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The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

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Last Updated On: September 10, 2023

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

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

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

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How to get to Zanzibar

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

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

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

Take the ferry to Zanzibar

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

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

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

Entry Visas

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

The entry visa can be:

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

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

When to visit Zanzibar – best time of year

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

High Season: June to October

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

Second High Season: Dec to Feb

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

Rainy Season: Mar to May

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

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

Different areas of Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

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

Nungwi and Kendwa

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

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

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

Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pongwe, and the northeast

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

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

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

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

Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi in the southeast

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

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

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

How to get around Zanzibar

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

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

Stone Town to Matemwe: $30-40

Stone Town to Nungwi: $40-50

Stone Town to Paje: $30-$40

Stone Town to Kiwengwa: $30-$40

Nungwi to Paje: $50-60

Paje to Michamvi: $10-$15

Matemwe or Kiwengwa to Nungwi: $25-30

Budget traveling in Zanzibar

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

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

Which areas do I like the most?

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

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

If you want the most beautiful beaches

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

If you like the big 5* all inclusive resorts

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

Recommended Hotels

Riu Palace Nungwi All Inclusive
Zuri Zanzibar

If you like boutique hotels on the beach

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

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

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

If you want cheap accommodation

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

MITI Beach bungalows
Villa Kiota
Baladin Hotel
Michamvi Spirit Lodge

How much do things cost in Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zanzibar is an island through and through

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

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

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

The currency in Zanzibar

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

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

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

ATM Fees are outrageous

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

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

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

Diving and Snorkeling in Zanzibar

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

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

Mnemba Atoll

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

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

Diving in the southeast area of Paje

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

Activities in Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

Get out of Zanzibar

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

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

Mafia Island

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

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

Pemba Island

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

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

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

Continue Reading:

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Pemba Island Travel And Diving Guide

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

Aiyana Hotel Review: Pure Luxury In Pemba Island

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

Zanzibar Sunrise at Bandas digital nomad

Why Africa’s Great Wildebeest Migration Is A Must

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!

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Lauren Juliff

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

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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

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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)!

Pin for later!

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 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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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

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24 Awesome Things to Do in Zanzibar & Zanzibar Itinerary Tips

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Below is a guest post from Rita who has spent loads of time in Zanzibar, a beautiful region of Tanzania. I asked her to share with you guys the top things to do in Zanzibar as well as tips for getting around, her favorite hotels, and more!

Why You Should Travel to Zanzibar

Few places in the world can induce images of pristine turquoise waters, white powdered sandy beaches, and tropical palm-tree paradise like Zanzibar. It’s a semi-autonomous territory of Tanzania located just off the country’s coast but with its own unique heritage and cultural flavor. It feels like an entirely different world, offering a unique cultural experience while also being a tranquil setting for pure relaxation. I can safely say that I found my personal slice of paradise here.

How Long to Plan Your Zanzibar Itinerary

There are plenty great places on the island so in order to get the best experience and see the highlights I would recommend spending three weeks or more. What I wouldn’t recommend is rushing around Zanzibar like many people do, as this is a destination worth exploring slowly.

Zanzibar is a relatively small island but it’s still big enough to the point where you have to decide where to go, and which destination will best suit your interests. That’s why it’s always important to have an itinerary planned before you start traveling and that being said I’ve done all the research for you and created this three-week Zanzibar itinerary that I can promise will be a holiday that you will always remember.

Go in mid-October. The most touristy months are June – September, during the dry and windy season. January and February experience the highest temperatures.

Top Things to Do in Zanzibar by Area + Itinerary Tips

Suggested time: 4-5 days

Stone Town isn’t just any town. It is a sensory experience not to be found anywhere else in the world that offers a unique look into the melting pot of cultures.

5 Things to Do in Stone Town

1. explore local markets.

Darajani Market is where you find locals hustling all day long. And what it makes it so authentic is the noise and the colors. It is also the place where you can find all possible spices.

2. Visit Prison Island

Prison Island is only 25 minutes away from Stone Town. Once used as a place for detention of rebellious slaves and people with deadly diseases, it is now converted into a tourist attraction with one of the main draws being giant tortoises. They’re not only ginormous but also as old as 192 years!

3. Dine at Forodhani Gardens

When it comes to street food, your visit to Zanzibar is not complete without experiencing the Forodhani night market. It’s by far the cheapest and busiest place to eat. You will find stands with fresh seafood, samosas and grilled vegetables. My favorites would be Zanzibar beef pizza and chicken shawarma. Finger licking good!

things to do in zanzibar fhorodoni gardens

4. Get lost wandering narrow alleys

Stone Town is a where you’ll find a mixture of Arabic, Indian, African, and European cultures living comfortably together under one roof. The labyrinthine streets are the most beautiful of all the sights you can find. Wander the maze of narrow streets and dark winding alleys. This way you will get a glimpse into the sense of a local community.

5. Stay in Persian influenced hotel

One of the great things about Stone Town is the grand colonial architecture, which gives an opportunity to stay in Persian style hotels. And the best part is many of them have their own, unique character. It is worth researching and investing in authenticity. It’s like living museums dedicated to furniture, art and oriental ornaments.

Here are two of our favorite hotels in Stone Town Zanzibar: Zanzibar Palace Hotel – Cute boutique restored hotel in the heart of town with incredible service. Emerson on Hurumzi – Restored merchant’s mansion with a popular rooftop restaurant.

There are also many museums and other tours you can visit but what really made me experience the authenticity of this town is beyond the touristic route.

Nungwi/Kendwa

Suggested time: 5 days

Nungwi and Kendwa (located just a 5 min drive from Nungwi) is said to have best full moon parties on the island therefore it attracts younger, backpacking crowd. It also has the best beaches in Zanzibar for swimming due to the tide that doesn’t head out too far.

3 Things to Do in Nungwi Kendwa

1. enjoy a famous sunset dhow cruise.

Dhow, a wooden built boat with a canvas sail, were originally introduced from Yemen hundreds of years ago. They still play a very important role of transportation and fishing on the island. You can arrange a private or group cruise via hotel or any ‘beach boy’. Like Stone Town, sunsets are absolutely incredible in Nungwi as well.

2. Enjoy seafood dinner

Nungwi has many options to feast on seafood. There is a fresh fish stalls at every restaurant, making it a perfect place to enjoy prawn or lobster dishes.

3. Stay at Kendwa Rocks

Our top choice of hotel in Nungwi Zanzibar area is Kendwa Rocks which is a very hip guesthouse that offers bungalow and wooden beach huts. They have parties here as well.

Suggested time: 3 days

If you prefer some time alone, try Matemwe Beach. Here, you can really escape to serenity and walk on a beach for miles without meeting another soul. It’s the place where you’ll want to ditch your shoes and walk barefoot while enjoying the sand and admiring natural coastline.

3 Things to do in Matemwe

1. indulge in luxury holiday making.

Area is popular with private luxury resorts promising a relaxing stay as nearby village life goes at an attractively sleepy and quite pace. Here you can disconnect from outside world and spend a few days pampering yourself. I’ve stayed in Bahari Villas and loved every minute spent lounging by the pool and sipping virgin coladas.

2. Snorkel or dive around Mnemba Island

Zanzibar is excellent for its diving and snorkeling. Mnemba Atoll is one of the favorites amongst underwater lovers. Zanzibar is home to wide variety of fishes and colorful corals. Snorkel across shores of Mnemba Island and enjoy the stunning creatures living underwater. There is also a chance spotting dolphins on the way, as they are frequent guests in local waters.

3. Stay in one of these unique hotels

There are a couple great hotels in Matemwe to check out. We love both these unique boutique properties:

Matemwe Beach Retreat – The infinity pool at this property blows our mind! It doesn’t get better than this. Matemwe Lodge – This is set up next to the white sand up on some rocks. Very romantic!

Suggested time: 7 days

Paje is located on the South East of Zanzibar. It is referred as a kite surfing mecca and is popular not only for the most beautiful beach on the island but also for water sports. It is by far my favorite spot in Zanzibar and place where I’ve spent longest. The atmosphere is nice and laid back, and it’s a perfect place to either meet new friends or to keep to yourself and just enjoy the beach.

6 Things to do in Paje

1. kitesurf.

Kitesurf is one of the most fun activities you can try out during your stay in Zanzibar. Due to reliable winds and large shallow lagoons on the east coast, Zanzibar became widely recognised as one of the best locations for kitesurfing in Africa. Whether you are a first-timer or an expert, professional surf schools will equip you with everything you need to catch the breeze.

2. Go reef walking

At low tide, waves recede more than a kilometer. It is a best time to go explore the far away reef. Be extra careful avoiding sea urchins as some areas fully covered with spikes.

You will see many sea cucumbers, starfishes and small octopuses. It is also a time when locals are spare fishing; they might even show you their methods and the catch of the day if you’re lucky.

3. Spend a day on a Safari Blue tour

The original Safari Blue tour is one of the most popular day trips from Stone Town but you can also find people offering very similar trips from Paje at much lower price. A Safari Blue day is packed with adventure; you will sail on traditional hand built mahogany sailing dhow, have a chance to snorkel around crystal clear turquoise waters, sunbathe on an isolated sandbank and feast on delicious grilled fresh seafood lunch. All of this can be bargained for $30pp.

4. Visit Rock restaurant

Try typing Zanzibar on google. What images do you get? A beautiful old little house built on a rock in water. That’s The Rock restaurant, which is situated only 12km from Paje. Take a taxi or catch a local dala-dala and visit this incredible place. Although, food is overpriced, choose a glass of wine instead and spend an hour on a terrace watching the ocean.

things to do in zanzibar-12 rock restaurant

5. Watch wildlife at Jozani forest

Wildlife lovers may want to trek into the Jozani Forest in search of red colobus monkeys, a species that can only be found in Zanzibar. It is also home to Sykes monkey, Ader’s duiker, bush babies, over 50 species of butterfly, 40 species of birds and 100 species of trees.

6. Stay at Dhow Inn

There’s only one hotel we recommend here in Paje Zanzibar and that’s Dhow Inn . It’s modern, clean, and spacious plus it is just one minute walk to the beach.

Suggested time: 2 days

This is a place where you can take it slow after vibrant Paje and indulge in relaxation and peacefulness. It’s great for swimming and water sports but also rich with local culture and village life. If strolling along the beach you will see women harvesting seaweed during low tide.

2 Things to do in Jambiani

1. go deep sea fishing.

You can arrange a deep-sea fishing trip via Red Monkey Lodge.

2. Stay at Indigo Beach

This guesthouse in Jambiana is good on the budget at just $60 a night: Indigo Beach in Bwejuu is your perfect idyllic beach shack. You don’t need anything more than this paradise.

5 Foods to Try in Zanzibar

With its strategic location, Zanzibar has long been a melting pot. The result is a truly unique Zanzibar culture and a mixture of marvelous cuisines. Indulge and try their dishes.

Where the rice is cooked in a variety of spices, and paired together with a meat or fish curry, that always accompanies the rice. It is one of the most famous dishes to eat in Zanzibar.

2. Zanzibar pizza

As I’ve mentioned it before, it’s one of my favorites. It doesn’t look nor taste like a traditional pizza but nonetheless is absolutely delicious!

They basically thin out a ball of dough, put whatever ingredients you asked- like chicken or beef with mixture of vegetables, then add an egg and cheese on top and start frying it on a hot pan surface.

3. Mishkaki

In other words it’s like skewers or kebab smaller version. You’ll find people grilling them up in the late afternoon all over Zanzibar.

4. Chips Mayai

This is what we call French fries omelette. They go well with chilli and mishkaki skewers. You can get them anywhere on the street for less then a dollar.

5. Pilau rice

Unlike biryani, where the rice and dish are cooked separately, pilau is a combination of rice, meat and spices cooked together. It’s a bit drier than biryani but also has a bit more flavor.

I hope this itinerary has given you an idea of where to go and what to see during your time in Zanzibar. And you can soon get started thinking about this paradise as your next holiday destination.

For more travel in Africa

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Rita blogs at Once Upon My Travel. If you would like more detailed information for traveling around Zanzibar, complete with contact information and insider tips, feel free to check out her other articles.

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Hi there! What a great article — thanks so much for compiling all of this! My boyfriend and I are going to be in the Zanzibar area for about 7 days in early August. Unfortunately not 3 weeks, but hoping to still see a good amount of this :-) I’m curious as to your thoughts on using Stone Town as a hub where we stay, but to then still travel to some of the other areas you mentioned. Would you recommend that? Or perhaps choosing one other area in addition to Stone Town to split the time with? We’ll be coming from a 9 day Kilimanjaro climb and 7 day Serengeti safari, and are looking forward to experiencing the culture and nature that Zanzibar has to offer :-)

Looking forward to hearing back! All the best,

Which beach are you at in the top photo with the low tide/clear water?

Hey. Thanks a lot for this post! Lovely pics. I’m arriving in Zanzibar in January. Can’t wait!:) I will be staying in Makunduchi (Clove Island – cloveisland.com). The place itself is fantastic but I’m hungry for seeing new spots and doing a lot of different things. Your article inspires me!:)

Great post! I have visited Clove Island (cloveisland.com) last year, you should definitely see for yourself. I immediately fell in love with this place!

Great tips. Thanks for sharing! I had the best Chips Mayai in Paje a few years back. At my last visit I tried to find Pilau rice, unsuccessful. But there is always a next time :D

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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

I hope you enjoyed and found this Zanzibar travel guide useful! If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar or elsewhere, please consider booking with my links down below. It would really help my site and I’ll be able to create more free guides like this one! Also please share this post with others so they can virtually experience the beauty of Zanzibar too!

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

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

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

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

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

Trip to Zanzibar - Promised Land Lodge hut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s how our stay went down…

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

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

Trip to Zanzibar - Jambiani beach colors

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

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

Accommodation

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

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

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

Here’s a quick video tour I created:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trip to Zanzibar - Stone Culture Restaurant

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

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

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

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

The Village

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

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

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

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

Nearby Activities

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

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

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

Additional Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Costs of a Trip to Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

Getting There

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

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

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

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86 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so muchh 🙂

Joanna and Alexis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nice and helpful post Derek!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this, such an informative post.

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

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

Thanks again,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That’s great to hear, thank you Earl 🙂

Zanzibar Travel Guide & Tips – Everything You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

Overview of Zanzibar – History and Culture

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

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

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

Zanzibar Visa

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

The Rock Restaurant

Visit Markets

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

How to Get to Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Zanzibar – Transportation Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Many Days in Zanzibar?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay and Visit

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

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

Shaba Boutique Hotel

Best Beaches on Zanzibar Island

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food in Zanzibar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MY ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EXPLORING STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR

by Lee Litumbe in Guides

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If ever you find yourself in Zanzibar, Stone Town is likely where you'll start. And while some travelers choose to skip spending much time here in favor for Zanzibar's more well known and gorgeous beaches (I made the same mistake the first time I visited a few years ago), I highly recommend you spend at least two days exploring this beautifully enchanting old town.

What I found most intriguing about this UNESCO World Heritage site was how rich the culture and history is. Once a flourishing trade hub (which unfortunately included slave trade), it continues to be a melting pot of traditional African, Arab, Indian and some European cultures. As you walk through the narrow, winding streets, you're bound to experience some sensory overload: children playing football in the narrow alleyways, early morning calls to prayer and Hindu ritual bells, an intoxicating smell of spices lingering in the air, beautifully and colorfully dressed women, and men deeply engaged in mancala. What's not to love about that?

But don't take my word for it - I encourage you to go experience Stone Town in all it's glory for yourself. I hope this guide will help you fall in love with Stone Town as I did and see why it's one of my favorite African cities.

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SOME GENERAL TIPS:

Always haggle and negotiate when buying anything in the market. Never accept the first price given to you.

Cash is king. As with most African cities, always carry cash (in local currency), however USD and Euro are also widely accepted.

Languages spoken are mostly English and Swahili, though most tour guides and operators speak a wider range of other languages.

For women, keep your shoulders and legs covered. Since this is a predominantly muslim country, cultural norms and practices should be observed so as not to not draw unwanted attention to yourself, so definitely be careful in your outfit choices.

Be careful where you get your henna applied. In the bustling markets, vendors may try to cut costs by switching up the mixture so always do a small test patch first to check for an allergic reaction. I believe the red henna is of higher quality here, but always assess your surroundings and the actual henna before you get painted.

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Where to stay

The best hotels in Stone Town are those that have renovated traditional Swahili style homes into small, intimate hotels. I highly recommend Emerson Spice or Emerson on Hurumzi for this, though Park Hyatt is also a great option for a modern and luxurious experience.

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where to eat

Lukmaan Restaurant came highly recommended when I asked the staff at my hotel where they like to go for lunch. It's great for a taste of authentic Zanzibari food for very cheap - you can eat a feast for under $10 - and I love that both locals and travelers eat here casually. You'll have to be a bit assertive when ordering though, because it can get pretty chaotic during the lunch or dinner rush.

The Silk Route was incredible for Indian food. It's just around the corner from Forodhani Gardens and was sensational experience.

Forodhani Gardens in the evenings to try all the local delicacies and dishes on offer from a wide array of market vendors. This is where you can try everything from a sweet or savory Zanzibari pizza to a fresh sugar cane/lime/ginger juice. There are several stalls to choose from, so be sure to walk around the whole market and look around before you commit anywhere. Eat where the locals are or at stalls with a long line to get the freshest food and avoid food poisoning (the meat and seafood are not always fresh). It's also one of the best places in Stone Town to people watch, so definitely dedicate an evening here.

Rooftop Tea House Restaurant at Emerson Spice or Emerson on Hurumzi . Food is a bit of an event at both properties, and they always incorporats seasonal and local foods.The rooftop Tea House restaurants at both properties are slightly different. The one at Emerson Spice has a table and chair setting, while the restaurant at Emerson on Hurumzi offers seated cushions on Persian rugs, with a "shoes off" policy. Another bonus of the rooftop dinners was the live music from a local band. For both restaurants, I highly recommend you call ahead and make reservations because they are very popular and fill up quickly. Dinner typically is served promptly at 7pm, but make sure you get there at around 6pm to watch the sunset with a cocktail and make the most of the experience.

A Spice Workshop. I had the opportunity to take go on a Spice tour as a guest of Destination Zanzibar and Zanzibar Different where I visited a local spice farm and learn some traditional recipes and culinary practices from a husband and wife duo. After learning about all of the most popular spices Zanzibar produces, it was great to make a delicious meal that I otherwise would never have had.

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Get lost in the alleyways , strolling around and taking in the culture, admiring the beautiful (yet crumbling) architecture, and daily life. While I'm all for self discovery and getting intentionally lost, it’s also great to have a guided walking tour of Stone Town see highlights you might otherwise overlook and learn about it's history. Avoid anyone on the street offering to show you around and go with an organized guide from either Destination Zanzibar or your hotel.

Shop. Some of my favorite places were Daranjani market for super cheap produce and woven goods, Moto + Dada Shop which is a run and operated by a women's cooperative, and Abeid Curio Shop for beautiful and ornate wooden chests.

A day trip to Chumbe Island or Prison Island . Prison Island is known for being home to over a hundred gigantic tortoises that you can interact closely with, while Chumbe Island is a small private island known for its ecological innovation and exceptional coral reefs.

Visit the landmarks. You can visit the former slave market and learn about it's very sobering history, or any one of the other historical sites like the Old Fort, Old Dispensary, Palace Museum, or St. Joseph's Cathedral.

Watch the young boys do acrobatics into the water at sunset. It's become somewhat of a tradition, and groups of people (locals and visitors alike) crowd around to watch as they each fling themselves off the clifftrying to outdo the other with flips, dives and twists. The joy and laughter paired with the beautiful African sunset is something I find hard to put into words. It's truly a special scene.

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Market GOODS TO BUY

It wouldn't make sense for you to come to Stone Town and not buy a few market goodies. A few items I would highly recommend are:

A Kofia or other traditional garb

Brass, copper, and other beaded jewelry

Traditional towels or hand carved wooden chests

Local Spices and Handmade Soaps

Organic hand-mixed mosquito repellant

Woven baskets, fans, and totes

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For a detailed guide on how best to explore and experience Zanzibar, be sure to get my detailed guidebook covering everything you need to know below!

Where to Stay in Zanzibar (2023): Best Areas & Hotels

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: June 30, 2023

Categories Africa , Tanzania , Travel Guides

Home » Where to Stay in Zanzibar (2023): Best Areas & Hotels

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Located in East Africa just off the coast of Tanzania mainland, Zanzibar offers an idyllic getaway with stunning beaches and vibrant culture.

Known as “Spice Island” due to its rich history as a center of the spice trade, Zanzibar is home to some of the most beautiful resorts in the world. The food is rich in flavor, the people are welcoming, and it’s a relatively safe destination (as long as you avoid making these 14 common mistakes while visiting Zanzibar , of course).

And there are tons of fun and unique things to do on Zanzibar Island that make the trip here worthwhile.

Depending on the time of year you visit the island, there are different areas of Zanzibar and types of hotels to consider. If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday where you can spend time lounging in the sun or exploring the coral reefs, then Zanzibar is the perfect destination.

With tropical gardens, private plunge pools, and lounge areas with infinity pools, this East African paradise is a great place to get away from it all.

This free packing checklist is designed to guide travelers preparing for a trip to Zanzibar, Tanzania.

It provides detailed suggestions across a range of categories such as accessories, documents, clothing and shoes, toiletries, electronics, and more, offering a comprehensive overview of the essentials.

By using this checklist, you'll be well-equipped for a memorable and hassle-free journey to this beautiful East African destination!

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, when temperatures are relatively low and days are sunny.

During high tide, take a sunset cruise through small islands where you can spot green turtles or explore a mangrove forest.

A trip to Mnemba Island is an unforgettable experience where you can snorkel in the ocean and catch a glimpse of tropical fish.

And of course, a safari in Tanzania is an unforgettable experience.

When it comes to where to stay, there are plenty of options for all types of travelers – whether you’re looking for a luxurious honeymoon suite or an affordable Airbnb, there’s something here for everyone.

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So where should you stay in Zanzibar?

Well, that depends.

Are you looking for a luxury Zanzibar hotel stay?

Or searching for all-inclusive resorts in Zanzibar for a relaxing holiday?

Want a mid-range hotel off the beaten path?

Or are you backpacking your way through Africa and looking for a more authentic Zanzibar stay?

No matter where you fall on the traveler spectrum, I’ve got you covered.

To help you make the most of your trip to Zanzibar, I’ve rounded up the best areas and hotels where you can kick back and relax.

Where to stay in Zanzibar: Best Hotels

Want to know where are the overall best places to stay in Zanzibar?

Here are my top picks for those not looking for any specific area of the island.

Best hotel:

Jambiani Villas

Best all-inclusive resort:

Melia Zanzibar

Best hostel/budget hotel:

zLife Hostel Stonetown

Zanzibar Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Zanzibar is known for its own unique character, so where you choose to stay really depends on what kind of vacation you’re looking for.

In general, Stonetown offers the best selection of mid-priced hotels, while Nungwi has some of the most luxurious resorts.

Jambiani is where you’ll find affordable beachfront lodging, and Paje caters to those looking for a more peaceful stay.

The South Coast of Zanzibar is where you’ll find the best selection of all-inclusive resorts, complete with unbeatable ocean views.

The Stonetown area of Zanzibar is where most travelers stay during their visit. Here you’ll find a variety of mid-priced hotels, ranging from traditional riads to modern mid-range hotels.

Stonetown is where you’ll find the best selection of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as easy access to ferry terminals for day trips or excursions around the island.

Nungwi , or the North Coast, is where you’ll find the most luxurious resorts in Zanzibar. From private villas and beachfront bungalows to all-inclusive resorts, Nungwi is where luxury travelers can relax in style.

Jambiani is where you’ll find some of the best affordable beachfront hotels on Zanzibar Island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach retreat or want to take advantage of the local attractions, Jambiani is where you can get away from it all without breaking your budget.

The East Coast of Zanzibar is where you’ll find the most laid-back atmosphere in Zanzibar. The beaches here are usually less crowded and there are plenty of quieter beaches where you can relax without interruption.

Paje on the South Coast is where you’ll find some of the best kite surfing in Zanzibar. The area also features some more peaceful, intimate hotels where couples and honeymooners can get away from it all.

Overall, where to stay in Zanzibar depends largely on the type of traveler you are and what you’re hoping to get out of your Tanzanian vacation!

6 Best Areas to Stay in Zanzibar

So, you’ve got a general idea of the best areas in Zanzibar. Now let’s take a deeper look at what each neighborhood is known for and the best areas to stay in each one.

Kiwengwa – Best for beaches and luxury resorts

When it comes to where to stay for the best beaches in Zanzibar and the best areas for luxury resorts , Kiwengwa is the place to be.

Kiwengwa is located on the Northeast coast of Zanzibar, between the villages of Pongwe and Pwani Mchangani.

It’s known for its stunning, pristine white sandy beaches where you can also find an abundance of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and boat rides.

It’s a great spot for couples looking to relax and enjoy quality time together, and even where many luxury resorts are located.

Best hostel in Kiwengwa

Khadija Kiwengwa Apartment

This cozy hostel is great for a budget-friendly stay in Kiwengwa.

Enjoy your own terrace where you can take in the tranquil views of the surrounding palm trees, or relax at Kiwengwa Beach – which is just a few steps away. This hostel includes free Wifi access and air-conditioned rooms.

You can choose from private rooms or dorm-style accommodation.

>> Book a stay at Khadija Apartments

Best hotel in Kiwengwa

For business travelers or those looking for a luxurious hotel experience, Melia Zanzibar is an ideal spot in the heart of Kiwengwa.

This five-star resort is situated on the beach and offers an array of amazing amenities such as a spa, pool, and private beach access. Their on-site restaurant also serves up delicious local cuisine as well as international favorites.

This is where I stayed on my last trip to Zanzibar, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the rooms were spacious and comfortable.

It’s seriously one of the best Zanzibar hotels for a comfy and upscale stay.

>> Book a stay at Melia Zanzibar

Things to see and do in Kiwengwa

– Relax on Kiwengwa Beach

– Tour a spice farm

– Explore the Kiwengwa caves

Nungwi Village (North Coast) – Best for snorkeling and diving

This is the perfect destination for beach lovers!

Nungwi Village is where you will find the most stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. There are plenty of dive sites to explore and many restaurants and bars. Plus, if you’re looking for a relaxing stay, there are plenty of resorts where you can relax by the pool or on the beach.

The North Coast is probably the most popular area of Zanzibar for travelers. Due to its location, it’s pretty much unaffected by the changing tides – proving uninterrupted beach access all day long.

The beaches here are some of the most beautiful in Zanzibar and they’re ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You’ll even find lots of sand buggying and kite surfing opportunities here, so if you’re looking for an active holiday this is where to go!

The many restaurants, bars, and shops provide lots of entertainment and nightlife opportunities here as well.

Best hostel in Nungwi

Homeland Swahili Lodge

For budget travelers in Zanzibar, Homeland Swahili Lodge is a perfect choice.

Located right in the heart of Nungwi Village just 700 meters from Baobab Tree, this hostel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free Wifi access.

They even offer free use of bicycles and cars for hire.

The hostel has a garden with lounge chairs where you can relax after a long day of exploring.

And nearby the hostel, you’ll find restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Zanzibari cuisine and international favorites.

>> Book a stay at Homeland Swahili Lodge

Best hotel in Nungwi

Aluna Nungwi

Wondering where to stay in Nungwi? Look no further than Aluna Nungwi.

This impressive property features two swimming pools, a spa, and family-friendly rooms – making it great for families or those looking for a luxurious experience.

They also offer diving and snorkeling trips where you can explore the vibrant marine life around the island.

The property is located in the heart of Nungwi where you’ll find lots of restaurants, bars, and shops. The hotel itself also has its own restaurant and bar where you can enjoy a nice meal.

>> Book a stay at Aluna Nungwi

Things to see and do in Nungwi

– Go scuba diving

– Visit a turtle sanctuary

– Relax on Nungwi beach

– Go off-roading

– Explore the local markets

– Visit Mnarani Ruins

Jambiani – Best for calm and relaxing beaches

If you’re looking for a calm, more off-the-grid vacation, where you can truly relax and unwind on the beach, then Jambiani is where you should stay.

Jambiani offers a more laid-back atmosphere than its touristy neighbors. There are plenty of lovely beaches where you can just sit back and admire the beautiful views.

Plus there are lots of great seafood restaurants where you can enjoy a fresh meal.

The village itself is also very charming and there’s a real sense of community here where everyone looks out for one another.

This makes it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just relax on the beach.

Best hostel in Jambiani

Equalia Boutique Hotel

Equalia Boutique Hotel is my top choice for budget travelers in Jambiani. Its location right along the stunning beach makes for the perfect place to relax and unwind.

This hostel also offers air-conditioned rooms and wifi throughout the property.

They offer a variety of services such as airport transportation, room service, and more.

>> Book a stay at Equalia Boutique Hotel

Best hotel in Jambiani

Jambiani Villas is where you will find the perfect balance between luxury, relaxation, and adventure.

This hotel is located in Jambiani Villages and is composed of three properties: Kaskazi, Katikati, and Kusini.

All properties are located right along the beach and are 400m away from each other.

The villas offer air-conditioned rooms with private balconies where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea. Wifi is also available throughout the property.

>> Book a stay at Jambiani Villas

Things to see and do in Jambiani

– Sunbathe at Jambiani Beach

– Swim in Kuza Cave

– Go kitesurfing

– Join a Zanzibar bar crawl

Paje – Best for kitesurfing and wind sports

Adventurers and thrill-seekers in Zanzibar will definitely want to head to Paje.

The beaches here are perfect for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other types of water sports. In fact, many professional athletes come to Paje to test their skills and challenge themselves.

Paje is located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. It is situated between the villages of Bwejuu and Jambiani.

The atmosphere in Paje is much more laid-back than the touristy areas on the island.

You’ll find lots of local beachfront resorts where you can relax and unwind.

Plus, there are lots of shops where you can pick up souvenirs and handmade items.

Best hostel in Paje

Demani Lodge Zanzibar

Backpackers and adventure-seekers will love Demani Lodge Zanzibar.

This hostel is located in the heart of Paje where you can enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean right from your balcony or terrace.

The property offers air-conditioned rooms as well as free wifi access throughout the building.

What’s more, they also provide easy access to the beach where you can enjoy activities like kite surfing, windsurfing, and much more.

Choose from a single, double, triple, or dorm-style room for your stay at Demani Lodge Zanzibar.

>> Book a stay at Demani Lodge Zanzibar

Best hotel in Paje

When it comes to the best hotel in Paje, Aluna is where it’s at.

This 4-star hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a garden, and private parking. Each room includes a desk and a balcony with a pool view.

Wifi is available on the property and they even offer bikes for rent to explore the island.

>>> Book a stay at Aluna

Things to see and do in Paje

– Go stand-up paddleboarding

– Explore the village of Paje

– Try windsurfing or kitesurfing

– Visit the Seaweed Center of Paje

Stone Town – Best for history, nightlife, and street food

Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town is where the old meets new, where history and culture collide with modernity.

Stone Town has a fascinating mix of African, Arabic, Indian, and European influences which can be seen all over the town in its architecture, culture, and cuisine.

As the oldest part of Zanzibar, it’s a historic part of the island that you’re sure to visit at some point during your stay here. I definitely recommend staying in Stone town for at least a portion of your trip to Zanzibar, especially if it’s your first time visiting the island.

From traditional Swahili architecture to cobbled alleyways and markets, Stone Town is where you can see the most authentic side of Zanzibar.

The are plenty of attractions to explore, from the House of Wonders and Old Fort to the narrow winding alleys where you can shop and eat.

It’s also where you’ll find lots of nightlife options with many bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.

Stone Town is the perfect destination for history and culture lovers and those who want to be up close and personal with all the action of the city.

Best hostel in Stone Town

zLife Hostel

Backpackers in Stonetown should check out zLife Hostel. It’s in the heart of Stone Town, so it’s close to all the action you can always find happening here.

The rooms are clean and spacious, and there are even both indoor and outdoor common areas for guests to enjoy.

It’s only 10km from the Zanzibar airport and just a 10-minute walk to the ferry – perfect for exploring mainland Tanzania or surrounding cities like Dar es Salaam.

You can choose from either a double room or dorm-style beds at zLife Hostel.

And, they offer rooms both with and without air-conditioning.

>> Book a room at zLife Hostel

Best hotel in Stonetown

Tembo House Hotel

Tembo House Hotel is where you want to stay if you’re looking for modern comforts and great service.

The spacious rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi access, and flat-screen TVs. The outdoor pool area is where you can take a dip to beat the heat.

And their onsite restaurant serves up tasty local and international cuisine for guests to enjoy.

It’s located right in the heart of StoneTown where you have easy access to all the attractions of this historic city.

This historic hotel is just a 3-minute walk from attractions like the Old Fort and House of Wonders.

>>> Book a stay at Tembo House Hotel

Things to see and do in Stonetown

– Join a walking tour of Stonetown

– Visit the Old Fort and House of Wonders

– Shop at Darajani Bazaar

– Explore Forodhani Gardens

– Tour Prison Island

South Coast – Where to stay in Zanzibar for couples

The South Coast of Zanzibar is a popular destination for couples in Zanzibar.

It’s also home to some of the best beaches on the island, including Kizimkazi Beach, Jambiani Beach, and Paje Beach.

The South Coast is also filled with tons of resorts and luxury hotels, which is perfect for a romantic getaway.

This is the best area of Zanzibar to stay for those who want that postcard-like Zanzibar experience! The beaches here are absolutely stunning and there are plenty of water sports and activities to enjoy here.

Best budget accommodation on the South Coast

Promise Land Lodge

Located on private grounds of almost 2 hectares, Promise Land Lodge offers 8 Zanzibari-style bungalows for guests to relax in.

The property offers its own beach bar where you can sip a cocktail under the Tanzanian sun.

On the beach, there are lounge chairs, hammocks, and a beach volleyball court.

>> Book a stay at Promise Land Lodge

Best hotel on the South Coast

This 4-star property is located just an 8-minute walk from Kizimkazi Dimbani Beach.

It offers air-conditioned rooms, free wifi, and an on-site garden and terrace. Each room comes with a balcony with a direct view of the garden.

Kizkula offers free bike rentals and provides luggage storage for guests and room service.

Breakfast is available every morning on the property and is included in the price of your stay.

>> Book a stay at Kizkula

Things to see and do on South Coast

– Sunbathe on one of the many beaches

– Visit Cheetah’s Rock

– Explore Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve.

Find hotels in Zanzibar

Thanks for reading.

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Dhow Restaurant and Beit el-Ajaib (House of Wonders).

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Zanzibar Island

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

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Zanzibar Island. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

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…

Two red Colobuse Monkey in a rainforest of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa

Jozani-Chwaka National Park

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

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The 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.

The Conscious Traveller: Elevating Luxury Travel through Authenticity with Mallerby’s

Elevating luxury travel through authenticity for The Conscious Traveller In the quarter century of being immersed in the travel industry, I’ve witnessed a profound shift

Visit Rwanda - gorilla trekking - singita

Visit Rwanda: Your Essential Guide for a Remarkable Trip

Introduction to Visit Rwanda Visit Rwanda, a captivating country in the heart of Africa, where nature’s allure and cultural wonders blend seamlessly. Join Mallerby’s Luxury

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

25 years’ experience in Luxury Travel across Africa. Curated itineraries for Big 5 safaris through Southern Africa, East Africa and Indian Ocean Island escapes. Contact us for your travel to Africa – we’re ready to assist.

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Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings

Visitors from America and Western Europe might be surprised to discover that Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. That’s because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. After the end of the Soviet Union, some Russians have begun celebrating Christmas on December 25 in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. But many Russians still observe the tradition of fasting on January 6th, breaking the fast with a large feast on Christmas Eve after the first star has appeared in the sky.

During the Soviet era, Christmas and religious traditions were banned in Russia. Santa Claus was replaced by Ded Moroz, or, Grandfather Frost, an old man with a long white beard who would bring gifts to children on New Year’s instead of Christmas. According to Russian tradition, Ded Moroz is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snowmaiden, who helps him on his journey to give presents to children.

Although the tradition of having a Christmas tree, known as a yolka in Russian, was also banned during Soviet times, Russians got around this by having New Year’s trees from which they hung homemade decorations. Today, the restrictions of the Soviet Union have faded into history, and during the Christmas season visitors to Russia can even purchase Christmas ornaments in the shape of matryoshka dolls, or religious icons that depict nativity scenes.

Heading counterclockwise around the Golden Ring this holiday season, northeast of Moscow, your first stop will most likely be the city of Vladimir, home to some of Russia’s most striking churches and cathedrals. The Vladimir region is known for its fine crystal. Stop by the Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures, and Embroidery Museum ( 2 Bolshaya Moskovskaya ) for an overview of traditional crafts before visiting the gift shop in the museum to browse the crystal selection. Vladimir Chic ( 2 Dvoryanskaya ) also sells local glass and crystal work.

Typical souvenirs are also for sale in Vladimir’s old town, especially by the Golden Gate, a triumphal arch and defensive tower that is one of the last-remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded ancient Vladimir and a sure stop on any tour of the Golden Ring.

Just 63 kilometers from Vladimir lays the nearby city of Gus-Khrustalny , the ‘Crystal Goose,’ also home to a rich glass and crystal making tradition. You can visit the glassmaking factory in Gus-Khrustalny and buy gifts ranging from plates and vases to decanters, or visit the outlet store back in Moscow ( 4 Ilyinka ) just east of the Kremlin.

North of Vladimir, you’ll arrive in Suzdal, one of the Golden Ring route’s more tranquil towns. Suzdal boasts a number of small bazaars and stands outside the main tourist sites where visitors can purchase local honey mead, called medovukha, along with traditional crafts, like a pair valenki, or Russian woolen boots, which make an ideal Christmas gift for friends and family back home. The shopping stands outside Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life ( Ul. Pushkarskaya ) are also highly recommended. Market Square ( Torgovaya Pl ) houses a number of shops where visitors can search for arts and crafts.

Following the Golden Ring north of Suzdal, many tours will stop in the city of Kostroma, a former trading outpost on the immense Volga River. One of the city’s highlights is the Museum of Linen and Birchbark ( 38 Tereshkova ), where visitors can view exhibits on traditional Russian crafts woven from flax and bark. A gift shop in the basement sells tablecloths, napkins, baskets, linen dolls, and traditional clothing typical of the region.

South from Kostroma, stop in the city of Rostov-Veliky for enamel jewelry, a craft which allows artists to produce small paintings on metal that are then fired to produce a thin glaze over the image. Rostov became famous for its tradition of enamel work. Today, visitors can purchase rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and jewelry boxes in the gift shop of the Rostov Enamel factory ( 3 Borisoglebskoye Highway ).

While you’re in Rostov, visit the House of Crafts ( 16 Vtoraya Tolstovskaya Naberezhnaya ) for local pottery and the Souvenirs shop ( 5 Ul. Kamennyi Most ) for ushanka hats—Russian fur caps with earflaps—paintings, and samovars for tea lovers.

The last two stops on a tour of the Golden Ring are the cities of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Sergiev Posad. Pereslavl is most famous for its embroidery work, available at the Art Salon ( 12 Ul. Sovetskaya ) along with souvenirs made of wood and stone. Nearby Sergiev Posad is considered the place where Russia’s matryoshka dolls were first invented, and was the chief production center of the dolls before Soviet times. Visit the city’s Toy Museum ( 123 Pr. Krasny Armii ) to get a better sense of the birthplace of one of Russia’s most recognizable toys, then head over to the market alongside the Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius—one of the city’s most important sites—to load up on matryoshka dolls, painted eggs, and icons before going home.

If you’ll be in the Golden Ring during New Years, the city of Vladimir hosts an impressive Christmas fair, with an iceskating rink and performances by local artists, in the main square ( Sobornaya Pl ). In most other Golden Ring cities you’ll find similar events in the center square as Christmas nears.

Most shops and markets in the Golden Ring are open year round. If you’re coming to Russia for a short period of time, whether in winter or summer, consider a trip to this stunning part of the country, and bring an extra bag if you plan to go shopping for Christmas gifts.

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow. Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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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.
Ten Days in Zanzibar: An Itinerary for First-Timers
Twelve years, 100 countries, and one successful travel blog later, I'm still going. This website is the result of tens of thousands of hours of on-the-ground research. I pay for all my travels myself, don't take press trips, and travel anonymously; all to ensure my recommendations are ones you can trust.
Your Complete Zanzibar One Week Itinerary: what to do, and more!
Or go for lunch or dinner at Lukmaan Restaurant 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.
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.
The Ultimate One Week Zanzibar Itinerary
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.
Best Itinerary for First Time Travelers to Zanzibar
If you are looking for the best travel/tour operator within Zanzibar I would highly recommend Amnaf Shellah. He helped us so much to organize boat trips, provide us with reliable taxis, and so much more! It's a small family business and they are really the best. Contact Amnaf at +255 777 45 4245.
One Week Itinerary For Zanzibar: The Ultimate Guide The Spice Island
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..
24 Awesome Things to Do in Zanzibar & Zanzibar Itinerary Tips
5. Watch wildlife at Jozani forest. Wildlife lovers may want to trek into the Jozani Forest in search of red colobus monkeys, a species that can only be found in Zanzibar. It is also home to Sykes monkey, Ader's duiker, bush babies, over 50 species of butterfly, 40 species of birds and 100 species of trees. 6.
Zanzibar Travel Guide & Tips
Spice up your life - Zanzibar. Situated off the coast of Tanzania and washed by the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is a tropical archipelago comprised of several scattered islands, the largest two being Unguja (Zanzibar Island) and Pemba. New to Tanzania: Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa.
The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide
How to travel around in Zanzibar. 1. Cars, motorcycles, bicycles and 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.
My 2 Week Trip to Zanzibar (beach huts, local food, activities and more)
Taxi costs - Getting from Zanzibar City/Stone Town to Jambiani or Kizimkazi or pretty much any of the main beach areas on the north, east or southern coast should cost between $25 - $40 USD. A taxi from the airport to the center of Stone Town should cost around $8 - $12 USD. There are also local trucks/vans that have set routes around the ...
Zanzibar Travel Guide & Tips
Zanzibar is a dream destination, with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches surrounded by lush tropical forests. This Zanzibar travel guide will make sure that you get the most out of all that this east Africa archipelago has to offer. Located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar Island has captivated travelers with ...
My Ultimate Guide to Exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar
Traditional towels or hand carved wooden chests. Local Spices and Handmade Soaps. Organic hand-mixed mosquito repellant. Woven baskets, fans, and totes. For a detailed guide on how best to explore and experience Zanzibar, be sure to get my detailed guidebook covering everything you need to know below! GET THE GUIDE.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar (2023): Best Areas & Hotels
The South Coast of Zanzibar is a popular destination for couples in Zanzibar. It's also home to some of the best beaches on the island, including Kizimkazi Beach, Jambiani Beach, and Paje Beach. The South Coast is also filled with tons of resorts and luxury hotels, which is perfect for a romantic getaway. This is the best area of Zanzibar to ...
Zanzibar Island travel
Tanzania, Africa. Zanzibar Island is a jewel in the ocean, surrounded by beaches that rate among the finest in the world. Here you can swim, snorkel or just lounge the hours away, while shoals of luminous fish graze over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.
10 BEST Things to Do in Zanzibar
Visit tourist attractions around the area, such as Baraka Natural Aquarium and the Rock Restaurants, before ending the day. Day 3: Go island-hopping and snorkeling in Matemwe, and spend another day relaxing by the beach. Day 4: Head back to Stone Town, go to the airport, return the car, and fly back home.
The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide for Luxury Travel
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. Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide showing enchanting islands and captivating atolls that make this a dream destination for discerning travellers.
Cheap Flights from Moscow Zhukovsky to Zanzibar
Compare prices from top airlines and travel agencies to find the best flight deals. Skyscanner. Help; English (US) EN Israel $ USD USD ($) Flights. Hotels. Car Rental. Cheap flights from Moscow Zhukovsky to Zanzibar. ... Compare Moscow Zhukovsky to Zanzibar flight deals. Find the cheapest month or even day of the year to fly.
Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets
The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is . Journey Duration.
Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings
Travel Education Business History Science & Tech Russian Kitchen Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings. Travel Dec 12 2013 ...
Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations
6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders. Novoslobodskaya metro station. 7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power.

The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

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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

Day 7: Kiwengwa

Day 8: Visit Jozani Forest from Jambiani

Day 9: Enjoy the Beach at Kizimkazi

Day 10: Enjoy a Blue Safari

Final Thoughts on How to Spend 10 Days in Zanzibar

Lauren Juliff

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

Useful information for your Zanzibar itinerary

When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

Where to stay in Zanzibar

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

How to get to Zanzibar?

Getting around the island during your Zanzibar itinerary

How many days do you need around Zanzibar?

Visa requirements for Zanzibar (Tanzania)

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

Day 1 – Get lost on the streets of Stone Town

Take the boat from Stone Town and disembark on Changuu Island

Other things worth trying in Zanzibar’s capital

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

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

Visit Jozani Forest Reserve

Day 4 – explore the underwater world

Day 5 – Enjoy the incredible beaches!

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

Enjoy the sunset from Nungwi beach