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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.

Romantic Private Island in Zanzibar

What to do in Nungwi

Honeymoon goals at Dream of Zanzibar

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!

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

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas digital nomad

Why Africa’s Great Wildebeest Migration Is A Must

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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.

Bedroom at Emerson on Hurumzi in Stone Town Zanzibar

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

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.

Hands holding berries in Zanzibar spice farm

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!

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 Itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Zanzibar

zanzibar itinerary is part of Tanzania travel guide and Zanzibar guide with Anja looking at the Rock restaurant

Looking for Zanzibar itinerary ideas? What to do in Zanzibar? What are the best places to stay in Zanzibar , Tanzania? How to spend twelve days in Zanzibar to see all the major sites? I visited Zanzibar in August, as a solo female traveler to Zanzibar . Spending 12 days on Spice Island was the perfect amount of time to get the taste of an island 6° South of the Equator , full of culture, history, and stunning nature .

Find out how in my Zanzibar itinerary below.

🦁 If you have been wondering “Which Disney movie did Anja watch first?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Zanzibar itinerary

In a bit more than 1 week in Zanzibar , you will learn about the interesting history of the islands of Unguja and Pemba, the differences between the best Zanzibar beaches, and admire the doors in the UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town . If you are planning a trip to Zanzibar, this is a place where you will find where to stay, play, and eat. Inside this Zanzibar travel plan, you will have a perfect blend of beaches and culture, nature and animals, history, and sports activities. Try tons of delicious Zanzibari cuisine, and bargain for souvenirs. Do all of it in less than Zanzibar 2 week itinerary . From Paje/Jambiani beaches on the East Coast, visiting Jozani forest on your way to famous Nungwi/Kendwa beach on the North, learning about spices on a Spice tour to exploring Prison Island. This is the Zanzibar itinerary , I used for my solo Zanzibar holiday. This Zanzibar trip plan will detail how to spend twelve days in Zanzibar , to make your vacation memorable while relaxing on white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise ocean.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Plan to spend at least a week in Zanzibar, but if time permits, reserve 10 days in Zanzibar to have enough time to include different beaches in your Zanzibar itinerary.
Consider dividing your time between different areas of the island: Stone Town for its historical significance, the northern beaches for relaxation and snorkeling, and the beaches on the East for kitesurfing and secluded holidays.
Include must-see sights like Nungwi Beach, Paje Beach, Jozani Forest, Spice farm and Prison Island in your itinerary.
Don’t skip Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend at least a day here and book a Stone Town guided tour for the best experience of the previous Spice Island capital.
Indulge in delicious Zanzibari cuisine, a fusion of Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and Portuguese influences, and experience a lively atmosphere at Forodhani food markets.

for FUN and INTERESTING facts: • Zanzibar Quiz: How well do you know Zanzibar? • 23 Fun facts about Zanzibar you probably didn’t know for ITINERARY idea: • Zanzibar Itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Zanzibar for Zanzibar TRAVEL TIPS: • Where is Zanzibar located and How to get there • Is Zanzibar safe to visit? 15 Things to know • 15 Best Things To Do in Stone Town Zanzibar • WHAT ARE THE BEST BEACHES TO STAY IN ZANZIBAR • ZANZIBAR COST OF TRAVEL AND DETAILED BUDGET BREAKDOWN • HOW TO BARGAIN ON YOUR TRAVELS: 17 ESSENTIAL BARGAINING TIPS • 73+ Essential Swahili Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download for ACCOMMODATION suggestions: • STAYING AT NEW TEDDY’S ON THE BEACH IN JAMBIANI, ZANZIBAR • TOP 12 MOST AMAZING BEACH HOTELS IN JAMBIANI, ZANZIBAR • 15 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR for CAPTION IDEAS: • 115 BEST ZANZIBAR CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – CUTE AND WANDERLUST • 107 FANTASTIC PALM TREE CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – LAVISH AND STRONG • 77 EPIC COCONUT CAPTIONS AND COCONUT PUNS – TROPICAL COCONUT BONANZA • 77 BEAUTIFUL PINEAPPLE CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – SWEET AND JUICY

for HALF DAY in … ITINERARY ideas: • Grand Canyon in half day: How to spend half day at Grand Canyon South Rim for 1 DAY or 24h in … ITINERARY ideas: • Best One Day in Amman Itinerary: How To Spend 24h in Amman • How to get from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon by car – One day road trip itinerary for multiple days ITINERARY ideas: • Dubai itinerary: How to spend 5 days in Dubai • Vanuatu itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Vanuatu • Zanzibar itinerary: How to spend 12 days in Zanzibar • Japan itinerary: How to spend 17 days in Japan

Table of Contents

Disclosure: This twelve days Zanzibar itinerary article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in Disclaimer .

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1. Breakdown of 12 day Zanzibar itinerary

This is a semi-relaxed itinerary for Zanzibar . If you are the type of person, who only enjoys spending time by the pool in a resort, then this is not for you. What I mean by semi-relaxed is that it offers a nice and steady pace to explore Zanzibar island. The itinerary offers a combination of busy days , full of sightseeing, half-day trips , and days to relax . There are also days when you can add some more activities or swap the days around. Following this Zanzibar blog, you will get an idea of how long to visit Zanzibar, to learn about Zanzibar’s history, experience its culture , explore best beaches in Zanzibar , meet their flora and fauna, and still have time to swim and sip a cocktail.

How many days in Zanzibar is enough? For your first visit to Zanzibar , I would recommend at least 2 weeks in Zanzibar. Spending some time on the beaches of South East (Paje or Jambiani), staying on the beaches in the North, and spending some time in the UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town . Go to the South East first , to Paje or Jambiani (4 nights). Then to the more touristy and more developed beaches in the North , Nungwi or Kendwa (5 nights). Before leaving Zanzibar, spend some time in Stone Town (2 nights), get lost in the narrow streets, and improve your Bargaining skills when shopping for souvenirs. The itinerary can also be done in reversed order. SHORT ZANZIBAR ITINERARY OVERVIEW: Day 1: Arrival to Zanzibar and transfer to Jambiani Day 2: Jambiani beach and village Day 3: Half-day trip to Kizimkazi Day 4: Kuza cave and Paje Day 5: Jambiani – The Rock – Jozani Forest – Nungwi Day 6: Nungwi & Dhow boat sunset cruise Day 7: Mnemba atoll Day 8: Nungwi village & Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond Day 9: Nungwi & Kendwa Day 10: Spice tour – Prison Island – Stone Town Day 11: Stone Town walking tour & Forodhani market in the evening Day 12: Stone Town and Departure

Here is how Zanzibar itinerary looks on a map!

2. Be st time to visit Zanzibar

Being only 6° South of the Equator makes Zanzibar a destination that can be visited year-round . Temperatures are rather constant during the year, but the rainfall depends on the season. There are two seasons in Zanzibar, dry season and wet season. Choosing when to visit Zanzibar archipelago will depend on a personal preference, but prices and the number of tourists will be higher during European summer. Below are some general factors you should consider when planning your trip to Zanzibar.

The best time to visit Zanzibar and neighboring islands is during the ‘ long dry season ‘. This is from June to October . There should be almost no rain and more sunny days. Since this coincides with the summer in the northern hemisphere, expect higher prices on flights and accommodation . I visited Zanzibar in August but I am happy with my spending budget . The months of November and December are somewhere good to visit. During this time you can expect a ‘ minor rainy season ’ with light rains and higher temperatures. Prices might rise in the busy holiday season, from Christmas and over New Years. The period from January to February and mid-March is considered a ‘ short dry season ‘. You can expect hot weather and sunny days interrupted by rain showers. Rainfall will increase coming more toward March. March to May is the rainy season , known also as ‘long rains ‘. While temperatures will still be high you can expect rain during the whole day or more days in a row. Humidity level will be high. This is considered low season so prices might be lower than at other times of the year.

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This Zanzibar itinerary will give you an idea of how to spend 12 days in Zanzibar. A blend of relaxed holiday with time to explore best beached in Zanzibar. You will meet Aldabra tortoises, starfish, Red Colobus monkey in Jozani Forest. In UNESCO World Heritage Stone town you will learn about the dark history and slave trade. | Travel itinerary | Zanzibar | East Africa | Tanzania | Travel plan #jambiani #itinerary #tropicalisland #zanzibarisland #travelitinerary #vacationplan

3. How to get to Zanzibar

There are two ways how to get to Zanzibar Island , by plane or by ferry . If you are flying to Zanzibar (Unguja island), you will land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), which is around 10 km (6 miles) or 15-20 minute drive away from Stone Town. Only a few airlines fly to Zanzibar directly, without the transfer in Dar es Salaam. Amongst those are Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and FlyDubai. Many others have a stopover in Dar es Salaam. Between Dar and Zanzibar is a short 20-minute flight. A ferry ride from Dar es Salaam usually takes a bit less than 3 h. If you decide to go with a ferry it will cost between $35 to $60 USD. The ferry terminal is in the north of Stone Town, close to the Old Dispensary.

Dhow boat in Jambiani resting on the sandy beach under a clear blue sky.

4. How to save money when planning a Zanzibar itinerary

Do you want to travel more and spend less ? I have created a list of Zanzibar travel resources for you. This is a collection of the best travel resources when it comes to transportation, accommodation, travel insurance, and more.

All of these are products that I personally use and recommend to others. Choosing the best travel resources from the beginning will save you time and money . Trust me, by using these travel resources, you will be able to travel further than you ever imagined.

5. Things to know before visiting Zanzibar

TANZANIAN VISA For visiting Zanzibar you need a Tanzanian visa . If you’re flying straight into Zanzibar you’ll get your Tanzania visa there. Tanzania visa cost varies. It covers Zanzibar and the mainland and vice versa. Citizens from most Western countries can get them on arrival. It costs $50 for a single entry . You can pay by cash or card. For US citizens the visa costs $100 but it is a multi-entry visa. Learn more about Tanzanian visa .
YELLOW FEVER If you’re flying to Tanzania and Zanzibar from places without a Yellow Fever risk (Europe, USA, Australia etc.) you shouldn’t need a Yellow Fever certificate. BUT if you are transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (Kenya, Ethiopia) for more than 12 hours – sometimes even less, you might need one . You can see the countries with the risk of yellow fever (YF) here.
VACCINATIONS YELLOW FEVER If you’re flying to Tanzania and Zanzibar from places without a Yellow Fever risk (Europe, USA, Australia etc.) you shouldn’t need a Yellow Fever certificate. BUT if you are transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (Kenya, Ethiopia) for more than 12 hours – sometimes even less, you might need one . You can see the countries with the risk of yellow fever (YF) here. Besides Yellow fever, and even with exceptions, there are no obligatory vaccinations . There are recommended ones from World Health Organisation (WHO) but consult your doctor before your visit. Recommended vaccinations are hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, tetanus … Have a look at the recommended vaccines for Tanzania .
MALARIA The risk of getting malaria in Zanzibar is low . I didn’t take medication but some travelers – especially the ones coming from safari – were taking them. Others were having them just in case if they get sick. To prevent mosquito bites , use mosquito bite prevention measures: – ensure your accommodation has mosquito nets; – use an insect repellent with 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin; – wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) clothing and long sleeves at dusk and at night; – apply sunscreen first followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

MONEY Tanzania’s currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) . In Stone Town, Dar Es Salaam and some resorts, you can use credit cards but with a hefty surcharge. ATMs are rare in Zanzibar. Bring enough cash since ATMs get out of money fast, and the highest amount you can withdraw is around $150. When withdrawing money from the ATM, take out as much as possible to ‘lower’ the withdrawal charges. Bargaining is common in markets, particularly in tourist areas, but tipping is not necessary. Beaches in Zanzibar are free, but many tourist attractions, such as national parks and cultural sites, require an entrance fee.
TRAVEL INSURANCE Make sure to purchase travel insurance before your travel. I have seen two people needing medical assistance in Zanzibar. One was because of heat stroke. Another sprained her ankle. Seriously, you never know, so better be safe than sorry. Without travel insurance, this can be REALLY expensive. Buy one from your home country provider or find the best option with Safety Wing . In case you forgot, with Safety Wing you can get one when already abroad!
SAFETY TIPS Is Zanzibar safe? Zanzibar is safe , even for solo female travelers , but it still doesn’t hurt to use common sense. Don’t flash your valuables and walk alone after dark.
DRESS CODE The majority of the population is Muslim . Respect their culture and dress accordingly , by covering your legs, midsection and shoulders. This is especially true when visiting local villages or walking around the streets in Stone Town. Wearing a bikini on a beach is perfectly fine.

6. Twelve days in Zanzibar itinerary

Day 1: arrival to zanzibar and transfer to jambiani.

Arrive in Zanzibar/Stone Town . No matter if you will be flying into Zanzibar from overseas or from Tanzania mainland, you will arrive at Stone Town airport. If you are coming with a ferry from Daar Es Saalam, then you will also be arriving to Stone Town. If you are coming from the United States or Canada or from Japan or Australia , this is likely going to be a hectic day, spent in the company of jet lag . If you are coming from Europe, the journey to Zanzibar should not be that bad, since Zanzibar is in GMT+3 time zone. Which means from 1 to 3 hours ahead of European time. After the formalities, exchange some money into Tanzanian shillings or get some cash from ATM at the airport. Outside of Stone Town ATMs are limited and get out of cash fast.

PRO TIP If you plan to travel around Zanzibar, always carry some local currency on hand. The local shops or restaurants might not accept foreign currency (€ or $) or Credit Cards.

After you have some cash on you, grab a taxi and drive to Jambiani . Price for a taxi should be around $40 . If you arrive in the morning and are feeling adventurous, you can also use dala dala. My flight with Qatar landed in the morning. I exchanged € to TNZ and got into a taxi organized by accommodation. It was already waiting for me outside to drive me to Jambiani. For the rest of the day, I was chilling by the pool on one of the most beautiful tropical beaches .

Where to stay in Jambiani, Zanzibar: • There are many beautiful beach hotels in Jambiani . I’ve stayed at an affordable, beachfront accommodation with a private beach and pool. New Teddy’s On The Beach is a travel-sustainable property, with a ‘living room’ full of daybeds to relax and enjoy the view of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Read my hotel review here.

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Jambiani accommodations to book online.

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Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 2: Jambiani; beach and village

Jambiani is a really relaxed and laid-back village . It is located on the East side of Zanzibar , where the difference between high and low tide is significant. During low tide, the ocean is far away, which pushes you to do other activities. What I love about Jambiani is that tourists and locals are as one . It is less touristy and here you get the feel of the real Zanzibar . High tide: During high tide go for a swim in the ocean. If you want, you can even go diving, rent a stand-up paddle board or sign up for kitesurfing lessons. Conditions for kitesurfing here are perfect, even for beginners. Or you might want to go on a dhow sailing boat tour. Low tide: At the time of low tide, you can still explore the beach. Maybe you would want to walk all the way to the reef, only go and observe local women manning their algae plantations. It could also happen you will see ladies dig shells for dinner from the sand.

ALSO READ: • What are the best beaches to stay in Zanzibar

DAY 3: Half-day trip to Kizimkazi

On this day you can go on a half-day tour to Kizimkazi . Beaches there are not the best for swimming but the place is known for dolphin spotting and mosque . Dimbani mosque is the oldest mosque in East Africa , dating back to 1107 AD. I went to Kizimkazi to go on a dolphin tour . If you decide to join a tour, please, do your part and research a tour provider. Always choose an Ethical Dolphin encounter . You might want to check out Kizimkazi Ethical Dolphin Tours offered by African Impact . I was happy with their approach, which was similar to the one I experienced in Kaikoura, New Zealand. We followed their swimming, watch them swim by , without disturbing or interacting with them . You can swap the dolphin encounter and instead go on a Blue safari tour . Back at Jambiani just relax, have a few cocktails or mocktails, try Zanzibar Dawa and enjoy.

ALSO READ: • 15 Best hotels in Jambiani Zanzibar for a perfect holiday

tall glass of pina colada cocktail with pineapple embelishment and coconut in the back

DAY 4: Kuza cave and Paje

Explore Jambiani and Paje surroundings. Today is the day for an adventure and a bit of exploring. Visit Kuza Cave , which is 10-minute drive or 30 min walk from Jambiani. Kuza cave is a limestone cave with cold and clear water where you can swim in. You can also enjoy Swahili music , learn Swahili cooking or search for monkeys and birds in wildlife sanctuary. Before or after go to Paje . At low tide, you can walk from Jambiani to Paje on the beach. Walk will take around 1,5 hour. In Paje, explore their food stalls and restaurants , have a dip in the ocean (at high tide) or go kitesurfing . Don’t leave before stopping at Mr Kahawa for an award-winning coffee, and a delicious meal with a view. If you decide to walk, don’t forget to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen !

ALSO READ: • Best Zanzibar captions for Instagram and Zanzibar quotes

DAY 5: Jambiani – The Rock – Jozani Forest – Nungwi

After a few days on a more relaxed East Coast, head over to the North West Coast . To Nungwi or Kendwa , where you will find the best beaches on the island . To maximize your time and transportation costs, instead of going directly, do a little sightseeing. Taxi drive from Jambiani to Nungwi lasts from 2 to 2,5 h , and costs from $50 . I paid $70 because of the detours. From Jambiani, firstly go to The Rock Restaurant . This is a tiny restaurant built on a rock in the Indian Ocean. During low tide you can walk to it and at high tide, you will be transferred there by boat. If you wish to dine there, make sure to book in advance ! This is a popular spot! After The Rock, stop at Jozani Forest . It is on the way to Nungwi and your driver will wait for you there. This is a national park where you will walk through the mangroves, learn about plants in the forest, and (hopefully) see the Zanzibar red colobus monkey . Fun fact about them is that they are unable to digest the sugars found in ripe fruit. Continue to Nungwi, where you arrive just in time for sunset and dinner. Nungwi is touristy and more things are going on. Where to stay in Nungwi, Zanzibar: There are many luxury resorts in Nungwi and Kendwa. One of the best is Z Hotel with an infinity pool on the beach! Amazing! • I stayed in more budget-friendly accommodation, Makofi Guesthouse , with an amazing BBQ and the best burgers in Zanzibar. They are super close to the beach. They have nice little swings, a lovely common area, and a dedicated spot for digital nomads.

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Nungwi accommodations to book online.

DAY 6: Nungwi & Dhow boat sunset cruise

Spend the day on one of the best beaches in Zanzibar . In Nungwi you can swim in the ocean the whole day. During low tide walk around the beach and count how many different starfish you will find. For lunch, go to one of the local restaurants like Mama Africa, Kings Restaurant on the main street, or MJ cafe. At sunset go on a sunset cruise or go on a Z hotel rooftop and enjoy the view. Watching a sunset in Nungwi is one of the must be included things in Zanzibar itinerary.

ALSO READ: • Zanzibar Quiz: How well do you know Zanzibar?

DAY 7: Mnemba atoll

Mnemba Atol is around 1h boat ride from Nungwi. Mnemba , a privately owned island , is considered to be the best diving and snorkeling spot in Zanzibar . At least that is what they say. I visited Mnemba on a snorkeling tour and was not impressed . Firstly, I was put off by the tour on our way there since the boat drivers were chasing dolphins like it is a sort of competition. On Mnemba Island there were at least 50 other boats. Corals were mostly dead and there were not many fish. If you haven’t had a chance to see ‘corals’ or fish, go and see for yourself. But if you are coming here just because of that, I would skip it. Mnemba Island is privately owned by andBeyond . The island is only accessible for exclusive guests staying in one of the 12 luxury bungalows. The maximum capacity of the island is 24 guests. Plus 2 staff members per guest. Celebrity guests who stayed here in the past, like Mick Jagger, Naomi Campbell, Paul McCartney, Tom Cruise, Bill Gates … can give you an idea of how exclusive it is. If you decide to go diving , make sure to give yourself at least 24 h between your last dive and the time of flight !

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DAY 8: Nungwi village & Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond

Spend a day exploring Nungwi village and visit Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond . In this turtle sanctuary , you can learn about sea turtles, feed them, and swim with them. During low tide, you can get to the sanctuary on the beach, but at high tide, you will have to take the village roads.

🦁 “Which Disney movie did Anja watch first?” It was The Lion King, with Simba, Nala and Zazu.

ALSO READ: • How to bargain on your travels

DAY 9: Nungwi & Kendwa

Spend a day at Nungwi beach or walk to Kendwa , around 45 min – 1h walk. There is more of a resort feel in Kendwa. Spend a nice and relaxed day swimming. A lot is going on in Kendwa and Nungwi, so you can do as much as you want. For some amazing tropical photos, book a transparent kayak photoshoot . Or go on a relaxing massage, have a cooking class, watch people, buy some souvenirs … Enjoy your time by drinking cocktails and eating delicious food. When walking by the beach it is easy to forget how strong the sun is. Always wear a hat and sunscreen and drink plenty of water .

Nungwi sunset on Zanzibar island This Zanzibar itinerary will give you an idea of how to spend 12 days in Zanzibar. A blend of relaxed holiday with time to explore best beached in Zanzibar. You will meet Aldabra tortoises, starfish, Red Colobus monkey in Jozani Forest. In UNESCO World Heritage Stone town you will learn about the dark history and slave trade. | Travel itinerary | Zanzibar | East Africa | Tanzania | Travel plan #jambiani #itinerary #tropicalisland #zanzibarisland

DAY 10: Spice tour – Prison Island – Stone Town

Today you are going to say goodbye to Nungwi and head back to Stone Town . this is the beginning of the last part of Zanzibar itinerary. To maximize your time and transportation costs, just like on Day 5, you will do sightseeing along the way. You can not visit Zanzibar, or Spice Island, without visiting a Spice farm and a visit to Prison Island . Taxi drive from Nungwi to Stone Town lasts around 1 h, and costs from $50 . I shared a taxi with 2 other travelers and paid $50, which included both of the tours and a transfer to historic Stone Town . Morning: After breakfast say goodbye to Nungwi and head to Stone Town. On the way down stop at the Spice farm . On a Spice farm , you will learn about the variety of spices that grow here and see why Zanzibar is called Spice Island. You will see how many of the spices grow, like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and learn about their usage and health benefits . I highly recommend this tour . After the Spice tour, you will arrive in historic Stone Town. Here you will have time for a quick lunch before visiting Prison Island.

Giant Aldabra tortoise on Prison island in Zanzibar

Afternoon: After lunch go to Prison Island , or Changuu Island. It is a short 30 min boat ride away from Stone Town and a popular day trip. Here you will learn about the history of the island (hint: it was NOT used as a prison, but for quarantine purposes). On Prison Island, you will also be able to see a population of Aldabra Giant Tortoises . They were brought to Zanzibar from Seychelles. Evening: Have dinner at one of the best restaurants in town. I went to Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar with an amazing ambiance, stunning sunset, and great seafood and sushi selection. Portions were the right size, food was fresh and delicious. Their wine selection was great and well worth the price. Another great option is to have a meal at 6 degrees South . They offer seafood, amazing steaks, and traditional Swahili dishes. Where to stay in Stone Town, Zanzibar: UNESCO World Heritage Site Stone Town doesn’t lack amazing places to stay . From Freddie Mercury’s house to top-notch resorts, and the historic Zanzibari tea house. • I have stayed opposite Freddie Mercury Museum, in Lost & Found . It is on a well lit street, and withing walking distance to Forodhani market, beach and Stone town alleys. Their beds are superb. Big and comfortable!

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Stone Town accommodations to book online.

DAY 11: Stone Town Itinerary & Forodhani market in the evening

Spend a day winding the streets of Stone Town . Stone Town is a historic center of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar. This fine example of an East African coastal trading town was added to UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Stone Town is also the birthplace of Queen lead singer , Farrokh Bulsara, known as Freddy Mercury . Morning: If your accommodation is not serving breakfast, I highly recommend visiting Stone Town Cafe . It is right in the center, close to Freddy Mercury Museum, post, and currency exchange office. It is also close to Memories shop , where they sell souvenirs at fixed prices. No bargaining there. After breakfast go on a guided walking tour of Stone Town . It will take around 2 hours and it costs $20. Tour is great and will take you to all must do Stone Town attractions. Among others you will visit the cathedral, Jews Corner, Old Slave Market, Darajani market, and Old Fort. Keep in mind that the majority (more than 99%) of the population is Muslim . So when in Stone Town, dress conservatively . Have your shoulders covered, don’t have cleavage, and cover your knees .

how to be dressed on the streets of Stone Town

Afternoon: You can have lunch at well-known local Swahil restaurant Lukmaan’s , serving traditional Zanzibari food at affordable prices. Or you can stop at the top of Emerson Spice Tea House . Tea house offers amazing 360°panorama views, where you can see Prison Island, the old and the new Stone Town. After lunch explore more hidden alleys of Stone Town. Take some more photos of famous Stone Town doors or relax on the beach and watch locals practicing their craft or playing soccer. Evening: Have dinner at Forodhani Food Stalls . It is a food market that comes to life each night around 5 pm. They sell a variety of street food, from Zanzibar pancakes to seafood, grilled corn, and chicken. You can also get sugarcane juice or other types of juices. It is a nice experience but in my opinion, the prices are rather high for what you get.

ALSO READ: • Zanzibar cost of travel and detailed budget breakdown

Stone town doors. are they indian or arabic

DAY 12: Stone Town and Departure

This is last day in your Zanzibar itinerary. As you will see Zanzibar is a rather small island . It only takes a few hours to get from one side to another but for various reasons, I always stay close to the airport before the departure . Because you just never know. Depending on your flight time, have a nice breakfast in one of the restaurants. If you have some time left after it, use this as time for last-minute souvenir shopping , or another walk in the Stone Town alleys. When it is time, grab a taxi, dala dala or tuk-tuk and make your way to the airport. My flight out was in the evening hours (and postponed three times). So, after my breakfast at Stone Town Cafe, I did some more shopping and walked in the narrow alleys of Stone Town. then I took a tuk-tuk to Jungle Paradise Beach Resort & Spa where I spend the day as a day guest. After dinner, I grabbed boda boda to get to the airport.

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7. Final thoughts on How to spend 12 days in Zanzibar Itinerary

This Zanzibar itinerary is perfect for a first-time visitor to Zanzibar . It is a perfect combination of beaches, sightseeing, nature, and history. You will have enough time to relax and explore what Zanzibar Island has to offer. 12 days in Zanzibar will be plenty of time for you to experience the vibe on various Zanzibar beaches . So you will be able to decide if you like the ones in the Southeast, like Jambiani, more or are the ones in the North, like Nungwi, a better option for you. I am positive you will be amazed at how impressive the difference between low and high tide is . Despite that, I still prefer Jambiani Beach more than Nungwi. This Zanzibar travel itinerary gives you enough time to experience Zanzibar’s animal world . From seeing Red Colobus monkeys , swimming with dolphins, snorkeling and seeing at least a dozen different starfish. You will also have the time to see sea turtles and Giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island . You will have enough time to visit some of the must-do places on Zanzibar. Already mentioned Jozani Forest , learn about spices on a Spice tour , and to explore the streets of UNESCO Stone Town. You can see all the historical spots by following a Stone Town itinerary as described on day 11.

7.1. Possible Zanzibar itinerary alternations

I would probably spend more time in Jambiani than in Nungwi. But you should experience both. Since this is a relaxed itinerary, you could see all the major sites in one week itinerary . You can also shorten your days in Nungwi and add an extra day to Stone Town if you wish to visit Nakupenda island . Blue Safari and Nakupenda Islands have a very similar concept; sailing, snorkeling, and lunch on a sand bank. If you are a fan of kitesurfing I would also extend my stay in Jambiani to get more kitesurfing or surfing lessons there. If you don’t have 12 days to spare in Zanzibar and are wondering “ How long to stay in Zanzibar? ” I would say, to have at least one week in Zanzibar , and if you are coming to the island after a safari, try to get in an extra two. Regardless of how many days in Zanzibar itinerary you have planned, make sure that you enjoy every moment watching the beautiful turquoise water of the Indian Ocean. Hakuna Matata, Anja

8. BONUS: Zanzibar travel planning guide

8.1. do i need travel insurance for zanzibar.

YES Enjoy peace of mind on your travels with a plan from SafetyWing . You can choose between monthly coverage or insurance for specific travel dates . They are one of the biggest names in the travel insurance world, and also give you the option to get insured while already abroad! Stay and be safe!

8.2. Do I need to book my accommodation in advance?

NO, BUT IT IS RECOMMENDED There is plenty of accommodation options in Zanzibar . During shoulder and low season, there is no need to prebook. But to avoid any unwanted stress, I would recommend booking places to stay before you arrive in the summer. Booking.com has a great feature on some stays, where you can reserve your room and cancel it for free if your plans change.

8.3. Will my phone work in Zanzibar?

MAYBE It depends on your mobile provider and the plan you are on. I would say that the WiFi on this tropical island is really good. You can buy a local Sim card once there or travel carefree and buy an Airalo eSim before your travels.

8.4. Is it safe to rent a car in Zanzibar?

YES Renting a car in Zanzibar is safe with some precautions. Check the rates at Discover Cars to make sure renting pays off. It depends on how much of an explorer you are, but I have found no need to have a car.

8.5. Do I have to book tours in Zanzibar before I arrive?

NOT NECESSARILY You can explore areas of Zanzibar without a tour, like Jambiani, Paje, Nungwi, and Kendwa. You can go to Jozani Forest with a taxi, but will get their guide when you purchase an entrance ticket. For others like Spice Tour , Mnemba Island , Prison Island , Nakupenda , I would book a tour. One tour you have to book, is a Stone town walking tour ! You will learn and see a lot! Viator offers similar tours in Zanzibar than GetYourGuide .

➤ What you should read next …

• 15 Best Places to Stay in Stone Town Zanzibar • 15 Best Things To Do in Stone Town Zanzibar • 15 Best hotels in Jambiani Zanzibar for a perfect holiday • 73+ Essential Swahili Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download • How to bargain on your travels: 17 essential bargaining tips

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✈ Travel Resources | Travel more & Spend less

Are you ready to travel like a PRO? Save time and money with these travel tips and resources . I personally use these companies to save time and money. They do the work by providing a list of options, prices, and reviews from actual guests, for anywhere I am traveling worldwide. ✈️ FLIGHTS: I use Skyscanner in combination with Google Flights to find amazing flight fares (try the Explore feature). I book directly with an airline or pair it with Iwantthatflight for the best deals. 🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is my favorite site for finding great hotel deals. They return the best rates and reviews are from actual guests! 🚘 RENTAL CARS: Discover Cars are my go-to, when planning an epic road trip. 🗽 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: I like to wander around on my own, but when I want to explore with a group, skip the line with an entrance ticket, I book it with GetYourGuide or Viator . ❤️‍🩹 TRAVEL INSURANCE: I never, under any circumstances travel without insurance. In most cases, I use yearly global travel medical insurance. But, if you don’t have that and some impromptu travel plans occur, use SafetyWing . With them, you can buy travel insurance even when you are already abroad. Better be safe, than sorry! 📲 ONLINE SAFETY: NordVPN keeps your devices’ browsing safe and malware-free. Stream shows from around the world, access social media in countries where they are blocked and buy cheap flights by changing your virtual location. 🛜 STAY CONNECTED WITH eSIM: Ditch the plastic SIM cards and waiting in lines at the airport! Airalo eSIMs allow you to connect as soon as you land at your destination. They have eSIMs for over 190+ countries worldwide.

🗨 FAQ related to Zanzibar itinerary

Do i need a visa for zanzibar, tanzania.

Most probably yes. For visiting Zanzibar you need a Tanzanian visa. If you’re flying straight into Zanzibar you’ll get your Tanzania visa there. It covers Zanzibar and the mainland and vice versa. Citizens from most Western countries can get them on arrival. It costs $50 for a single entry. You can pay by cash or card. For US citizens the visa costs $100 but it is a multi-entry visa.

For more Zanzibar travel tips, Zanzibar itinerary ideas, like Zanzibar 1 week itinerary, and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

From June to October. Weather in Zanzibar by month changes. Best time to visit is during the long dry season. There should be almost no rain and more sunny days. Since this coincides with the summer in the northern hemisphere, expect higher prices on flights and accommodation. Second best time is from January to mid-March.

For more travel Zanzibar tips, Zanzibar itinerary ideas, like 2 week itinerary Zanzibar, and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

What to wear in Zanzibar?

Dress conservatively. The majority of the population is Muslim. Respect their culture and dress appropriately. When visiting local villages or walking around the streets in Stone Town, have your shoulders covered, don’t have cleavage, and cover your knees. Wearing a bikini on a beach is fine but don’t be topless. For more Zanzibar travel tips, Zanzibar itinerary ideas, like Zanzibar 1 week itinerary, and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

How many days to spend in Zanzibar?

Try to plan for at least 7 days but ideally two weeks in Zanzibar. You should spend at least a week or 7 days in Zanzibar. That way you will be able to explore East and North-West Beaches, go on day tours, spend a day in Stone Town and have a day to relax. If you are coming to Zanzibar after a safari, plan a day or two more. For more travel itinerary Zanzibar ideas, ideas for how long to visit Zanzibar for, Zanzibar itinerary 14 days, Zanzibar 10 day itinerary, Zanzibar 7 day itinerary, visit Anja On Adventure Zanzibar blog.

Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travelers?

Zanzibar is generally a safe country for solo female travelers, with a warm and welcoming local population. I never felt unsafe and locals were extremely friendly and helpful. But take necessary safety precautions. For more Zanzibar travel tips, Zanzibar itineraries and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure Zanzibar travel blog.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

About the author: Anja

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Zanzibar Archipelago

Step off the boat or plane onto the Zanzibar Archipelago and you’re transported through time and place. This is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, where Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean.

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Misali Island

Surrounded by crystal waters and stunning coral reefs, Misali offers some of the best diving in East Africa, while snorkelling is spectacular and easily…

House of Wonders

Zanzibar Town

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

Zanzibar Island

ZALA (Zanzibar Land Animals) Park was founded as a project to help local people appreciate the value of wildlife, with funds raised by tourist visits. The…

Forodhani Gardens

One of the best ways to ease into Zanzibar life is to stop by this waterfront public space. It's a social hub for tourists and locals alike; there's a…

Old Dispensary

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

ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA - OCTOBER 6: (.) Tourists look towards the sunset while resting on a roof top restaurant at the Emerson & Green Hotel October 6, 2002 in Stone town in central Zanzibar, Tanzania. Zanzibar has become a popular tourist destination due to the beautiful virgin beaches and influence of Arabic, Indian and African cultures on the island. (Photo by Per-Anders Pettersson/Getty Images)

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…

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4 Days in Zanzibar: The Ultimate Itinerary 2024

Spending 4 days in Zanzibar is high up on most people’s bucket lists for a reason. Waking up on this incredible island isn’t far off from waking up in paradise, and with 4 days in Zanzibar, you’ll have just enough time to explore all of its highlights.

We visited Zanzibar after a truly awe-inspiring safari trip and I didn’t believe the holiday could get any better. I was wrong.

From the moment we boarded the tiny, rickety plane I knew we were in for an adventure and Zanzibar couldn’t have been a more perfect place to end such a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

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If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination, or simply somewhere to kick back and relax after a full-on safari in Tanzania, then 4 days in Zanzibar is just what you’re looking for.

Take a look at the best things to do in Zanzibar, alongside some of our top tips for your visit.

Quick List For 4 Days in Zanzibar

4 days in Zanzibar Itinerary

A little info

Getting to Zanzibar

Zanzibar accommodation

Some optional extras

How to get around

Staying safe in Zanzibar

a door from stone town spotted on 4 days in Zanzibar

Entry requirements

Staying connected

What to pack

Book suggestions

Rough prices

Food for thought

4 Days in Zanzibar Itinerary

We’ve put together the best things to do in Zanzibar on a 4 day visit.

If you would rather have someone else do all the organising for you (it is your vacation after all!) then check out the best multi-day tours in Zanzibar .

Day 1 – Take a walking tour of historic Stone Town
Day 2 – Beach time bliss, read a book, dip in sea, paddleboard, or sunbathe
Day 3 – Head off on a blue safari to explore the underwater world

Day 4 – Visit the famous Prison Island

Day 1 – Stone Town

✅ Take a walking tour of historic Stone Town

Start your 4 days in Zanzibar in the vibrant Stone Town. If you’re not a beach lover then Stone Town is the perfect place to spend all your nights, but we think the beaches here are too good miss so would recommend a day for exploring the city. Book a taxi from the airport to meet you when you arrive.

We always recommend taking a tour of a city when you first arrive. There is so much value in finding out about a place from a local and being able to ask any questions you like. It’s always the perfect introduction to a place.

This walking tour of Stone Town takes you to the most important parts of the old slave market site, the Anglican Church, the city market, the Palace Museum, Freddie Mercury’s house, and more.

people visiting stone town on their 4 days in Zanzibar

After visiting some of the top spots in Stone Town you can take the afternoon to wander the little alleyways and soak in the culture here. The afternoons can also be hot and sticky so it might be worth taking an afternoon siesta so that you can get the most out of the cooler evening!

Head to Forodhani Gardens Food Market for your evening meal. This is one of the most interesting things to do in Stone Town. There’s a huge variety of food here and the smells are incredible.

If you’re keen to experience the delights of Stone Town’s food scene but the street markets are a little intimidating, consider taking this street food tour .

food cooking in a local street market in zanzibar

Day 2 – beach time

Head to the beach! Zanzibar is famous for its beautiful beaches and they were some of the prettiest we’ve seen. Each beach resort area of Zanzibar has a slightly different feel to it, so read the above descriptions before you book your accommodation.

No matter where you end up, use this day to fully enjoy the beach, sea, and your resort. Relax, read a book, listen to music, swim in the sea, and take a sunset stroll along the beach. You’ll feel like you’ve arrived in paradise!

chilling on the beach during 4 days in Zanzibar

Day 3 – Head off on a blue safari

The Mnemba Atoll is one of the best snorkelling spots in Zanzibar, so book a snorkelling trip and check out the underwater world surrounding this island. You’ll have the chance to see turtles, dolphins, barracuda, and a whole host of fish under the surface.

If the sea just isn’t your thing then take a tour of the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. Here you’ll have the chance to explore the forest and spot the creatures living within, including the rare red colobus monkey. You’ll also visit the mangroves and turtle sanctuary to see the work being done to help protect this beautiful species.

snorkelling: one of the best things to do in zanzibar

Take a trip to the famous Prison Island. Prison Island was purchased in 1893 by Lloyd Mathews, the British First Minister of Zanzibar. A prison was built on the island, but no prisoners were ever bought here and instead, it became a quarantine station for yellow fever sufferers.

You’ll have the chance to learn about the people who ended up here, but perhaps the real draw is the island’s current residents – the tortoises (some of which are more than 100 years old!)

This trip also includes a beach BBQ Zanzibar style! So you’re guaranteed to have an all-round good day.

End your 4 days in Zanzibar with a sunset cruise in a traditional Dhow . You’ll probably have spotted these incredible boats sailing along the coast, so why not experience them firsthand? After this trip of a lifetime, you’ll be able to enjoy the sun setting from the water, and reflect on all the memories made here.

A Little Info Before Your 4 Days in Zanzibar

Did you know….

Zanzibar is famous for its spices

Zanzibar is also known as ‘spice island’ because of the huge spice trade here. They grow cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper, and the spice industry is second only to tourism here.

Zanzibar isn’t one island

It’s actually an archipelago of islands in the Indian Ocean, made up of several smaller islands and two larger ones, one of which we know as Zanzibar.

Zanzibar was the first country in Africa to introduce colour television

Back in 1973!

The capital of Zanzibar isn’t Stone Town

The capital is actually Zanzibar City. Stone town is the prettiest and most interesting part of Zanzibar City, so this is the part people refer to most.

Zanzibar is home to some rare animals

Zanzibar is home to the red colobus monkey, the Zanzibar servaline genet, and the Zanzibar leopard. Sadly, the Zanzibar leopard is believed to be extinct.

When to Visit Zanzibar

a palm tree shadow on a beach in zanzibar

Do you want the good news or the great news? Zanzibar is pretty much an all year round destination ! If you want to try and avoid rain altogether then it’s best to visit outside of the rainy season from June to October.

March – May

The long rainy season. This is probably the worst time of year to visit Zanzibar when the rainy days tend to last longer and it’s more hot and humid than other times of the year. That being said, we had lovely weather in April when it should have been peak rain!

November – December

The short rainy season. If you visit Zanzibar then, it’s likely you’ll see some downpours followed by blue skies. So head to the bar for an hour or two when the rain hits and then you can resume sunbathing!

Situated near the equator, Zanzibar has days and nights of 12 hours each. The days do feel as though they end quickly here with darkness setting in earlier than in other countries. Bring a pack of cards or a good book for the longer evenings!

How to get to Zanzibar

There are two ways to reach Zanzibar island, by ferry or plane. We strongly suggest you grab a flight to Zanzibar as we have heard reports of some dangerous practices on the ferries. That being said, do your own research before deciding anything!

Flights from Zanzibar are usually taken from Dar es Salaam on the coast of Tanzania. If you’re coming from Tanzania then make sure you consider visiting one Tanzania’s best safari parks before you head to Zanzibar for some rest and relaxation. The two destinations make for the perfect holiday!

The flight to Zanzibar from Tanzania will last about 15 minutes and is an adventure in itself. The places are small and a little rickety, and you’ll have the most incredible views coming into Stone Town.

Zanzibar Accommodation

a lookout hut jetting out into the sea in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is full of great places to stay, and although at first glance it might seem to cater more to the luxury clients, there are some cheaper options if you search.

Each area of Zanzibar is unique. We would recommend you spend a night in Stone Town to soak up the city vibes and then pick one beach destination to base yourself from, depending on what kind of vibe you’re seeking on your holiday in Zanzibar.

Or head here if you’re looking for the best honeymoon hotels in Zanzibar .

Stone Town Accommodation

Zanzibar Coffee House: In a great location, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, this hotel is warm and welcoming. Its rooftop breakfast terrace is a highlight, as are the traditionally decorated rooms and friendly staff. Check availability and current prices.

Antonio Garden Hotel: This is a good option for somewhere centrally located. The rooms are nothing fancy, but the real selling point of this hotel is the pool in a beautiful garden. It’s a little bit of luxury amongst the city madness. Check availability and current prices.

Matemwe: Best for laid back, local vibes

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas: Described as ‘heaven on earth’, this Zanzibar accommodation is perfect for anyone looking for their own slice of paradise! 2 swimming pools, free yoga classes, bike hire, diving, and snorkelling trips but none of the high rise vibes you’ll find in Nungwi.

✅ Check availability and current prices.

Zanziblue: With a private beach, swimming pool, and water sports facilities you can’t go wrong with Zanzible in Matemwe. Each villa has its own terrace and cooking facilities, making it a great choice for anyone wanting a little more privacy!

Pongwe: Best on a budget

Pongwe Beach Hotel: This lovely boutique-style hotel is in a beautiful, quiet area and has all you need for a relaxing stay. With a private beach and pool, you won’t want to leave!

Nungwi: Best for nightlife

Aluna Nungwi: Nungwi is the most popular area of Zanzibar and also the most lively! You won’t find peace and quiet here, but Aluna Nungwi is a beautiful place to stay amongst the crowds, and Nungwi is definitely the place to head for nightlife!

Some Optional Extra Things to do in Zanzibar

If you don’t like the sound of the above activities and you’re someone who can’t spend too long lying in the sun with a cocktail in hand (don’t worry, Adam and I are the same!), then check out these alternative excursions for your holiday in Zanzibar.

Self-drive quad bike tour: We didn’t have time to experience this trip while we were in Zanzibar but we met people who raved about it! Drive your own quad bike on this off-road adventure through remote African villages, farm lands, and plantations. You’ll end up on the beach to enjoy some fresh pizza to the sound of the waves!

Spice farm tour and cooking lesson: This is one of Zanzibar’s most popular trips for a reason. Visit an organic spice farm to learn about Zanzibar’s second most lucrative trade industry. Discover how the islands produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and more, and how they are used in local cuisine and medications.

You’ll also have the chance to join a cassava leaf harvest, make coconut milk, and take a lesson in cooking traditional Zanzibar cuisine.

How to get Around on Your 4 Days in Zanzibar

The best ways to get around while on holiday in Zanzibar is to take taxis or dala dalas (the local minibus).

Taxis are easy to find in the main towns and don’t tend to be too expensive. It’s also best to ask the driver how much your trip will cost before you agree to the ride, as they tend to charge what they like! If you’re staying beachside ask your hotel to book taxis for you.

Dala dala s are the cheapest form of transport in Zanzibar, and are basically mini buses with set routes. It’s not always easy to figure out which bus to get, but the drivers will help, and it’s all part of the adventure! They like to squeeze people on, and they stop a lot along the way. It’s an experience!

4 Days in Zanzibar Travel Tips

Our comprehensive travel tips for your holiday to Zanzibar. Don’t go without reading these top tips!

Staying Safe in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a safe enough country to travel in and most people enjoy completely trouble-free holidays here every year. The most annoyance you’ll probably experience is the hawkers hassling you on beaches or in the towns to buy their things, but say a firm no and they should get the picture!

Solo female travellers are encouraged to follow all the usual safety precautions, but there’s no reason to think you’ll experience any unpleasantness here. In general, Zanzibar is a safe destination.

As with anywhere new, it’s a good idea to follow basic precautions when travelling.

Dress appropriately. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim so bear this in mind when dressing for visits off the beaches.
Use a money belt or theft-protected bag (we love the Pacsafe collections designed for exactly this purpose) when exploring the towns. As with any large city, pickpockets are common.
Don’t leave valuables on the beach. Take a waterproof bag into the sea if you don’t have anyone sitting with your bags.
Don’t explore alone after dark, and stick to well-lit areas.
It’s recommended you don’t take long walks along the beach in the dark, as it’s an often frequented and unlit area where you could become an easy target.

Again, use your common sense when it comes to keeping your valuables safe. Use a theft protected bag, carry expensive items on you at all times, and never place important items in your back pockets or the front pocket of a rucksack.

We love the Pacsafe range of theft proof bags as they have a large range designed for traveller, and they look great too. Check them out.

Grab yourself a money belt too and keep some cash on you at all times for emergencies. We always carry some US dollars when we travel as most countries will accept them.

Entry Requirements for Zanzibar

You’ll need a visa for travelling to Tanzania. They have introduced an ‘e-visas’ system so you can apply online for your visa before you travel. Make sure you leave a decent amount of time to do this!

You should check you’re up to date on required vaccinations before you travel to Tanzania or Zanzibar.

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required from travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Insurance for Your Zanzibar Holiday

A holiday in Zanzibar should be the trip of a lifetime, and there are some great adventurous activities you’ll want to do while you’re there.

You can get easy-to-navigate emergency medical travel insurance for adventurous backpackers from SafetyWing .

You just go through their list of activities and make sure it’s ticked for the package you’re buying! You might want your insurance to cover boat trips as this is almost certainly something you’ll want to partake in when you see the colour of the water!

✅ Get a quote here

Money Money Money

The currency of Tanzania and Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). We’ve gone into some rough costs below, but generally, you can expect to pay an average of $50 a day depending on how much you splash out!

We always find the easiest thing to do when travelling is to withdraw cash when we’re there. If you’ve come from Tanzania then you’ll be able to withdraw some cash before you arrive, making things a little easier.

As usual, they charge withdrawal fees, so we found the best thing to do was take out large amounts of money at a time (very discretely!) You can save yourself unfair exchange rates by getting hold of a Revolut card.

Revolut allows you £200 worth of cash withdrawals a month free of charge, and only 2% thereafter. You can pay by card in the bigger towns and cities, so £200 will actually go quite a long way.

a hammock hanging from some palm trees on a zanzibar holiday

If you’re going to use a bank card then make sure you notify them before going abroad. In the past I ran into trouble several times when the bank blocked my card. Where possible, use ATMs that are sheltered or guarded, just to be on the safe side.

Top tip: Try to get hold of some ‘change’ as quickly as possible. Taxi drivers won’t appreciate having to find change for large notes, and flashing them around won’t do you any favours either. You will also want small amounts of money to leave tips, which you will do a lot in Zanzibar.

You should always have emergency cash hidden on you just in case.

Tipping is absolutely a thing in Zanzibar, and you should do it where ever possible. A small amount of money goes a long way for the people who live here, so tip anyone who helps you.

Staying In Touch With Home

a woman in traditional dress next to a yellow boat on the beach

Most accommodation in Zanzibar has free WiFi to help you stay in touch with home. It’s not usually worth buying a new sim card, simply turn off roaming charges on your mobile and be careful not to make any long-distance calls while you’re away! Using hotel or restaurant WiFi is the perfect way to stay in touch while you’re travelling.

There were times on our trip when the electricity went out, so be prepared for this and charge devices whenever you can (usually during the day)

You can be sure to get the most from that limited electricity with a smart travel adaptor like this one . It will work everywhere in the world and you can charge multiple devices from it all at once. It’s also worth taking a portable battery for when you’re out and about.

What to Pack for your Zanzibar Holiday

an aerial view of one of the best beaches in zanzibar

Here are the 5 things I wouldn’t go on holiday to Zanzibar without!

Travel Water Bottle: We always take a filtration water bottle like the Life Straw. They filter out a lot of the nasties!
Lightweight Scarf: I use this all the time travel, as sun shade, temple cover, even a towel or beach towel. Scarves are light to pack, look cute and come in handy ALL THE TIME.
Headtorch: I used this all the time while in Zanzibar. If you’re taking a walk along the beach at night or exploring Stone Town in the evening, it’s a great item to shove in your bag just in case.
Money Belt: A belt that looks like a normal belt but hides money inside. I feel like a spy wearing this! I also know my money is 100% safe. You don’t have to remove it for airport security either. What an invention!
First Aid Kit: I’m always amazed at how few people take one of these on their travels, and how often I’ve had to come to the rescue with mine. I always add painkillers, re hydration sachets, diarrhoea tablets, travel sickness tablets and antibacterial gel to mine, along with any other medication I think I might need.

Books to Read While in Zanzibar

Do yourself a favour and get one now , you’ll never look back. I can recommend the waterproof version, especially if you’re travelling in the monsoon season. Every single one of my books got ruined in the downpours!

Looking for something relevant to read while you’re away…here are a few suggestions. I’d also thoroughly recommend getting a subscription to audible , so you can listen to books while travelling or napping in the sunshine.

Lonely Planet This is always our go-to guidebook for any country we visit. The Lonely Planet guides are always packed with top tips, brilliant restaurants and they have clear maps. We keep every guidebook from each country, complete with all our scribbles, and they’ve become great little souvenirs from our adventures!

The Zanzibar Affair This is a great beach read, with a love story set in Africa. In fact, it has a little of everything – love, murder, secrets. But mostly it’s an easy read with some good cultural nods.

The Zanzibar Wife Another perfect beach read written by an international best-selling author. This is an ultimately uplifting story of friendship.

Zanzibar Uhuru This is more of a serious book, with some serious messages. It’s a great read with a clever storyline and tells of what life was like before Zanzibar was part of Tanzania.

Local Knowledge for your Zanzibar Trip

a woman collecting fishing nets off the beach

A little local knowledge will get you a long way! Here are some things to be aware of as you holiday in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar Travel Phrases

The national language here is Swahili, and although English is widely spoken, it’s always a good idea to make an effort to learn a little of the language of the country you are visiting.

Jambo! Hello!
Karibu Welcome/ You are Welcome.
Habari za asubuhi Good morning!
Habari za jioni Good evening
Usiku mwema/ Ulale salama Good night.
Bei gani? How much?
Una Chakula kwa Vegetarian? Do you have vegetarian Food?
Samahani, iko wapi… Excuse me, where is…
Unazungumza Kiingereza? Can you speak English?
Samahani I am sorry.
Kwaheri! Bye!
Asante Thank you

Zanzibar Costs

a zanzibar resort with a pool and sea views

Zanzibar attracts a lot of people looking for luxury, like honeymooners, so it isn’t always the cheapest place to travel. But it’s not the most expensive either! On average, people spend about $50 a day on holiday in Zanzibar, not including accommodation.

A lot of the hotels you find will include breakfast, and some will include dinner too but check whether you’ll need to pay for drinks and budget accordingly! We’ve included the rough costs on our trip, but remember it will differ depending on where you choose to stay and eat!

Accommodation , $50

Meal Cost : $5 – $10

Bottle of wine: $6

Boat tour (or equivalent) $35

Food in Zanzibar

The food in Zanzibar is more varied than we thought it would be, and it’s possible to get a wide range of different cuisines. Zanzibar does have a few dishes it’s famous for though, and it would be a crime not to try some of them while you’re there!

Zanzibar Pizza – A little different to Dominos! Give it a try at one of the street markets.

Urjo or ‘‘Zanzibar Mix’’ – A spicy soup made from mashed potatoes, bhajias, mango, chilly, garlic and coconut.

Ugali – A staple in Tanzania and Zanzibar made from cornmeal and butter.

Biriyani & Pilau – Popular rice-based curries

Festivals to Look Out For

February – Sauti za Busara A Swahili music festival
July – Zanzibar International Film Festival
September – Watersports festival and dhow race
September/October Fashion Week
October – The Swahili Food Festival

Spending 4 days in Zanzibar will be a holiday to remember, and we hope this guide has helped you get the most out of your trip. If you have any questions then we would love to hear from you in the comments section below.

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Thanks for posting this! It has been super useful! Im definitely one of the honeymooners and I’ve only got 4 nights on Zanzibar and am torn whether to just stay it all at a beach area or do one night at Stone Town..

You could definitely just do a day trip to Stone Town if you didn’t want to uproot and actually stay over there. It’s a super interesting place, but if you’re looking for total relaxation (it is your honeymoon after all!) then the beaches are incredible. You could always just see how you feel when you get there. We got restless after a few days of beach time and wanted something different!

The detailed day-by-day breakdown and stunning photos make me feel like I’m already there. I appreciate the tips on where to eat and what to do. Zanzibar has been on my bucket list for ages, and this guide just pushed it to the top!

Wow such a great itineraries

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The Ultimate One Week Zanzibar Itinerary

My one-week trip to Zanzibar was perfect. It ticked all the boxes: history and culture in Stone Town, relaxation in Jambiani Beach, and pristine beaches in Nungwi. It had a little bit of everything. As the island is so incredible, I wanted to put together my recommendations for a one week Zanzibar itinerary .

Zanzibar was so much more than I expected – it was otherworldly. From the snaking, medina-like streets to the celestial blue waters, I often felt like I was either time-traveling or in a beach resort commercial.

The Rock Restaurant on ZanzibarThe Rock Restaurant on Zanzibar

Note that this is not a backpacking itinerary . When I first started planning my trip to Zanzibar, I wanted to stay in hostels for half of the trip and boutique hotels for the rest. Zanzibar doesn’t really have hostels, and doesn’t lend itself well to backpacking (I would argue East Africa in general doesn’t have much of a backpacker scene).

So this itinerary is best for those who want to a true daiquiris-by-the-pool vacation, with a side of culture and adventure.

Table of Contents

An Epic One Week Zanzibar Itinerary

Day 1 – stone town.

Everything you need to plan the perfect one week Zanzibar itinerary.

Morning: Arrive in Stone Town. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site whose winding streets are straight out of Aladdin . My advice for your first few hours? Just stroll. Take photos of the famed Zanzibari doors, enjoy a traditional Zanzibari lunch at 6 Degrees South , pop into a few shops.

RELATED: The 9 Best Things to Do in Stone Town

Afternoon: In the afternoon, arrange a walking tour with your hotel. Most walking tours will take you to sites like the Old Fort and Christ Church Cathedral . Our tour cost $20 each for two hours.

Evening: Have dinner at the magical Tea House Restaurant , located on top of the Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel. Make sure to make reservations in advance! And arrive at 6 p.m. to watch the sunset over Stone Town and to enjoy a few sundowners.

NOTE: A word of warning to ladies traveling to Zanzibar – you may want to dress conservatively while in Stone Town . While Zanzibar as a whole is predominantly Muslim, Stone Town is more conservative than the rest of the island. I felt better having my shoulders and midriff covered in Stone Town.

Where to stay in Stone Town: The Dhow Palace Hotel The Dhow Palace Hotel is a quaint historic hotel built in the traditional Zanzibari style. We loved it; it had free breakfast, airport pickup, a pool, and most importantly, air-conditioning. Rooms at the Dhow Palace Hotel start at $194 for a double room. For more Stone Town hotels, check out current rates here .

Day 2 – Stone Town to Jambiani Beach

Arrange a taxi to go to Jambiani Beach – it will cost around $50 for two people. Jambiani Beach is a small village on Zanzibar’s southeastern coast. It’s relaxed and laid-back, and less touristy than other parts of the island.

RELATED: Jambiani, Zanzibar Guide: Where to Find the. Real Zanzibar

Note – before you leave Stone Town, take out cash from an ATM. There are no ATMs on Zanzibar outside of Stone Town.

Where to stay in Jambiani: Red Monkey Beach Lodge The Red Monkey Beach Lodge is a small, budget beach lodge in Jambiani Beach. It’s not a luxury resort, but it’s a great place if you’re looking to save money without staying in a hostel. Rooms at the Red Monkey Beach Lodge start at $90 for a double room with AC. For more Jambiani hotels, check out rates here .

Day 3 – Jambiani Beach

There’s not a lot to do in Jambiani, but that’s kind of the beauty of it. You can take a half-day cooking class at Tangawizi Bistro , learn how to play bao at Coral Rock , or just swim to your heart’s content in the beautiful aqua waters.

Basically just relax, drink a few beers, and eat seafood.

Day 4 – Lunch at The Rock Restaurant in Michamvi

You can’t go to Zanzibar and not have lunch at The Rock Restaurant! The Rock Restaurant is a tiny restaurant perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean, and it’s only a twenty-minute drive from Jambiani.

Make sure to make reservations in advance – it’s popular.

RELATED: Lunch at the Rock Restaurant on Zanzibar

Day 5 – Jambiani to Nungwi

Next, head to Nungwi for the island’s best beaches – picture miles of white sand and turquoise waters. Nungwi is more touristy than Jambiani but it’s for a good reason – the beaches are much better, and it’s nearby the island’s best dive spots.

Where to stay in Nungwi: Z Hotel Z Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel with an infinity pool and gorgeous views of the ocean. I absolutely LOVED Z Hotel – it was one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed at. Small enough to feel cozy, but big enough to have several restaurants and lots of activities, Z Hotel ticked all the boxes for me. Plus, the interior design is gorgeous. Rooms at Z Hotel start at $190 for a double room. For more hotels in Nungwi, check out rates here .

Day 6 – Snorkel or Dive Mnemba Atoll

The best snorkeling and diving on Zanzibar is at Mnemba Atoll. Mnemba Atoll is a beautiful reef with strong currents, so it’s the perfect place to try drift-diving.

I didn’t see any big sea life but I did see ghostly white pufferfish, turquoise parrotfish, grouper, small, white moray eel, unicorn fish battling, and sea stars. While the diving was good, I wouldn’t plan a trip to Zanzibar for the diving alone – it wasn’t mind-blowing.

But if you like drift diving, you will love Mnemba Atoll – I drifted so far on my dive that I completely lost my group, ha.

Note to all scuba divers – make sure to give yourself more than 24 between your dive and your flight!

Which company to dive with: I enjoyed my experience with Spanish Dancer Divers . Spanish Dancers charges $110 for two dives, and also charges a $30 supplement for Mnemba Atoll. Snorkeling Mnemba costs only $55. It takes about 45 minutes to get from Nungwi to Mnemba Atoll by speed boat.

Day 7 – Airport

Say goodbye to Z Hotel (sob) and head to the airport.

Other activities to add to your one week Zanzibar itinerary:

Paje is a great place to learn how to kiteboard.
If you’re looking for a super fancy, romantic resort, everyone seems to love Breezes.
Kendwa Rocks hosts a Full Moon Party every month, so if you like to party, consider planning your trip around that.

More posts on Zanzibar you may find helpful:

The 9 Best Things to do in Stone Town, Zanzibar

Jambiani Beach: Where to Find the Real, Untouristy Zanzibar

Lunch at The Rock Restaurant on Zanzibar

Important info: When to visit Zanzibar – we visited in March, which marks the start of the rainy season which continues through April and May. However it didn’t rain at all during our stay, so I’d highly recommend visiting in March as flights and accommodation were much more inexpensive than during the high season. See more advice on when to visit Zanzibar here. Citizens from most western countries can get their visas on arrival for $50 on Zanzibar, payable by cash for credit. However it costs $100 for US citizens. Learn more about visa information here. Travelers to Tanzania must present proof of the yellow fever vaccination at the airport if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever – see countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission here. The malaria risk on Zanzibar is low, so I didn’t take medication. However, some travelers decide to. See the recommended vaccines for Tanzania here. Make sure to purchase travel insurance before your trip to Zanzibar. I’ve used World Nomads for years and highly recommend it.

Have you ever visited Zanzibar? What do you think of this one week Zanzibar itinerary?

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About Ashley Fleckenstein

Ashley is a travel and lifestyle blogger who lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Since college she has au paired in Paris, backpacked the world solo, and lived in Uganda. Her work has been featured by Buzzfeed, Forbes, TripAdvisor, and Glamour Magazine.

16 thoughts on “The Ultimate One Week Zanzibar Itinerary”

Holy cow, adding Zanzibar to the travel bucket list. I planned to visit Africa, but since so few it seems travel there, I can never find many posts so it’s a big mystery still. Thank you for visiting and providing so much detail and guidance for Zanzibar! It’s nice to forgo hostels and backpacking for a luxury trip once in a while isn’t it? Can’t wait to visit–that restaurant is awesome!!

While I was bummed that there weren’t any hostels, in the end it turned out for the best – Z Hotel was AMAZING and we had an absolute blast :)

Ok so after reading this we definitely have to add Zanzibar to our bucket list. It look stunning.

It’s definitely gorgeous! I’d highly recommend :)

Oh my goodness, it looks like a locale the gods must have made way back when :) I’ve wanted to visit ever since a friend of mine finished her honeymoon there (they did the safari experience in Tanzania and then did some r & r there). The Maldives has always been my exotic bucket list beach destination and yet I think I’d like Zanzibar more since there’s so much history and the blending of cultures there. Beautiful photos although you probably can’t take a bad one either.

I definitely loved that Zanzibar had so much to offer in the way of beaches AND history, culture, and food. Safari or Kilimanjaro with a vacation on Zanzibar is the perfect combo I think :)

So damn Beautiful Zanzibar..

It’s seriously gorgeous :)

What a beautiful place! I can’t believe this Rock Restaurant – it looks unreal! And crazy cute :)

I can only imagine the trekking that can be done in such location…

Happy travels! Ioanna A Woman Afoot

Thanks so much, Ionna! You too.

What a magical trip, Ashley! I’m loving your new life in Africa. So dreamy.

It was seriously magical. You would love it!

Zanzibar has recently appeared on so many instagram pages that i follow that i had to move it to the top of my destination list. I cannot wait to get there and have my own stories to tell. It looks absolutely amazing.

It does seem to be on Instagram a lot these days!It´s really a special place – I´m sure you will love it.

Hey Ashley How much did your trip cost you in total?

It was a year and a half ago so I’m not completely sure. Sorry about that!

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Africa , Travel , Zanzibar & Tanzania · Updated on: January 20, 2024

Your Complete Zanzibar One Week Itinerary: what to do, and more!

So you’ve passed the part of thinking about it, actually buying the plane ticket, getting (or not) the vaccines and you find yourself landing at the Zanzibar Airport. What now? Here is my one week Zanzibar itinerary to help you out with suggestions for the best places to visit in Zanzibar, an easy-to-follow itinerary, and some of the best day trips to take.

Well, first of all, you should know that the airport in Zanzibar is…very interesting and not something you might be used to.

And now, it actually depends on what it is that you prefer to do on a holiday.

As an island, Zanzibar has a lot to offer when it comes to water-related activities, but you can also go for something else, such as a spice tour (the island is also known as Spice Island) where you can see how all your favorite spices grow and learn how they become what you love, or choose a trip on the Tanzanian continent, be it Dar Es Salaam (the former country’s capital) or one of the Game Safaris (and you sure have where to choose from).

But let’s take it one thing at a time.

Read next: Zanzibar travel tips – all the things to know before traveling

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our disclosure page here .

Useful information for your Zanzibar itinerary

Why visit zanzibar.

The main reason why you should consider visiting the spice island is that Zanzibar can cater to any type of traveler.

Couples looking for an amazing exotic destination for their honeymoon will find luxurious hotels set on pristine beaches, and some of the bluest water I’ve ever seen.

People looking to travel on a budget can plan for the perfect backpacking itinerary, choose from the countless budget accommodation options, and get around from one point to the other with the locals.

If you are an adventure-lover, in Zanzibar you have plenty of water sports to choose from: kite surfing, snorkeling, and snorkeling, only to name a few.

On top of that, the feeling you will get on the island is priceless and something I rarely found during my trips around the world. People are incredibly friendly and open to help you, and the food is delicious!

When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

If you are contemplating visiting my favorite place on Earth (ok, I am exaggerating a little bit, I cannot make out my mind about this), there are two perfect times throughout the year to do it:

from June to October
from December to February

We have visited the island and went on a safari in Tanzania for New Year’s Eve and the first part of January . And the weather was perfect!

Ok, the days might not be quite as long as during summer, but we sure had a great time and the New Year’s party was something we will always remember. Thus, if you can make it, you should do it!

Where to stay in Zanzibar

You will travel to Zanzibar especially for one thing: the beaches!

With long pristine white sandy beaches and deep turquoise water, Zanzibar island is amazing for those in need of some vitamin sea.

And choosing where to stay in Zanzibar could prove to be tricky, because of all the great options available out there.

Here is a rough overview of some of the best Zanzibar beaches :

Northern Coast – Nungwi beach , Kendwa Beach, or Pemba island

Luxury hotels : andBeyond Mnemba Island , Riu Palace Zanzibar

Medium budget accommodation : DobleTree Resort by Hilton , Aluna Nungwi , Warere Beach

Budget accommodation: Makofi Guest House , Casa Carlotta & Villa

North East Coast – look for accommodation in and around Kiwengwa and you will fall in love with the postcard beaches

Luxury hotels: Melia , Kiwengwa Beach Resort , Tikitam Palms hotel

Medium budget: Marafiki Bungalows , Kiwengwa Bungalow Boutique Resort

Budget: Sea Crest Hotel , Lazy Beach House

East Coast – this is where we chose to stay, even though the tides here are more prominent than in the Northern part of the island. Also, here is where you will want to stay if you want to try windsurfing.

Luxury hotels : Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort , Baraza Resort and Spa Zanzibar ,

Medium budget: Paradise Beach Resort (where we stayed and loved it, read my review here ) , Uroa Bay Beach Resort

Budget: Samaki Lodge & Spa

Shall you stay at an all-inclusive hotel or not?

The answer to that question depends a lot on your travel style, budget, and how adventurous you feel.

I would suggest a mix for your vacation in Zanzibar: choose a luxury retreat with a stunning beach and an all-inclusive package for the days you want to sit back and relax and go for the breakfast-only option on the days when you will, either way, be out exploring.

How to get to Zanzibar?

Even though the island is relatively small, set in the Indian Ocean, on the Eastern Coast of Tanzania, it is very conveniently connected to some of the best airports.

Depending on your starting point, you might find direct flights, or options with one layover in Dubai, Istanbul, or Qatar.

In my opinion, the best flight options are offered by Qatar Airways, even though FlyDubai has low-cost options.

Check flight options with Qatar Airways!

See low-cost options with FlyDubai!

From the airport, we had a private transfer organized by the hotel, and even though the flight had a significant delay (because of a sand storm in Dubai), the driver was still there waiting for us.

You can check with your hotel because they certainly offer this service, or you can book an affordable and reliable taxi service before leaving for your vacation. Book your transfer here!

Getting around the island during your Zanzibar itinerary

Even though we chose to go only on day trips in Zanzibar, some years have passed since our escape and I’ve seen many people renting cars and exploring the island on their own.

The price for renting a car for a week in Zanzibar is affordable, you have the flexibility to make your schedule as you wish, and you can go wherever you feel like going. Discover hidden gems and feel like a local.

My go-to option for renting cars is always Discover Cars.

It is a great aggregator that will help you find and book the best option for renting a car during your trip, helping you save up to 70% on your car rental. They have a pretty good cancellation policy that would give you options in case your flight or travel plans change. Get your offers here!

You will need a temporary Zanzibar driver’s permit to drive on the island, but this will be organized by the rental car company before your arrival when you book online. The temporary permit will be available for 3 months, and minimum documentation is requested (only your valid driver’s license and a photo).

If you don’t feel like renting a car, as we did, opt for organized day trips. From all my research, Viator had the best and the most options for day trips in Zanzibar. Check out all the best day excursions in Zanzibar!

How many days do you need around Zanzibar?

We have spent a little bit over one week on the island, mostly because we have been there for New Year’s Eve.

In my opinion, you can spend anywhere between 4 days and 10 days on the island without getting bored. Of course, when time and budget allow, you can stay here even longer!

Visa requirements for Zanzibar (Tanzania)

Depending on where you are traveling from, you will most likely need a visa . Check your Visa requirements here!

The good news is you can easily apply online for your tourist evisa, and get it in no time. The visa price and duration is different depending on the country you come from (1 year and 100 USD for US citizens, 90 days and 5o USD if you are coming from France, and no fee for Romanians like myself).

The process is done online, and you also get all the information you might need (related to any testing, quarantine, or insurance needed).

Check your Visa requirements here!

My complete 1 week in Zanzibar itinerary & what to do in Zanzibar

This itinerary can be easily adjusted if you plan to stay 5 days, 6 days, or 7 days in Zanzibar. You can pick and choose your favorite activities based on your travel style, budget, and time spent on the island.

Click on the below map and it will open in Google Maps to help you visualize the setting of the best things to do in Zanzibar.

One week Zanzibar itinerary and things to do

Day 1 – Get lost on the streets of Stone Town

Start your one week Zanzibar itinerary and admire the beautiful architecture that stands at the crossing of Swahili, Arab and Indian cultures, the Zanzibar door being the most memorable feature of Stone Town .

We went on a Stone Town walking tour with a guide and learned a lot about the local traditions and history.

Here you can spend hours getting lost in the narrow streets, drinking delicious smoothies and eating traditional food at the local bars, shopping for souvenirs, and just feeling the local vibe.

One place you shouldn’t miss is the local market (Darajani Bazaar) , where you will be surrounded by all the oriental flavors you never thought about, just prepare yourself to bargain.

Just know that the market is split into 2 sections: the fish market, and the spice and vegetable section. If you’re like us, you will want to avoid the fish part and head directly to the spices. The stench is incredible and I couldn’t go inside.

Here is where I’ve seen for the first time the gorgeous violate blue Tanzanite gemstone (please excuse my ignorance). There are tens of jewel shops where you can choose from thousands of rings, earrings, and a lot of other kinds of jewelry (if this is what you’re in for).

Stop by Freddy Mercury’s house – yes, he was born in the center of Stone Town, and see the Old Fort of Zanzibar . Get some traditional henna tattoos from the local ladies, and get to Forodhani Gardens after dark for some truly local food.

We actually did not have the chance to do it because we left the city in the afternoon, but I’ve read so much about this and have heard it also from the guide we had in Stone Town.

Read next: What to pack for Zanzibar

The gardens are ideally placed overlooking the ocean, offering the perfect place for an early evening walk and why not, for savoring a local (both Swahili and Zanzibari) meal.

Having such a local print, and since it has become very touristic, the place can be of course liked or disliked.

Don’t leave without going on a food market and street food tour .

Take the boat from Stone Town and disembark on Changuu Island

Also known as Prison Island , although it has never been an actual prison, the island has played different roles throughout history: from the place where slaves were kept until they were sent away, to a coal mine, to a quarantine station for yellow fever.

Today, the buildings are used as a hotel and restaurants, offering tourists the chance to stay here and visit the former cells. Moreover, the trip from and to the island is very nice and you can enjoy both the panoramic view of the island and of Stone Town.

Book your tour in advance and create great memories!

In 1919 the British Governor of Seychelles sent a gift of 4 Aldabra giant tortoises to Changuu. Since then, they have had fluctuations in the numbers (mainly because during the time the tortoises have been bred but they have also been stolen) but are currently protected since they are considered a vulnerable species.

Tourists can now visit and feed the tortoises (the big one below was actually 157 years old – and I’m not talking about me) and trust me when I say, this is a novel experience since there are very few places in the world where you can kill time with this fellers.

Zanzibar Island Travel Guide | IngridZenMoments

Other things worth trying in Zanzibar’s capital

See the Palace Museum – or the Sultan’s palace, which occupies various buildings along the seafront. Outside the museum, you can still see the tombs of various sultans.

Visit the House of Wonders – From the Gardens , you can also admire the “ House of Wonders ” (being the first house in Zanzibar to have electricity and an elevator), formerly the Sultan’s residence, now functioning as a museum of Swahili culture and the old fort, built in the 17th century that hosts now cultural shops and workshops.

In the old fort, you will also see a small arena where music and theater shows are held daily and where once per year the Zanzibar International Film Festival is held.

Admire all the doors and take plenty of pictures with these impressive structures – they used to be a visual statement of the owner’s status in society, acting like a business card for the passerby.

Don’t miss out on the Slave market museum – now an Anglican Cathedral, this was the last legal slave market in the world. I know that sounds mind-blowing, but I think we shouldn’t take it for granted and learn about the past and always remember that if it’s legal, it doesn’t mean it’s ethical or human.

Have a drink on the beach or at the Africa House Hotel , with the stunning blue sea under your feet and eyes. Or go for lunch or dinner at Lukmaan Restauran t or the Tea House Restaurant , both with unique local design and food.

Afterward, try a cup of delicious coffee at the Zanzibar coffee house .

Day 2 – Go on a spice tour and ride a Dala Dala to the beach

One of the greatest experiences we had in Zanzibar was going on a spice tour . Before doing that, we had no idea about the magical world of spices, and honestly, the way they grow was a mystery to both of us.

You can read here my full experience and you can book your tour in advance to make sure you take advantage of great prices and have your schedule and one-week itinerary planned.

At the end of the tour, we even had lunch with some local traditional dishes, discussed with the locals, and had some coconuts directly from the tree. How much fresher could that get?

And just look how happy I was! I think, all in all, that was the effect Zanzibar had on me.

Once you’re done with the spice experience, you’ll want to take a traditional local Dala Dala car and head to one of the beautiful beaches on the island.

All countries have their names for the local buses, and you’ll want to try one at least once.

Day 3 – swim with the dolphins and see the only national park on the island

We have thought about this a lot before going, partly because it involved waking up at 5:30 and having a one-hour drive to the other part of the island, without being sure that you will actually get to see the real wild dolphins (because yes, they are wild).

Taking all this into consideration, after hearing stories from other fellow tourists, we have decided to actually take the trip and we were lucky to find a group of dolphins, after “running around” the in the middle of the ocean for almost two hours.

You can also choose to jump in the water and try swimming with them, just keep in mind that they are, well…wild..and will simply swim away from the boats and people.

Even if we were back at the hotel just before 10 o’clock in the morning, I would totally do it once again, because not only I got to see the dolphins in their natural habitat, I have also seen another side of the island and enjoyed a lovely morning on the ocean.

You can check it out and book your adventure ahead of time here!

Visit Jozani Forest Reserve

This is the only national park in Zanzibar , where you can see Kirk’s red colobus , a local protected monkey species, a lot of bird species, and butterflies.

This will be just a relaxing half-day trip, making the best o nature and fauna that Zanzibar has to offer.

You can link both experiences together and have a day to remember with this tour .

Day 4 – explore the underwater world

You don’t have to be a professional swimmer when thinking about trying to do some snorkeling, I myself have learned how to use the snorkeling mask without swallowing the whole ocean and I’ve come to really enjoy the experience.

I’ve had the chance to search for fish in some lovely places, but this experience was the BEST and one of the ultimate things to do in Zanzibar. The only thing I regret was not having a waterproof camera for taking pictures…but I guess memory also works pretty well the old-fashioned way 😉

So, if you are willing to risk a little bit (fighting the thought in your head who are holding you back), you will get the chance to see all sorts of colorful fish and coral (just please please be respectful with Mother Nature and don’t touch the coral, because it is very sensitive).

Oh, and by the way, we’ve done snorkeling near Mnemba Island, which is a private island where Bill Gates and Naomi Campbell spend their vacations in the past.

If you are interested in the experience (and have the money, or don’t need a kidney) you can be a guest at “ &Beyond Mnemba Island “.

Book your greatest experience in Mnemba Atoll and go snorkeling with some of the most colorful fish out there. And if you’re more adventurous, take a 3-4 days to open water diving course , something that will stick with you forever.

Day 5 – Enjoy the incredible beaches!

Yes, here you can find never-ending white sand beaches and the water is not so bad either. Ok, I admit it, the water is crystal clear!

Around this island, I have seen everything from turquoise water to all the Pantone blue I didn’t think existed. It is also very easy to find someone with a boat willing to take you on the sea, just don’t expect a fancy boat, it will be a very local experience.

And when you just want to lay back and relax on the beach, there are plenty of amazing beaches with white sand where you can take your time and sit comfortably at the beach or just a blanket and lay back for the day.

Day 6 – Visit the marine turtle conservation pond & see the sunset at Nungwi

These are places where people take care of marine turtles and keep them safe until the age when they can lay eggs on the beaches of Zanzibar.

It is great to see these little fellows and also their larger brothers and see that they are actually taken care of, released into the wild once they are ready for it.

Check out the experience here!

Enjoy the sunset from Nungwi beach

If you haven’t booked a retreat on this part of the island, known to have some of the best beaches and also the best difference between tides enabling bathing throughout the whole day, you can always book a trip here from anywhere you are.

Of course, you can expect a rather crowded beach, as compared to all the other places we’ve seen on the island, but since it’s on the North-West side you can stay and enjoy a Stoney Tangawizi while watching the sunset.

The tour will get you here once you’ve seen the turtles and swam with them.

Day 7 – Kitesurfing or relax on the beach

If you are into it, Zanzibar is a go-to place for kitesurfers (as you are aware, if you are into it ;)) ). Paje beach is located in the Southeastern part of the island and here you can find miles and miles of white sand and perfect conditions for kitesurfing.

You can try out also Jambiani beach , or any of the less crowded places on the Eastern side of the island.

Finish off your last day of the one week Zanzibar itinerary with a dinner at the famous Rock Restaurant and a cave tour visit.

What to eat in Zanzibar

I personally liked the food in Zanzibar very much, and I tried almost everything we had at the hotel or while exploring the island.

Food is tasty and they use lots of flavors, after all, Zanzibar is the “spice island”, and for a good reason.

This being said, there are certain traditional dishes you should try on your vacation here:

pilau rice – we had this delicious dish, filled with cinnamon, star Anais, and raisins, during our visit to the spices garden.
Biryani – another type of rice filled with spices and meat
every kind of seafood
plantains stew
Swahili curries

And this is not all, Zanzibar island and Tanzania offer lots of opportunities to spend a vacation you will never forget and where you will always want to come back (at least I do, but.. hmm life is too short and unfortunately I get only 23 vacation days per year)!

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One week in Zanzibar itinerary and everything you want to know bwfore traveling to Zanzibar. All the things to do in Zanzibar and why I loved the island so much.

You’ll Also Love

March 1, 2017 at 7:53 am

I had to choose between visiting Zanzibar or going on safari after my Kilimanjaro hike so I chose the safari. While I don’t regret it I do wish I had made time to visit Zanzibar, even if it was just for a few days. I didn’t know you could see baby sea turtles there! Do they nest year round?

March 1, 2017 at 6:32 pm

Hi Christa! You definitelydid not make the wrong choice, the safari is a once in a lifetime experience. Related to the turtles, it takes actually them decades to reach maturity and lay eggs, but in the sanctuary they had turtles all ages.

March 1, 2017 at 8:06 am

The beaches in Zanzibar do look amazing so that would totally be my first port of call, and second? Well the conversation project with the turtles! Totally cool. My step dad kitesurfs so I’ll totally recommend this location for him to try.

March 1, 2017 at 6:34 pm

Hi Sam! Indeed, the beaches are incredible and you should give it a try. Take your step dad also, he will enjoy the kitesurfer community there 🙂

March 1, 2017 at 8:07 am

Thanks for your article. I was looking for a tour like this since since I’ve been gifted with a holiday to Zanzibar. The photo with the turtles looks so cool! The entire place looks magical. 🙂

March 1, 2017 at 6:36 pm

Hi Chiara! You are lucky to have been offered such a gift! You will fall in love with the island and the people….and of course, the turtles 🙂

March 1, 2017 at 6:37 pm

Hi Pascale! Oh yes, I feel you! The only thing I could not bear myself to do was enter the fish market. But maybe you are braver than me 😉

March 1, 2017 at 10:26 pm

You had me at beach! This looks like a paradise destination and your pictures really capture how beautiful it is.

March 2, 2017 at 7:52 am

Zanzibar looks fantastic- I would love the turtles and the tortoises! I also love a mooch around a local market! I have never thought of visiting Zanzibar but you have made me rethink! Certainly on my radar now!

March 2, 2017 at 6:14 pm

Happy to inspire you! You should definitely schedule a vacation on the island!

March 2, 2017 at 7:59 am

I miss Zanzibar so much it aches! Really in a one of a kind place

March 2, 2017 at 6:13 pm

I feel you, I did not want to leave that place

March 2, 2017 at 9:20 am

Some amazing ideas, I think I’d literally go through and do them all. I would love to see dolphins in the wild, and I always make a point of exploring a local market!

March 2, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Hi Stephanie! So glad you liked it, it is a mustr trip!

March 2, 2017 at 11:44 pm

That turtle is so cute! I used to have one as a pet. Is Zanzibar like that all year long?

March 3, 2017 at 5:57 am

Hi! Mostly yes, the climate in Zanzibar is perfect, the coldest month (if you could even call it cold) being July with an average temperature of 24 degrees. But for me even that would be ideal, avoiding to melt during the trips. Thanks for the interest!

April 21, 2017 at 11:51 am

There is a surprising amount of amazing things to do in Zanzibar! You make me want to go there! I love that they don’t promote swimming with captive dolphins

April 21, 2017 at 8:17 pm

you should go there! I fell in love with this place and I think anybody would 🙂

April 23, 2017 at 7:58 pm

This looks like an amazing adventure. I was completely seduced by the color of the sea and the beach with the shallow waters is breathtaking.

April 24, 2017 at 8:32 am

It sure is! I would recommend going there to just anybody, it just is an incredible place from all points of view

January 29, 2022 at 10:23 am

Thanks a lot for sharing this guide article about Zanzibar Island. This ar

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The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide

August 3, 2020

7 MINUTE READ

In this ultimate travel guide to Zanzibar, I am going to cover a destination that has a lot to offer from a wide variety of activities, incredible culture and history and beautiful beaches. We will dive into what to do, where to go and what to except.

Karibu Zanzibar !!

Additionally, it is also the perfect destination for those looking to unwind after their safari expedition or hike up to Kilimanjaro in Tanzania with a beach holiday. And let’s face it, adventure travel can be tiring so a relaxing holiday to recover is always welcome.

In Zanzibar, it is super easy to travel around and the people are incredibly friendly. Keep reading for the perfect seven day Zanzibar itinerary to make your trip one you’ll always remember!

There is an important note to consider in booking your holiday to Zanzibar. The island is 85km long and 35 km wide. Depending on which part of the island your hotel is and activities you will be engaging in, you will cover great distances. I recommend grouping your accommodation close to the activities that you plan to be doing to avoid long drives if you can.

How to get to Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania in the Indian ocean. It is composed of the Zanzibar archipelago made up of two small islands and two main islands Pemba and Unguja, also known as Zanzibar.

To get to Zanzibar, you can travel either;

Via sea using a ferry from the mainland in Dar-ae-Salaam,
Via domestic flights – directly from Dar-ae-Salaam with Air Tanzania, Mango Airlines and Coastal Aviation,
Via International flights – the island is served by international operators such as Condor, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and FlyDubai.

Flying into Zanzibar international airport; the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (airport code ZNZ) you’re likely going to be making a connection either through Europe or the Middle East.

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Best Time of Year to Visit Zanzibar

Generally speaking, you can visit Zanzibar all year round thanks to it’s proximity to the equator. The island enjoys warm temperatures all year round influenced by the East Africa monsoon trade winds.

High Season

June - October - December

Shoulder Season

November - January - February

March - May

However, there are a few factors to consider. There are two rainy seasons in Zanzibar. The first, from mid-March to late May influenced by the Kusi (southern monsoon trade winds) and the second in November to early December influenced by the Kaskazi (northernly monsoon trade winds).For this reason, from mid-March to late May won’t be ideal for visiting the island and a majority of hotels shut down during this period.

The best time to visit Zanzibar is from mid-June to October during the cool, dry months and from December to February during the hot and dry months.

Explore Stone Town

Now, let’s begin your adventure. We start in Stone Town, a UNESCO world heritage site and the historical and cultural heart of the island. It is ideally located in Zanzibar City and close to the airport and the port if you arrive by ferry. Stone Town allows you to dive into the history and culture of Zanzibar.

Begin your visit to the “Anglican Cathedral” built on the remains of the “Old Slave market. Here, you will learn the history and the role the island played as a major trade hub of slavery. The inhumane conditions under which they were kept, the chains and other elements portrayed this part of history and tells a heartbreaking story.

On the lighter side of things, proceed to visit the old town.

Travel down the narrow alleys, admiring the intricate facades of old merchant homes that attest to its colonial past and witness the fusion of colours and smells at the Darajani market. Here, you will find your treasures; from fruits & vegetables to shops selling household items for the local families.

The markets here is also where you get your incense and spices (which Zanzibar is renowned for) and to share with your loved ones back home.

A few observations. Now short on time, I would recommend one night to two nights in Stone Town. Below, I would share a few things to do;

Stroll around the Old town, admire the architecture of the island influenced from the Arab/Persian traders and remnants from its colonial past. Admire the beautiful craftsmanship of the Zanzibar doors
Stroll by the house of Freddy Mercury (the lead singer of Queen who was born in Zanzibar)
Take the Sunset Dhow Cruise
Visit Nakupenda Sandbank Picnic; a beach island located 25-minutes away by boat ride, it was also designated as one of the best eight secret beaches in the world. The beach island boasts crystal clear waters and a white sandy beach. A plus, it makes for a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, relax and capture a magnificent sunset.
Dine at the “Tea House” over at the Emerson Spice Hotel. One of the finest restaurants in Zanzibar. At the same time, admire the sunset over the copper rooftops over the call of prayer.

Explore the North of the Island

Driving inland toward the north of the island, you arrive at the fishing village of Nungwi. Here, you can appreciate the craftsmanship of the Dhows. The fishermen use these iconic boats for fishing. Additionally, sailing and snorkelling trips for the nearby Mnemba atoll depart from the northern beaches. The north beaches of Kendwa and Nungwi are ideal for admiring a sunset as they are both face a westerly direction.

After a day of water-sports activities, Nungwi comes alive at night. Nungwi is popular for its hotel resorts, restaurants and bars and entertainment venues. If you are looking for a more secluded place, I would recommend Nungwi as a day trip and then move on to a more secluded part like the beaches of Kendwa.

Explore the fishing villages around the coast such Matemwe, Kiwengwa and Pwani Mchangani by strolling around the beaches during low tides, or by go for a cycle tour around the villages.

A few other activities you can do in Nungwi northern part of the island;

Watersports (Paragliding, snorkelling, scuba diving, Jet ski…)
Sailing (Dhow sailing, sunset cruises)
Spice Farm Tours

As I mentioned earlier, Zanzibar is famous for its spices. I recommend taking a spice tour to get a better understanding of the history of the spice trade here. Learn more about the spices found on the island by visiting a local spice plantation. There, you will be given an insight into the different spices grown.as well as the chance to taste and purchase them. Spices grown on the island include black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and vanilla. Many plantations are found along the route between Stone Town and the northern beaches. They are a good stopover point and to allow yourself 1-2 hours to visit the farms. Moreover, your visit contributes in helping the local farmers.

Explore the East & South of Zanzibar

The island’s east coast boasts some of the most idyllic beaches and fishing villages, from Bwejuu, Paje, Pongwe and Jambiani, to name a few. The coast is home to a wide range of lodges and hotels. However, the tidal cycle of the Indian Ocean means you will have to walk further out on the beach to go swimming or snorkelling.

On this part of the island, you can expect to lay still, relax and take longs walks on the beach during the low tides. For those looking for an active holiday, you can partake in a popular sport here of kite surfing.

Zanzibar is considered to be as one of the best places to go kite surfing in the world due to the trade winds we discussed earlier.

There are numerous schools along the coastline offering a lot of activities. Paje and Jambiani are probably the most popular places to practice the sport and attracts a lot of kite enthusiast during the kite surfing season. Visit the Zanzibar Kite Paradise or Kite Centre Zanzibar in Paje or Jambiani Kite Centre if you’re staying in Jambiani.

For those into nature, why not visit the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park . It is situated in the middle of Zanzibar and close to the beaches of Pingwe, Paje and Jambiani. Visiting the park, one can see the endemic Red Colobus Monkey, Bush Babies, Sykes Monkey, and a variety of species of birds. Legend has it that the Zanzibar Leopard still lives in the Park.

If you are lucky enough to stay in Michamvi, you will get to witness the spectacular sunset on the bay. On your stay on the east coast of Zanzibar, you will only get to see sunrises. Additionally, if you are looking to tick an item off your bucket list then have lunch at the famous restaurant, the Rock, ideally situated just off the beaches of Pingwe.

The beaches of Jambiani also offer a relaxing vibe and is close to the fishing villages. Here you can get to visit Zanzibar’s seaweed production farms.

Bonus activities

Thank you for reading this far. As a sign of gratitude, here are a few bonus activities to do during your stay:

Cycle Zanzibar : Something I want to do on my next visit is rent a bike and cycle the whole island. Sounds like something you would love to do? – then you should check this guy’s Bike Zanzibar led by Juma. Your one-stop-shop for cycling activities in Zanzibar. They offer day tours, cycling holidays (including women-only trips), bike rental and tailor-made trips.
Learn how to make Zanzibar Cuisine : The cuisine of Zanzibar is a vibrant fusion of India, Omani and Persian cuisine. Add to that the rich culture spices of the island—an outstanding destination for a foodie lover.
Ride a Dala dala : the local way of getting around.
A spa massage : After a long drive, adventurous safaris, or a trek up to Kilimanjaro, your body needs some care. I recommend booking a massage treatment. Many of the hotels around the islands have spas with vanilla oils and all the other goodies.
Deep-sea Fishing : If you love deep sea fishing, then Zanzibar is your paradise. The archipelago attracts all kinds of game- Barracuda, Marlin, Kingfish, Yellowfin Tuna, to name a few. The prime fishing months are around August.
Scuba & Snorkelling : With the abundance of marine life around the reef at Mnemba Atoll and Chumbe Island, I would recommend going snorkelling and scuba diving at these spots. If you are lucky, you might encounter some dolphins.
Horse riding : Now this is truly something special I would love to do. Riding horses on the beaches of Nungwi (Morning or Evening sessions), swimming with the horses or riding with them in the plantation farms, or villages around Nungwi.

In Conclusion

As you can see, Zanzibar has a lot to offer, from cycling, kite surfing, snorkelling, horse riding, to relaxing on the beach and interacting with the local community through to activities such as a visit to the spice plantation or the seaweed farms. This place is a piece of heaven and I cannot wait to get back.

It is essential when booking your trip to see how much time you have and what you want to do as activities. This will enable you to better plan for your trip.

In my next article , I will share with you an ideal itinerary for seven days around Zanzibar. Thanks for stopping by. Please do leave a comment or share this article.

Asante Sana! Hakuna Matata!

[…] ✨ A blog post I LOVED using to plan my trip https://jupiterkonnections.com/the-ultimate-zanzibar-travel-guide/ […]

Hi Chris, I am glad this helped you plan your trip. Your tips shared in the video series really hit home and hope other travellers will have a wonderful visit. Safe travels, Jupiter

[…] The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide […]

Awesome. and glad you loved the tips… I love how you did a video recap… I am looking forward to more of your work

I am so happy and glad the tips and informations helped you in planning your trip. Looking forward to watching your adventures. Much love Jupiter

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One Week Zanzibar Itinerary

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By reading about my monthly travel chronicles, related posts.

After visiting the island on two occasions, I have compiled a complete seven-day Zanzibar itinerary for you, inspired by my two visits to the island. I think seven days is the perfect amount of time for a trip on Zanzibar. I think seven days is enough to see the best of the island without being too overwhelmed. However, if you want to combine it with a safari trip in Tanzania or a hike up Kilimanjaro, you might not spend as much time on the island. I have curated a short version of a stay on Zanzibar at the end of this article.

I set out to climb Kilimanjaro in June 2016 on a Full moon climb. I summited the roof of Africa on a seven-day Machame route. Below are the entries I made during my journey to the summit.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Have you always dreamt of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and wondered what goes into preparing for such an adventure? After climbing it successfully in 2016; I want to share with you the steps I took in preparing myself to climb Kilimanjaro. At 5895 meters (19341ft), Mount Kilimanjaro located in Tanzania is the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Additionally, it is the fourth highest mountain of the seven summits.

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The ultimate zanzibar travel guide – an island like no other.

5 July, 2022 · Last updated on 8 February, 2024 · In: Featured , Travel , Travel guides

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you make a purchase through my links at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer : this post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links – at no extra cost to you.

Zanzibar is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of Tanzania. It oozes nothing but great energy, amazing food, beautiful beaches and everything else you can hope for on an island!

As well as being rich in history, culture and island vibes, it’s a popular honeymoon destination. Due to its pristine beaches and gorgeous resorts, it’s a living love nest.

If you’re not looking for a romantic getaway, don’t worry, Zanzibar has got it all.

From adventure to authentic island and local life, beach hopping to food seeking and everything in between.

This Zanzibar travel guide will take you to Zanzibar before you even get there!

Zanzibar travel guide - Prison Island Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR TRAVEL GUIDE The basics before you go

Currency: Tanzanian shilling (Tsh).

High season: June, July and August.

Airport: Abeid Amani Kurume International Airport.

Languages spoken: Swahili is the official language. English is spoken but some locals know only the basics. Arabic is well known amongst some of the locals. Many tour guides are quite fluent in other European languages.

Weather: June to October is the dry and cool season (though still hot!) and is the best time to visit. From November to February the temperatures can rocket and it can get very hot and humid. March to May is the wettest season where thunderstorms and heavy rain is pretty common.

Religion: Islam.

Where is Zanzibar: Zanzibar is politically part of Tanzania. It is composed of the Zanzibar archipelago in the Indian Ocean consisting of many small islands. The main island being Unguja (which is known as Zanzibar) and Pemba. Stone Town is the historical beating heart of Zanzibar and can NOT be missed out!

ZANZIBAR TRAVEL GUIDE Things to know before you go

Zanzibar is a muslim island so there are a couple of things to be aware of:.

1. Cover up a little to show some respect to the religion and locals, especially outside of your resorts or away from the beach.

2. Plan your trip accordingly. During the month of Ramadan, most of the shops (especially restaurants and cafes) may be closed during the day till after sunset when the breaking of fast is allowed.

How to travel around in Zanzibar

1. Cars, motorcycles, bicycles an d Dala Dala’s (local buses) are the most common forms of transport. Dala dala’s come in the form of small mini buses or open carriers. Be aware that these get extremely busy, stuffy and uncomfortable. However, they offer an authentic Zanzibari experience and are very convenient! They’re mostly cheap and accept only cash.

2. There are a few sea vessels that will take you to other smaller islands and sandbanks in Zanzibar. You can opt for a local (fisherman’s) boat or a Dhow boat which are both great experiences! Some of the bigger Dhow boats offer a more tailored experience with snacks and music.

How to get to Zanzibar

Some countries offer direct flights to Zanzibar or a connecting flight. However, if you were to arrive in mainland Tanzania’s airport in Dar Es Salaam (Julius Nyerere International Airport) you can take a short flight to Zanzibar. There is also an option to take a ferry from the port in Dar Es Salaam but be aware it can very busy and they only accept cash.

Is Zanzibar safe?

Zanzibar is generally safe, but like with any other destination always be alert and use basic and common sense whilst there.

Hakuna matata!

It means no worries! And the locals don’t let you forget it, you’ll probably hear it at least once every day. The island pretty much lives and breathes the motto!

ZANZIBAR TRAVEL GUIDE The best things to do in Zanzibar

Unlike me, who goes often as I’m from here, Zanzibar is a once in a lifetime experience for many people. So just enjoy EVERYTHING it has to offer!

For a small island, Zanzibar seems to have a never-ending list of things to do! From the stunning places to see, mouth-watering food to devour and endless memories to make. The island is exquisite!

Every corner offers either relaxation, adventure, history or excitement. So it’s best to hit all the hot spots to truly have the “Zanzibar experience”. Here are some of the top things to do in Zanzibar.

Visit Stone Town

Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar and a trip to Zanzibar just wouldn’t be complete without a visit. I suggest spending ATLEAST a couple of days here as there’s so much to see and do. It’s busy, bustling and full of life and one of the highlights of Zanzibar.

You’ll be met with a fusion of African culture with hints of Arabic, Persian, Indian and a dash of European influence.

The Stone Town market is a must. You’ll get sellers trying to grab your attention but they’re not forceful and don’t hassle you too much. From spices, foods, paintings, clothing, merchandise and anything that could tickle your fancies. This African bazaar sells everything! Darajani market offers a full experience of life and culture on the island.

Dine at the restaurants that offer local cuisine as well as a fusion of delicacies from around the world. Spend time on the beach and visit historical sites like the old fort and the House of Wonders.

Zanzibar travel guide - stone town coconut seller

Go to Forodhani Gardens

Forodhani is a local and tourist hotspot and I LOVE it here with a capital L! I strongly suggest you go a couple of nights as it’s such a treat for the senses. Forodhani is a local park by Stone Town beach, opposite the House of Wonders. It overlooks the ocean and doubles up as an open-air street food market after sunset.

Eat under the stars, on the beach or any spot you can find and soak up the atmosphere. You can not leave Zanzibar without going to Forodhani, it’s criminal!

See a little history at the House of Wonders

If you’re into your history or love a little culture historical digging, the House of Wonders is the place for you. Here you’ll be able to learn a little more of the history of Zanzibar as well as be able to visit a few exhibitions and rooms of interest.

Interesting fact: the House of Wonders had the first elevator installed in the whole of East Africa. At the time it was a ‘wonderous’ house and left people in awe as you can imagine, hence the name.

The building itself isn’t hard to miss and you’ll be able to see it as you enter Zanzibar whether by plane or ferry. Be sure to check if they’re allowing visitors as it has been undergoing a few renovations.

Take a trip to Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is such a beautiful experience and one of the best places to lose yourself in nature. Here you’ll be able to see the not so shy Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, go on adventurous trails and enjoy the lush greenery that’s so prominent on the island.

Book a spice tour

Zanzibar is known as the ‘spice island’ and it would be amiss to not explore this further whilst on the island. It was once one of the major and leading production of clove amongst other spices.

On these tours you’ll be able to gather more information on the spices, the production, the impact on the island and be able to taste and buy the spices on offer. Be sure to bring money and some comfortable footwear.

Go on a Safari Blue cruise

Now for a little fun on the sea because it is Zanzibar after all! The Safari Blue cruise is one of the best experiences if your looking to indulge in some exotic island vibes.

On this cruise you’ll be able to get on the famous dhow boats which will take you to a sand bank with views of the beautiful open blue sea. You’ll also be able to visit the mangrove lagoon and Kwale island. You’ll indulge in a delicious seafood barbeque along with fresh fruits. If you’re a marine enthusiast you can do some dolphin watching as well as snorkelling.

And if you just want to be in the moment, you can just unwind, soak up the sun and enjoy the views!

Spend some time on Prison Island

Though the name comes with it’s history, Prison Island (known locally as Changuu island) , no longer serves as a prison.

The islands major attraction is the tortoise sanctuary where you’ll be able to see, touch and learn the history of the giant Aldabross tortoises. These old aged beauties are quite a sight, so I strongly suggest paying the small fee to enter. You’ll also be able to wander a little bit deeper to a few hidden spots that boast the bluest of waters!

After seeing the tortoise, grab a bite to eat and just spend the day living your best life on the beach.

The island can be accessed via a small fisherman’s boat from Stone Town beach and is around a 30 minute trip. This is NOT a tour, you will negotiate the price and time for pick up with your chosen courier and the rest is up to you!

Visit the Baraka Natural Aquarium

The Baraka Natural Aquarium based in Nungwi buys turtles that have been accidently caught by fisherman and recuperates them before releasing them back into their natural habitat.

For a small fee, this little turtle sanctuary offers the opportunity to safely swim with these beauties in the lagoon. You can also simply sit by the pond and admire from afar!

You can feed them seaweed that’s provided by the Aquarium as well as go snorkelling where you’ll be able to see the turtles in their natural element!

Zanzibar travel guide - Zuri Zanzibar - Nungwi beach

Make sure to spend some time in Nungwi

Nungwi is located in the most Nothern part of Zanzibar and thus offers some of the most stunning sunsets! Along with its equally stunning beaches and quaint village life, it is possibly one of the most sort out tourist locations on the island. It is THE perfect place to unwind, relax and watch how the locals go about their daily lives.

If you’re looking for some of the best resorts, Nungwi is definitely the place for you. I’d definitely recommend Zuri Zanzibar which is an eco-friendly resort that goes above and beyond!

Get your dose of luxury and water sports on Mnemba Island

Mnemba island is a small exclusive island just off the coast of Zanzibar and it just screams luxury, romance and serenity. The island is perfect for honeymooners and those looking for something a little more remote, intimate and private.

Not only that, Mnemba island is the go to for marine and water sport enthusiasts. The island is rich in marine life and the coral reef is beautiful, perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming and exploring as well as wind surfing and other sports.

Learn the dark history of Zanzibar with a slave tour

Zanzibar has a dark, unfortunate and unsettling history. It was one of the main slave trading ports in the 19th century. If you have the stomach to learn about the painful history, you can book a guided tour which will walk you through it all.

Venture our of Zanzibar

Though this is a Zanzibar travel guide, it just wouldn’t be right if I told you to not explore outside of Zanzibar (no matter how hard!) So here are a couple of places you can go before, after or during your trip to Zanzibar

Book a safari

Some people actually book Zanzibar as an unwind and relaxing post-safari part of their holiday after the adventure and excitement of the Serengeti. The Serengeti in Tanzania, is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. Catch a glimpse of the big 5, stay at stunning lodges, surround yourself in nature and just explore a part of the world that many people see on tv.

Visit Pemba

Pemba island is just as lush as Zanzibar and has fewer tourists. So, if you’re looking for an untouched and authentic island life, this is the place for you.

Visit the mainland, Dar-es-Salaam

I recommend going here with hesitation as i’m not a big fan. It’s extremely busy and chaotic. It doesn’t come close to offering the beauty and atmosphere you’ll find in Zanzibar but still worth a little visit

ZANZIBAR TRAVEL GUIDE The best places to eat in Zanzibar

Now on on to the best places to eat in this Zanzibar travel guide. Get your tastebuds ready, these places will have you satisfied and feeling complete!

Experience a taste of Zanzibar at Forodhani

As I’ve mentioned already, Forodhani easily makes it on this list because it’s a food haven. Forodhani offers traditional local foods but also suits everyone’s fancies.

Get your taste buds ready because the food is truly epic. There’s seafood, meat, shawarma, Zanzibar style pizza’s, urojo (a local yellow soupy dish with potatoes and other goodies), ice cream vendors and much more! Do not leave Zanzibar without trying their sugar cane juices … simply refreshing!

Though the food is still cheap, being a tourist hot spot, the prices do tend to be higher than what you’d pay away from Forodhani. However, along with the location and atmosphere, it’s still worth every penny!

Eat like a local at Luqman Restaurant

You know when they say if the locals flock to the restaurant than it must be a good spot to eat. Well Luqman restaurant is a fine example of that! The restaurant offers seriously and I mean SERIOUSLY delicious food and is pleasantly cheap. They specialise mostly in Swahili food but there’s something to suit everyone’s palate so DO NOT write it off! Be aware it can get a little busy here so if you have to wait to get in, than wait, it’s worth it!

Dine on the ocean at The Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant is one of the most unique restaurants in Zanzibar and offers a dining experience in the Indian Ocean.

Located in Michamvi, Pingwe in the South-east of Zanzibar, it offers great seafood dishes, beautiful ocean views and great service. It is a little on the pricey side but if you’re looking for a real treat than it’s worth the extra pennies!

Note: the restaurant is in high demand, so it’s best to book a reservation beforehand else you might get turned away at the door.

Also note: during high tide you’ll be transferred to the restaurant by boat from the shore, and during low tide you’ll walk to it!

Enjoy some coffee and treats at Zanzibar Coffee House

T his charming café located in Stone Town offers some great coffee options (which they roast themselves). Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, there’s other options as well as Zanzibari and international delicacies. Personally, I went here mostly for breakfast and lunch.

The café has a very peaceful and serene feel to it as it’s a little tucked away and has an olden styled Arabic influence décor. I HIGHLY recommend eating on the top floor to appreciate those famous Stone Town rooftop views (if you can find a table!)

Emerson Spice Tea House

Set on top of the Emerson hotel on Hurumzi in Stone Town, this African/Arabian inspired rooftop offers a magical dining experience. The restaurant offers some of the best views overlooking Stone Town. It is the perfect place to unwind, eat, laugh and watch the sunset.

The Secret Garden

You can also dine at the Secret Garden at Emmerson Spice which also offers an exceptional experience! Surrounded by lush plants and an ambience atmosphere, this courtyard restaurant has an almost mystical and enchanted feel to it to go with it’s great food!

ZANZIBAR TRAVEL GUIDE The best beaches to visit in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has some of the most breath taking beaches in Africa (and the world, if I do say so myself!). With white sandy beaches, hakuna matata motto hanging in the air and clear turquoise waters, it’s a no brainer to pay them all a visit and trust me, Zanzibar has a lot of beaches! As well as exploring the beaches, you should also take a look at their villages as they’re just as amazing.

Here are a few of the top beaches I’d recommend (remember, Zanzibar has no such thing as bad beaches!)

Stone Town beach

Stone Town beach is full of life and embodies the island life and vibes to a tee. The buzz on this beach is nothing but electric! You can enjoy siting, eating and swimming on the beach as well as live music from the nearby restaurants.

I’d say one of the best things to do on Stone Town beach is watch the local boys doing some acrobatics, capoeira and playing football. You’ll also be able to see the fishermen go about their daily business so this is the perfect beach for a little people watching.

Keep in mind, this beach is not the most peaceful but if you’re looking for real authentic beach life on the island this easily makes the top spot.

Nungwi beach

Nungwi beach is situated at the most north-western tip of Zanzibar. It has some of the most whitest powdery and pristine sand on the island as well as the bluest of waters. The village is also pure joy to explore, with it’s laid back and open vibe.

The water temperature here is warm all year around, the tides are usually quite low and the sunsets are divine! And for these reasons Nungwi beach makes it the perfect place for swimming, beach walks and lounging about in the sun.

Paje beach is in the east coast of Zanzibar and is especially popular with tourists and backpackers. The beach is a mecca for water sport enthusiasts as it has a variety of water sports on offer such as wind and kite surfing. Though it seems like there’s a lot going on, just like all the other beaches in Zanzibar it’s still an amazing spot for relaxation and catching the suns rays.

Kendwa beach

Kendwa beach is most famous for its full moon parties at Kendwa Rocks thus making it even more popular with the younger generation. But not to worry if your not a party animal. The beach itself is just as thrilling and perfect for a spot of relaxation. The many resorts and restaurants dotted on the beach has something for everyone’s tastes so be sure to explore it!

Pongwe beach

Pongwe beach is as beautiful beach on the east coast of the island and offers a little more seclusion as it’s lesser known or “popular” as the other beaches. It really is a perfect place to relax and enjoy being in the moment.

Be aware due to the fact there’s a lot less people tourists who flock here, the best places to get food is mostly in the hotels as there are fewer restaurants.

Bwejuu beach

Bwejuu beach is another less known/popular beach and carries a similar atmosphere to Pongwe beach. So if you’re looking for somewhere with less to no crowds this beach is perfect for you! I found that the water here carries a little more seaweed than other places but is just as beautiful.

Jambiani beach

Jambiani beach like the two above also has a similar vibe; its quiet and has a rich village life so there’s still no shortage of things to do. As it’s not too far from Paje beach, you can spend a day beach hopping between the two beaches (time permitted!)

Matemwe beach

Matemwe beach is another one of the biggest beaches on the island. With it’s array of palms and soft sand it offers the perfect getaway. Here you’ll be able to book a tour/boat to Mnemba Island so be sure to plan your day ahead for an exciting and thrilling beach side adventure!

The ultimate Zanzibar travel guide: best places to see, visit and eat in Zanzibar and best beaches in Zanzibar

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Zanzibar Travel Guide

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path tropical destination? Look no further than Zanzibar! This island has plenty to offer between pristine beaches, warm weather, and plenty of culture. Keep reading for the ultimate Zanzibar travel guide.

Where is Zanzibar located?

Zanzibar is about 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa in the Indian Ocean. This island, with a population of approximately 1 million, is a province of Tanzania. Zanzibar is about 68 miles long and 25 miles wide – its only city, which also serves as the capital, is known as Zanzibar City.

Is Zanzibar Safe?

Overall, Zanzibar is relatively safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, you’ll want to keep an eye on your belongings to prevent petty theft, especially near the major tourist attractions.

Airports in Zanzibar

There is only one airport in Zanzibar, airport code ZNZ. It is very small. Sometimes, flights in and out of Zanzibar may be more expensive than flying into Dar Es Salaam’s airport. However, you must consider whether the cost savings are worth taking a ferry to Zanzibar or a local flight.

Search flights to Zanzibar

Zanzibar Visa

Most nationalities require a visa for Zanzibar. Fortunately, you can easily apply for a visa online through the Tanzania eVisa system. The e-visa process is straightforward; you’ll need to fill out an application form, pay a fee (usually $100 USD for standard visas), and upload supporting documents like a passport scan. Alternatively, you can obtain a Zanzibar visa on arrival at Zanzibar’s airport. It’s advisable to check the latest visa requirements and processing times on the official Tanzania Immigration website before your trip.

Visa for Zanzibar and Travel Visa for Tanzania information

The best time to travel to Zanzibar

The best months to visit Zanzibar are between June and October, also known as the dry season. During this time of the year, temperatures hover around 77°F, and you won’t have to deal with much rain – it’s the perfect weather for sightseeing!

When planning things to do and where to stay, you should consider the logistics of the areas in Zanzibar. Stone Town is considered the old town of Zanzibar. You can take a ferry to Stone Town or a plane to Zanzibar Airport. Most beaches are 45 minutes to an hour away.

Read tips on taking the Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry

Where to stay in Zanzibar

Zanzibar north east coast.

The Northeast Coast is one of the best neighborhoods in Zanzibar, with easy access to beaches, snorkeling, and top-notch accommodations.

Hotels in Zanzibar North East Coast:

Diamonds Mapenzi Beach (P.O. Box 100 Mahonda Zanzibar, Tanzania) : This all-inclusive resort is located right on the beach and has gorgeous rooms and top-notch amenities.
Ocean Paradise Resort and Spa (Kiwengwa Road North East Coast Pwani Mchangani TZ) : Tropical beachfront gardens, a spa, onsite restaurants, and airy rooms make this resort one of the best places to stay in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar East Coast

If you’re a beach lover, this is the best place to stay in Zanzibar – the area is home to some of the most pristine beaches on the island.

Hotels in Zanzibar East Coast:

Mvuvi Boutique Resort (Kiwengwa, Tanzania) : This laid-back beachfront hotel offers complimentary breakfast, dinner, a private beach, and a saltwater pool.
Le Mersenne Zanzibar, Autograph Collection (Unnamed Road Michamvi Pingwe Michamvi TZ Pingwe TZ) : This off-the-beaten-path hotel houses 51 guest rooms, an oceanfront restaurant, and thoughtfully-curated decor.

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great place to stay for a night during the front or back end of your trip to Zanzibar. This is the historical capital of Zanzibar, with cobblestone streets and plenty of historical sites.

Hotels in Stone Town:

Upendo House (213/14 Hurumzi St, Zanzibar, Tanzania) : This boutique hotel has an incredible rooftop infinity pool and a fantastic onsite international restaurant overlooking this neighborhood.
The Seyyida Hotel & Spa (R5RR+2F2, Nyumba Ya Moto St, Zanzibar, Tanzania) : This 17-room hotel has stunning architecture with marble floors, grand archways, and inner garden courtyards. A lounge area overlooks the ocean, where you can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset.

Spice Tree by Turaco 90, 90A Shangani St, Zanzibar 3120, Tanzania

Formerly a Doubletree Hotel, this Marriott property is perfect for those who want to earn Marriott points while in Tanzania.

Things to do in Zanzibar

Explore the old fort.

Located in Stone Town, the Old Fort, built in the 17th century, offers a great view of the ocean. It is the oldest building in Stone Town, so it’s perfect for history lovers.

Check out Forodhani Gardens Food Market in Stone Town

While this area offers gorgeous gardens by day, it transforms into a bustling food market at night. The fresh fish and Swahili cuisine you’ll find at this market are likely some of the best in Africa! Many tourists recommend this. However, I found the experience underwhelming. I was not able to enjoy it because as soon as I entered the market, several people bombarded me with offers to try their food. I settled for a stahl, and it was just okay.

Visit a Former Slave Market

Throughout history, Zanzibar was a significant player in the global slave trade. The world’s last slave market was located in Stone Town until it was shut down by the British in 1873. An Anglican church has replaced the spot where this market stood, and you can learn more about the slave trade history at an exhibit outside the cathedral.

Take a trip to Prison Island

If you love turtles, visiting Prison Island is a must! Also known as Changuu Island, Prison Island is about a half-hour boat ride from Zanzibar. This island is a sanctuary for Aldabra tortoises, which are some of the largest tortoises in the world!

Take a spice tour

Zanzibar’s nickname is the “Spice Island” due to the abundance of spices grown on its land, including cumin, vanilla, turmeric, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. You can choose from several tours telling the story of Zanzibar’s spice trading history and how they are grown – and you might even get a sample or two!

Go on a safari

Incorporating a safari into your Zanzibar itinerary adds an exciting dimension to your tropical getaway. While Zanzibar is renowned for its stunning beaches and cultural attractions, venturing on a safari allows you to delve into the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness and encounter iconic wildlife species in their natural habitats. With various safari options available within reach from Zanzibar, including Tanzania’s renowned national parks like the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater, visitors can embark on exhilarating game drives, guided bush walks and even hot air balloon safaris for truly unforgettable experiences. Witnessing the majestic elephants, lions, zebras, and giraffes against the backdrop of vast savannahs or dense woodlands provides a stark contrast to the serene coastal landscapes of Zanzibar. Whether you opt for a day trip or a multi-day safari excursion, combining your beach vacation with a safari adventure offers a well-rounded and enriching travel experience that showcases the diverse natural wonders of East Africa. Be sure to check reviews and research the tour company before forking money over for a tour. Sometimes, your hotel can recommend a reputable option.

Click here for safaris that leave from Zanzibar

Enjoy the beaches

Zanzibar is a true tropical paradise, home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, showcasing white powdery sand and crystal clear water in the Indian Ocean. Here are a few of the best beaches in Zanzibar:

Nungwi Beach : Located in the Zanzibar North area, Nungwi Beach has soft sand and sparkling clear waters. As a west-facing beach, this is one of the best Zanzibar beaches for watching the sunset.
Paje Beach : This quiet beach is an excellent alternative to some of the more popular beaches on the island. Dotted with several palm trees, beach bars, and open-air restaurants, you could easily spend the entire day here. It’s also a great spot for water sports.
Kendwa Beach : Just a ten-minute drive from Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach is perfect for swimming because the tide doesn’t change much in this area. The sunsets here are also incredible!

Best restaurants in Zanzibar

The Rock Restaurant : Located on a rock just offshore, this tiny eatery serving fresh seafood has only 12 tables but has become world-famous due to its location – be sure to make a reservation in advance and book a transfer/ride to the restaurant.
Taarab Restaurant : This restaurant has one of the most stunning rooftops in Zanzibar – you’ll get a view of Stone Town and the sparkling Indian Ocean. There is plenty of seafood and vegetarian food on the menu.
Secret Garden at Emerson : Hidden away upstairs at the Emerson Hotel complex is a hidden garden with private dinners, cocktails, and tea. This is one of the most beautiful places to eat on the island!

Is Zanzibar Worth Visiting?

With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, several historical sights, and delicious Swahili cuisine, Zanzibar is definitely worth a visit! Lay on the beach, dip your toes in the water, explore the rich history, and unwind in this real-life tropical oasis.

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Zanzibar Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Perfect Days on the Spice Island of Zanzibar

Home » Zanzibar Itinerary: How to Spend 7 Perfect Days on the Spice Island of Zanzibar

Welcome to the Spice Island of Zanzibar! Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a cultural experience, Zanzibar is the perfect destination. From its white-sand beaches to its exotic wildlife and spice-filled markets, Zanzibar has something for everyone.

If you’re wondering how to spend your 7 days in Zanzibar, read on for an ultimate itinerary that will take you through the best sights and activities that this stunning island has to offer.

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Table of Contents

Day 1: Arrive in Stone Town and Rent a Car (Zanzibar Itinerary)

Stone Town is the beating heart of Zanzibar and the ideal place to begin your seven-day adventure. The city is filled with a rich culture and history and has many attractions to explore.

As you arrive in Stone Town, it’s time to rent a car so you can easily navigate the island. Many rental car companies are offering excellent prices and quality cars, so be sure to shop around for the best deal. Once you have your car, you can begin exploring Stone Town’s narrow alleyways, filled with colorful markets and street vendors. Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town, Stonetown’s old fortifications, and the breathtaking views from Zanzibar’s Old Dispensary.

Be sure to also spend some time walking along the seafront promenade and admiring the old buildings and rich culture of this unique city. Spend the evening dining at one of Stone Town’s fantastic restaurants or simply enjoy a sunset stroll through the city streets.

By the end of your first day in Zanzibar, you will already feel like an experienced traveler!

Day 2: Explore Stone Town (Zanzibar Itinerary)

Welcome to Stone Town, Zanzibar! This beautiful city has been a trading port since the 19th century and is the oldest part of the island. With its vibrant culture, incredible architecture, and spectacular views, it’s no wonder Stone Town has become one of the most popular places to visit in Zanzibar.

Start your day with a walking tour of the Old Town. Wander through winding streets lined with grand Arab-style buildings and colorful Swahili doors. As you walk, explore fascinating local attractions such as The House of Wonders, The Peace Memorial Museum, The Old Fort, and the Darajani Bazaar.

After lunch, enjoy a cultural experience at the famous Freddie Mercury’s House. This is an amazing place to learn about the legacy of the late Queen frontman, who was born and raised in Stone Town.

End your day by heading to the waterfront for dinner. Here you can admire the sunset while enjoying delicious seafood dishes from a local restaurant. Or also you can go to Forodhani Park to enjoy a live concert while eating local food near the park.

Enjoy the traditional atmosphere, then go to the accommodation for a good night’s rest.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Jozani Forest – Chwaka Bay National Park, Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, Jozani Sea Turtle, and Tortoise Sanctuary (Zanzibar Itinerary)

Jozani Forest Monkey

Start your third day in Zanzibar with a visit to the Jozani Forest – Chwaka Bay National Park, located on the northeast of the island. Here, you’ll be able to observe some of the endemic species of Zanzibar, such as the red colobus monkey and the Zanzibar leopard. The park offers many trails for you to explore and you can also book guided tours from the nearby Visitor Centre.

Afterward, head to the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, located in the same area. This is a sanctuary for the various species of butterflies native to Zanzibar, and a perfect place to take pictures of these stunningly colored creatures.

You will then proceed to Jozani Sea Turtle and Tortoise Sanctuary where you will learn more about turtles and tortoises, and get a chance to touch them. This is a great opportunity to understand more about conservation efforts in Zanzibar, which are helping protect some of the endangered species.

Finally, make sure to spend some time relaxing on one of the beaches near the park – Muyuni Beach or Ngalawa Beach – before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 4: See chameleons in Zala Park, and then visit Kuza Cave (Zanzibar Itinerary)

If you are looking for an exciting adventure and a chance to observe some incredible wildlife, then a visit to Zala Park is a must. Zala Park is located just 10 kilometers from Stone Town and is home to many species of chameleons. There are many different species of chameleons living in Zala Park, so it’s a great opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. The park also has beautiful gardens and various types of vegetation, making it a wonderful spot for nature lovers. After you’ve seen the chameleons, head to Kuza Cave. Located on the northern side of Zanzibar Island, Kuza Cave is an interesting geological formation and a popular tourist destination. Inside the cave, visitors can find ancient fossilized remains, including fish, shells, and other sea creatures that were once part of the area’s marine life. It’s an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget. Be sure to bring a flashlight or use one of the lamps provided at the entrance to help guide you through the cave.

Day 5: Go to Nungwi Beach, visit Baraka Natural Aquarium and Dr. Bulugu Gallery (Zanzibar Itinerary)

Nungwi Beach

On day 5 of your Zanzibar itinerary, you’ll get to experience the best of what this idyllic island has to offer. Start your day by taking a morning dip in the crystal-clear waters at Nungwi Beach. Afterward, explore the area’s local charm and pick up souvenirs from the markets before heading to Baraka Natural Aquarium. Here, you can witness a unique blend of marine life, such as clownfish, sea turtles, sea cucumbers, and much more.

For a cultural twist, head to Dr. Bulugu Gallery afterward. This stunning building was designed by renowned architect Saaj Juma and features an extensive collection of artworks from all over Africa. Wander through the gallery, taking in the vast variety of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts. Don’t forget to take advantage of the photo opportunities here! Once you’re done, head back to Nungwi Beach and relax until the evening.

Day 6: Sail to Mnemba Island and Book Your Snorkeling Tour To Mnemba Corals (Zanzibar Itinerary)

Mnemba Island

On Day 6, it’s time to set sail for Mnemba Island, a beautiful and remote island situated off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. It is considered one of the best places in the world for snorkeling, as the clear waters provide amazing visibility up to 30 meters, allowing you to get up close and personal with the abundant fish and coral species.

Mnemba Island is part of a private nature reserve, and all visitors must book a tour to access it. Most tour operators offer a full-day package that includes boat transport, all snorkeling gear, and lunch on the beach. You can also book additional activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or beach walks. The best part? You don’t need to be an experienced diver to enjoy Mnemba – the shallow waters around the island make it perfect for beginners and children.

So make sure to book your tour in advance and get ready for a day of snorkeling and exploration! Just remember to pack your sunscreen and swimwear – it’s going to be an amazing day!

Day 7: Explore Tumbatu, one of Zanzibar’s best-kept secrets (Zanzibar Itinerary)

For your last day in Zanzibar, why not take a trip to Tumbatu Island and uncover one of the island’s best-kept secrets? Tumbatu is a small uninhabited island located between Zanzibar and Pemba. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling or scuba diving, with its unique coral formations, colorful fish, and thriving aquatic life.

You can also spend some time exploring Tumbatu Island’s gorgeous beaches, secluded coves, and tranquil lagoons. With its dramatic coastlines, it’s a great spot for sunset watching or taking some stunning photos.

If you have enough energy, you can climb up to the top of the island to take in a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean and all its glory.

No matter how you choose to spend your day on Tumbatu Island, you can be sure that it will be a day to remember.

There’s something truly special about this little slice of paradise – so don’t miss out on the chance to explore it.

If you like Yoga, check out the Top 10 Yoga Retreats in Zanzibar to Unwind and Recharge

Further Read: 25 Best Vacation Spots & Places To Visit In The World

Don’t you think these places to visit in Zanzibar are really interesting? Are you excited about visiting these places in one of the happiest archipelagos in the world?

If yes, plan a trip to Zanzibar, head to your favorite destination, and spend some wonderful time with your family or friends!

There’s a whole world out there for you to explore!

If you’re searching for more amazing and unique travel inspirations, don’t forget to check Framey App (available on Google Play and Apple Store) and start planning your next adventure Around the World!

Mirela Zota

Framey Technologies Limited

[email protected]

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Travel Blog

The ultimate zanzibar travel guide for luxury travel.

July 28, 2023

Introduction to the Zanzibar Travel Guide

Welcome to the exotic Zanzibar Archipelago, a tropical paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. Mallerby’s Luxury Travel is thrilled to present this comprehensive Zanzibar Travel Guide, offering you insights into the enchanting islands and captivating atolls that make this a dream destination for discerning travellers seeking a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Position & Geography

The Zanzibar Archipelago is nestled just a short distance from the Tanzanian mainland. Geographically, it lies between the latitudes of 5 and 7 degrees south of the Equator, ensuring a warm tropical climate year-round.

Islands and Atolls

The Zanzibar Archipelago consists of two main islands: Unguja (also known as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, as well as several smaller islets and atolls, such as Mafia Island and Mnemba Island which add to its allure. Known for its scenic beauty, exquisite white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, Zanzibar also boasts a rich history and showcases a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. A variety of activities offers a dream-like escape for all types of travellers, whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a fun-filled family vacation or a digital detox, whilst the island’s theme of laid-back living gently coaxes you to slow down and enjoy each moment as it comes. Join us as we delve deeper into the islands through this Zanzibar Travel Guide.

Travel Guide to Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, is the largest and most famous island in the archipelago and is a mesmerizing tapestry of culture and history. This enchanting island has incredible natural beauty, offers a plethora of activities to suit all travellers, wonderful warm hospitality and is the epitome of laid-back island living. The capital, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow alleys lead to old Arabic-style buildings and bustling markets. Relax on the idyllic white-sand beaches or immerse yourself in the spice-scented plantations that earned Zanzibar the title of the “Spice Island.” For ease of reference, we’ve divided Zanzibar Island into two focus areas, namely Stone Town and the Coast, in order to offer you the best travel advice on offer on this island.

About Stone Town & Things to Do:

Stone Town is the oldest and one of the most beautiful parts of the island. Imagine cobbled streets and meandering alleyways where you’ll find intricately carved doors, historic buildings and bustling markets, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of this iconic town. We recommend that you spend at least a night or two here if your time allows.

Our preference for you is a full day in Stone Town with a guide. You’ll walk through the slave markets, the Palace of the Sultans, the Anglican Cathedral and the Old Arabic Fort, learning about Zanzibar’s fascinating history along the way, and then as the sun sets, you’ll enjoy sundowners at a local spot before sampling the local cuisine as you wander from venue to venue for your starter, main and dessert.

We also recommend experiencing the following:

The Forodhani Night Market for a culinary adventure of local street food.
The Tea House for an evening of deliciousness, but bookings are essential.
A guided Spice Tour – it’s the Spice Island after all and still one of the largest spice producers today. Head out with you guide to explore a community supported spice farm where you’ll learn about the spices and their medicinal uses, as well as try some spiced tea and taste the fruits in season.
Prison Island. This tiny island, just off the coast, was once a prison for rebellious slaves but today is inhabited by giant tortoises. A half-day guided tour includes the 30-minute boat transfer from Stone Town, return.
The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre which has the largest butterfly enclose in East Africa.
The Jozani Forest where a guided walk takes you along forest trails in search of the different species of monkey.
The Seaweed Centre where you’ll learn about the harvesting and processing of seaweed, plus the opportunity to buy wonderful beauty products like organic soaps and essential oils.

Our favourite authentic accommodations in Stone Town are Upendo House and Kisiwa House.

About Zanzibar Island’s Coast & Things to do:

Beyond Stone Town lies the pristine coastline of Zanzibar, the perfect setting for a fabulous beach vacation, whether you prefer to laze on the white sandy beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and turquoise lagoons, or dive the colourful reefs. There are luxurious accommodations dotted along the coastline to suit all types of travellers, whether you’re looking for a private villa, a family-friendly resort, a romantic getaway or even a destination wedding venue, and Mallerby’s Luxury Travel will assist you in finding the most perfect place to suit all your needs. Activities range from some of Africa’s best snorkelling and diving experiences to dhow sailing, deep-sea fishing and dolphin safaris, to culinary classes, wellness treatments, romantic dinners on the beach, horse riding and immersive conservation projects.

Important to note is that the Zanzibar Island experiences two low and two high tides per day, with 6 hours between the low and high tides. The northern coast of Zanzibar Island experiences the least tidal effect on the coastline, so staying in the northern areas is best for perfect beach conditions. The north coast also offers a vibrant nightlife and exquisite sunsets, whilst the east coast is quieter and more tidal but has excellent conditions for kiteboarding.

Our favourite accommodations are Zuri Zanzibar, Xanadu Villas and Safira Blu Luxury Resort and Villas.

Zanzibar Travel Guide to the Islets within the Archipelago:

Lying off the coast of Zanzibar Island are several smaller islands, islets and atolls scattered around the Zanzibar Archipelago, each one perfect for those seeking a quieter and more secluded experience.

Accommodations range from exclusive sole-use islands to luxury private resorts on an island. Below is a travel guide to our favourite islands within the Zanzibar Archipelago:

Mnemba Island:

Located just off the north-east coast of Zanzibar Island, this tiny island is just 1.5kilometres wide and synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. With only 12 luxuriously rustic palm-frond bandas peeping out onto the white coral sand beach from the dappled shade of the casuarina pine forest, the island is only inhabited by its 24 guests and the staff taking care of them. Reached only by boat from Zanzibar Island, you’ll experience butler service, private dining on the beach under the stars, yoga, wellness treatments and a variety of water activities from snorkelling off the beach to scuba diving courses. Highlights include the Green Turtle nesting and hatching in season, community visits, conservation initiative projects, dolphin boat trip and sunset dhow cruise.

Pemba Island:

To the north of Zanzibar Island, Pemba Island is a lesser-explored gem and just a short, scheduled flight from Zanzibar. This pristine island of great beauty and fertility, has forests, swamps, mangroves, hidden beaches and lagoons, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and diving aficionados. Still the predominant global producer of cloves, Pemba Island has been designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International and is also home to several dive sites with steep drop-offs, untouched coral and abundant marine life. Pemba Island offers an authentic experience for those looking for serenity and close encounters with nature.

Our favourite accommodation on the island is The Manta Resort. Set on the northern tip of Pemba Island, Manta is a luxurious retreat featuring 13 villas and suites, suitable for couples and families, some with a private pool and others with a private garden. A highlight is the Underwater Room – a floating structure showcasing a lounge and sundeck with an underwater bedroom where you overnight underwater! Activities range from snorkelling and diving to sunset Ngalawa cruises to spa treatments on the beach. Explore the island on a visit to a Spice Farm, walk through the Ngezi Rainforest or stroll along the beach to the lighthouse. A signature activity, the Pemba Coral Reef Safari, is an exclusive diving experience that promises to take you on an immersive, guided journey through the Pemba Coral Reef ecosystem.

Mafia Island:

To the south of Zanzibar lies a small archipelago of islands, of which Mafia Island is the largest. Known to be one of the best diving and snorkelling destinations in the world with incredible coral reefs, tropical fish and sea turtles.

Thanda Island is part of the archipelago and is a short helicopter flight north of Mafia Island. A mere 5.5 hectares in size, Thanda Island is offered on a sole-use basis for a maximum of 18 guests, offering a luxurious paradise to enjoy in complete privacy with family and friends. Situated in a private marine reserve, guests can dive the exquisite reefs, swim with whale sharks, watch sea turtles nesting in season, sail in a traditional Arab dhow, savour a Swahili or Arabian feast, indulge in a massage or just rest and rejuvenate in a copper bath on the beach.

Fanjove Island:

South of the Mafia Archipelago is the Songo Songo Archipelago which is composed of 22 reefs and 4 islands. Fanjove Island is a secluded and exclusive tropical island, reached by a 50-minute scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam via Mafia Island to Songo Songo Airport, where a 45-minute transfer in a traditional dhow sailboat gets you to the shores of Fanjove Island. This tiny island, covering about 1 kilometre in length and 400 metres in width, accommodates a maximum of 20 people and is yours to explore and enjoy. Surrounded by azure blue seas with white sandy beaches that are shaded with coconut palm trees, step off your beach villa deck, toes in the sand and wade right into the lovely tepid waters. Swim and snorkel straight off the beach, SUP or kayak, set sail on a dhow cruise, savour a beach picnic on a sandbank or explore the pristine 11-kilometre coral house reef snorkelling or diving.

Getting & Around the Zanzibar Archipelago:

The main entry point to the Zanzibar Archipelago is Zanzibar International Airport and several major airlines operate regular flights from various cities around the globe. If on safari, scheduled light aircraft flights connect to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam and Arusha. Transportation from the airport to your chosen island destination may be via private road transfers, scheduled flights, helicopters or boat transfers, and Mallerby’s will arrange this for you as part of your itinerary.

The Best Time To Visit the Zanzibar Archipelago:

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year, with warm temperatures and high humidity. The best time to visit is during the long, dry season which extends from June to October, and the short, dry season which generally starts mid-December through to the end of February. Avoid the long rains from March until the end of May. The short rains during November and December are lighter and more like afternoon thundershowers.

Read more on the Best Time to visit Africa by Country

Travel Advice When Planning Your Trip to the Zanzibar Archipelago:

When considering travel to the Zanzibar Archipelago, it’s essential to plan carefully to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Here are some travel advice and tips to bear in mind when you are ready to start planning:

Check the latest travel advisories issued by your government regarding travel to Zanzibar and stay informed about any safety or health-related concerns in the region.
Visas depend on your country of origin – some nationalities require visas in advance whilst some may be eligible on arrival.
Make sure your passports are valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Comprehensive travel and medical insurance are essential and should cover, but not be limited to, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, luggage and personal belongings, activities you plan to participate in such as diving and water sports, and any other unforeseen events.
Consult your local travel clinic well in advance to receive recommended vaccinations and take necessary health precautions.
The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). While some places may accept major foreign currencies, it’s best to exchange money on arrival or withdraw cash from the ATM’s. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, but smaller establishments may prefer cash, as do local stores and markets.
Tipping is widely appreciated as the industry relies heavily on tourism.
When buying at the markets, bartering is acceptable, but be friendly and fair.
The locals make wonderful gifts and souvenirs, anything from the local spices and essential oils to clothes and jewellery, so keep space in your luggage for special mementos for yourself, friends, and family.
When packing, lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for the tropical climate, along with essential items such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a hat, and sunglasses.
Please respect the local culture. Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim region, so it’s important to dress modestly. Women are asked to cover their knees and shoulders when in public, and skimpy beachwear is frowned upon, as is public displays of affection.
Whilst the people of Zanzibar are wonderfully friendly, please ask their permission before taking photographs.
Swahili is the local language; however, English is widely spoken. The locals are very friendly, so try to learn a few Swahili phrases prior to your journey. ‘Jambo’ is an easy one and it means ‘hello’.
Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, exercise caution. Avoid displaying expensive items, be aware of your surroundings, and don’t walk alone in poorly lit areas at night.
When swimming, pay attention to local advice regarding the ocean currents as some areas may have strong currents or tides. Lifeguards always know best.
Zanzibar’s delicate ecosystem is home to diverse marine life, so when snorkelling or diving, avoid touching or damaging coral reefs and marine creatures.
Zanzibar’s cuisine is as varied as it is delicious, so tantalise your tastebuds by sampling as much as you can!
And lastly, but most importantly, Zanzibar works on ‘Island Time’. Life is slow, laid back and there’s no rush… so whatever you’ve ordered, prepare to wait, but it will be worth it!

Extending your trip from the Zanzibar Archipelago:

Adding a luxury safari experience to your Zanzibar beach escape is a fantastic way to experience the diverse beauty of Africa, so our below Travel Guide to extending your trip to the Zanzibar Archipelago offers some of the best options to consider. Each country offers a unique safari experience and combining it with a relaxing beach vacation in Zanzibar will create a well-rounded and unforgettable African adventure.

We recommend at least 4 nights on Safari and 4 nights on the beach, however more time allows you to explore further areas to truly experience the best of both worlds.

Since Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, it makes for a seamless combination with a safari on mainland Tanzania. The country boasts world-renowned safari destinations like the Serengeti National Park which hosts the famous annual Wildebeest Migration ; the Ngorongoro Crater, once a gigantic volcano and now home to a diversity of wildlife; Tarangire National Park, well known for its huge herds of elephants; and the southern parks of Tanzania which offer exceptional walking safaris, fishing and wildlife viewing. Each area is unique, well-worth a visit and your itinerary can be designed to seamlessly fly between each destination of choice, ending in Zanzibar.

Read about the Serengeti Safari Experience

Bordering Tanzania to the North, Kenya offers remarkable wildlife viewing experiences. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is famous for its abundant wildlife and the annual wildebeest migration; the Laikipia region is a collection of private reserves and conservancies teeming with wildlife and offering a range of activities from walking safaris to camel riding and conservation initiatives; the Amboseli region is well known for its large herds of elephants, horse riding and walking safaris, with Mount Kilimanjaro as its backdrop. Direct flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Zanzibar will connect you from your safari to the beach in a matter of hours.

Read about the Masai Mara Safari Experience

Southern Africa:

Should you choose to safari in South Africa or any of its neighbouring countries, a direct flight from South Africa’s Johannesburg International Airport will connect you to Zanzibar on certain days, within a matter of hours.

South Africa is home to the world-famous Kruger National Park, as well as the malaria-free Madikwe National Park and Eastern Cape conservancies, all offering a fantastic Big 5 wildlife experience.

Botswana is home to the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most unique safari destinations offering both land and water-based game viewing opportunities.

Zambia and Zimbabwe are neighbouring countries which both offer incredible wildlife viewing as well as access to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.

Each of these countries offers its own distinct safari experiences, so whether you opt for the vast savannahs of Tanzania or the unique waterways of Botswana, combining a safari with a Zanzibar beach escape will create an unforgettable African adventure.

Travel with Mallerby’s Luxury Travel:

At Mallerby’s Luxury Travel, we strive to provide unparalleled experiences tailored to your preferences. Planning and executing your journey can become a stressful experience, so allow us to take care of the logistics and stress for you! Our expert guides will personally design an itinerary based on your specific travel requirements, offering suitable suggestions on accommodations and activities, and then add in the finer details to ensure you have a seamless and unforgettable journey that surpasses your expectations.

Summing up your Zanzibar Experience:

Zanzibar is a tropical haven that promises an escape from the ordinary. From its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to its rich cultural heritage and enchanting Stone Town, Zanzibar and its archipelago of island escapes offers a blend of luxury and exclusivity with relaxation, adventure, and exploration. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or an unforgettable family vacation, Zanzibar promises an experience of a lifetime. We hope that this comprehensive Zanzibar Travel Guide offered you some noteworthy insight into the possibilities you may wish to encounter on your special journey. Mallerby’s Luxury Travel is committed to curating personalised journeys for its clients, so pack your bags, immerse yourself in the island’s beauty, and let Zanzibar’s charm captivate your senses.

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Introduction to the Zanzibar Travel Guide Welcome to the exotic Zanzibar Archipelago, a tropical paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East

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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.

Jambiani Beach

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

Mnemba Island

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

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Plan Your Trip to Zanzibar Island: Best of Zanzibar Island Tourism

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Plan your trip

Planning a trip to Zanzibar

Plan your trip to Tanzania with Insight's online travel advice on visas, embassies, transport, healthcare, currency and what to read.

Advance planning...

• When should I go?

• Do I need a visa?

• Overseas embassies

• Do I need a vaccination?

• How do I get there?

Just before you go...

• What currency should I take?

• What can I read to get in the mood?

While you're there...

• Embassies and consulates

• What transport can I use to get around Tanzania?

• Health and safety

Visas and passports

All travellers to Tanzania must possess a passport valid for at least six months after the intended date of travel, plus a return ticket.

Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US and of EU member states require a visa to enter Tanzania. It is usually straightforward to obtain a visa on arrival at any international airport or land border, provided you have a valid passport and funds to pay for it, but some operators will suggest you apply in advance. Single-entry tourist visas are valid for three months; multiple-entry visas for six months. Visas may be extended at the immigration office in any town in Tanzania free of charge.

Visa prices, which vary according to citizenship, do not include additional charges for working or business permits. If travelling on business, you may be required to present a letter indicating the nature of the trip and your business contact in Tanzania. A special pass is required for those wishing to work in Tanzania.

As information on visas changes frequently, it is advisable to contact your nearest Tanzanian embassy before you travel.

Finally, keep all receipts for visas and ensure all entries are clearly stamped in your passport. Any smudges may be seen as an opportunity for a fine (bribe).

Overseas embassies

Australia

3 rd Floor, MPH Building, 23 Barrack Street, Perth, WA 6000

Tel: +61 (0) 8 9221 0033

www.tanzaniaconsul.com

50 Range Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 8J4

Tel: (613) 232-1509

www.tzrepottawa.ca

South Africa

822 George Avenue, Arcadia 0007, Pretoria

Tel: +27-12-342 4371

UK & Ireland

Tanzania High Commission, 3 Stratford Place, London W1C 1AS

Tel: 020-7569 1470

https://tzhc.uk

1232 22nd Street NW, Washington DC 20037

Tel: (202) 884-1080

www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org

Vaccinations

Consult your doctor about inoculations at least two months before you leave. A yellow fever inoculation is no longer required unless you are travelling from an infected area, but there is a risk on the Tanzanian mainland, so it is strongly advisable to have one. Diphtheria and tetanus vaccinations are also a good idea. Boosters are required every 10 years after a trio of injections while young. Typhoid is recommended for stays over two weeks.

A series of inoculations exists for hepatitis A and B . For hepatitis A, long-term protection (10 years) is available by an initial injection followed by a booster at 6–12 months. For short-term protection, an injection of gamma globulin will protect you immediately for up to six months, depending on dosage.

Meningitis inoculations are recommended and should protect you against the major forms of the disease. Polio inoculations are strongly recommended.

Protection against tuberculosis is recommended for those living in the area for over three months, though the risk to tourists is low.

Rabies vaccinations are usually only given if you are likely to be in close contact with animals during your stay (eg, working in a game farm or reserve) or if you are going to a remote area. A full course of three injections takes several weeks to administer. If you are bitten by any animal that might have rabies, you should seek the post-exposure shots as soon as possible.

Guard your vaccination record as carefully as your passport.

Getting to Tanzania

Tanzania is well served by international airlines. The most important hub for international flights is Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport, but there are also some international flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport, which lies about halfway between the towns of Arusha and Moshi, and Zanzibar International Airport, on the island of the same name.

Coming from the UK or elsewhere in Europe, airlines offering connections to Tanzania include British Airways (from London), KLM (from Amsterdam) and Swiss (from Zurich). It may be cheaper, however, to look at flying with African carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa), Kenya Airways (via Nairobi) or Egypt Air (via Cairo), or the likes of Air India and Emirates.

Travelling to Tanzania from within Africa, South African Airways (SAA) operates daily flights from Johannesburg, and Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways also have a good network of intra-African flights.

There are no direct flights from North America or Australia. Coming from North America, it is most common to fly via London or elsewhere in Europe, though it is also possible to route via elsewhere in Africa with SAA, Ethiopian Airlines or Kenya Airways. Coming from elsewhere, the main regional port of entry is Johannesburg, which is connected to several major centres in Asia, Australia and South America by SAA and other international carriers.

Airport taxes, where applicable, are now included in the ticket fare as a matter of course.

Money and budgeting

The Tanzanian shilling (TSh; often written /=) is the national unit of currency. It is divided into 100 cents, which are rarely used. Notes come in 500, 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 denominations. Coins are 50, 100 and 200. There are smaller coins, but these are seldom used.

Cash and cards

You should have no problem changing US Dollars, Euros or the UK Pound Sterling cash into local currency in major towns. US dollars are by far the most widely recognised international currency in Tanzania, though be aware that bank notes printed before 2006 are unlikely to be accepted due to the high number of forgeries in circulation, and US$100 and US$50 banknotes get a significantly higher rate than smaller notes. Traveller’s cheques are no longer easily cashed; only a few banks will accept them, and then only if accompanied by the receipt showing proof of purchase.

Money can be exchanged at most banks and private bureaux de change (the latter known as locally as ‘forex bureaux’); the former sometimes give marginally better rates but the latter are more efficient and keep longer hours. There are literally dozens of forex bureaux in major centres such as Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, as well as in most towns close to a land border. There is no black market, and any moneychangers who approach in the street are likely to be working a scam of some sort.

All the larger towns have banks, though in smaller towns, opening hours and services may be limited. Most of the larger bank chains now routinely have 24-hour ATMs where local currency cash can be drawn against a Visa (or more uncommonly MasterCard) credit or debit card, usually to a maximum daily equivalent of between US$200 and US$400. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted for entrance payments at most national parks, and by the majority of upmarket hotels and tour operators. There are no such facilities in very remote areas, however, where you may need to carry all cash with you. Note that vendors other than Visa and MasterCard are not recognised in Tanzania. It is also wise to have a second card as a backup in case your primary one is lost, stolen or rejected.

Tipping is optional here. You’ll never insult anyone in Tanzania by giving them a tip. Nor will you end up with New York-style rage if you fail to do so.

Rates are roughly as follows:

Porters : TSh1,000 per bag.

Taxis : Taxi drivers have a hard life – if the service has been good, a tip is a good idea.

Bar staff : 5–10 percent.

Waiters : around 5 percent. A Western-style 15 percent tip at an expensive restaurant would probably equate to a week’s wages, so modify things a little. Leave cash, rather than adding it to the bill.

Prices rise steeply on safari, when you should be prepared to pay 6–10 percent of the total cost of the safari (minus air fares). Split this between the guide, driver, cook and cleaning staff, with more generally going to the first two.

If climbing Kilimanjaro, you need to budget around US$200. Some operators include the tips in the price of the climb.

Budgeting for your trip

Budgeting for your visit to Tanzania very much depends on the sort of experience you are looking to have. Whether you are a backpacker or a luxury client, it is a relatively expensive country, one that seldom offers the shoestring prices of Asia. The key in regard to budgeting is thorough research: find out as much as you can about all the options. Tour operators can book your entire trip right down to the last detail and this makes budgeting a whole lot easier.

It is imperative that you put aside extra funds in case of emergencies. Communication, technology and health-care facilities are nowhere near Western standards in most parts of Tanzania. The best cover you can have in any sticky situation is the means to pay your way out. This, coupled with good travel insurance, should allow you the peace of mind to enjoy your trip no matter what happens.

There are two price brackets for almost all accommodation: resident rates (includes Tanzanians and expatriates) and non-resident rates (everyone else). Non-resident rates are generally quoted in US dollars but payable in Tanzanian shillings. Resident rates are quoted in local currency and always lower. Many establishments catering to tourists have strong seasonal variations in price, with peak season generally regarded as falling from June to early January, so be sure to confirm the price for the time of year you intend to visit.

Prices for accommodation cover the whole gamut. Budget hotels and guesthouses with basic amenities start at around US$10–20 for a simple room. Luxury five-star lodgings range from several hundred to sometimes thousands of dollars per night. Lower to mid-range hotels fall somewhere in between, depending on facilities and level of comfort. Generally, accommodation in the national parks is far pricier than in towns or on beaches. Zanzibar is more expensive than resorts on the mainland.

If you are willing to do as the locals do, you can eat heartily for a pittance. African staples such as ugali (maize) with fish or meat stew, chipsi mayai (chip omelette) or even the more lavish pilau rice can be purchased for a couple of bucks. International cuisine, served at most high-end hotels, is substantially more expensive than local food.

It is never advisable to drink the tap water anywhere in Africa, so include bottled water as part of the budget for your entire trip. A 1.5-litre bottle of purified water retails US$1.

Transport comes in a variety of forms; the cheapest option is to travel by local bus (dala dala) ; price depends on the distance you are travelling. This can be anything from a few hundred shillings for a few stops in an urban setting to several thousand shillings for much longer distances.

A network of buses covers most intercity routes – the best company is Dar Express, which operates several services daily between Dar es Salaam, Arusha and a few other major centres. Mtei Express is also worth trying. A ticket from Dar to Arusha costs around US$20. There are other bus companies, but they are of dubious quality and on the whole considered unsafe to travel with.

Prices for private hire cars with a driver and taxis are negotiable and depend on the distance you are travelling and the level of your bartering skills. Self-drive is a good option if you are a confident driver. Prices in high season from local hirers start at around US$50 a day plus insurance. Going through a more recognised hirer such as Hertz comes with a higher price tag, but offers better quality assurance in terms of safety and cover.

To give an idea of average costs, a 500ml local beer typically costs around US$1 at a local bar and US$3–4 at more touristy places, while a glass of house wine (usually of the boxed variety) costs around US$3–5 and a bottle of wine anything upwards of US$20.

A main course at a local restaurant might cost US$2, while a smarter place catering to tourists would typically be in the ballpark of US$5–15 for a main course.

Most organised or bespoke tours include all transfers, but taxis are generally inexpensive: you shouldn’t pay more than US$10 for a cab ride within central Dar es Salaam or Arusha.

What to read

Field Guide to the Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson and John Fanshawe. The best field guide to the country as a whole.

Mara Serengeti: A Photographer’s Paradise by Jonathan Scott and Angela Scott. Breathtaking photographic study of the Serengeti and its inhabitants.

A History of Tanzania ed. N. Kimambo and A.J. Temu. Tanzanian-written history of the country, with a refreshingly non-European angle. About the only general history to pay serious attention to what was happening before the Europeans arrived.

Kilimanjaro: To the Roof of Africa by Audrey Salkeld. Accompanying coffee-table book to an Imax film on the mountain, with superb photography and authoritative text.

An Ice Cream War by William Boyd. Grimly comic novel set during the World War I East Africa campaign.

Embassies and consulates in Tanzania

If you are going far off the beaten track, it is a good idea to register with your embassy when you arrive in Dar es Salaam.

Dar es Salaam

Australians should contact the Canadian embassy.

38 Mirambo Street (Cnr Garden Avenue)

Tel: 022-216 3300

www.canadainternational.gc.ca

Ireland

353 Toure Drive

Tel: 022-260 2355

www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/tanzania

South Africa

Mwaya Road, Msasani

Tel: 022-260 1800

www.dirco.gov.za

Umoja House, Garden Avenue

Tel: 022-229 0000

www.gov.uk/world/tanzania

686 Old Bagamoyo Road

Tel: 022-229 4000

https://tz.usembassy.gov

Getting around Tanzania

In addition to the three international airports – Dar, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar – there are dozens of other local airports and airstrips. The most significant of these is Arusha Airport (airport code ARK), which lies on the southwestern outskirts of town, and is the main hub for light-aircraft flights to the northern national parks, as well as boasting regular connections to Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam. Air travel is a major form of internal transport due to the long distances and the poor quality of many roads. Most of the national parks have at least one airstrip, and the larger ones have several. Several domestic airlines and charter companies offer scheduled flights and special services all over the country.

DOMESTIC AIRLINES

Mob: 0783-233334

www.auricair.com

Small line connecting Mwanza and Dar es Salaam to several off-the-beaten-track towns including Sumbawanga, Bukoba, Mbeya, Iringa, Songea, Tabora, Mpanda and Rubondo Island.

Coastal Aviation

Tel: 022-260 2430/1

Mob: 0787-232747

www.coastal.co.tz

This established airline offers scheduled services into most national parks as well as Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Kilwa, Mafia, Pemba, Pangani, Tanga and Zanzibar.

Precision Air

NIC Building, corner of Samora Avenue/Pemba Road

Tel: 022-216 8000

Call Centre: 0787-888408/9

New Safari Hotel Building, Boma Road

Tel: 027-254 5489

Muzammill Centre Building, Mlandege Street

Tel: 024-223 5126

www.precisionairtz.com

Tanzania’s premier domestic airline, with flights to Arusha, Bukoba, Dar es Salaam, Grumeti, Kigoma, Kilimanjaro International, Lake Manyara, Lindi, Mafia Island, Mtwara, Mwanza, Pemba, Seronera, Shinyanga, Tabora and Zanzibar. Precision also operates regionally to Nairobi and Mombasa in Kenya.

Regional air services

Tel: 027-250 4477/2541

www.regionaltanzania.com

Reliable scheduled and charter services throughout Tanzania.

Tel: 024-223 3670

www.zanair.com

Very dependable company with scheduled and chartered flights to and from the mainland. Primary supplier of emergency medical flights from Zanzibar.

AIR CHARTER COMPANIES

Flightlink Air Charters

Mob: 0782-354448/9

www.flightlinkaircharters.com

Tel: 022-284 3131/3

www.tanzanair.com

Zantas Air Charters

Tel: 022-213 0476

Mob: 0773-786016 or 0754-277332

www.zantasair.com

Getting around by boat

There are regular ferries between Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Pemba. There are currently no commercial services north to Kenya. Dar es Salaam Boat Terminal is opposite St Joseph’s Cathedral.

COASTAL FERRIES

It’s easy to book tickets to Zanzibar on the day of travel – the ferry companies have ticket offices at the ferry terminal, off Sokoine Drive. The price for visitors is higher than that advertised for locals. Several operators cover the route, but safety has become a serious issue with the cheaper companies after two overcrowded boats sunk, killing thousands of passengers, in 2011 and 2012. It is thus strongly advisable to go with one of the better and more reputable companies, as listed below.

Azam Marine

Tel: 024-223 1655

Mob: 0811-334 884

Tel: 022-212 3324

Mob: 0774-707172

www.azammarine.com

The pick of the ferry operators, with an air-conditioned booking office at the ferry jetty, and an easy-to-use online booking service. Normal ferries and catamarans run between Dar and Zanzibar a few times daily, plus services between Zanzibar and Pemba five times a week.

Sea Express Services Ltd

Tel: 024-223 4690

Mob: 0777-426090

Tel: 022-213 7049

Mob: 0754-786262

www.fastferriestz.com

The easiest and fastest way to get between Dar and Zanzibar, with several hydrofoil services daily (journey time 70 minutes), as well as twice-weekly services to Pemba.

LAKE FERRIES

Marine Services Company Ltd

Weekly trip along Lake Tanganyika from Kigoma to Mpulungu in Zambia, on the MV Liemba , a renovated 1919 German ship. Theoretically, it leaves Kigoma on Wednesday afternoon and Mpulungu on Friday morning, arriving back in Kigoma on Sunday morning. Foreigners must pay in hard currency. No advance booking.

Tanzania Railway Corporation

There are also regular ferry services on lakes Victoria and Nyasa. Services from Mwanza to Bukoba on Lake Victoria depart on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings, arriving the next morning. Return journeys embark the following evening, arriving back at Mwanza the next morning. The ferries are run by the Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC; tel: 022-211 7833).

Getting around by bus

The Ubungo bus terminal, located 5km (3 miles) from the centre on Morogoro Road, Dar es Salaam, is the starting point for domestic services to the Southern Highlands, the Northern Safari Circuit, Morogoro, Dodoma, Mwanza, Singida and Shinyanga. It is not the most pleasant place to hang around in: avoid it at night and keep a close eye on your belongings during the day. If you need a taxi, you can get a better deal from one of the many drivers outside the gates.

Major inter-city bus companies

There are two grades of buses on the mainland . The most common are brightly coloured vehicles run by locals with the furnishings of a small village on top and no room inside. These are the cheapest – foreigners are charged more but are guaranteed a seat, whereas many locals stand, even during eight-hour journeys. A trip on one of these is certainly an experience, but not everyone’s idea of a pleasant one.

The other category is ‘luxury’ buses. These are similar to, but not quite so good as, National Express in the UK or Greyhound in the USA. They serve most main routes, cost more (but are still reasonable), and – most importantly – are usually air-conditioned. Following the collapse of the much-missed Scandinavia Coach Line, the two best lines in this category are Dar Express (mob: 0754-946155) and Mtei Express (mob: 0755-717117).

Most country buses on Zanzibar start from Creek Road. The No. 9 goes to Jambiani, Paje and Bwejuu; No. 10 to Makunduchi and Kizimkazi in the south; No. 1 to Matemwe and Pwani Mchangani on the east coast; No. 2 to the slave caves in Mangapwani; No. 16 to Nungwi in the far north of the island; No. 17 to Kiwengwa. From Mwembe Ladu Hospital, the No. 6 goes to Chwaka, Uroa and Pongwe.

A shared minibus is the normal way around Zanzibar for budget-conscious tourists. The trip between Zanzibar town and any of the northern or eastern beach resorts should cost less than US$10 per person. You have to arrange this in advance, however, so you can be fitted into the schedule. Talk to any minibus driver (they scout hotels and guesthouses between 8 and 9am) for more information. A taxi will be much more expensive.

Getting around by train

Trains within Tanzania run twice weekly between Dar and Kigoma (Lake Tanganyika) via Dodoma and Tabora, a rough trip that takes 36–40 hours if everything goes your way, and might take a lot longer if it doesn’t. The train service from the TAZARA Station in Dar es Salaam to Zambia stops at Mbeya, near the border.

City transport

You can easily make your way around Arusha or Stone Town on foot, and both are safe to walk around by day. In the evening, walking is less advisable. In Dar es Salaam, the centre can be negotiated on foot, but many outlying areas are better reached by taxi or shuttle bus.

In Dar es Salaam, buses operate from the centre to the suburbs from Old Posta Station (at the corner of Sokoine Drive and Azikiwe Street), the new Post Office (on Azikwe Street) and Mnazi Mmoja (at the end of Samora Avenue). If you are heading to the hotels north of Dar, you will need to change at Mwenge Station.

The larger cities all have a plentiful supply of taxis that come (usually) at a reasonable price. It is safest not to use unmarked cars. Always negotiate the fare before getting in. Expect a town-centre journey to cost the shilling equivalent of US$5–10.

In Arusha, licensed taxis have black serial numbers on the door and should charge US$4–8 in town.

Taxis rarely cruise when empty, so you will need to find a taxi rank or ask someone to call you a cab; most cafés, restaurants, shops and offices are willing to do this. Many cabbies now have mobile phones, so if you got good service, you can take the number and call again.

Reputable hotels usually provide transfers from the nearest airport. If this service isn’t available, approximate taxi rates are as follows: from Zanzibar Airport to Stone Town US$4–8; from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha US$25–30; from Julius Nyerere International to Dar es Salaam city centre US$15–20.

The most common form of local transport is the dala dala or shared taxi. These often-creaky minibuses and vans usually leave from ranks scattered across the city and run on roughly set routes. They wait to leave until full, but can be waved down beside the road. Reluctant to turn anyone away, they are piled high with people inside, and some passengers even cling to the fenders outside. Fares are extremely low, but the accident rate is high, and they are not recommended if you have luggage or for any long journey.

Health and safety

Medical care, air ambulance.

If someone is seriously injured or has a life-threatening disease, the closest hospital with reliable staff and equipment up to Western standards is in Nairobi, an hour and a half’s flying time from Dar/Zanzibar. The bureaucracy of insurance claims takes time, so if you think a condition is serious, sort it out as early as possible.

We do not recommend seeking dental treatment in Tanzania or Zanzibar. Visit your dentist before your trip if you have reason for concern. For dental emergencies, the Swedish-run Three Crowns Dental Clinic in the Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel (tel: 022-213 6801) or the Nordic Dental Clinic (tel: 022-213 6664) are your best bet.

Oyster Bay Medical Centre

Toure Drive, Dar es Salaam

Tel: 022-266 7932

Regency Medical Centre

Alykhan Road, Upanga, Dar es Salaam

Tel: 022-215 0500

www.regencymedicalcentre.com

Zanzibar Medical Group

Kenyatta Road, near Vuga Road, Stone Town

Tel: 024-223 3134

Flying Doctors

Nairobi (emergency), tel: +254-6992299 / 6992000 or +254-733 639088 / 736 359362 / 722 314239.

For information on membership, visit www.flydoc.org .

Try to avoid a stay in any Tanzanian hospital if possible. Away from urban centres, medical care diminishes rapidly in quality, although some mission hospitals manage to maintain good standards of care. Even in the main areas, patients with severe injury or illness are often flown by air ambulance straight to Nairobi. For less serious conditions, the following are suitable:

Aga Khan Hospital

Ocean Road

Tel: 022-211 5151

Mob: 0744-777100

www.agakhanhospitals.org

International School of Tanzania (IST) Clinic

Haile Selassie Road, Msasani Peninsula

Tel: 022-260 1307/8

24hr hotline: 0754-783393

www.istclinic.com

Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (ALMC)

Old Moshi Road

Mob: 0736-502376

http://almec.or.tz

Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC)

Sokoine Road, 2km (1.25 miles) north of the town centre

Tel: 027-275 4377

www.kcmc.ac.tz

A clinic in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro (about 40km/25 miles east of Arusha) with a good reputation.

Pharmacies in the major towns of Tanzania and Zanzibar are generally well stocked with Western-brand medicines. Medication in villages is limited. Be sure to check the expiry dates before purchasing medicines. Keep receipts on hand for any purchases, as your travel insurance should reimburse you.

Moona’s Pharmacy Ltd

Cnr Samora and Mkwepu streets,

Tel: 022-212 9983

Moona’s Pharmacy Ltd

Sokoine Road

Mob: after hours 0744-309 052

Mob: 0754-334567

Zanzibar

Shamsu

Creek Road

Open until midnight

Darjani Pharmacy

Tel: 024-223 9255

Open daily 8am–10pm

Before leaving home

For travel advice, log onto www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office for official UK Foreign Office advice. If in the US, go to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html .

Make scans of all important documents, including your passport, visas, traveller’s cheques, insurance documents and vaccination certificates. Carry the scans on your laptop or smartphone, and email copies to a webmail address you can access during your trip. This will help ensure speedy replacement should they be stolen. Also, leave a copy of everything at home, with someone you can contact if you get into difficulties.

Tanzania is a very poor country, so it is no surprise that tourists can be the target of crime. Be alert and cautious.

Street crime is fairly common in larger cities. The main threats are pickpockets and muggers. It is asking for trouble to wear expensive jewellery or watches – if there is anything that you could not bear to lose, leave it at home. Leave your passport, tickets and excess money in the hotel safe (not in your room) unless you have to take them.

If you need them or are in transit, consider wearing a concealed money belt and keep a little ‘giveaway money’ separately. Most opportunist thieves will probably be content with that and won’t look any further.

Don’t walk the streets or on the beach after dark – take a taxi.

On the road

Do not drive at night, and do follow local advice. Do not stop for hitchhikers, and if you see or are involved in an accident, drive on to the nearest town and report it, rather than stopping to help.

Touts and guides

In Zanzibar, use only guides authorised by the Commission for Tourism – they will have an identity badge.

Although sometimes annoying, most touts who approach you are honest – if persistent – salesmen for safari companies. Beware, however, of the few who aren’t. Several scams are on the go, so don’t give money upfront until you have checked out the situation. Ignore anyone who approaches you on the street offering to change money. There is no black market in Tanzania, and these guys are looking to cheat you.

There is a drug problem in Zanzibar. Beware of touts who approach you off the ferry – many are just looking for money for their next hit. There are tough penalties if you are caught partaking.

Political tensions

Although Tanzania is a largely peaceful country, political tensions might occasionally run high, particularly on Zanzibar, which has a prominent separatist movement. Travellers should avoid political gatherings as they can turn violent.

The ominous shadow of Al-Qaeda fell over Tanzania with the American Embassy bombing in 1998, but no such incident has occurred there since. You should be safe, but be aware that in a country with such a large Muslim population, there may be pockets of anti-Western sentiment.

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Tanzania home

Travel Guide

Things to Do
Planning a Trip

Planning a Trip in Zanzibar

Fringed with sandy beaches and rocky inlets, the main island of Zanzibar (Unguja) is about 97km (60 miles) in length and no than 32km (20 miles) wide, making it a very manageable size to explore. UNESCO-protected Stone Town, the capital, will be your point of entry; with any beach on the main island 45 to 90 minutes from the airport, you can choose to head straight to your beach lodgings from the airport (or sea port, if you have arrived by ferry). However, if you have an interest in the history of the island or simply want to shop for souvenirs, set aside a day or two to soak up the atmosphere of Stone Town, preferably after your safari (when a bit of history and culture wouldn't be remiss) and before your beach sojourn (after which you are likely to be blissed out by gorgeous horizons and find Stone Town's labyrinthine streets claustrophobic and dirty). Alternatively, visit Stone Town as a half-day trip from your beach resort, unless you've opted to stay on the nearby island of Pemba, in which case you will need to schedule a night in Stone Town.

With regard to choosing your beach location, most settle into one resort and stay there for the duration. However, if you are here for more than a week, consider combining a stay in either the south or the east with a few days in the north. When choosing where you wish to settle, bear in mind that the south has the least-developed coastline (other than the west, where there are very few beaches) and offers proximity to Jozani, the last remaining indigenous forest on Zanzibar, as well as the best opportunity to swim with the bottlenose and humpback dolphins of Kizimkazi. The east coast has what is generally considered to be the most beautiful beaches on the island, lined with palm trees and a string of sprawling resorts and more intimate, rustic-style boutique choices. The north coast has its fair share of beautiful coastline concentrated around cosmopolitan Nungwi, which has two intimate and exclusive resorts, as well as a string of budget accommodation choices and backpacker-type travelers providing color and bustle to the beaches. Aside from the northeast, Nungwi is closest to Mnemba Atoll, generally considered the best diving and snorkeling area in Zanzibar, for which the Mnemba Island Lodge is, of course, the most ideally positioned, with Matemwe Bungalows the second choice.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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This All-inclusive in Zanzibar Is the Perfect Post-safari Retreat — With White-sand Beaches, Excellent Food, and a Blissful Spa

After the thrill of a safari, White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa proved to be an excellent spot to slow down.

Food and Drink

Activities and amenities.

Family-Friendly Offerings
Accessibility and Sustainability
How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Courtesy of Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

It takes time to unwind at White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa . Not the least of which is because, in all likelihood, most guests at the Zanzibar luxury resort are arriving — as my husband John and I did last winter — post-safari. Reeling from our bush adventures in Serengeti National Park, we were still firing on all cylinders when we reached the 10-acre beachfront resort on the Tanzanian island’s eastern coast. Accustomed to 5 a.m. wake-up calls, eight-hour safari drives, and all the requisite thrills that come with it, we were floating on the extreme highs of predator kills and rare animal sightings — hardwired for anything but relaxation.

Upon arrival, Idrissa, introduced as our doting butler, must have sensed just how tightly wound his new guests were. And so, he slowly immersed us into his tropical oasis. Like dipping one toe at a time into a hot bath of water, we slowly toured the grounds: first, the rooftop bar, where we gazed over the resort, coastline, and endless stretch of Indian Ocean; then the beach (yes, the sand is white — there’s truth in advertising here); and finally, winding through the tropical grounds to the al fresco restaurants, thatch-roofed spa, and resort pool.

Only after this extended orientation did Idrissa deliver us to our villa, where yet another tour was necessitated. How else would we know where the stairs next to our bedroom led? (Answer: To a sprawling terrace for dining, napping, and soaking in birds-eye views of the beach.) Or how to take a bath? (The soaking tub is in a secret garden behind the bathroom, and Idrissa was all too kind to fill it with bubbles and flower petals for our arrival.) We’d also need tutorials on the butler’s kitchen — everything from what spices were used in the freshly baked cookies on the table to how to use the espresso machine — as well as intel on the goodies left on our bed (the Relais & Chateaux–branded hats and traditional kitenge sarongs were ours for the keeping).

Lengthy orientations aside, once the mellow of White Sand hits, it hits hard. Over the next three days, Idrissa checked in on us occasionally — if anything, to make sure we hadn’t died of relaxation. As the high-octane energy of our safari slowly left our bodies, it was replaced by a euphoric state in which we were unconcerned with anything, save for perhaps where we’d take our sundowners (on our rooftop terrace or at the sunset bar?) or how often we needed to reapply sunscreen (hourly for best results). Plans for tennis matches were carelessly abandoned, along with lofty goals of learning to windsurf — a serious pastime on this part of the island — or even a bit of gym time. Utterly unbothered with anything resembling a to-do list, we all but quarantined ourselves within the confines of our tropical oasis, with only Idrissa’s occasional check-ins, dropping off delicious frozen fruit skewers or even more delicious frozen fruit cocktails to mark the passage of time.

Yet even in our lackadaisy, we absorbed the spirit of Zanzibar, as if by osmosis: at meals bursting with local spices and fresh flavors of the island; at the Lounge Bar, decorated with vibrant textiles, pottery, and woven baskets; and at the Senses Spa, where my body was buffed, and face exfoliated using Zanzibari cloves, lemongrass, cinnamon, and other native remedies. Lunchtime views over the beach were dotted with dozens of ngalawa , the traditional sailing boat of local fishermen. Walking through the resort’s gardens, we made the acquaintance of more locals: curious Red Colobus monkeys swinging from branch to branch.

By the time Idrissa called on us to gather our luggage for check-out, John and I were perhaps unrecognizable to our doting butler and especially to our former selves. We had become the kind of people who would think nothing of lounging on a hammock all day and certainly not the sort to entertain a 5 a.m. wake-up call. The change was slow at first, then absolute — a testament to the transformative power of our white-sand Zanzibari retreat.

Here, everything you need to know about White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa .

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Secluded and spacious private villas with every luxury accounted for, including a private pool and beach access, a rooftop terrace, and separate living room and bedroom villas.
The hotel is located in Paje, a lively tourist destination with excellent restaurants and world-class kitesurfing and scuba diving (a watersports pavilion is located on resort grounds).
Cuisine is a star at the resort, emphasizing natural ingredients and local spices, from cinnamon porridge for breakfast to catches of the day and traditional biryani for dinner — all included in nightly room rates.

Courtesy of Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Our 968-square-foot beachfront one-bedroom villa was a stunner, spread across two air-conditioned structures: a living room and dining room with a butler’s kitchen, plus a bedroom with en suite bathroom. An exterior staircase connected the bedroom to a rooftop terrace, with a beach-view dining table and daybed. A private garden featured a soaking tub. The entire private space measures more than 16,000 square feet, with multiple sundecks, a swimming pool, and a private beachfront with hammock and ocean access.

Other villa categories include the $2,400-per-night two-bedroom family villa and the $4,300-per-night five-bedroom presidential villa. There are also more affordable suite accommodations, including the Cinnamon Rooms with garden views and Deluxe Rooms with access to a shared pool. A new collection of Garden Villas operates entirely off-grid, using 100 percent renewable energy and operating with net-zero carbon emissions. All 18 rooms, villas, and suites are decorated with natural wood and stone interiors accented by traditional textiles and objets d’art, with thatched roofing and abundant tropical foliage outside.

Reservations at White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa are booked on a half-board basis, with standard rates including daily breakfast and multi-course dinners. Guests can choose to upgrade to an all-inclusive booking covering three meals per day plus all house wines, beers, spirits, and liqueurs, as well as mini-bar items.

Unlike many all-inclusive resorts, White Sand’s dining is top-notch, with a diverse selection and regularly changing menus. Breakfasts are packed with fresh fruits and pastries, Zanzibari porridge seasoned with local cinnamon and spices, and classic dishes like eggs Benedict and omelets. Instagram-worthy floating breakfasts in your private swimming pool are also offered for an additional fee. An al fresco beach café turns out delicious pizzas from a wood-burning oven, fresh catches, and crisp salads (best enjoyed with a bottle of rosé). Multi-course dinners featuring South African wine pairings are served by candlelight at the main restaurant or course-by-course by your butler in-villa. Sundowners are served at the Sunset Bar, where views stretch over the Indian Ocean.

Gregor John/Courtesy of Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

With year-round winds and calm shallow waters, Paje is known worldwide for excellent kitesurfing — and White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is home to one of the area’s best facilities, Zanzibar Kite Paradise. The high-end watersports club offers kitesurfing lessons, equipment rental, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks (including glass-bottom kayaks).

For more physical activity, book one of the resort’s tennis courts with a pro, join a free group yoga session, or borrow a bicycle to explore the city (via beach cruiser) or the sand (via fat-tired e-bike). There’s also an al-fresco fitness center with limited weight-lifting equipment and just a few cardio machines.

Several excursions can also be organized through your butler. Choose from a traditional ngalawa boat tour, horseback riding, or a guided visit to the nearby Jozani National Forest. A tour of historic Stone Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fascinating history, architecture, and food markets – is a must.

The Senses Spa is small but a standout nonetheless for its traditional treatments and serene setting. Each of the two open-air treatment rooms is enclosed in a thatched-roof stone structure that allows the tropical breezes to pass through. There is also a hammam, infrared sauna, salon, and nail and hair salon. During my 60-minute Zanzibar Spice Scrub, I was massaged and buffed with a concoction of fragrant cloves, healing lemongrass, and nourishing moringa oil. A facial using hydrating marula and rose followed for a head-to-toe glow.

Family-Friendly Offerings

White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa provides plenty of diversions for all ages, from a baby pool and sandy playground with slides and mini trampolines for its littlest guests to watersports lessons and PlayStations for teens. There’s also ping pong, table football, petanque, darts, volleyball, chess, and board games. Children’s menus are available at both restaurants, and everyday needs — including changing tables, bottle warmers, baby bathtubs, and pool floaties — are available for guest use. Nearby, the resort’s mini-farm with rabbits and donkeys, as well as the native Red Colobus monkey, is ideal for family visits. The Senses Spa even offers kid treatments such as the 60-minute Junior Glow, combining gentle Swedish massage and a mini facial. White Sand also provides babysitting services for an additional fee.

Accessibility and Sustainability

White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is the first resort on the island of Zanzibar to feature off-the-grid accommodations. Four recently completed villas operate entirely on solar energy produced by photovoltaic solar panels. Throughout the resort, solar heating provides hot water, and a desalination plant filtration system produces high-quality drinking water, eliminating the need to import bottled water. Biowaste is used for compost throughout the 10-acre grounds, including the organic herb and vegetable garden and fruit trees, all of which supply produce for the resort’s restaurants. White Sand also partners with local producers to provide everything from the handmade soaps in the guest rooms to the fresh catches of the day offered at the two restaurants.

Located in the resort town of Paje, White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is roughly 30 miles (about one hour) from the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Renting a car is neither necessary nor recommended as taxis are reliable and affordable. The resort also provides airport transfers and other local transportation at a fair cost. Many of Paje’s attractions are easily within walking or biking distance.

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Cinnamon Rooms start at $750 per night, with coveted villas starting at $1,900 per night. All bookings come with half-board, including daily breakfast and dinner, butler service, and unlimited non-motorized watersports. The all-inclusive option is an excellent value for those who enjoy a cocktail (or five) or with large appetites. A bonus for families: Children under three stay and eat for free. Discounted rates also kick in when booking four or more nights.

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COMMENTS

How to plan a trip to Zanzibar
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 ...
The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know
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.
15 Zanzibar Travel Tips To Know BEFORE You Go
Here are a few Zanzibar travel tips that are good to know before you visit the island. Zanzibar Travel - Top Tours and Excursions. Luxury: The classic Tanzanian bush & beach safari. Mid Range: Best of Northern Parks and Zanzibar. Spice Farm Tour with Traditional Cooking Lesson. North Coast and Turtle Sanctuary Tour.
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Everything you need to know about planning a week long holiday to Zanzibar. If you have any other questions, please leave them down below 🙂. Itinerary for Zanzibar - one or two weeks with a few days at Chwaka Bay, 3-4 days at Stone town, and a couple of days at Mnemba atoll- snorkelling, dhow, culture..
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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.
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From November to February, you may experience light rains, but they last for such a short time that they're unlikely to ruin any plans. Located just 6 degrees south of the equator, Zanzibar is usually warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25°-35° C year round. (75°-95° F).
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Day 4. Take a trip to the famous Prison Island. Prison Island was purchased in 1893 by Lloyd Mathews, the British First Minister of Zanzibar. A prison was built on the island, but no prisoners were ever bought here and instead it became a quarantine station for yellow fever sufferers.
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Day 2 - Stone Town to Jambiani Beach. Arrange a taxi to go to Jambiani Beach - it will cost around $50 for two people. Jambiani Beach is a small village on Zanzibar's southeastern coast. It's relaxed and laid-back, and less touristy than other parts of the island. RELATED: Jambiani, Zanzibar Guide: Where to Find the.
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The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide. Jupiter K. August 3, 2020. 7 MINUTE READ. In this ultimate travel guide to Zanzibar, I am going to cover a destination that has a lot to offer from a wide variety of activities, incredible culture and history and beautiful beaches. We will dive into what to do, where to go and what to except. Karibu Zanzibar ...
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Where is Zanzibar located? Zanzibar is about 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa in the Indian Ocean. This island, with a population of approximately 1 million, is a province of Tanzania. Zanzibar is about 68 miles long and 25 miles wide - its only city, which also serves as the capital, is known as Zanzibar City.
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The Residence Zanzibar. Save 100% on your flight. $2,619. per person. Jun 25 - Jun 30. Roundtrip non-stop flight included. Dubai (DXB) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) 9.2/10 Wonderful! (152 reviews) Some positives: Was clean and the rooms were amazing.
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Planning a Trip in Zanzibar. Fringed with sandy beaches and rocky inlets, the main island of Zanzibar (Unguja) is about 97km (60 miles) in length and no than 32km (20 miles) wide, making it a very manageable size to explore. UNESCO-protected Stone Town, the capital, will be your point of entry; with any beach on the main island 45 to 90 minutes ...
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Vaccinations and Visas for Zanzibar

How to plan a trip to Zanzibar around the Weather

Booking Accommodation in Zanzibar

Hire a Car or Catch a Taxi

Money and ATMS?

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How to get to Zanzibar

Take the ferry to Zanzibar

Entry Visas

When to visit Zanzibar – best time of year

High Season: June to October

Second High Season: Dec to Feb

Rainy Season: Mar to May

Different areas of Zanzibar

Nungwi and Kendwa

Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pongwe, and the northeast

Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi in the southeast

How to get around Zanzibar

Budget traveling in Zanzibar

Which areas do I like the most?

If you want the most beautiful beaches

If you like the big 5* all inclusive resorts

If you like boutique hotels on the beach

If you want cheap accommodation

How much do things cost in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an island through and through

The currency in Zanzibar

ATM Fees are outrageous

Diving and Snorkeling in Zanzibar

Mnemba Atoll

Diving in the southeast area of Paje

Activities in Zanzibar

Get out of Zanzibar

Mafia Island

Pemba Island

Continue Reading:

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

The Ultimate Pemba Island Travel And Diving Guide

Aiyana Hotel Review: Pure Luxury In Pemba Island

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Ten Days in Zanzibar: An Itinerary for First-Timers

Day 1: Exploring Stone Town

Day 2: Traditional Spice Tour from Stone Town

Day 3: Changuu Island Day Trip from Stone Town

Day 4: Chill Out on the Coast at Nungwi

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

Day 6: Visit the Kiwengwa Caves on the Northeastern Coast