Nestled off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a dreamy archipelago that enchants every traveler with its turquoise waters, powder-white beaches, and rich history: the “Spice Island” of the Indian Ocean mixes African, Arab, Persian and European cultures, as seen in its architecture and cuisine.
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with our comprehensive travel guide. Let’s deep dive into all things Zanzibar: how to get there, where to stay, what to do and how to make sure the trip goes as smoothly as possible. Let’s begin!
Where is Zanzibar and how to get there?
Even though Zanzibar is an archipelago, there are more ways to get there besides by sea: there are three airports on the main island, one of them international. Of course, there are also ferry services departing from mainland Tanzania, which are cheaper than flights. The journey by ferry lasts around 2 hours.
Where to stay in Zanzibar
You can find all sorts of accommodations in Zanzibar, from luxurious all-inclusive hotels to low cost options for backpackers and budget travelers. You should also take into account your planned activities or how you want to spend your holidays, for each area of Zanzibar offers something different to its visitors.
- Stone Town: both luxury and budget-friendly accommodations. Ideal for a more authentic cultural experience, closeness to main attractions.
- Nungwi: it stands out for its amazing beaches and vibrant nightlife. The accommodation options are mainly beachfront resorts and boutique hotels.
- Kendwa: it’s famous for its nightlife, with plenty of beach clubs, bars and restaurants catering to tourists.
- Paje: Zanzibar’s kitesurfing haven is the best choice for backpackers looking for a peaceful, tranquil scene.
- Jambiani: small fishing village, best suited for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. Hotels range between luxurious resorts and cozy lodges.
When to visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a tropical island, which means it’s basically hot all year round. However, there are two rainy seasons: from March to May (long rains), and from mid-October to November (short rains). If you travel at any time outside of those two periods, you can expect sunny days and the perfect beach weather.
What to do in Zanzibar
The first spot you simply can’t miss in Zanzibar is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, and the best place to learn about the history and culture of the island. Wander through the stone alleyways, admire the ancient yet well-preserved constructions, and explore the local markets to get a glimpse at what life was like in this former Arab trading town. You should also visit the Slave Market exhibit for insight into this important part of Zanzibar’s past.
Music fans might be surprised to learn of a special attraction in the area: the Freddie Mercury Museum, located in the house where the rock legend spent his early years before moving to the UK.
For most travelers, however, what sets Zanzibar apart is the coastline. Some of the best beaches can be found towards the Northern part of the island, specifically in Nungwi and Kendwa. There you’ll find white sand and a clear sea with softer tides than in other parts of Zanzibar. But the fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets: there are plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs to keep you entertained, particularly in and around Nungwi. Of course, Zanzibar is also a prime spot for scuba diving and snorkeling, so pack (or rent) your gear! If you’re not a huge fan of the beach but you’d still like to relax and swim around on your holiday, you can visit natural pools and caves in Paje (Maalum) or Jambiani (the Kuza cave).
There’s a special attraction unique to Zanzibar: the Nakupenda Sandbank. This stretch of sand is exposed during low tides, allowing you to lounge on this temporary beach and enjoy the snorkeling opportunities all around. You need to book a tour to take you (it’s about a half-hour boat ride from Stone Town). Some companies also include a visit to Prison Island on the same day.
Still craving wildlife encounters after Tanzania? Zanzibar’s got you covered! Plan a visit to Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park to meet the red colobus monkey, unique to the island. You should also make use of your trip to see the giant turtles, there’s no better place to!
Do you still have time to spare? Here are a few other suggestions to keep you entertained:
- A spice farm tour. There’re plenty of options to choose from, so just book the one that suits your plans the best.
- Did you know that Zanzibar is famous for its sunsets?
- If your budget allows it, make a reservation for The Rock, the most famous restaurant on the island. It’s a floating restaurant that serves delicious, local food in a jaw-dropping environment.
- Kitesurfing is the Zanzibar specialty, but only for thrillseekers.
Tips for staying safe in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in Africa. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take any precautions: as with any tourist destination, you should always keep your valuables hidden away and your belongings close to you.
You should also avoid walking alone at night, both in the city and along the beach. Also, it’s strongly recommended to rent a chauffeured car or take taxis if possible: car accidents are quite common and it’s better if tourists avoid driving.
When at the beach, you need to be careful with sea urchins. They line the seabed and can be a real nuisance if you step on them. You also need to know that under no circumstances should you drink tap water, bottled only!
Lastly, and this is important, all tourists need to remember that Zanzibar’s primary religion is Islam, and it’s a conservative area. Homosexual relationships are punished by law, so you need to be incredibly discreet while out on the town.
Tourism is Zanzibar’s main source of income, so you can expect the locals to be accommodating and helpful. With the basic precautions I’ve outlined you should be more than fine!
Do you need travel insurance for Zanzibar?
Yes, it’s a government-imposed measure since October 1st, 2024. You have to purchase your official travel insurance from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation for a price that will depend on the applicant’s age: $22 for travelers under 17 years old, $44 for those over 18.
Do you need a visa for Zanzibar?
It depends on your nationality. In our guide about the visa requirements for Tanzania you’ll find a complete list of the countries allowed to travel visa-free.
If that’s not your case and you need an approved travel document to enter Tanzania, you have the option of requesting a single or multiple entry visa. Both of them allow the holder to stay for 90 days, but with the multiple entry visa you can leave and reenter Tanzania as many times as desired during a one-year period. You can start the application process on our website to take advantage of our simplified, completely online form in your language of choice.
