Zanzibar Travel – Ultimate Visitor Guide to the Islands of Spice, Culture & Paradise Beaches

Why Zanzibar Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar is an archipelago off Tanzania’s coast in the Indian Ocean, blending African, Arab, and European influences into a rich cultural tapestry. Zanzibar tourism thrives thanks to its pristine Zanzibar beaches, historic Stone Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and world-famous spice plantations. Whether you're a history buff exploring narrow alleys, a beach lover chasing sunsets, or an adventurer diving with dolphins, Zanzibar offers endless things to do in Zanzibar.

Unlike overcrowded tropical destinations, Zanzibar maintains an authentic charm. Locals greet you with “Jambo!” and the scent of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg fills the air. This Zanzibar travel guide will help you navigate the islands confidently, avoid common pitfalls, and create a personalized Zanzibar itinerary that matches your style and budget.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar: Weather, Crowds & Costs

Timing your Zanzibar holiday can make or break your experience. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide the best time to visit Zanzibar:

• June to October (Dry Season): Coolest months (23–28°C). Perfect for beach time, water sports, and exploring Stone Town. Low humidity, minimal rain. Peak season — book Zanzibar hotels early.
• December to February (Short Dry Season): Warm (28–32°C), sunny, excellent for snorkeling and diving. High season for European travelers. Great for Christmas/New Year Zanzibar holidays.
• March to May (Long Rains): Heavy rainfall, especially April. Many resorts close. Best avoided unless you want solitude and deep discounts.
• November (Short Rains): Brief showers, lush greenery. Shoulder season with good deals and fewer crowds.

Pro Tip: For kitesurfing in Paje Beach, visit June–September or December–March when trade winds are strongest.

How to Get to Zanzibar: Flights, Ferries & Transfers

Reaching Zanzibar is easier than ever. Here are your main options:

• By Air: Fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). Direct flights from Dar es Salaam (20 min), Arusha, Nairobi, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, and Europe (seasonal). Airlines: Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways.
• By Ferry: Fast ferries from Dar es Salaam (1.5–2 hrs). Operators: Azam Marine, Fast Ferry. Cost: $35–$50 one way. Not recommended if prone to seasickness.
• Airport Transfers: Pre-book private transfers to your hotel (Stone Town: 15 min, Nungwi: 1 hr). Taxis and dala-dalas (shared minibuses) are cheaper but less reliable.

Zanzibar Vacation Tip: Combine with a Tanzania safari. Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Arusha (ARK), do a 3–5 day safari, then hop to Zanzibar.

Zanzibar Itinerary Ideas: 3, 5, 7 & 10-Day Plans

No two Zanzibar holidays are the same. Here are sample Zanzibar itineraries based on trip length:

3-Day Zanzibar Itinerary (Short Escape)

• Day 1: Arrive, Stone Town walking tour, sunset dhow cruise
• Day 2: Spice tour + Jozani Forest (red colobus monkeys)
• Day 3: Beach time in Nungwi or Kendwa, depart

5-Day Zanzibar Itinerary (Culture + Beach)

• Day 1–2: Stone Town (markets, museums, food tour)
• Day 3: Prison Island + spice tour
• Day 4–5: Relax in Paje or Kendwa, optional kitesurfing

7-Day Zanzibar Itinerary (Complete Experience)

• Day 1–2: Stone Town exploration
• Day 3: Mnemba Island snorkeling trip
• Day 4: Spice farm + village visit
• Day 5–7: Beach resort stay (Nungwi sunsets or Paje kiting)

Customize Your Trip: Add dolphin tours, sandbank picnics, or yoga retreats. Contact us to build your ideal Zanzibar itinerary.

Top Zanzibar Attractions You Can’t Miss

Zanzibar tourism offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure. Here are the must-visit Zanzibar attractions:

1. Stone Town – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Wander labyrinthine alleys, admire carved wooden doors, visit the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and Freddie Mercury’s birthplace. Best explored with a local guide.

2. Spice Tours – The Original “Spice Island” Experience

Visit working farms to smell, taste, and learn about cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Includes lunch cooked with fresh spices.

3. Prison Island (Changuu Island)

Home to giant Aldabra tortoises, coral reefs, and a dark history as a former slave transit point. 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town.

4. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

The only national park in Zanzibar. See endangered red colobus monkeys, mangroves, and butterfly center.

5. Mnemba Atoll – World-Class Snorkeling & Diving

Protected marine park with vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. Day trips include lunch on a sandbank.

Best Zanzibar Beaches: Where to Stay & Play

Zanzibar beaches are postcard-perfect. Each coast has a unique vibe:

• Nungwi (North): No tide issues, vibrant nightlife, sunset views. Best for swimming anytime.
• Kendwa (Northwest): Wide sandy beach, full moon parties, calm waters.
• Paje (Southeast): Kitesurfing capital, strong winds, bohemian vibe.
• Jambiani (Southeast): Quiet, authentic villages, long tidal walks.
• Matemwe (Northeast): Secluded, great for Mnemba snorkeling trips.

Pro Tip: Tides affect swimming on the east coast. Check tide tables or stay in Nungwi/Kendwa for all-day access.

Top Things to Do in Zanzibar: Activities for Every Traveler

From adrenaline to relaxation, here are the best Zanzibar activities:

• Dhow Sunset Cruise: Sail on a traditional wooden boat with live taarab music.
• Snorkeling & Diving: Explore Mnemba Atoll or The Aquarium.
• Kitesurfing in Paje: Lessons for beginners, gear rental available.
• Dolphin Tour in Kizimkazi: Swim with wild dolphins (ethical operators only).
• Sandbank Picnic: BBQ lunch on a disappearing sandbar.
• Cooking Class: Learn to make pilau, coconut curry, and Zanzibari pizza.
• Nakupenda Beach Day Trip: “I love you” beach with crystal-clear waters.

Zanzibar Hotels & Resorts: Where to Stay

From budget guesthouses to ultra-luxury Zanzibar resorts, options abound:

Luxury Zanzibar Resorts ($300–$800/night)

• Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa): Infinity pool, private beach, bungalows with ocean views.
• Baraza Resort & Spa (Bwejuu): All-inclusive, Arabian-style villas.
• The Residence Zanzibar (Kizimkazi): 32-hectare estate, private pools.

Mid-Range Zanzibar Hotels ($100–$250/night)

• DoubleTree by Hilton Stone Town: Rooftop restaurant, central location.
• Uroa Bay Beach Resort: All-inclusive, east coast.
• Melia Zanzibar (Kiwengwa): Large resort, multiple pools.

Budget Stays ($30–$80/night)

• Stone Town: Lost & Found Hostel, Zanzibar Coffee House
• Paje: Paje by Night, Cristal Resort
• Nungwi: Jambo Brothers Bungalows

Zanzibar Culture: History, People & Traditions

Zanzibar’s culture is a beautiful fusion:

• Swahili Heritage: Language, music (taarab), dance, and architecture.
• Arab Influence: Omani sultans, Islamic mosques, spice trade legacy.
• Colonial Past: Portuguese forts, British residency.
• Festivals: Sauti za Busara (February), Zanzibar International Film Festival (July).

Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly in villages and Stone Town. Ask permission before photographing people.

Zanzibar Food: What to Eat & Where

Zanzibar food is a flavor explosion. Must-try dishes:

• Zanzibari Pizza: Street food with chapati, meat, egg, and mayo.
• Urojo Soup: Spicy coconut broth with potatoes, crispy bhajias.
• Seafood BBQ: Lobster, prawns, octopus grilled on the beach.
• Spice Tea & Coffee: Brewed with cardamom and cloves.
• Forodhani Night Market: Stone Town’s open-air food market (evenings).

Vegetarian-Friendly: Many dishes use coconut milk, lentils, and fresh vegetables.

Zanzibar Safety: Tips for a Worry-Free Trip

Zanzibar is safe for tourists, but follow these Zanzibar safety tips:

• Avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.
• Use hotel safes for valuables.
• Don’t swim in strong currents (ask locals).
• Choose reputable tour operators for water activities.
• Stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.

Emergency: Police 112 | Medical: +255 24 223 1071 (Mnazi Mmoja Hospital)

Zanzibar Travel Cost: Budget Breakdown

Here’s what to expect for Zanzibar travel cost (per person, USD):

• Flights (from Dar): $80–$150 round trip
• Accommodation: $30–$500/night
• Meals: $10–$50/day
• Activities: $25–$120 (spice tour, snorkeling)
• Transport: $15–$50/day (taxi, scooter)

Total 7-Day Trip: $1,000 (budget) – $3,500 (luxury)

Zanzibar Vacation Tips from Local Experts

• Book flights and hotels 3–6 months in advance for peak season.
• Carry USD cash (small bills) — many places don’t accept cards.
• Download offline maps (Maps.me) — Wi-Fi is spotty.
• Try a homestay or village tour for authentic Zanzibar culture.
• Support eco-friendly operators (e.g., reef-safe tours).