Fragrant with cloves and framed by turquoise tides, Zanzibar, Tanzania captures the imagination long before you arrive. Its coral-stone alleys whisper of sultans, sailors, and centuries of spice trade, while sunlit beaches curve toward reefs alive with color. Between rooftop teas, dhow sails, and spice garden walks, every sense awakens here. Dive into this guide to uncover when to visit, what to see, and how to experience Zanzibar’s island magic at its most authentic.
Quick Facts: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Time ZoneEast Africa Time, UTC+3
Nearby DestinationsDar es Salaam, Pemba Island, Mafia Island
Average Temperature24 to 32°C, coolest July to August, hottest January to March
Cash or Card?Cash works everywhere, cards accepted at many hotels and larger restaurants. ATMs in Stone Town and major beach towns
Destination Overview
Why Visit Zanzibar?
Fragrant with cloves and cinnamon, Zanzibar blends centuries of Indian Ocean trade with island ease. Stone Town’s balconies and brass-studded doors tell stories of Swahili, Omani, and Indian heritage. North coast beaches glow with powdery sand and clear water. To the east, Paje and Jambiani offer steady winds for kitesurfing. Offshore reefs teem with tropical fish, while spice gardens and village kitchens keep the table vibrant and soulful.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
- Spring – March to May brings the long rains. Vivid green landscapes and fewer crowds, but some excursions cancel during heavy downpours.
- Summer – June to August is dry and breezy with comfortable heat. Clear water, busy season, book activities and top stays in advance.
- Autumn – September to October stays dry to early October, then humidity rises. Great for beach time and diving before the short rains.
- Winter – November to December has the short rains, usually brief tropical showers. Late December is festive and crowded. January to February is hot and often calm at sea.
Travel Difficulty & Ideal Duration
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, given heat and some uneven lanes in Stone Town.
Recommended: 5 to 8 days for first timers, longer if combining multiple coasts or Pemba. Compact distances keep transfers simple.
Essential Travel Information
Visa & Entry
Many nationalities can apply online for a Tanzania e-Visa covering Zanzibar. Use the official portal, pay online, and bring your approval printout. Zanzibar operates its own entry control on arrival. As of late 2024 onward, inbound travel insurance for visitors is mandatory, purchased before arrival and verified at immigration. See official links below for current terms and purchase steps.
Money & Realistic Daily Costs
- Budget: TZS 70,000 to 140,000 per person per day, street food, local cafés, shared tours, dala dala transport
- Mid-range: TZS 200,000 to 500,000 per person per day, boutique stays, guided day trips, mix of local and resort dining
- Luxury: TZS 600,000+ per person per day, upscale resorts, private boats, spa days, fine dining
Language & Communication
Swahili is warm and welcoming. “Habari?” for how are you, “Karibu” means you are welcome. SIMs are available in Stone Town from Airtel, Vodacom, Halotel, and Zantel. eSIM providers also work on the island. Coverage is strong in towns, more variable in mangroves or offshore.
Getting There & Around
Air, Rail, Bus: Fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Zanzibar City. Many travelers connect via Dar es Salaam and ferry across by high speed catamaran. Ferries also run to Pemba.
Local transport: Taxis and private drivers are easiest. Dala dala minibuses are cheapest and local, yet slow and crowded. East coast villages are walkable along the beach at low tide.
Top Things to Do in Zanzibar
Must-See Landmarks & Cultural Sites
-
Stone Town UNESCO Quarter
Admission and timing: Free to wander, best with a guide 2 to 3 hours
Best visiting time: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler streets
Explore carved Swahili doors, coral rag houses, and market lanes. Look for brass studs and Indian, Arab, and European motifs woven into façades. -
Old Fort, Ngome Kongwe
Admission and timing: TZS 5,000 to 10,000, daily roughly 8:00 to 18:00
Best visiting time: Late afternoon, combine with Forodhani sunset
A 17th century Omani stronghold facing the sea. Inside are small galleries, a courtyard stage, and craft stalls. -
Sultan’s Palace Museum, Beit el-Sahel
Admission and timing: TZS 10,000 to 15,000, typical hours late morning to late afternoon
Best visiting time: Mid morning before tour groups
Exhibits on Zanzibari sultans and royal life. Modest but atmospheric rooms with coastal breezes through carved windows. -
Hamamni Persian Baths
Admission and timing: TZS 5,000 to 10,000, daylight hours
Best visiting time: Morning when it is cooler
Ornate 19th century baths with labyrinthine corridors and domed vents. A quick, intriguing stop that pairs with a door trail. -
Forodhani Gardens & Night Market
Admission and timing: Free, food stalls from around 18:00 to late
Best visiting time: Sunset to early evening
Grills sizzle with octopus, Zanzibar pizza, sugarcane juice, and mishkaki skewers. Casual, lively, and perfect before a dhow sail. -
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Admission and timing: Guiding included, park open roughly 7:30 to 17:00, entry commonly around TZS 12,000 for non-resident adults
Best visiting time: Morning for red colobus sightings
Elevated boardwalks cross mangroves and forest where the rare red colobus monkeys leap through the canopy. -
Changuu, Prison Island
Admission and timing: Boat from Stone Town 20 to 30 minutes, island entry commonly around USD 18 equivalent, day trips 3 to 5 hours
Best visiting time: Morning before heat and crowds
Visit the old quarantine buildings and meet the Aldabra giant tortoises, then snorkel the clear shallows. -
Darajani Market
Admission and timing: Free, busiest 9:00 to 13:00
Best visiting time: Early morning for spices and produce
An everyday market with spice mounds, fresh seafood, and clove scented air. Ask before photographing vendors. -
Old Dispensary, Ithnashiri Dispensary
Admission and timing: Often free or small donation, daylight hours
Best visiting time: Late morning for the stained glass glow
Restored façade with carved balconies and colorful panes overlooking the harbor. -
House of Wonders, Beit el-Ajaib
Admission and timing: Landmark under restoration, exterior viewing only
Best visiting time: Golden hour for photos
Once the grand ceremonial palace, currently closed to the public during long term works. See it from Forodhani and the seafront.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
- Kizimkazi Village – Quiet south coast fishing village, dhow dotted horizon, access to serene coves. Visit at sunrise for glassy water.
- Kuza Cave, Jambiani – Freshwater limestone pool under jungle vines. Bring reef shoes and a towel, combine with Jambiani village lunch.
- Michamvi Sunset Strip – Lagoon glass at low tide, flame skies facing Chwaka Bay. Pair with a simple seafood shack dinner.
- Maruhubi Ruins – Sultanic bath remains north of town. Short yet atmospheric walk among kapok trees.
- Tumbatu Island boat – Known for seaweed farms and quiet snorkeling. Go with a licensed community guide, respect local customs.
- Mangrove Kayaking, Chwaka – Paddle winding channels at mid tide. Birdlife is best at first light.
Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Spice Farm Tour near Kizimbani, 2 to 3 hours, TZS 40,000 to 80,000 per person. Book a farm that shares profits with growers. Taste vanilla, cinnamon, and jackfruit fresh off the tree.
- Sunset Dhow Sail from Stone Town, 1.5 to 2 hours, TZS 80,000 to 180,000 per person depending on boat size and inclusions. Music and soft drinks set the mood.
- Mnemba Atoll Snorkel by boat from Matemwe or Nungwi, half day, typical boat and marine fees total TZS 250,000 to 500,000 per person depending on group size.
- Kitesurf Lesson in Paje, 2 to 3 hour session, TZS 200,000 to 400,000 per person including gear. Best winds December to February and June to September.
- Stone Town Door Trail with local historian, 2 hours, TZS 60,000 to 120,000 per person. Decodes Indian, Arab, and Swahili motifs in brass and wood.
- Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank combo, full day, typical package TZS 150,000 to 350,000 per person with seafood picnic and snorkel gear.
Best Photo Spots
- Forodhani Seafront at sunset, dhows framed against the orange horizon
- Shangani waterfront palms near the Old Fort, golden hour light on stone
- Emerson rooftop in Stone Town, 360 degree skyline and ocean
- Nungwi and Kendwa beaches, west facing sunsets with anchored dhows
- Muyuni and Matemwe for Mnemba views, calm mornings with turquoise gradations
- Jozani boardwalk for mangrove reflections after rain
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Best Areas or Neighborhoods
- Stone Town – Heritage quarter with museums, markets, and rooftops. Best for culture lovers and first nights on the island. Busy lanes, limited parking
- Nungwi and Kendwa, Northwest – Wide beaches and classic sunsets. Less tidal variation, great for swimming. Nightlife livelier on weekends
- Paje and Jambiani, Southeast – Kite capital with steady winds, shallow lagoons, chilled cafés. At very low tide the sea pulls far out
- Matemwe and Muyuni, Northeast – Quiet villages facing Mnemba. Excellent for snorkeling trips, mellow pace, fewer shops
- Michamvi and Pingwe, East – Lagoon sunsets and headland views. Good for romantic stays and kayak days
Budget Traveler Picks
- Tembo House Hotel – Forodhani Street, Stone Town • TZS 140,000 – 280,000
- Kite Centre Zanzibar Guest Options – Paje Beach • TZS 120,000 – 240,000
- Al-Minar Hotel – Shangani, Stone Town • TZS 120,000 – 220,000
- Jambiani budget lodges – Jambiani Village • TZS 90,000 – 200,000
- Kendwa Rocks – Kendwa Beach • TZS 160,000 – 320,000
Mid-Range Favorites
- Emerson Spice Hotel – Tharia Street, Stone Town • TZS 320,000 – 700,000
- Zanzibar Serena Hotel – Shangani, Stone Town • TZS 400,000 – 800,000
- Matemwe Bungalows – Matemwe • TZS 450,000 – 900,000
- Upendo Beach – Michamvi-Pingwe • TZS 550,000 – 1,200,000
- Meliá Zanzibar – Kiwengwa • TZS 500,000 – 1,200,000
Luxury Stays
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar – Shangani Street, Stone Town • TZS 1,200,000 – 2,800,000
- Zuri Zanzibar – Kendwa • TZS 1,400,000 – 3,600,000
- Essque Zalu Zanzibar – Nungwi • TZS 1,000,000 – 2,500,000
- Gold Zanzibar Beach House – Kendwa • TZS 1,000,000 – 2,300,000
- Conrad Zanzibar (formerly Hilton property) – Northeast Coast • TZS 1,500,000 – 3,500,000
Family-Friendly
- Zanzibar Serena Hotel – Connecting rooms, pool, central for Stone Town sights
- Neptune Pwani Beach Resort – Kids club, large pool, Kiwengwa beach
- Karafuu Beach Resort – Michamvi, family rooms, tennis, easy lagoon
- Ambara Zanzibar – East coast, shallow lagoon and calm vibe
- Dream of Zanzibar – Spa, activities, north east coast
Alternative Stays
- Chumbe Island Coral Park Eco-Lodge – Solar-powered bungalows, protected reefs
- Emerson Secret Garden Rooms – Boutique heritage in the heart of Stone Town
- Trusted Beach Homes – Filter for generator backup and chef options
- Kite Paradise Paje – School plus simple rooms steps from the lagoon
- Sunshine Hotel – Matemwe boutique near Mnemba launches
What & Where to Eat in Zanzibar
Must-Try Dishes
- Zanzibar Pizza – Crispy pan-fried stuffed fold with egg, veggies, or beef. Forodhani stalls, TZS 5,000 to 10,000
- Octopus Curry – Tender pweza simmered in coconut. Lukmaan or Passing Show, TZS 15,000 to 30,000
- Urojo, Zanzibar Mix – Tangy turmeric soup with fritters and potato. Popular at market canteens, TZS 3,000 to 6,000
- Pilau ya Zanzibar – Spiced rice with cloves and cardamom, often served with fish. Local cafés, TZS 8,000 to 18,000
- Sugarcane Juice and Spice Tea – Fresh pressed with lime and ginger, or clove scented tea, TZS 2,000 to 5,000
Restaurants & Cafés
- Budget Eats – Lukmaan Restaurant, New Mkunazini Road, Stone Town, plates TZS 10,000 to 25,000
- Sea View Casual – Tembo House Restaurant, Forodhani Street, grills and curries TZS 20,000 to 40,000
- Iconic Setting – The Rock, Michamvi-Pingwe. Prix fixe and à la carte, typical mains TZS 60,000 to 120,000. Reserve, check tides
- Rooftop Sunset – Emerson on Hurumzi Tea House, Stone Town. Set dinner with taarab music most nights, from TZS 90,000
- Kite Beach Cafés – Paje boardwalk shacks serving poke bowls, chapati wraps, and fresh catch, TZS 12,000 to 30,000
Street Food & Dietary Tips
- Pick busy stalls where turnover is swift. Ask for grilled rather than deep fried if you prefer lighter plates
- Vegetarian and vegan options are common in Indian eateries and café bowls, confirm fish sauce or stock if needed
- Gluten-free travelers can lean on grilled fish, rice, coconut stews, and fruit plates
- Tap water is not recommended. Stick to sealed bottles or hotel filtered dispensers. Ask for drinks without ice outside hotels
- At Forodhani, agree on the price before ordering, keep small notes, and enjoy the show of grills and dough flipping
Local Culture & Etiquette
- Norms – Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Dress modestly in towns, cover shoulders and knees away from beach zones. Greetings matter, start with “Shikamoo” for elders or a friendly “Mambo” with peers
- Do’s & Don’ts – Ask permission before photographing people. Public displays of affection are uncommon in villages. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public outside hotels
- Tipping – Small tips go a long way: porters TZS 2,000 to 5,000 per bag, guides 5 to 10 percent after tours, restaurant service 5 to 10 percent
- Festivals & Events – Sauti za Busara music festival in February, Zanzibar International Film Festival usually mid year, Mwaka Kogwa rituals in Makunduchi around July or August
Practical Tips & Safety
- Health & Safety – Use reef-safe sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Consider antimalarials per your clinician’s advice. For emergencies dial 112. Major hospital in Stone Town is Mnazi Mmoja Hospital
- What to Pack – Light cottons, a shawl for modest dress, reef shoes, hat, dry bag for boat trips, and a universal adapter
- Money Saving – Travel outside peak months, eat at local cafés for tasty curries, share boats to Mnemba or Prison Island, and pay in TZS where possible
- Emergency Phrases – “Nisaidie tafadhali” (please help me), “Wapi hospitali?” (where is the hospital), “Namba ya dharura ni ipi?” (what is the emergency number)
Zanzibar Itineraries
3-Day Express Itinerary
- Day 1 – Stone Town orientation. Old Fort, Palace Museum, door trail, sunset dhow sail, Forodhani dinner
- Day 2 – Prison Island and Nakupenda sandbank picnic. Return for rooftop dinner in Stone Town
- Day 3 – Spice farm and Jozani forest, transfer to east coast for a beach afternoon. Evening on Paje sands
7-Day Comprehensive Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive, Stone Town wander and café stops
- Day 2 – Guided heritage walk and market tasting, sunset dhow
- Day 3 – Prison Island plus Nakupenda, late afternoon rooftop tea
- Day 4 – Spice farm tasting, Jozani mangroves, move to Matemwe
- Day 5 – Mnemba Atoll snorkel trip, beach barbecued fish
- Day 6 – Transfer to Paje, kitesurf lesson or lagoon kayaking at Michamvi
- Day 7 – Free day for craft shopping in Stone Town or Kendwa sunset before departure
Off the Beaten Path Route
Loop south to Kizimkazi and Makunduchi for quiet cliff views, then drift along Jambiani village lanes for seaweed farms at low tide. Kayak the Chwaka mangroves on a rising tide, stay a night near Pingwe, and end with Matemwe’s slow rhythm with an early boat to Mnemba’s outer reef.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
Dry months from June to October bring breezy comfort and clear water. January and February are hot and sunny with calmer seas. March to May is the long rainy season, while November to December has shorter showers that can still allow beach time between bursts.
How many days do I need in Zanzibar?
First timers should plan 5 to 8 days, splitting one or two nights in Stone Town and three to six nights on the coast. Families often add a slower day for pool time. Divers and kitesurfers can fill 10 days without rushing.
Is Zanzibar safe for solo travelers?
Yes with standard precautions. Stick to lit streets at night in Stone Town, arrange trusted transfers, and avoid isolated beach walks after dark. Save emergency numbers, and use hotel safes for passports and spare cards.
What is the best area to stay in Zanzibar?
For culture and convenience choose Stone Town’s Shangani. For classic swimming and sunsets pick Nungwi or Kendwa. For kites and long beaches base in Paje or Jambiani. For quiet reef access try Matemwe facing Mnemba.
How do I get around Zanzibar without a car?
Use prebooked taxis, hotel transfers, and boats for island trips. Dala dala minibuses are cheap but slow and crowded. Many coasts are walkable along the beach at lower tide. Ride hail services are limited, arrange drivers through your hotel.
What foods should I try in Zanzibar?
Order octopus coconut curry, pilau spiced rice, urojo soup, cassava chips, and fresh seafood grills. For street classics head to Forodhani Gardens at sunset, and for heritage flavors try rooftop set dinners in Stone Town.
Do I need travel insurance for Zanzibar?
Yes. Inbound travel insurance is mandatory for foreign visitors. Buy it before you fly and keep the QR or policy number handy for checks at immigration. See the official purchase link below.
Can I pay by card on the island?
Cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants. Street markets and small cafés prefer cash. ATMs are in Stone Town and main beach villages. Carry small TZS notes for taxis and snacks.
What is a realistic price for popular day trips?
Group boats to Prison Island and Nakupenda usually run TZS 150,000 to 350,000 per person with lunch. Mnemba snorkel boats from Matemwe or Nungwi vary widely, typically TZS 250,000 to 500,000 per person depending on group size and inclusions.
Any etiquette tips for villages and mosques?
Dress modestly in towns and villages, ask before photos, and remove shoes where required. Fridays are prayer day, so plan respectfully around service times.
Don’t Miss
- Sunset dhow from Stone Town followed by a spice tea on a rooftop as the call to prayer drifts over the lanes
- Prison Island and Nakupenda in one lazy arc, snorkel over bright coral and dine with toes in sand
- Mnemba Atoll’s reef on a calm morning, then a grilled reef fish lunch at a village kitchen
- Jozani’s red colobus families leaping through coastal forest and mangrove reflections under soft light
- Paje’s wind filled afternoons, kites arcing over turquoise as you wade ankle deep for kilometers
Your Zanzibar Story Starts Here
Let the first taste be clove and sea salt, the first sound a dhow’s creak at sunset. Split your time between Stone Town’s carved doors and a quiet strand where tide lines change the day’s plan. Pick one reef, one spice farm, one village café you will remember. Choose your coast, book your bed, and mark a sunrise when the whole sky softens. Your Zanzibar begins with a single date on the calendar and a promise to slow down.
Useful Links / Official Sources
- Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, visitor information
- Tanzania e-Visa, official application portal
- Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance, official purchase
- Zanzibar Airports Authority, airport information
- Azam Marine and Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries, schedules and tickets
- Monthly climate averages, planning weather
- Emerson on Hurumzi Tea House Restaurant
- Lukmaan Restaurant, Stone Town
- The Rock Restaurant, Michamvi-Pingwe
- Emerson Spice Hotel, Stone Town
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Shangani
- Zuri Zanzibar, Kendwa