’m honestly not trying to be too particular with my count. I generally talk about countries, territories, semi-autonomous regions and so on as separate entities but only because it seems clearer to do so. As for my actual count though, it’s only countries and fully autonomous regions that I include.

I travelled around Zanzibar a couple of years ago by hiring a scooter. Very cheap and lots of fun! But also pretty dangerous – the traffic is pretty crazy in Stone Town, and on the highways there are lots of trucks, surprise speedbumps and police roadblocks. Also it’s worth noting that the scooters may have one of two mechanical issues 🙂 We stayed at Paje after a day of riding, it made it absolutely worth it!

Not sure whether to stay Zanibar Town side of the island or the East side. Im there solo for 6 nights later this year but looking to book accom now as it is filling up fast. If you stay on the west side, is it easier access to amenities like food, ATMs, tours etc? If you stay East side, are you basically stuck to your own hotel other than when you walk along the beach and pretty much just have to hang by the pool and do nothing?? I intend to do a fair bit of that, but also still want to do a fair few activities like scuba, snorkel etc so whcih has better access to these?? Dont really want to be travelling in a $60USD cab each day to go do something.

Hey Tim – The difference is that on the west side, you’re in a small city. On the east side, you’re on the coast with a more beach/village atmosphere. You can rent a car over there, take day trips and there’s plenty of stuff to do if you stay on the east side. But overall, Zanzibar isn’t exactly a destination with a ton of activities. It’s more of a place to chill. If you want to scuba and snorkel, you should stay on the east side where the nicer beaches are located and there is more access to such activities. Stone Town is a good place to see, either on a day trip from the east side of perhaps spending 2 nights there and 4 nights somewhere else.

Hey. We are looking to go next week to Zanzibar. We really wanted to do some sort of a safari but we are on a budget. Do you have any recommendations of closer ones to Zanzibar? Also what would the weather be like now end of February time. Thanks!

Hey Farah – Since Zanzibar is an island, you won’t be very close to places that offer a safari. You would need to fly somewhere and to be honest, if you’re going to be in that region, you might as well go to the Serengeti for the safari as that is one of the best you can experience anywhere!

Hi, My husband and I are going on a Safari in Kenya and then flying to the Ocean Paradis Resort, Kijangwani, Zanzibar to extend our holiday. We have a choice of different board options and normally we would just go for the basic breakfast option but I have heard food and drink is quite expensive and that it isn’t that safe to go out at night. I am hoping that this is just scare mongering and that to go out and find restaurants at night would in fact not only be a great way to experience the culture but also to feel part of the local community. What are your thoughts? Thanks

Hey Janet – To be honest, I’m not too sure. Where we stayed was a small village in Zanzibar and so there really wasn’t much to do at night. We did walk along the beach to a restaurant a couple of times at night without any issues but there wasn’t much going on in this village. The restaurants in the village were great and not expensive at all, but I don’t know too much about the more touristy areas of Zanzibar. I’m sure in those areas the restaurant prices will be more expensive (usually happens around resorts where they know people are paying a lot of money per night) but I’m not sure about safety in those areas.

Derek, your article is so so perfect. We are spending 15 days with my wife in zanzibar on May 2021, just relaxing, and swimming on the white sand turquoise water, which beach or island u think has the best view, and its the best beach for you?. Also how far away is each beach from each other

Hey Juan – The island is full of beaches but it can take a couple of hours to get from one end to the other. The north part of the island is the more tourist part with resorts and bigger hotels and the south / southeast corner of the island is more relaxed and quiet. So I would choose based on the kind of experience you want. I personally like the southeast corner away from the crowds.

Awesome blog! I am looking to travel end of May into June for about 2 weeks. I haven’t decided weather to go North than south around the island or South around to North… Any suggestion is appreciated. Also what items are a must to take. Thank you!

Hey Yvie – Either one works. I wouldn’t spend too much time thinking about it as the island isn’t that big. South to north or north to south are both doable and should be great experiences! There really isn’t any reason why I would choose one over the other.

Great post! I have just came back from Zanzibar, I have stayed at Clove Island and I can say for sure that this was my best travel experience so far!

Hey Derek! Just came upon your article and now I’m even more confused 🙂 I’ve been tossing up which area to stay – Nungwi or something a little more “local” like where you stayed. The reason I’m still deciding is because I’ll be a solo female traveller. I’ll just have spent a month in East Africa by myself on a pretty full itinerary, so I know I’ll be ready for down time (and Mango Beach looks perfect for that!) but I’m also not sure about whether a beach like where you stayed is ok for a solo female traveller? Hope you are well – not sure if you remember but we met at TravelCon in Austin a few years ago (I was sitting at your table in the lobby bar the day before the conference started), was great to meet you after all these years of following your blog!

Hey Rebecca – Very nice to hear from you and yes, I do remember meeting you in Austin! As for your question, that’s a tough one. On one hand, Mango Beach is such an awesome place but on the other hand, it is a little isolated and might not be the best time for someone who’s looking to do more than just chill out by the beach. Being a solo female traveler wouldn’t be a problem as the people are very nice and there are other guesthouses and hotels around, on the same beach. It’s just much quieter overall than the more touristy parts of the island. Definitely a tough call! If you want more activity and to be around a bigger group of other travelers, another area might be best. If you’re looking for peace and quiet and a cool local, chill experience, Mango is the way to go!

Appreciate it, thanks Derek! I’ll have to see how I’m going after a few weeks travelling… I think by then I’ll probably be very ready to do absolutely nada, so Mango sounds perfect for that!! 🙂

Your Article is amazing. We would like to go to Zanzibar for our Honeymoon in November. How is the weather in November?

Thank you so muchh 🙂

Joanna and Alexis

Hey Joanna – It’s a decent time to go there but you can expect heavy rain for short periods during the day.

Hello Derek! Is there any vaccination required in order to get into a boat to Zanzibar? Thanks in advance!

Hey Olga – Nothing is required so it’s a personal decision. But there is a high risk of malaria and it’s always good to have your general Hepatitis vaccinations for any country.

Jambo Derek!;) Very informative article, thanks a lot! I’m arriving in Zanzibar next month. I will be staying in Makunduchi (Clove Island – cloveisland.com) and although the place itself is really awesome, I’m hungry for seeing new spots and doing a lot of different things. Your article inspires me!:) Thanks once again! Can’t wait 🙂

Hey Doris – Enjoy!! I’m sure you’ll love it over there!!

Hi there. I am going to Zanzibar in September and flying from the uk so I won’t go into any yellow fever risk countries. Will I still need a certificate?

Hey Harry – If you’re coming from the UK, you won’t need to show proof of a certificate.

Hi there, Thanks for the great informative post :-)Are scooter/motor bikes freely available for rental in Zanzibar in stead of a car? How much would a rental cost per day? Thanks so much.

There were scooter rentals available but I’m not sure how much it would cost per day. The island is quite large and the roads not that great, so I don’t think a scooter would be too comfortable for exploring. It would take a long, long time to get around. But there are definitely places to rent them, at least in the bigger tourist areas.

So we are flying to and from Zanzibar but have 3 weeks to play with during which we want to safari in Tanzania. What do you recommend!? Thanks Sara

Hey Sara – Well, that’s plenty of time of course but keep in mind that the safari areas of Tanzania are quite a distance from Zanzibar. You’ll most likely want to fly from Zanzibar to Arusha and then start your safari experiences from there.

we going to Jambiani in November. where we can hire a car? airport? we planning to be quite active so car would help us out a lot. and travelling between airport 4x as going to safari too in Tanzania can save us a lot. thank you Judit

Hey Judit – Just do a quick search on any car rental booking site and you’ll see your options. It’s probably best to rent a car from the airport or from Stone Town.

You can get a little suzuki or toyota 4 seater for $25 dollars a day from here https://www.ztrans.co.tz/cars.php . They are technically 4×4, but are not suitable for extreme terrain… will be fine for just cruising around Zanzibar though 🙂 You also need to get a permit to drive on Zanzibar (these cost $10) and watch out for corrupt traffic police – they are always after bribes, especially from tourists. An alternative to hiring a car is using the shuttle bus run by http://www.thezanzibus.com – these are door-to-door transfers and cost $10 per person to go to/from anywhere on the island. The shuttles are a good budget option, although if there are more than four of you it will be about the same price to book your own taxi. By the way, November is low season so try to negotiate a discount with your hotel!

hi there – just wondering if you could advise me re going with family (6) in December 2019 and if I really need to book in advance or would it likely be that I could just wander around and find something reasonable, I am much keener to follow my nose than book something in advance and be stuck with it, however don not want to get here and find no room at the inn ! many thanks for your time – Luke

Hey Luke – That depends on what kind of accommodation you’re looking for. If you have 6 people and need 3 rooms or so, it can be a little risky as places can easily fill up. December is one of the high tourist seasons. I would recommend booking in advance. You could probably find something if you didn’t but it will take much longer and you might only have a couple of options left.

Hi This is a great post. thanks for sharing ! We are looking to go somewhere a bit different with our 3 children 2, 7 and 9 years. would you say this was a good place to stay and is there anything we should consider. Sorry if this has been asked already. thanks lisa

Hey Lisa – It’s a great place if you’re looking for something laid back. You could easily book their family room or two of their regular rooms and you’d have plenty of space, right on the beach at a great price. There aren’t many amenities as it’s not a proper resort or anything like that but the staff are wonderful, the breakfast is great and if you want a relaxed experience, you’ll definitely have that here.

Hi Derek! Thank you very much for all the info and advice. I will be staying in Jambiani and I wonder if I can rent a car from there. I understand one can contact the car rental in Stone Town to deliver the car to Jambiani, but do you know if one can directly rent it from Jambiani village? I will be staying at the Mango Beach House. Thanks for your time in advance 🙂

Hey Marcela – There are no car rental companies in Jamibiani but if you ask Kiddo, the owner of the Mango Beach House, he will help you out I’m sure. Please tell him I say hello!

Hi Derek, all the information that you provided here are very helpful! Me and my fiance are planning to go there from 1st of May (for 10 days), but we are not sure about the weather conditions at that time. What is you suggestions for visiting Zanzibar on early May?!

Hey Bessy – May is a good time. There can be some rain though so that should be expected. But overall, if you don’t mind some rain, the temperatures are quite warm and the water should be quite warm too.

Hi Derek I am going for a week only. I already found a guesthouse but I was wondering what budget should I bring along. I wanted to visit 3-4days out of 7 and go to market to buy some local gifts. What budget would you advice me to take? I will be on my own. Thank you.

Hey Fatim – That is hard to say as it really depends on what you want to buy in the markets and also on how you will get around the island. Buses will cost much less than taxi for example. But for normal things – meals, water, general things you need to buy – I would say that $25 – $35 USD per day would work. This would be for good, simple meals. It does not include accommodation or transportation.

Be extremely cautious with nightlife as there is a lot of scam going on. I would not recommend you go out of the disco with the local girl as they might rob you. We met a guy who was robbed. Try to go with somebody you know as a suport. I does not mean it will happen to you, just be carreful. Good trip to you! Zanzibar and Tanzania are so exotic and beautiful!

Nice and helpful post Derek!

How about nightlife in Zanzibar? Are there some bars/clubs options and is it safe?

Hey Mario – Where we were there wasn’t any nightlife as it was a quiet village on a nice stretch of beach. There are a couple of areas up north where there are bigger tourist hotels grouped together and I’m sure there’s some options there. However, keep in mind that the main religion on the island is Islam and it’s very difficult to find alcohol in general as a result.

Hi Derek, I am going for 8 nights to Tanzania from Zambia. Wanted to spend 3 nights in Zanzibar and 3 nights doing game viewing. Would you suggest tours and a budget for a basic trip…no frills but clean comfortable time. Thanks Snigs

You’ll have to do some research for that. I simply visited Zanzibar for 2 weeks. But for a game drive, you can organize that out of Arusha and you don’t need a tour for Zanzibar. You can easily do that on your own.

HI Derek, What about mosquitos on zanzibar island? My girlfriend and me eventually stay in an Airbnb but we are not sure about getting bitten and so on.. What’s your experience due to Maleria/mosquitos =)

Honestly, I don’t remember many mosquitos. When there are mosquitos in a destination, we simply spray in the evenings and that’s about it. I don’t take malaria pills as I don’t like the side effects. It really comes down to covering yourself and spraying when the mosquitos are out and about!

Hi Derek Just making a little detour on the way home to SA – and stopping in Zanzibar for two weeks. Just wanted to thank you for all the great info. Just the sort of information, I was looking for !! 🙂 Many thanks again Regards Craig

Hey! Did you stay in Dar at all? If so, do you have any suggestions for places to stay?

Hey Sue – We just spent one night at a guesthouse near the Dar es Salaam airport before our flight out the next day. I don’t even remember the name as it was a simple place that had good reviews, about 1 mile from the airport.

Hi, does anyone know of spots where you can snorkel straight off the beach, rather than taking a boat trip?

Thanks for this, such an informative post.

We traveled to Zanzibar three years ago when living in Arusha and had a lovely time.

Is Uber available and did you have any issues driving on the roads? I know on Tanzania mainland Uber has a strong presence.

Thanks again,

Hey Nic – I don’t know if Uber is available. I don’t think so. Most people we met just hired a car or you can easily negotiate with locals you meet to take you places. The distances are quite large between towns/beaches/etc. But there were no issues driving on the roads. They were in pretty good condition.

good to read such blogs about affordable and safe options to visit Zanzibar. Last night we stumbled upon blogs and comments that only mentioned how expensive and how unsafe Tanzania in general is.

Let’s hope we can squeeze Tanzania in our budget 🙂 BTWm is it safe to drive on Zanzibar roads?

Hey Enzo – It’s quite safe to drive over there. Most of the roads are pretty good, paved and there’s not a lot of traffic outside of Stone Town. Enjoy it if you go!

Hi Derek, First of all, thank you so much for useful info’s and tips particularly on cost saving. I’m intrested in visiting Ngorongoro crater, tanzania. Need your opinion / rating art ngorongoro compared to masai marra? is it possible to big 5’s in ngorongoro? planning to visit with 7 yrs old daughter. is it safe to take my daughter? thanks in advance. Ravikumar.

It’s safe for sure, but it’s recommended to join a group or at least hire a driver to organize the trip for you. I personally prefer Masai Mara…I love that place as it is generally much less crowded than Ngorongoro. But yes, you do have a chance to see the Big 5 in both parks.

Hey! Great post. I booked tickets to Zanzibar from 24th of March and didn’t realize it was rainy season at that time. Do you think I will be strongly affected by the rain or do you still think Zanzibar will we be worth visiting? Thank you!

Hey Victoria – You should be fine. It can rain in the morning and evenings usually, but it shouldn’t rain all day. So you’ll probably face some wet weather but you should still have much of the day to enjoy. Of course, it’s difficult to actually predict but that’s the general idea.

could still be amaizing!!! mostly 9 hours of sunshine and about 6 rainy days in march..will be fun and worth visiting..Enjoy!!

Looks AMAZING! Thinking of heading to Zanzibar for a “working” holiday and just had an internet question. Did you tether the internet to your computer from the sim card? Or did you only use the internet on your phone for working? Do you remember if the wifi provided at Mango Beach House was decent?

Hey Vicky – Yes, we just tethered from our local SIM cards. The wifi at Mango Beach House was okay at best, which was pretty much how it is all over the island. We didn’t find any place that had fully reliable internet unfortunately. It’s best to get SIM cards from a couple of the networks that operate on the island so that you’ll be connected wherever you are.

Nice post! I went there in February. It was my first solo trip 🙂 I really enjoyed my stay there and felt safe the whole time (I’m a woman). I stayed in Stone town and did day tours to explore the Island. + 1 for Luukman restaurant! I mostly ate there and at fodorhani garden.

Hello Ayana Did you use a tour company? If yes what’s the name please? I am travelling solo in a couple of weeks and I am a bit apprehensive.

Great article; full of good and useful info. I am traveling to Kenya then on to Zanzibar in a few weeks. After researching, I am still confused about needing a visa for each country. Tanzania’s official website writes about a transit Visa, do you have any advice? Thanks!

It depends on your nationality but most countries do need a visa to travel to these destinations. But you can usually get the visa on arrival at the airport (for most nationalities).

Zanzibar sounds great! This is 2. or 3rd time i am reading this post and i know that i will definetely go there some day 🙂 Thank you for informing us about such great places Earl! I have been following you and learning a lot from your posts about 5 years now and you have been truly inspiring to me 😉 Go Earl, we will follow you!

Thanks for the comment! Looking forward to hearing about your travels to Zanzibar once you do make it there!

Great post Derek. I was in Zanzibar in January. Travelled by road from Kenya, stayed in Moshi for two nights then proceeded to Dar es Salaam to cross to Zanzibar by ferry. I only toured Stone Town though. I hope to go back soon to explore the East coast.

Fabulous place to stay for a week or two. Beach is looking just perfect. I am planning to take a break and relax at some place like this. Thanks for the details and recommendations 🙂

Just returned from Kenya and Tanzania….loved the latter in particular.

I have a friend who’s a small, Tanzanian-based tour operator; I live in Melbourne, Australia. He’s keen to grow his business and, given you’re probably a bit of an East Africa expert by now, I thought you might be about to give me/us some suggestions on how to do this, and also your thoughts on joint ventures/partnerships with Western-based companies.

Hey Rosemary – If you want to send me an email through my Contact link at the top of my blog, I’ll be happy to answer any questions and offer some suggestions!

Perfect timing… I’m going in three weeks! Was it easy to book things as you went along? We’ve booked three nights in stone town but that’s it so far.

You should be fine. We just walked up and down the beach in Jambiani, checked out each place and went with the one that was best for us. It’s also low season now…actually, many places close for the months April and May (restaurants, beach huts, etc.). So there might be fewer options but also fewer people, so you should be able to find something by just showing up!

Did you get a chance to visit Freddy Mercury’s childhood home while you were in Zanzibar? 🙂

Lukmaan! I love that place. And Zanzibar in general. I also stayed near Jambiani and mostly just went from the ocean…to lunch…to the pool…back to the ocean…to dinner… It was so relaxing. Good memories :).

Is it only nice for couples or are there more solo travellers? What about safety for women?

Hey Martha – There was definitely a mix of travelers, both couples and solo. In the village of Paje, there were more foreigners overall, so more solo travelers there too. As for safety, everyone we spoke with said the same thing – the island is very safe if you use the same common sense you would use pretty much anywhere. It’s best not to walk alone at night but apart from that, during the day, all was good. We didn’t hear of any problems or meet anyone who had any safety issues during their stay.

I stayed at Zenji when I was there about 2 years ago. I loved the hotel and its location! One of my favorite things to do was go to Fordhani Gardens in the evening, grab a few kabobs and a cup of sugar cane juice, and sit and smoke hookah while people watching. It was pretty incredible. Zanzibar remains one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to.

And, my boyfriend and I are already making honeymoon plans to visit more of that area. We’re thinking Madagascar, but I can’t wait to read your Seychelles article to see if it makes sense for us to go there as well.

So happy to have read this, Earl! I wanted to go to Zanzibar before (and actually looked at the options of having a wedding there) but then shied away. At Jambiani, were there often many people on the beach selling stuff? I mean those who don’t take no for an answer? From your photos it seems like a more secluded spot further from the resorts. Thank you!

Hey Veronika – There were a handful of people that would appear every now and then selling stuff but they left if we said ‘no’ once. I didn’t come across anyone who wouldn’t take no for an answer. It is a very laid-back beach/village and even the beach sellers were extremely relaxed and friendly.

That’s great to hear, thank you Earl 🙂

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Destinations

Local destinations, themed holidays, about thompsons, zanzibar holiday packages.

Zanzibar holiday packages offer a chance to immerse yourself in a heady mix of palm-fringed beaches, turquoise seas and a melting pot of exotic cultures. Lying off the coast of Tanzania , Zanzibar is a romantic Indian Ocean island paradise that is still relatively untouched. It’s the largest coral island off the shores of Africa and is famous for its centuries-old sailing dhows, ornately carved wooden doors and the scent of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg – hence its nickname, the 'Spice Island'. 

Zanzibar’s main town, Stone Town, is the oldest part of the island and boasts 45 mosques, the Slave Market, the Old Fort, Dr Livingstone’s House and the Zanzibar  Marubhi  Palace ruins.   The surrounding islands offer opportunities for further explorations. One of the most popular is Pemba, famous for its excellent scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and a variety of water sports in the untouched marine environment of the Pemba Channel. There’s also Prison Island, home to giant tortoises, and tiny Mnemba, only inhabited by the staff and guests of the luxurious &Beyond Mnemba Island all-inclusive resort.

Why travel to Zanzibar

• The weather is superb year-round.  
• There are numerous tiny islands surrounding Zanzibar that you can explore.  
• The beaches are beautiful - making it an excellent choice for a beach holiday .  
• Zanzibar's vibrant cultural heritage includes African, Arabic and Portuguese influences.  
• Zanzibar is a popular location for a romantic holiday .  
• It's a paradise for divers and snorkellers.  
• You can see red colobus monkeys in the Jozani Forest Reserve.  
• Enjoy delicious fresh seafood.  
• An ideal add-on if you’re going on  safari in Tanzania.  

So what is the best time to visit Zanzibar? July to September is the dry season and a popular time to travel. However it is worthwhile going anytime of the year as the temperatures remain around 28 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius. 

Zanzibar’s proximity to Tanzania, where you can enjoy an unsurpassed wildlife experience, including watching the annual wildebeest migration, makes the island an ideal location for an unforgettable bush-and-beach holiday or romantic honeymoon . Let Thompsons Holidays assist with your 2024 travel arrangements to Zanzibar with a hassle-free holiday, from luxury to cheaper packages, to this beautiful, exotic island destination.

We have been hard at work to find you new and affordable flights to Zanzibar, take a look at our great options.

Things to do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers plenty of exciting sightseeing opportunities. When you’ve had enough of soaking up the sun and enjoying the varied water sports, you can visit a spice farm to touch, smell and taste various spices, learn all about local village life and enjoy some spiced tea and seasonal fruits. You can also sail off on a traditional wooden dhow to enjoy snorkelling at various locations, including Kwale Island. Alternatively, head for gorgeous Pemba, 80km from Zanzibar, with its beautiful beaches, prolific birdlife, and excellent dive sites where you can view coral and abundant underwater marine life.

Exciting things to do in Zanzibar

• Explore Stone Town's winding streets and marvel at the Arabic architecture en route to visit historic sights.  
• Soak up the sun on the famous Nungwi Beach.  
• Visit the Old Fort, Stone Town’s oldest building that dates back to the 17 th  Century.  
• Go snorkelling in the Mnemba Atoll.  
• Watch the sunset from the beach.  
• Party up a storm at one of the Full Moon parties at Kendwa Beach.  
• Discover the relaxed fishing village of Jambiani, one of the island’s best-kept secrets.  
• Visit Jozani Forest, home to thousands of crabs who live under the mangroves, and see a variety of wildlife, including red colobus monkeys.  
• Discover historic Prison Island, home to giant tortoises.  
• Visit the night-time food market, Forodhani, to enjoy a traditional seafood dinner.  
• Spend time in the Palace Museum, one of Stone Towns’ most historic buildings.  
• Go kite surfing on the island of Paje.      

Another fun thing to do in Zanzibar is sampling traditional food in Stone Town’s numerous restaurants. Zanzibar’s cuisine is delicious – there’s even a famous restaurant here, called The Rock, located on top of a rock in the sea, which offers sensational seafood and equally spectacular views.  With so much to do and see in Zanzibar we recommend spending at least 7 - 10 days on the archipelago. We've put together a helpful guide to give you an idea what a 7-day itinerary in Zanzibar could look like.

Browse our fantastic range of Zanzibar holiday packages available and let's get your Spice Island holiday sorted!

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

• Visit Zanzibar during the cool, dry months of spring (June to October), or from December to February when it's hot and dry.

Getting there

• Flight duration from Johannesburg to Zanzibar, Tanzania: 3 hours, 30 minutes.   

Do I need a visa?

• South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Tanzania and Zanzibar.  
• Your passport must be valid for 6 months after your trip.  

What time is it?

• Time zone – Tanzania is one hour ahead of South Africa.  

Money matters

• The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).  
• US dollars (US$) are widely accepted in Zanzibar.  
• Credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) are accepted in Zanzibar.  
• Tipping is an accepted practice.  Tip in US dollars if you can – carry US$1 bills with you.   

Language & phrases

• Swahili is the official language.
• English, French and Italian are widely spoken in resorts.    
• Most of the Tanzanian population is Christian or Muslim.  
• Other traditional religions are also practiced here.  

Health information

• Drink bottled water while travelling in Tanzania.  
• Smoking is banned in public places.  
• It is advisable to take malaria prophylactics before visiting Tanzania. Be sure to check with your doctor or travel clinic.

What must I pack?

• Lightweight clothing for summer, add layers during the cooler months. Don't forget your beachwear!  
• Comfortable walking shoes, sandals.  
• Sunscreen, lip balm, hat, swimsuits and sunglasses.    
• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Long, loose pants and long-sleeved cotton shirts are best.
• Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
• Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
• Travel adaptor.      

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

• Support local artisans .    
• Avoid single-use plastic. Zanzibar has officially banned plastic bags from the islands.     

Safety tips

• Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.   
• Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables.   

What do I do in an emergency?   

• Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.

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Tanzania and Zanzibar Tours

Find the right adventure package for you through Tanzania and Zanzibar. We've got 35 tours going to Tanzania and Zanzibar, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 25 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the most number of tour departures.

35 Tanzania and Zanzibar tour packages with 143 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Road to Zanzibar

This tour was amazing the places I went to and the people of met made this trip an unforgettable experience.

Tanzania to Zanzibar: White Sands & the Wilderness

Amazing trip which created unforgettable memories of wild animals on the safari and gorgeous relaxing moments on white sands in Zanzibar.

• In-depth Cultural

Victoria Falls & Serengeti Overland: Lakes & Landos

• Overland Truck

21-day Victoria Falls to Serengeti (Camping)

We love this trip and would highly recommend to others

21-day Victoria Falls to Serengeti (Accommodated)

I can't even describe how special and amazing this tour was. Pete and Francis (our guides) are truly what made the trip so amazing. They were both so kind, thoughtful and caring. It felt like a family away from home. Yes, the tour itself was extraordinary. The sites, sounds, tastes etc. Amazing. However, it is the people that make this tour and these people will always mean. The world to myself and my husband. If you go on this tour request these guides! You won't regret it!

11 Days Tanzania, Game Parks & Zanzibar

12 Days - Wildlife Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Nairobi To Dar Es Salaam (14 Days)

Kathmandu City Stay - 4 days

• Ocean Cruise
• Sightseeing

Seychelles & Indian Ocean Adventure (Start Mahé, Seychelles, End Mombasa)

Discover Seychelles & the East African Coast

• Hiking & Trekking

Kilimanjaro - Machame Route & Zanzibar Adventure

Definitely worth it every second!

• Mountain Hikes

Kilimanjaro - Lemosho Route & Zanzibar Adventure

Kilimanjaro - Marangu Route & Zanzibar Adventure

Tanzania zanzibar holiday / vacation reviews.

The Intrepid travel Road to Zanzibar was absolutely fantastic. The organisation of the whole trip was very good. I would highly recommend.

Amazing experience. An incredible safari seeing so many animals with a very knowledgeable guide, then after exploring the beauty of Zanzibar. Very good tour leaders and a great bunch of travellers. Memories that will last a lifetime

Not long back from this tour and I had a great time so I thought I'd let others know. Overall, the tour was well organised and the guides ensured we felt safe at all times. The truck was well equipped and I was surprised at how comfortable the seats were - so comfortable I was able to sleep despite the 'African massages' along the way. Despite the fact that some of the journeys were quite long, being able to sleep certainly helped. Some of the journeys on this trip are quite long but they are unavoidable if you want to see these parts of Africa. Anyway, the route was quite scenic and the guides provided info about the surrounding area along the way and we stopped every so often to stretch our legs. The main guide, Sammy, also informed us when to stock up on snacks and drinks at the better supermarkets as a lot of the local shops were poorly supplied as you can imagine. Most of the stops had some form of toilet however my group found that the bush toilets were generally cleaner (this is Africa after all). The tents provided were pretty good and the mattresses were spot on too. I have to say, one of the things I was anxious about before going on the trip was the quality of the meals as catering for large groups often leads to small portions of massively overdone food but both Sam and Ali were great cooks and we always had plenty to eat. We also stopped at local kitchens to try some of the local cuisine for lunch which was another good experience. Our particular group had lots of allergies/food intolerances (seafood, nuts, dairy, gluten and shellfish to name a few) and Sam always provided options for these people - to the extent that one person had to reject his meals so they could use up some of their own food to create some room in their suitcase. Finally, our guide Sammy was excellent along the way and his local knowledge was invaluable for us between helping getting currency changed to recommending where to buy gifts etc. One of the more negative reviews says to do this trip on your own steam which seems like a very romantic idea but without being able to speak the local language (Sam can speak 8 apparently) and knowing how to deal with the corrupt policemen you will only end up wishing you had someone like Sam guiding you. Bad point(s0: When I was at Lake Malawi the lake was quite rough so snorkelling wasn't going to be worthwhile but I guess it's just one of those things and Acacia can't exactly control the weather Highlights of the trip: South Luangwa - we were fortunate to get VERY close to a pair of lions in heat The Serengeti - seeing The Great Wildebeest Migration was spectacular Would recommend.

Tanzania Zanzibar Tours starting in:

• Nairobi (6)
• Fully Guided (23)
• Safari (22)
• Active (13)
• Explorer (13)
• Partially Guided (12)
• Overland Truck (11)
• Small Group (8)
• 2 Week Tours (13)
• 3 Week Tours (5)
• Spring 2024 (10)
• Summer 2024 (20)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (20)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (21)
• Spring 2025 (13)
• Summer 2025 (14)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (14)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (15)
• April 2024 (10)
• May 2024 (11)
• June 2024 (18)
• July 2024 (17)
• August 2024 (17)
• September 2024 (15)
• October 2024 (17)
• November 2024 (18)
• December 2024 (16)
• January 2025 (14)
• February 2025 (17)
• March 2025 (13)
• April 2025 (8)
• May 2025 (9)
• June 2025 (13)
• July 2025 (14)
• August 2025 (14)
• September 2025 (13)
• October 2025 (14)
• November 2025 (11)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (14)
• Young Adults (8)
• Seniors (8)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Tansania & Sansibar Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Tanzanie et Zanzibar
• Español: Circuitos por Tanzania Zanzíbar
• Nederlands: Tanzania Zanzibar Rondreizen

About Zanzibar

The trip to Zanzibar, also known as Magical Spice Island with stunning beaches, which forms part of the United Republic of Tanzania , which is located in East Africa is always unforgettable. In fact, Zanzibar is the name of a group of small islands and two large islands: Zanzibar and Pemba, located 35 km off the coast of Africa. We warmly invite you to explore this island and discover your ideal travel experience while on trip to Zanzibar and its beaches.

The island’s charm is marred by the virgin white beaches adorned with a blue-turquoise sea; in the white-washed crooked alleys of the old city; in the night markets and the fresh food that was planted straight from the sea. zanzibar has a wide range of hotels. from magical and secluded suites on private beaches to family hotels with pool, private beaches and all the other treats you can only dream of. staying in zanzibar is a unique and fascinating experience as a result of this combination of virginity and authenticity with advanced tourist services., while on trip to zanzibar, we can offer many options of doing short safari from zanzibar to tanzania mainland, a vacation trip to zanzibar is the perfect opportunity to escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of the city’s fast pace of life, catching peace as there is only on the african continent. stroll barefoot on the beach and devote yourself to the good sun, snorkel in a beautiful riff or simply lay out a towel on the sand and enjoy the perfect peace. the depth of zanzibar’s experience lies in the small details, the personal sewing, the secrets that those who know found a home in paradise., the island and its beaches has been fascinating for travelers from around the world for centuries. they came here to trade ivory and spices, to buy slaves, and sometimes to conquer and settle down. today, tourists from around the world discover the virgin charm of the tropical island. international-class hotels allow the first-class tourist a treat and comfort, fine western cuisine, water sports clubs and fascinating rainforest tours, spice farms and more., the island’s beaches are greatly affected by the tides, at different times you can see the ocean water approaching or moving away from the shoreline. particularly noticeable on the east side of the island. at low tide, local women can see algae dropping from the regions the sea has withdrawn from, thus increasing the export of algae from zanzibar to the world. a very big industry these days..

Zanzibar tourism board together with other authorities strive to conserve Zanzibar to make it even a better place for tourism

Classic packages.

8 Days Kitesurfing vacation in Zanzibar – Advanced

8 DAYS KITESURFING TRIP IN ZANZIBAR

8 DAYS SUP VACATION IN ZANZIBAR

Day trips in zanzibar.

THE SPICE FARM or JOSANI PARK – PRISON ISLAND AND TOUR IN STONE TOWN.

THE SPICE FARM or JOSANI PARK – THE PRISON ISLAND AND TOUR IN STONE TOWN.

TURQUOISE SAFARI

EXPLORE NORTH OF ZANZIBAR

ATV tour (via Cool Quads)

STAR FISH, JOZANI FOREST AND PAJE BEACH TRIP

SNORKELLING IN MNEMBA ISLAND.

SNORKELLING IN TUMBATU.

SUNSET DHOW CRUISE

DEEP SEA FISHING

Short safaris from zanzibar.

1 DAY SHORT LAST MINUTE SAFARI TO SELOUS GAME RESERVE FROM ZANZIBAR

2 DAYS FLYING LAST MINUTE SHORT SAFARI TO SELOUS GR

2 DAYS LUXURY SAFARI TO SELOUS GAME RESERVE

2 DAYS LAST MINUTE SAFARI TO TARANGIRE NP AND NGORONGORO CRATER FROM ZANZIBAR

2 DAYS LAST MINUTE SAFARI TO TARANGIRE AND LAKE MANYARA NPS FROM ZANZIBAR

3 DAYS LAST MINUTE SAFARI TO NGORONGORO CRATER, TARANGIRE & LAKE MANYARA NP FROM ZANZIBAR

3 DAYS LAST MINUTE SHORT SAFARI TO MIKUMI NP

3 DAYS FLYING LAST MINUTE SHORT SAFARI TO SELOUS GR

3 days last minute safari to tarangire np and ngorongoro crater from zanzibar.

3 DAYS DRIVING LAST MINUTE SHORT SAFARI TO SELOUS GR

3 DAYS FLYING SHORT SAFARI TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK FROM ZANZIBAR

4 DAYS SAFARI TO NGORONGORO CRATER, SERENGETI & TARANGIRE NP

Create your tailor made package, accommodation, nungwi and kendwa hotels.

Gold of Zanzibar – Kendwa Beach

Zuri Zanzibar

Royal Zanzibar beach resort

Essque Zalu – Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Dreams by Mantis

Myblue Beach resort – Nungwi Beach

Hilton Double Tree – Nungwi Beach

The Amaan Bungalows

Tanzanite Beach Resort

Smiles Beach Hotel

Sunset Kendwa

The Z Hotel

The Zanzibar Hotel

Emerald Hideaway – Nungwi Beach

Diamond La Gemma – Nungwi Beach

Matemwe, pwani mchangani and kiwengwa hotels.

Ocean Paradise – Pwani Beach

Zanzibar Queen Hotel

Kiwengwa Beach Resort

Dream of Zanzibar – Pwani Beach

Neptune Beach resort – Pwani Beach

Melia Resort – Pwani Beach

Tulia Zanzibar Resort

Villa Kiva Boutique Hotel

Azanzi Beach Resort Zanzibar

Mchanga Zanzibar

Sunshine Marine Hotel

Diamond Mapenzi – Beach resort – Pwani Beach

Dongwe Ocean view

Paje and kizimkazi hotels.

Dhow Inn Zanzibar

Kisiwa on the Beach – Paje Beach

Cristal beach resort – Paje Beach

Karafuu Beach Resort and Spa

Baraza Resort and SPA

Zawadi Hotel, Zanzibar

The Palms, Zanzibar

Breezes Beach Club & Spa Zanzibar

Zanzibar Ocean Blue

The Residence – Kizimkazi

Fruit & Spice welness Resort – Kizimkazi

West of zanzibar hotels.

Sea Cliff resort and SPA Zanzibar

Protea Hotel by Marriott Zanzibar Mbweni Ruins

Stone town hotels.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar – Stone Town

Maru Maru Hotel Zanzibar

Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Park Hyatt Zanzibar

Che Che Vule – Private Villa, Zanzibar

Villa Tulia

Tamani Villas

About sima safari, we at sima safari believe in the way, the adventure and most of all the experience itself. no longer a weekend in europe, but a true journey into african charm and authenticity with sima safari tour packages., contact information, email:  [email protected]  /  [email protected], phone: +255 683 115 345, whatsapp numbers: +255 765 407 930 (sales and marketing) +972 54 444 1820 (sales and marketing), important links, *tanzania national parks (tanapa), *tanzania tourist board (ttb), *zanzibar tourism board (ztb), *tanzania association of tour operators (tato), *magical kenya, *uganda wildlife authority, community projects.

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Flights to zanzibar - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to zanzibar to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest day to fly to zanzibar, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to zanzibar is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $1,381. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is friday, where prices are $1,673 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to zanzibar, the cheapest month for flights to zanzibar is september, where tickets cost $1,187 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are july and june, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $2,193 and $1,907 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is february with an average price of $974., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to zanzibar, the cheapest time of day to fly to zanzibar is generally at night, when flights cost $1,031 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to zanzibar is generally in the morning, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $1,505., how far in advance should i book a flight to zanzibar, to get a below average price, you should book around 0 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 80 days before departure., how long is the flight to zanzibar, the duration of your flight to zanzibar depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to zanzibar on kayak are from boston , which takes 20h 10m, san francisco , which takes 20h 15m, new york , which takes 22h 35m, and miami , which takes 26h 15m., how many long-haul flights are there to zanzibar each week, each week there are around 10 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), 14 medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) and 362 short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to zanzibar. the most long-haul flights depart from paris., good to know, when to book flights to zanzibar, faqs - booking zanzibar flights, how do i get from abeid amani karume international airport to stone town.

Passengers who want to travel to the famous Stone Town mainly known for its historical heritage which is located around 5 miles away, can take a taxi which is the only readily available means of transport. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport at an affordable cost.

How can I access a visa for an unexpected trip to Zanzibar?

For passengers who happen to have an abrupt trip to Zanzibar, you can readily access a visa at the airport. You need to visit the visa place through to the luggage collection within the airport. The airport offers the visa at an affordable price. Keep in mind that the visa is important on a return flight.

What are the requirements for passengers accompanied by minors?

For passengers who are accompanied by a minor, you need to have a valid passport for yourself and the minor. Also, the minor's guardians should provide a consent letter to validate their permission for the minor to travel.

Are there direct flights to Zanzibar?

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Zanzibar. Choose from one-stop flights to Zanzibar if you're flying out of major airports in places like New York, Washington, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Turkish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, United, Emirates, and Lufthansa are the airlines that fly into Zanzibar most frequently. The flight includes a layover and it will probably be in one of several popular locations along this route, depending on the airline, such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, or Kilimanjaro.

What is the quickest way to get from Zanzibar Airport to the city center?

It will take approximately 20min to travel into Zanzibar by taxi and cost about $20. While flat-rate taxis are available in the transportation area of the arrival terminal, you can also try putting your bargaining prowess to work and negotiating a lower fee. Alternatively, you can also make it to the city center in 30min by using the “Dala Dala” bus for less than $1, or, depending on your final destination and time of the day, pay $20 for a rideshare like Uber or Bolt.

Which major cities are closest to Zanzibar Airport?

Zanzibar Airport is the second-largest airport in Tanzania, with frequent departures to major East African destinations, such as Nairobi, Kenya, the coast of Mombasa, Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Tanga, and even Dubai. Zanzibar Airport has also partnered with international airlines to make connecting to different parts of Europe, Asia, and North America relatively easy. Additionally, seasonal non-stop flights to Zanzibar are available from well-known airlines; to find affordable rates, use the KAYAK search engine to compare fares from Europe and the Middle East.

Does Zanzibar Airport provide amenities for travelers with reduced mobility?

Yes, every possible accommodation with be made for those with disabilities or reduced mobility. If you or your travel companion has reduced mobility, you can talk to the airport staff to make proper arrangements because every airport is mandated to provide assistance to travelers with special needs.

Are there designated pick-up and drop-off zones at Zanzibar Airport?

Yes, taxis are located right outside the arrivals terminal, and unless you are ready to haggle, it’s easier to ask an airport attendant to call a cab on your behalf. If you have made online reservations for a rental car, you can pick up your car keys directly at the car rental company desk within the airport.

How far is Zanzibar from central Zanzibar?

The distance between Zanzibar and downtown Zanzibar is 4 miles.

What is the name of Zanzibar’s airport?

All flights to Zanzibar land at Zanzibar. The airport code is ZNZ,and it can also be referred to as Abeid Amani Karume Intl, Kisauni, or Zanzibar Intl.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Zanzibar?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Zanzibar.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Zanzibar?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Zanzibar is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Zanzibar?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Zanzibar with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Zanzibar?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Zanzibar up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Which airline offers the most flights to Zanzibar?

Of the 10 airlines that fly to Zanzibar, Auric Air offers the most flights, with around 98 per week, followed by Flightlink with 61 flights per week.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Zanzibar

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Zanzibar flight deals.
• Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) serves as the hub for ZanAir. If you'll be exploring more than the island, consider flying with ZanAir as you can easily get many domestic connections, including to Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Pemba Island, Saadani, and Selous.
• Zanzibar Airport has three terminals, but only Terminals 2 and 3 handle flights. Terminal 3 serves only international flights, and most likely the terminal to receive flights from the US, while terminal 2 handles both domestic and international (continental) flights.
• If you’re traveling to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)—commonly called Zanzibar Airport—with pets, ensure that they are vaccinated for rabies at least 30 days before your flight. You must also apply for a special permit from Zanzibar authorities that allows you to bring an animal through the Zanzibar Airport.
• If you are traveling with children, consider visiting the Kids Play area, located at Gate 11 in the Zanzibar Airport. You may also be able to use a complimentary stroller at the airport for your infant or toddler.
• If you’re looking for a quiet space to unwind at Zanzibar Airport, you can purchase a Priority Pass to gain access to the Zanzibar DHOW Lounge or the 24-hour Paradise Business Lounge. These lounges also cater to business travelers who need work-related services, such as printing, copying, and faxing.
• Travelers renting at a car at Zanzibar Airport should inquire with their car rental companies about rental package add-ons, such as additional drivers, liability insurance, or GPS systems to help navigate the Zanzibar archipelago.
• Flying through an alternative airport near Zanzibar provides opportunities to fly with different airlines or find cheap fares and connections. You can opt for one of Tanzania’s largest airports, such as Dar es Salaam Airport (DAR), Pemba Airport (PMA), or Tanga Airport (TGT) in Northern Tanzania.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Zanzibar Kisauni?

Find which airlines fly direct to Kisauni, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Zanzibar Kisauni

Air France, Air India, Air Serbia, +32 more

Air France, Air India, +33 more

Air India, Air Serbia, Air Tanzania, +34 more

Air India, Air Serbia, +35 more

Air France, Air India, Air Serbia, +33 more

Air France, Air India, +34 more

Air France, Air India, Air Serbia, +30 more

Air France, Air India, +31 more

Air France, Air India, Air Serbia, +34 more

Air France, Air India, +35 more

Air France, Air India, Air Serbia, +31 more

Air France, Air India, +32 more

Nonstop returns

Zanzibar Kisauni to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to zanzibar.

Seats in first class on the E175 recline too far back. I was in 2A, and the man in 1A fully reclined almost the entire flight. It took 6-7 inches of space away from me and made it very difficult to work on my laptop.

On 2 different flights the wifi was horrible and there was no drink or snack service.

Wifi wasn’t working well so we couldn't view any media.

Flight was late. Club was full. Experience is exactly what I expected.

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Qatar airways from Doha to guangzhau was excellent big bird Boeing 777 more room and smoothly flight, I Love it

It was good no problems made it on time for the next flight overseas!

The made us waiting and held our passports and boarding pass making us miss our flights

Not impressed. Only allowed one carry on on such a long flight.

The flight was good but my neighbor had the vent open full power for the whole flight and because the air was blowing from the side instead of from the top and I got very cold and ended up with a sore throat.

Bad experience with the delay n long wait time for connecting flight after missing the connection flight from Doha.

Wore experience due to delay and took me 3 days to reach my destination.

All over with Qatar airlines my experience was really bad due to delays and then putting me on different airlines and after 8 hours of wait I had to listen to their is no plane to fly for another 24 hours. Wore experience ever.

Excellent will be flying again in May with Qatar. to Botswana.

Ultimate customer care humble and excellent service oriented crew , perfect timing maintained by the crew . My profound appreciation.

Quality of service on board was very inconsistent. FA service primarily seemed robotic and they barely engaged with passengers

Flight canceled and then “uncanceled” after I booked are placement. I had to pay for both a Turkish Air doesn’t admit their mistake

I’m unclear why I had to pay extra for assigned seats as Turkish airlines did not honor the seating. We were placed across the aisle from each other on TK 34, and were seated behind one another on TK 694. Because my name was misspelled on e-ticket (Klawiter, instead of Klawitter) I could not log onto website to get the connection gate number in Istanbul. The monitors in the airport were a jumbled mess 1/2 Arabic and 1/2 English.

On line check in needs a lot of improvement. I tried and gave up.

Food not good, flight attendants not the best, not accommodating very ruff

the female flight attendant was racist towards me. I could tell she treated the two other passengers next to me with more softness.

Very cheesy food in both options - had to pass. Boarding with open doors (winter)

Oh my god! For an13 hour flight they serve you food just one time. Also don’t be thirsty they give you a little small cup of soda to drink. They seem like their goal is to feed you one so they don’t have to be bothered with you. It quite surprise for such a long flight there are several times to eat at least three and the food was well lackluster. The food and lack of offering drinks which were always hot no ice provided.

Leaving on time would have been a good start . Sat in plane while they cleaned around us . We got to Turkey raced to our next flight to see plane sitting at the gate 5 minutes before departure time to be told “ plane is gone “ while obviously it wasn’t . Showed them time on my phone before departure. Then “ gate is closed “ . Then he said “Instead of talking to me you need to go talk to someone else to get another flight “ . We booked business class no service waited in line to have to rebook same flight day later. Offered hotel room but wait for a bus to heard us to what I’m sure would have been cheap hotel. Opted for private cab and decent hotel at our own expense. Bad service at ever turn . NEVER TURKISH AIRLINES AGAIN !

We were traveling first class. Checkin counter lady and her manager, both were in bad mood and did not treat us well about checking in the handbag. The gate agent took care of it right away. I travel Turkish twice a year in first class. No one has ever refused to check in the hand bag. Not sure, why this agent and her manager refused. Everything else was excellent.

It is just ok, the sits are very uncomfortable, the temperature too low and there weren’t blankets. The food is mediocre and there are no screens to watch movies.

Seat in front of my wife was broken so it reclined further than normal and without having to push the recline button so my wife had absolutely no room the entire 17 hour flight. My seat was broken and wouldn't recline at all. Also.. my tray table was sticky and dirty right away before I even used it. Also...the floor in the back of the plane from our row of seats on back was totally soaked and both times we landed water came rushing out of the food/servant area like a flood onto the same already wet carpet. It got everything wet that was placed around our feet...including our shoes and socks.

Flight was smooth but unnecessary long because we had to refuel at FCO Rome. Air hostesses service and response to call light could be better. Both planes were old with broken seat arms and toilets. Why Africans had to be given the farthest Gates is what baffles me and why we have to pay for Aisle seats I found really strange. Is there ever an end to ripping people off even after paying over $2300 for one seat.

On my return flight the TV did not work the entire flight! They knew it wasn’t working but they let me sit there. The guy sitting nièce to me told me he was ok the previous flight and it wasn’t working. This is business class by the way!

The entertainment (movies) blockbuster and classics never change. I am a frequent Ethiopian flyer and this should be addressed. Not much changed from my summer flight and my December flight. It is annoying - surely you can update the selections more often. Same with food options. It becomes extremely boring to be offered the same exact meals from Washington to Addis to Maputo every trip, each time. AS

Entertainment was very poor. Couldn’t watch anything. Ear pieces were the wrong type .

Food was horrible. Our flight was not comfortable due to turbulence, seats was not comfortable, Very tight barely can not move anywhere.

The check in staff was amazing. Best customer service! The plane was old! My entertainment on the first flight didn't work at all, in my seat or in the seat next to me. The bathroom doors were old and troublesome. One of the bathrooms, the whole sink panel was broken. Everything felt old and falling apart. The airline stewardesses were amazing and quite hospitable. When there were delays, they kept us well informed. Transit was GREAT! I wasn't sure how I would make it to my next flight in 1 1/2 hours but the security lines were short and efficient. The C gates in Addis Ababa were CROWDED! That whole space downstairs was too crowded and challenging to manuever. I usually fly Ethiopian within Africa and was interested to see how the experience would be intercontinental. Overall, I would choose it again if it was cheaper than Delta/Air France or Lufthansa/KLM. I wouldn't make it a first choice if the prices were the same because the planes are so old! The food and entertainment also weren't as good. Good selection of movies but as I mentioned, on the first flight they didn't work at all (I slept so it was okay) and the 2nd flight it was glitchy. All in all, I didn't hate it but it would be a first choice only if it's cheaper.

The wifi service was really poor I try to use it the service was extremely poor if that could be improved that will go a long way

I've never been served three bread courses in a single meal before. Was really impressed by the novelty of that.

Paid an extra USD 100 for so-called Comfort seats. All of these (the bulkhead seats) had parents with babies and infants who were screaming much of the time. One mother even decided to change nappies on the seat. This was anything but comfort!

Front section of economy cabin is better than rear. Paid for seats selected.

Good flight. Paid for seats sat the frront section of the economy. Better than rear cabin.

Apart from delay of 3 hrs in Nairobi for onward flight to Dar all fine. Looked like operational issues caused it.

It has been 1 week since arriving at my destination and I still have not recieved my kite surfing bags. Office will not communicate properly on location or when my bags will arrive. No advice on what to do on luggage that has not arrived in over a week. Simply not happy with Kenya airways at the moment.

Excellent. They canceled our flight & put us up for the night. Then upgraded us. We are impressed

On a long flight us customers need more rehydration by the crew. Some of us have water bottles but no crew is coming around to offer water. I’m not saying issue us all with plastic water bottles.

The flight staff were not very kind. I went back to get a drink, 4 of them back there chatting. They all looked at me continued to talk then they started doing stuff and one finally asked after I was standing there awhile what I needed. This happened multiple times. The movies were not the great and seemed dated. My seat squeaked every time I moved and it moved around a bit.

My flight from Nairobi to nyc. My seat made noise and moved around. The two toilets in the back didn’t work well cause you didn’t know if someone was in there cause the light didn’t work. The bathroom doors didn’t lock well either, so I walked in on someone. The crew wasn’t quick or super helpful. When I went to get something they were chatting and they would look at me, continue on with their conversation and finally I would interrupt to get a drink.

The flight attendants on this flight were incredible! One even gave me her own dinner when my special meal order wasn’t transferred due to a flight delay! She insisted and I was so grateful. That is going above and beyond! The issue I had with the flight was with Lufthansa support. I missed my connection due to a flight delay and they wouldn’t rebook online, only in person. This took a lot of time and visits to the airport waiting for a Lufthansa agent to arrive 5 hours later than posted and almost paying full-fare price for the new flights and refusal to add my special meal orders. It made for a challenging journey home and I didn’t feel valued as a customer.

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As you plan your trip to the pristine and idyllic island of Zanzibar in April, it’s essential to understand the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April to make the most out of your getaway. Zanzibar, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, offers an enticing tropical paradise for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

Zanzibar experiences its long rainy season in April, also known as the ‘masika’ season. The island receives significant rainfall during this period, which can affect your travel plans and activities. While the rain showers can provide a refreshing break from the sweltering heat, it’s important to be prepared and plan accordingly. Pack lightweight rain gear and consider indoor attractions and activities to keep you entertained during any downpours.

Despite the rain, Zanzibar in April still offers plenty to explore. The island’s lush landscapes come alive, showcasing vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. You can also take advantage of the quieter atmosphere and enjoy the breathtaking sights without the usual crowds.

So, before you embark on your Zanzibar adventure, arm yourself with knowledge about the April weather and adapt your plans to make the most of your visit.

Weather in Zanzibar in April

Zanzibar experiences its long rainy season, or ‘masika’ season, from March to May, with April being the peak of this period. During the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April , the island receives significant rainfall, with an average of 218mm. The rain showers are usually intense but short-lived, often followed by sunny spells.

The temperature in Zanzibar remains warm throughout the year, and April is no exception. The average daily temperature during this month ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F). Despite the rain, you can still expect humid conditions, so be prepared for the heat and humidity.

While the rain may seem like a deterrent, it can also bring relief from the scorching sun, making it a suitable time to explore the island’s outdoor attractions. Just ensure you have appropriate rain gear and plan your activities accordingly to make the most of your time in Zanzibar.

Rainfall in Zanzibar in April

April is known for its significant rainfall in Zanzibar, with an average of 14 rainy days during the month. The rain showers are usually intense but brief, lasting for a few hours at a time. It’s essential to keep in mind that the rainfall can disrupt outdoor activities, such as beach visits and water sports.

However, the rain also offers an opportunity to witness the island’s natural beauty in a different light. The rainfall rejuvenates the lush landscapes, resulting in vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. The waterfalls around the island are also at their most impressive during this time, cascading with renewed vigor.

To make the most of your trip, consider planning indoor activities or exploring the island’s cultural attractions during the rainy periods. Visit the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s history and architecture. Explore the local markets, museums, and art galleries to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Best Activities to Do in Zanzibar in April

While the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April may limit some outdoor activities due to the rain, there are still plenty of things to do in April. Here are some recommendations:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Zanzibar is renowned for its vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Despite the rain, the water visibility remains good, making it an excellent time for underwater exploration. Don your snorkeling gear or go scuba diving to discover the colorful marine ecosystems.
• Spice Tours: Zanzibar is often referred to as the ‘Spice Island’ due to its rich history of spice production. Take a guided spice tour to learn about the island’s spice trade, visit spice farms, and indulge in sensory experiences as you smell and taste various spices.
• Jozani Forest: Explore the Jozani Forest, Zanzibar’s only national park , and discover its unique flora and fauna. The rain enhances the forest’s beauty, creating a mystical ambiance. Keep an eye out for the endangered red colobus monkeys , which are endemic to Zanzibar.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending traditional music and dance performances. Visit local villages to interact with the friendly residents and learn about their way of life . Participate in a cooking class to master Zanzibar’s traditional dishes.
• Beach Relaxation: Despite the rain, Zanzibar’s beaches are still worth a visit. The rain showers often pass quickly, leaving behind clear skies and calm waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the white sandy beaches, or simply relax under a beach umbrella with a good book.

Remember to check the weather forecast and plan your activities accordingly. Be prepared for sudden rain showers and have a backup plan in case your outdoor activities need to be rescheduled.

What to Pack for a Trip to Zanzibar in April

When packing for your trip to Zanzibar in April, it’s crucial to understand the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April. This helps you know the items to include and those suitable for hot and rainy weather. Here’s a list of essentials to consider:

• Lightweight rain gear: Pack a foldable raincoat or poncho to stay dry during unexpected showers. It’s also advisable to carry a small umbrella for added protection.
• Quick-drying clothes: Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. These materials will keep you comfortable in the heat and dry quickly after rain showers.
• Swimwear: Don’t forget to pack your swimwear as Zanzibar’s beaches are still enjoyable despite the rain. Take a dip in the sea or relax by the poolside at your accommodation.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent : Protect your skin from the sun’s rays and potential insect bites by packing sunscreen with a high SPF and effective insect repellent.
• Comfortable footwear: Ensure you have sturdy and comfortable shoes for exploring the island. Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for the beach, while closed-toe shoes are recommended for activities such as hiking or exploring the Stone Town .
• Medications and first aid kit: Pack any necessary medications, as well as a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses. It’s always better to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
• Electrical adaptors and chargers: Zanzibar uses Type G electrical outlets, so make sure to bring the appropriate adaptors and chargers for your electronic devices.

Remember to pack light and prioritize essential items. You can always purchase any forgotten or additional items from local markets or shops in Zanzibar.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to various interests. Here are some must-visit locations during your trip:

• Stone Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a captivating maze of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historical buildings. Explore the winding alleys, visit the iconic House of Wonders , and wander through the vibrant Forodhani Gardens.
• Prison Island: Take a boat trip to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island , and visit the giant Aldabra tortoises that inhabit the island. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

• Mnemba Atoll: Embark on a snorkeling or diving excursion to the Mnemba Atoll, located off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. This marine reserve is teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and coral reefs, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
• Nungwi Beach : Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach is known for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach, take a traditional dhow boat ride, or indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and kiteboarding.
• Spice Farms: Discover Zanzibar’s spice heritage by visiting one of the spice farms on the island. Learn about the cultivation and processing of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla, and enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch prepared with fresh spices.

• Kendwa Rocks: If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, head to Kendwa Rocks. This beachfront resort offers live music, beach parties , and a lively atmosphere, especially during the full moon parties.

These are just a few highlights of what Zanzibar has to offer. Take the time to explore the island and discover its hidden gems, whether it’s a secluded beach, a local village, or a charming café tucked away in the streets of Stone Town.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Zanzibar in April

While Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, it’s always important to take precautions to ensure a smooth and secure trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Stay informed: Stay updated on the current political and security situation in Zanzibar before your trip. Check travel advisories and register with your embassy or consulate.
• Choose reputable accommodation: Select accommodation options that have good reviews and a reliable security system in place. Keep your valuables secure in a hotel safe and avoid displaying wealth or expensive items.
• Be cautious of your surroundings: Zanzibar, like any other tourist destination, has its share of petty theft. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places.
• Respect the local culture : Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population, and it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local communities, and be mindful of local customs and etiquette.
• Stay hydrated and observe hygiene practices: Zanzibar’s tropical climate can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water and carry a reusable water bottle. Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and using hand sanitizer.
• Use reliable transportation : Choose licensed taxis or reputable transportation services for your journeys. If renting a vehicle, familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and drive cautiously.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy your trip to Zanzibar with peace of mind and focus on creating unforgettable memories.

Accommodation Options in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few popular options:

• Luxury Resorts: Zanzibar is home to several world-class luxury resorts that offer top-notch amenities, private beaches, and stunning views. Some well-known resorts include the Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Zuri Zanzibar, and the Residence Zanzibar .
• Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at a boutique hotel. These smaller establishments often have unique designs, excellent service, and a cozy atmosphere. Some popular boutique hotels in Zanzibar are Emerson Spice, Zanzibar Coffee House, and Mashariki Palace Hotel.
• Beachfront Villas: If you’re traveling with a group or looking for a more private and exclusive experience, renting a beachfront villa can be an excellent option. These villas provide a home away from home, complete with private pools, spacious living areas, and direct access to the beach.
• Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: Zanzibar also offers budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, perfect for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget. These accommodations provide basic amenities, comfortable rooms, and a chance to meet other like-minded travelers. Some popular guesthouses include the Kiponda B&B, the Zenji Hotel , and the Zanzibar Coffee House Backpackers.

When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews from previous guests. Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons, to secure your preferred choice.

Planning a trip to Zanzibar requires an understanding of the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April and adapting your activities accordingly. While the island experiences significant rainfall during this period, it shouldn’t deter you from exploring its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Pack lightweight rain gear, plan indoor activities during rainy periods, and make the most of Zanzibar’s lush landscapes and quieter atmosphere.

Zanzibar offers a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and diving to spice tours and cultural experiences. Explore the island’s popular tourist attractions, such as Stone Town, Prison Island , and the Mnemba Atoll, while also discovering its hidden gems.

Ensure you pack appropriately for the hot and rainy weather, including lightweight rain gear, quick-drying clothes, and sunscreen. Take necessary safety precautions, respect the local culture, and choose reliable accommodation options that suit your preferences and budget.

By arming yourself with knowledge about the Zanzibar Tanzania weather in April and planning accordingly, you can have an unforgettable and enjoyable trip to this tropical paradise. Embrace the rain, soak up the vibrant greenery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

For more articles related to Things to Do in Tanzania (Zanzibar), click  here !

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How much money should you budget for your trip to Zanzibar?

How much does a weekend trip to zanzibar cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Zanzibar cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Zanzibar cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Zanzibar

Visitors to Zanzibar usually spend between $22 and $112 per day on average for one person and $45 to $225 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $52 (TZS132,825) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers. Your individual travel expenses may vary based on travel style and the locations visited, but if you plan wisely while visiting the most popular destinations, then you'll likely spend somewhere around this average cost during your trip. Further down we have a breakdown of expenses by category, as well as accommodation and activity prices.

If you're considering an independent trip to Zanzibar, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $22 (TZS56,578) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $52 (TZS132,825) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $112 (TZS284,932), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Zanzibar from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Zanzibar .

Travelers spend, on average, $157 per person on a three-day trip to Zanzibar. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Zanzibar cost?

With five days in Zanzibar, you can expect to spend about $262 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Zanzibar cost?

Most visitors spend between $156 and $786 for a one week trip to Zanzibar, with the average being $366 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Zanzibar. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Zanzibar

With more than 8 hostels in Zanzibar, the average price is $17 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $8 and the most expensive is $26. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Zanzibar here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Zanzibar.

• $24 for a dorm bed at Your Zanzibar Place in Zanzibar more details
• $14 for a dorm bed at Drifters Backpackers in Zanzibar more details
• $26 for a dorm bed at New Teddy's on the Beach in Zanzibar more details

Hotel Prices in Zanzibar

The average price for a hotel room in Zanzibar is $63 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Zanzibar here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Jungle Paradise Beach Resort & Spa at Mbweni Ruins Hotel Zanzibar

Zanzibar palace hotel.

Should you do a tour in Zanzibar?

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Zanzibar and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $40 for the Walking Tour to The heart of Zanzibar ( STONE TOWN CITY) to $680 for the Day Trip to Mikumi National Park: Fly-in from Zanzibar .

• 3 hours walking tour in stone town Viator $ 45
• 3 hours walking tour in stone town: $45
• 8-hour Zanzibar private spice and Stonetown Tours (Include Lunch): $100
• Mamas of Zanzibar - A Unique Cultural & Culinary Experience: $110
• Zanzibar Stone Town Historical City Tour: $20
• 3 Hours Private Stone Town Walking Tour : $30
• Zanzibar Spice tour: $70
• Private Guided Stone Town Tour of Zanzibar: $25
• Zanzibar Stone Town Highlight walking tour: $39

More for Zanzibar

If you're planning a trip to Zanzibar, Tanzania, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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Bucket List: I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, went on a safari and dived in Zanzibar for under $8,400

TANZANIA – After six days, hiking more than 57km and overlooking a sea of clouds at 5,895m, I stood at the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro with tears streaming down my face. I had finally done it.

My 20-day trip to Tanzania in August 2022 was packed with adventure on a shoestring budget. It was by no means cheap, costing $8,388 in total.

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