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Indian Ocean · Spice Islands of East Africa

Zanzibar
Where safari meets the sea

White coral sand. Turquoise warm water. The carved wooden doors of Stone Town. Zanzibar is the perfect final chapter to every East Africa safari: a complete shift of pace, light, temperature and flavour.

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Zanzibar Overview

The Spice Island and Swahili Paradise

Zanzibar is one of the Indian Ocean's greatest destinations. The archipelago, located 30 kilometres off Tanzania's coast, represents a unique blend of African, Arab, Persian and Asian cultures. Stone Town, the historic capital, is one of the Indian Ocean's great cultural centres, a UNESCO World Heritage listed old town of narrow lanes, ornately carved wooden doors, ancient mosques and bustling bazaars.

The islands' history is written in the architecture and street names of Stone Town: the slave trade, the spice trade, the Arab sultanate, the revolution of 1964 and the modern renaissance. Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and black pepper were grown across the islands, making them one of the world's wealthiest destinations in the nineteenth century.

Beyond the cultural richness, Zanzibar is a world class beach and diving destination. The surrounding waters host 50+ dive sites and over 1,100 fish species. Coral reefs in perfect condition support extraordinary marine biodiversity. And the island's position makes it the perfect ending to a Tanzania safari, a 45 minute charter flight connects the Serengeti to Zanzibar seamlessly.

Most visitors arrive in Zanzibar after 5 to 7 days on a Tanzania safari circuit, allowing them to decompress from the intensity of wildlife encounters and return to a world of sensory indulgence: the smell of spices, the warmth of the Indian Ocean, Swahili hospitality and the simple pleasure of lying on white sand watching the sun set over the water.

Location30 km off Tanzania's coast
SizeUnguja island: 1,660 km²
Population1.9 million
CurrencyTanzanian Shilling, USD widely accepted
LanguageSwahili · English
Time ZoneUTC+3 (EAT)
From Serengeti45 minutes by charter flight
From Dar es Salaam25 minutes by flight · 2 hrs by ferry
Best DivingOctober to March, clearest visibility
VisaIncluded in Tanzania visa, USD 50
Why Zanzibar

The Perfect Safari Finale

A 45 minute charter from any Serengeti or Arusha airstrip drops you directly on Zanzibar's shores. After days of wildlife intensity, the transition to white sand and turquoise water is extraordinary.

Stone Town's Living Culture

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is one of the Indian Ocean's most atmospheric cities. Its narrow lanes, carved doors, night markets and Swahili culture are entirely unlike anywhere else in East Africa.

World Class Diving and Snorkelling

Mnemba Atoll near Matemwe is one of the finest dive sites in the Indian Ocean, with green turtles, spinner dolphins, eagle rays and 1,100+ fish species in crystal clear warm water.

Every Traveller, Every Budget

From ultra luxury private island resorts to intimate boutique lodges to lively beach hotels, Zanzibar has accommodation and beach experiences for every style of traveller and every length of stay.

Top National Parks

Zanzibar's Wild Kingdoms

Zanzibar's coastline offers four distinct beach regions, each with its own character, advantages and ideal visitor profile. Choosing the right area makes all the difference.

North Coast · Best for Swimming Year Round

Nungwi and Kendwa

The northern tip of Zanzibar is the island's most popular beach destination, and for good reason. Unlike the east coast beaches affected by tidal extremes, Nungwi and Kendwa have deep water at low tide, meaning the ocean is always swimmable. The sand is white and fine, the water is turquoise and warm, and the sunsets over the open channel are spectacular.

Nungwi village is a working fishing community where you can watch traditional dhows being built by hand using centuries old techniques. The turtle sanctuary at Nungwi is a popular visitor attraction where rescued sea turtles are rehabilitated before release. Kendwa, a few kilometres south, is quieter and more intimate.

Year Round SwimmingDhow BuildingTurtle SanctuaryMnemba Atoll DivingSunset Views
01
Northeast Coast · Best for Diving and Boutique Lodges

Matemwe

Matemwe is Zanzibar's boutique escape. Less visited than Nungwi and far quieter than the east coast kite beaches, this stretch of northeast coast has become home to some of the island's finest small lodges, including Mnemba Island Lodge, considered one of the best beach resorts in Africa.

Mnemba Atoll, just off the Matemwe coast, is Zanzibar's premier diving and snorkelling destination. The atoll's coral gardens support extraordinary marine biodiversity: green turtles, moray eels, barracuda, eagle rays, lionfish and enormous schools of reef fish.

Mnemba Atoll DivingBoutique LodgesSea TurtlesSpinner DolphinsQuiet and Secluded
02
East Coast · Best for Kitesurfing and Honeymooners

Paje and Jambiani

The east coast of Zanzibar is where the island's most dramatic seascapes unfold. At low tide, the water retreats to reveal vast shimmering sand flats stretching to the horizon. The east coast's consistent southeast trade winds make this one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world.

Beyond kitesurfing, the east coast is home to some of Zanzibar's most atmospheric boutique hotels including Baraza Resort and Spa and Breezes Beach Club. The village of Jambiani is one of Zanzibar's most authentic coastal communities.

Kitesurfing CapitalDramatic TidesHoneymoon LodgesAuthentic VillagesThe Rock Restaurant
03
Historic Capital · UNESCO World Heritage Site

Stone Town

Stone Town is Zanzibar's soul. This UNESCO World Heritage listed city is one of the Indian Ocean's great cultural centres, a living, breathing testament to the centuries of Arab, Persian, Indian and African influences that have shaped the Swahili coast. Its narrow winding lanes, ornately carved wooden doors and ancient coral stone buildings are entirely unlike anything else in East Africa.

The city's Forodhani Gardens Night Market, where local vendors grill fresh seafood as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, is one of Africa's great outdoor dining experiences. The House of Wonders, the Arab Fort and the Old Slave Market tell the layers of Zanzibar's complex history in ways that are moving and unforgettable.

UNESCO Heritage SiteNight MarketSpice ToursCarved Door ArchitectureDhow Harbour
04
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar is warm year round but timing matters for sea conditions, rainfall and combining with a Tanzania safari.

Peak

Long Dry Season

The best overall time to visit: calm seas, excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling, little rainfall and ideal conditions for beach and water sports. June to August is also the best kitesurfing season.

Jun to Oct
Peak

Short Dry Season

The second dry season brings clear skies, calm waters and warm temperatures. Popular for combining with Tanzania's northern circuit dry season safari.

Dec to Feb
Good

Short Rains

Brief daily showers mostly in the afternoon. Seas remain generally calm. Good for diving and beach time. October and November are transition months with improving conditions.

Oct to Nov
Low

Long Rains

Heavier rainfall and stronger winds make April and May the least ideal months. Many lodges close for annual maintenance. Seas are rougher on the east coast.

Apr to May
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak
Good
Low
What To Do

Zanzibar Experiences

01

Stone Town Cultural Walk

A guided walk through Zanzibar's UNESCO listed historic capital: its narrow lanes, carved doors, ancient mosques, the old slave market and the vibrant Forodhani Night Market.

Duration3 to 5 hours
Best timeMorning walk + evening for Night Market
Night MarketForodhani Gardens, fresh seafood grills
GuideEssential for historical context
02

Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar's historic spice trade made these islands among the wealthiest in the Indian Ocean. Half day tours take you through working farms to identify, smell and taste cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon and black pepper.

DurationHalf day
LocationZanzibar rural interior
IncludesFresh juice, spice tasting, coconut tree climbing
Best combined withStone Town visit on same day
03

Mnemba Atoll Diving and Snorkelling

Mnemba Atoll, 15 minutes by boat from Matemwe, is one of the finest dive sites in the Indian Ocean, a pristine coral garden with green turtles, spinner dolphins, eagle rays and 1,100+ fish species.

LocationMnemba Atoll, off Matemwe coast
Best visibilityOctober to March
Marine lifeGreen turtles, dolphins, eagle rays, moray eels
Diving operatorAvailable at most Matemwe and Nungwi lodges
04

Sunset Dhow Cruise

Sail out of Stone Town or Nungwi on a traditional Arab dhow as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean. Fresh seafood, Swahili hospitality and one of the most beautiful sunsets in East Africa.

Duration2 hours
Departure2 hours before sunset
IncludesFresh snacks, soft drinks or sundowner
Best seasonCalm seas June to October and December to February
05

Spinner Dolphin Swimming

Large pods of spinner dolphins live permanently in the waters off Kizimkazi on Zanzibar's southern tip. Early morning snorkel excursions offer the chance to swim alongside them in the wild.

LocationKizimkazi, south Zanzibar
SeasonYear round, best Oct to Feb
DurationHalf day including boat transfer
NoteWild dolphins, sightings not guaranteed
06

Kitesurfing at Paje

Paje on Zanzibar's east coast is one of the world's top kitesurfing destinations. The consistent southeast trade winds (Kusi) from June to September deliver ideal conditions for all levels.

LocationPaje Beach, east coast
Best seasonJune to September (Kusi winds)
SchoolMultiple certified IKO kitesurfing schools on the beach
Best forBeginners through advanced
Sample Itineraries

Zanzibar Itineraries

Three Zanzibar itineraries, from a standalone island break to a complete Tanzania circuit.

5 Days · Classic Zanzibar

Classic Zanzibar

Stone Town, spices and the Indian Ocean

Duration5 days / 4 nights
FromUSD 1,800 per person
RegionZanzibar
HighlightStone Town + Beach

The ideal standalone Zanzibar itinerary: Stone Town's culture and history, a spice farm tour and two nights of relaxation on the north or east coast beach.

Day 1Arrive Zanzibar Airport. Transfer to Stone Town lodge. Evening Forodhani Night Market.
Day 2Full Stone Town guided walk: slave market, Arab Fort, House of Wonders, carved doors.
Day 3Morning spice farm tour. Afternoon transfer to Nungwi or Matemwe beach lodge.
Day 4Full beach day. Optional Mnemba Atoll snorkelling or sunset dhow cruise.
Day 5Morning at leisure. Transfer to airport. Depart or connect to mainland.
From USD 1,800Enquire →
7 Days · Serengeti and Zanzibar

Serengeti and Zanzibar

Wildlife and ocean, the classic combination

Duration7 days / 6 nights
FromUSD 4,200 per person
RegionSerengeti + Zanzibar
HighlightSafari + Beach

Three nights in the Serengeti combined with four nights in Zanzibar. The complete East Africa experience in one focused week.

Days 1–3Serengeti National Park: game drives, Migration and Big Five.
Day 4Charter flight from Serengeti airstrip to Zanzibar Airport (45 min). Stone Town afternoon.
Day 5Stone Town cultural walk and spice farm tour.
Days 6–7Beach lodge at Nungwi or Matemwe. Mnemba Atoll snorkelling.
From USD 4,200Enquire →
10 Days · Full Tanzania Circuit

Full Tanzania Circuit

Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Zanzibar

Duration10 days / 9 nights
FromUSD 6,500 per person
RegionNorthern Tanzania + Zanzibar
HighlightComplete Tanzania

The complete Tanzania circuit: Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti and Zanzibar, covering the continent's greatest wildlife spectacle and its finest Indian Ocean island.

Day 1Arrive Kilimanjaro Airport. Transfer to Arusha.
Days 2–3Tarangire National Park: elephants and baobabs.
Days 4–6Serengeti: three nights in the central or northern Serengeti.
Day 7Ngorongoro Crater full day descent.
Days 8–10Charter to Zanzibar. Stone Town, spice farm, beach and Mnemba Atoll diving.
From USD 6,500Enquire →
Before You Go

Zanzibar Travel Essentials

Getting There

Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct and connecting flights from Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and several European cities. Most visitors connect through Nairobi or Dar. Alternatively, a 45 minute charter from any Serengeti airstrip or Arusha is a seamless safari to beach transition.

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, the Tanzania e-Visa (USD 50) covers both mainland and Zanzibar. No separate entry is required.

Culture and Dress

Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. In Stone Town and villages, dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is appropriate only on the beach. Modest dress in town is both respectful and required.

Friday prayers are important on the island and some businesses close on Friday afternoons. The holy month of Ramadan affects opening hours and availability of food and drink during daylight hours.

Ocean Safety

The east coast beaches experience significant tidal variation, up to 3 metres between high and low tide. At low tide the sea retreats hundreds of metres leaving exposed tidal flats. Swimming at low tide on the east coast is not possible from the beach. The north coast (Nungwi and Kendwa) has deep water at all tides.

Always check tidal times before planning beach activities on the east coast. Your lodge will advise on best swimming times for your specific beach.

Money

The Tanzanian Shilling is the official currency. USD is accepted everywhere in Zanzibar. ATMs are available in Stone Town but can run out of cash in peak season, arrive with sufficient USD cash.

Card payments are accepted at larger lodges and restaurants but cash is essential for markets, smaller shops, tips and local transport.

Health

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for Zanzibar despite the island's lower transmission rate compared to the mainland. Standard mosquito precautions apply: repellent, long sleeves at dusk.

Do not drink tap water. Sealed bottled water is available everywhere. Your lodge will provide filtered or bottled water throughout your stay.

Practical

Zanzibar uses British Type G electrical plugs at 240V. Power cuts are not uncommon outside the main tourist areas, lodges have generators or solar backup. Zanzibar has followed Tanzania mainland in banning plastic bags.

Mobile coverage with Vodacom and Airtel is good across most of the island including Stone Town and the main beach areas. WiFi is available at most lodges.

Where to Stay

Zanzibar Lodges

Ultra Luxury

Mnemba Island Lodge

On a private island inside the Mnemba Atoll Marine Conservation Area off Matemwe. Ten bandas directly on white sand with no day visitors permitted. The Indian Ocean's most exclusive beach retreat, with extraordinary house reef diving and snorkelling immediately off the beach.

Luxury

Baraza Resort and Spa

Thirty suites on Bwejuu Beach on the east coast, built in traditional Zanzibari Arabesque style with intricate carved plasterwork and four poster beds. Multiple pools, world class spa and access to the dramatic tidal east coast.

Boutique

Emerson Spice

A restored nineteenth century merchant's house in the heart of Stone Town, with a rooftop restaurant considered Zanzibar's finest dining experience. Seven unique suites each decorated with antique Zanzibari furniture and hand crafted textiles.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from the Serengeti to Zanzibar?+

A charter flight from any Serengeti or Arusha airstrip to Zanzibar Airport takes approximately 45 minutes. We arrange these as part of every Tanzania + Zanzibar itinerary. It is one of East Africa's great travel transitions, bush to beach in under an hour.

Which beach is best?+

It depends on what you want. Nungwi and Kendwa in the north have deep water at all tides and the most lively beach atmosphere. Matemwe in the northeast is quiet with the best access to Mnemba Atoll diving. Paje on the east coast is the kitesurfing capital. Zanzibar has no single 'best' beach, it depends on your priorities.

How many nights should I spend in Zanzibar?+

A minimum of 3 nights is needed to cover Stone Town and a beach area. 4 to 5 nights allows time for snorkelling, a spice tour, Stone Town and genuine relaxation. Most visitors combining Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari spend 3 to 4 nights on the island.

Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?+

Yes. Zanzibar is one of East Africa's safest tourist destinations. The island has a long established, professionally managed tourism industry. Standard precautions apply, don't walk alone on deserted beaches at night and keep valuables secured. Stone Town requires awareness of your surroundings in the narrower lanes.

Can I combine Zanzibar with Kenya?+

Yes, though it requires a flight to Nairobi or Mombasa first. A popular option is Kenya safari (Masai Mara) + Diani Beach on the Kenyan coast + Zanzibar. Alternatively, fly Mombasa to Zanzibar directly on local carriers.

What should I wear in Stone Town?+

Zanzibar is a Muslim island and Stone Town is a working town, not a resort. Cover shoulders and knees when walking in the town and visiting any religious site. Loose lightweight clothing works well in the heat. Swimwear and beachwear should only be worn at the beach.

What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?+

June to October and December to February are the two dry seasons and the best overall times to visit. The Indian Ocean is at its calmest, visibility for diving is best and rainfall is minimal. The short rains (October to November) are mild and still enjoyable. Avoid April and May, the long rains are heavier.

Signature Moments

What defines Zanzibar

Hand-picked highlights, scroll to explore each in turn.

Zanzibar
01

Stone Town & spice tours

Zanzibar
02

Mnemba and the reefs

Zanzibar
03

Beach lodges, north and east coasts

Zanzibar
04

Post-safari extensions

Featured Itineraries

Journeys in Zanzibar

All Journeys →
11D · Tanzania + Zanzibar

Serengeti Wild and Indian Ocean

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