Zanzibar Travel Guide to one of the most beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean. This tropical destination offers white sand beaches, turquoise water, historic Stone Town, and a unique blend of African and Arabian culture.
Located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar combines stunning beaches, rich history, spice plantations, and unique Swahili culture. It offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
This Zanzibar travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting:
• Best beaches in Zanzibar
• Things to do on the island
• Stone Town highlights
• Best time to visit
• Travel costs and safety
• How to get around the island
• Practical travel tips
If you are planning a trip to Zanzibar, this guide will help you experience the island properly.
Where Is Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is an island archipelago in the Indian Ocean, located about 25–50 km off the coast of Tanzania.
The main island is called Unguja, but most people simply refer to it as Zanzibar.
The island is famous for:
- crystal clear turquoise water
- white coral sand beaches
- spice farms
- historic Stone Town
- vibrant marine life
Because of its location, Zanzibar has a unique cultural mix influenced by African, Arab, Persian, and European history.
Best Beaches in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is known for having some of the best beaches in Africa.
Nungwi Beach
Located in the north of the island, Nungwi is one of the most popular beaches in Zanzibar.
Why visit:
• calm turquoise water
• excellent sunset views
• lively beach atmosphere
• many restaurants and resorts
Unlike many other beaches on the island, tides affect Nungwi less, making it ideal for swimming all day.
Kendwa Beach
Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa is known for wide sandy beaches and crystal-clear water.
Highlights:
• perfect swimming conditions
• beach parties and nightlife
• luxury resorts
Kendwa hosts the famous Full Moon Party, attracting travelers from around the world.
Paje Beach
Paje is located on the southeast coast and is famous for kitesurfing.
Why people love it:
• shallow turquoise lagoons
• relaxed backpacker atmosphere
• beach bars and cafes
It is one of the best kitesurfing spots in East Africa.
Jambiani Beach
Jambiani is quieter and more traditional than many other beaches.
Expect:
• peaceful fishing villages
• authentic local culture
• long quiet beaches
It is perfect for travelers looking for slow travel and relaxation.
Travelers who love beach destinations should also explore our Portugal Travel Guide, which features some of the most beautiful Atlantic coastlines in Europe.
Stone Town: Zanzibar’s Historic Heart
Stone Town is the cultural center of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This historic town is known for its narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, coral stone buildings, and vibrant markets.
Top things to see in Stone Town:
Freddie Mercury House
The birthplace of the famous Queen singer.
Old Fort
The oldest building in Stone Town, built in the 17th century.
House of Wonders
One of the most iconic buildings in Zanzibar.
Darajani Market
A lively market where locals buy spices, fish, and fresh produce.
Walking through Stone Town feels like stepping into centuries of African and Arabian history.
Travelers interested in historic cities may also enjoy our Italy Travel Guide, which explores some of Europe’s most famous historic destinations.
Top Things to Do in Zanzibar
Snorkeling & Diving
The coral reefs around Zanzibar offer excellent marine life.
Popular diving areas include:
• Mnemba Atoll
• Kendwa reefs
• Nungwi waters
Expect to see tropical fish, turtles, and coral gardens.
If you enjoy ocean adventures, our Australia Travel Guide also covers world-class marine destinations like the Great Barrier Reef.
Spice Farm Tours
Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island.”
Many plantations grow:
• cloves
• cinnamon
• vanilla
• nutmeg
• black pepper
Spice tours allow visitors to taste and smell fresh spices directly from the farms.
Dolphin Tours in Kizimkazi
Boat tours in southern Zanzibar offer the chance to see wild dolphins.
Early morning trips provide the best chance of spotting them.
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Traditional wooden dhow boats sail along the coast at sunset.
This is one of the most relaxing and scenic experiences on the island.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round.
Best months to visit:
June – October
Dry season with comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
December – February
Hot but excellent for beach weather.
Rainy seasons:
March – May (long rains)
November (short rains)
Travel is still possible during rain, but outdoor activities may be limited.
For another island destination with dramatic landscapes, see our New Zealand Travel Guide.
Best Hotels in Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers accommodation for every type of traveler, from budget guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts. Choosing the right location can significantly improve your experience on the island.
Budget Hotels
These options are great for travelers who want affordable stays close to the beach.
• Drifters Zanzibar (Paje) – relaxed backpacker atmosphere near the beach.
• New Teddy’s on the Beach (Jambiani) – simple beachfront accommodation with a friendly vibe.
• Villa Bahati (Jambiani) – comfortable budget hotel with ocean views and quiet surroundings.
Budget accommodation usually ranges between $25 – $70 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels
These hotels offer a balance between comfort, location, and price.
• The Z Hotel (Nungwi) – stylish boutique hotel directly on one of Zanzibar’s best beaches.
• Aluna Beach Lodge (Nungwi) – modern design with excellent service and peaceful location.
• Cristal Resort (Paje) – popular among kitesurfers with beachfront rooms and relaxed atmosphere.
Mid-range hotels typically cost $80 – $150 per night.
Luxury Resorts
Zanzibar is also home to some of the most beautiful luxury resorts in East Africa.
• Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa) – one of the island’s most exclusive resorts with private beach access.
• Baraza Resort & Spa (Bwejuu) – elegant villas inspired by Swahili and Arabic architecture.
• Melia Zanzibar (Kiwengwa) – large luxury resort with ocean views and private beach.
Luxury resorts usually range from $250 – $600+ per night depending on season.
Best Area to Stay in Zanzibar
• Nungwi → best swimming beaches
• Kendwa → luxury resorts
• Paje → kitesurfing and backpacker vibe
• Jambiani → quiet and authentic village atmosphere
Zanzibar Travel Costs
Zanzibar can fit many travel budgets.
Average daily costs:
Budget travel
$40–70 per day
Mid-range travel
$80–150 per day
Luxury travel
$200+ per day
Accommodation prices vary depending on location and season.
How to Get Around Zanzibar
Transport options include:
Taxi
The most common way to travel between beaches.
Scooter rental
Good for short distances.
Private drivers
Popular for full-day tours.
Local dala-dala minibuses exist but are mainly used by locals.
Food in Zanzibar
Zanzibar cuisine reflects African, Arab, and Indian influences.
Popular dishes include:
• Zanzibar pizza (street food)
• grilled seafood
• coconut curries
• biryani
• fresh tropical fruit
The night market at Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town is one of the best places to try local food.
Entry Requirements (Visa)
Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Tourist visa options:
• Visa on arrival – available at Zanzibar Airport
• eVisa – can be applied online before travel
Typical tourist visa cost:
$50 USD for most nationalities.
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Currency & Payments
The official currency used in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
However, US dollars are widely accepted, especially in:
• hotels
• tours
• restaurants
• diving centers
Important tips:
• bring USD cash printed after 2009
• ATMs are available mainly in Stone Town and Nungwi
• card payments are not accepted everywhere
Internet & SIM Cards
Internet is available across most tourist areas, but speeds can vary.
Best SIM card providers:
• Vodacom
• Airtel
• Tigo
You can buy a local SIM card at Zanzibar Airport or in Stone Town.
Typical price:
10–20 USD for several GB of data.
Most hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi, but speeds may be slower than in Europe.
Language
The main languages spoken in Zanzibar are:
• Swahili (local language)
• English (widely used in tourism)
Learning a few Swahili words is appreciated:
Hello → Jambo
Thank you → Asante
Electricity & Power Plugs
Zanzibar uses:
Type G plugs (same as the UK).
Voltage: 230V
Travelers from Europe may need an adapter.
Power outages can happen occasionally in some areas.
Health & Vaccinations
Recommended before travel:
• travel insurance
• mosquito repellent
• sunscreen
Some travelers may need:
• Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from certain countries)
Malaria risk exists, so protection against mosquito bites is recommended.
Safety & Local Culture
Zanzibar is mostly Muslim, so modest dress is appreciated outside resorts.
Basic guidelines:
• cover shoulders and knees in villages
• ask permission before photographing people
• respect Ramadan traditions if visiting during that period
Tourist areas are relaxed, but respecting local culture is important.
Time Zone
Zanzibar operates on East Africa Time (EAT)
UTC +3
There is no daylight saving time.
Airport & Flights
The main airport is:
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).
Direct flights connect Zanzibar with:
• Dubai
• Doha
• Istanbul
• Nairobi
• European charter destinations
Many travelers also arrive via Dar es Salaam and take a short flight or ferry.
Ferry From Dar es Salaam
Travelers already in Tanzania can reach Zanzibar by ferry.
Travel time:
2 hours
Ferries run several times daily.
How Many Days Do You Need?
Ideal trip length:
3–4 days
Stone Town + one beach area
5–7 days
Explore multiple beaches and activities
10+ days
Slow travel with diving, tours, and island exploration
Mini FAQ
Is Zanzibar expensive?
It can be affordable compared to many tropical islands.
Do you need a visa?
Most travelers obtain a Tanzania visa on arrival or online.
Is Zanzibar good for swimming?
Yes, especially beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Yes, it is generally safe for tourists.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make in Zanzibar
• Ignoring the tides – Some Zanzibar beaches have strong tides. During low tide, swimming can become difficult.
• Skipping Stone Town – Many travelers focus only on the beaches. This means they miss the history and culture of the island.
• Not bringing enough cash – Smaller restaurants, beach bars, and taxis often accept only cash.
• Underestimating the sun – Zanzibar is near the equator. The sun is extremely strong throughout the year.
• Staying in only one area – Visiting beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje creates a better island experience.
Other Travel Guides You May Like
If you are planning more international travel, explore our other travel guides:
• Spain Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Australia Travel Guide
• New Zealand Travel Guide
Each guide includes destinations, travel costs, and practical travel tips.
Final Thoughts
Zanzibar is more than just a beach destination.
It is a place where history, culture, and nature meet.
Turquoise water stretches toward the horizon.
Palm trees shade quiet beaches.
Stone Town whispers stories from centuries past.
Whether you come for relaxation, culture, or adventure, Zanzibar delivers one of the most unforgettable island experiences in Africa.
