Tanzania · Indian Ocean · Spice Island
Zanzibar
Travel Guide
Beaches, spices, and the soul of the Spice Island. Where the Indian Ocean meets a thousand years of history.
🏖️ 1,554
sq km Main Island
🌡️ 28–32°C
Year-Round Warmth
⏱️ 20 min
Flight from Dar es Salaam
🏛️ 1,000+
Years of History
The Spice Island
Some Places Take Hold of You the Moment You Arrive
The smell hits you first. Cloves, jasmine, and salt air blend together as you step off the plane. Then the light catches you , soft, warm, and golden in a way that makes everything look slightly better than it did before. Finally, when you reach the coast, the Indian Ocean opens before you in a shade of turquoise that no photograph has ever done justice to.
Zanzibar is an archipelago off the Tanzanian coast , the main island of Unguja, the smaller island of Pemba, and dozens of tiny islets scattered across the water. For centuries, Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and Portuguese cultures have layered over each other here. The result is something genuinely unlike anywhere else.
"Zanzibar is the only place where you can track lions on a morning game drive and be swimming in the Indian Ocean by sunset , all on the same day."
🌊 Indian Ocean Beaches
🏛️ UNESCO Stone Town
🐠 Mnemba Atoll Diving
🌿 Spice Farm Tours
🦎 Jozani Forest
🐬 Dolphin Encounters
Location
Indian Ocean, 25–50 km off the coast of Tanzania, East Africa
Main Island
Unguja (Zanzibar Island), approx. 1,554 sq km
Capital
Zanzibar City (Stone Town), UNESCO World Heritage Site
Language
Swahili (official). English widely spoken in tourism areas.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). USD and EUR widely accepted.
Time Zone
East Africa Time (EAT) , UTC +3
Time Zone
240V / 50Hz. British-style 3-pin plug (Type G).
Time Zone
Approximately 1 hour by light aircraft
Time Zone
Approximately 20 minutes by light aircraft
Key Destinations
Key Areas to Visit in Zanzibar
Each area of the island has its own character, its own pace, and its own appeal.
Here is what to expect from each one.
Stone Town - The Historic Heart
A UNESCO World Heritage city at the western tip of the island. Narrow alleys, ornate carved wooden doors, centuries-old mosques and spice markets in full swing. One of the great urban experiences in Africa.
🏛️ UNESCO Heritage
🚶 Walking City
🍽️ Forodhani Night Market
Stone Town
Nungwi - The North Coast
Wide, white sand stretches in both directions. Unlike east coast beaches, water here does not recede at low tide, swimming is good throughout the day. Famous for spectacular sunsets and traditional dhow builders.
🏊 All-Day Swimming
🌅 Sunsets
⛵ Dhow Building
Nungwi
Kendwa - Nungwi's Quieter Neighbour
Similar swimming conditions to Nungwi with a notably more relaxed atmosphere. Full moon parties on the sand are a Zanzibar institution. Excellent snorkelling just offshore and beautiful calm water throughout the day.
🌙 Full Moon Parties
🤿 Snorkelling
😌 Low-Key Vibe
Kendwa
Matemwe - East Coast Solitude
Long, undeveloped beach backed by coconut palms. The main departure point for Mnemba Atoll , some of the finest snorkelling in the Indian Ocean. Suits travellers who want solitude rather than activity.
🏝️ Mnemba Atoll Access
🌴 Peaceful
🐢 Sea Turtles
Matemwe
Paje & Jambiani - The Southeast Coast
Long, flat beaches with shallow turquoise lagoons at low tide. Consistent trade winds make Paje one of Africa's best kitesurfing spots. Jambiani keeps its traditional fishing village character with seaweed farms in the lagoon.
🪁 Kitesurfing
🌊 Lagoons
🎣 Traditional Village
Paje & Jambiani
Kizimkazi - Dolphins & Ancient History
Wild dolphin encounters and the oldest mosque in East Africa dating to the 12th century. Early morning boat trips regularly find spinner and bottlenose dolphins. The Kizimkazi Dimbani mosque is still in active use today.
🐬 Wild Dolphins
🕌 12th Century Mosque
⛵ Boat Trips
Stone Town
Experiences
Top Things to Do in Zanzibar
Zanzibar rewards every kind of traveller. Whether your perfect day means snorkelling
a coral reef, exploring a 900-year-old city, or lying in a hammock with a book – the island delivers.
Snorkel or Dive at Mnemba Atoll
One of the finest snorkelling and diving sites in the Indian Ocean. Coral is pristine, water is warm and clear year-round. Green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, moray eels and hundreds of reef fish species. Whale shark encounters in season.
Marine Reserve · Half-Day · All Year
1
Explore Stone Town
Deserves at least a full day , ideally two. Start at the Old Fort, move through narrow alleys to the Palace Museum and former Slave Market. In the evening, Forodhani Gardens come alive with grilled lobster, Zanzibar pizza and fresh sugarcane juice.
UNESCO Heritage · Full Day · Cultural
2
Visit a Spice Farm
One of the finest snorkelling and diving sites in the Indian Ocean. Coral is pristine, water is warm and clear year-round. Green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, moray eels and hundreds of reef fish species. Whale shark encounters in season.
Half Day · Interior · Cultural & Culinary
3
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Traditional wooden dhows have sailed these waters for over a thousand years. As the sun descends, sail along the coast as the sky changes colour. Cold drinks, fresh seafood, and the gentle creak of the wooden hull in the evening wind create something memorable.
2–3 Hours · Romantic · Evening
4
Swim with Dolphins at Kizimkazi
Early morning boat trips regularly find pods of spinner and bottlenose dolphins just offshore. When the captain spots a pod, guests slip into the water with snorkels. Success rates are consistently high throughout the year. Very few places in Africa offer wild dolphin encounters this reliably.
Morning · Boat Trip · Wildlife
5
Kitesurfing in Paje
Southeast trade winds make Paje one of the best kitesurfing destinations on the continent from June to September. Wide, flat lagoon conditions at low tide are ideal for learning. Several established schools offer certified instruction for all levels.
June–September · All Levels · Adventure
6
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Zanzibar’s only national park shelters the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, found nowhere else on earth. Rust-red above, black below, with pale faces. They live in family groups throughout the forest and are relaxed around visitors. Also protects mangroves and birdlife.
2 Hours · Guided Walk · Wildlife
7
Explore Prison Island
A short boat ride from Stone Town brings you to Changuu Island, home to a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises. Some are over 100 years old and weigh up to 250 kilograms. Fed and photographed at close range. Snorkelling around the island is also excellent.
Half Day · Boat Ride · Family Friendly
8
The Case for Zanzibar
Why Zanzibar Belongs on Your Tanzania Itinerary
Tanzania offers two versions of paradise. This island is the second one.
Tanzania’s landscapes come in two flavours. One is wild , the Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater, open country where lions hunt at dawn. The other is serene , white sand, warm water, and the unhurried rhythm of island life. Zanzibar is where those two worlds meet.
After days in the bush, the island gives you somewhere to breathe. It is a place to decompress and let the ocean do its quiet, restorative work. Most travellers who pair a Tanzania safari with a Zanzibar stay describe it as the perfect combination. Adventurous enough to feel like a real journey. Relaxed enough to feel like a proper holiday.
Beyond the beach, Zanzibar has genuine depth. Its history stretches back over a thousand years. Its culture is layered, lively, and endlessly interesting. Moreover, its natural environment , both above and below the water , offers wildlife encounters that rival anything on the mainland.
Travel Planning
When to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar has a tropical climate and welcomes visitors all year.
Two rainy seasons affect the island – understanding them makes a real difference when planning your trip.
Two rainy seasons affect the island – understanding them makes a real difference when planning your trip.
Best Time to Visit: July to October
Dry season, clear skies, comfortable trade winds and ideal ocean conditions. This period also coincides with peak Tanzania safari season , the natural choice for a combined bush-and-beach itinerary. Between July and September, whale sharks visit the surrounding waters.
January – February
Hot & Dry
28–32°C. Clear skies throughout. Excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving. One of the best periods for beach and water activities.
March – May
Long Rains (Masika)
Heavy downpours, high humidity. Least suitable for a beach-focused trip. Prices drop considerably and beaches thin out. Green and lush landscapes.
June – September
Peak Season ⭐
Cool and dry. SE trade winds. Best kitesurfing season. Ideal conditions for all activities. Whale sharks visit July–September. Pairs perfectly with Tanzania safari season.
October - December
Short Rains & Festive
October brings light short rains. November can be unpredictable. December the rains taper off and the festive season begins , busy and lively. Christmas and New Year beach holidays.
Tanzania & Zanzibar
Combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania Safari
Zanzibar makes a natural end , or beginning , to any Tanzania safari. Dust and drama in the bush, then warm water and island ease on the shore.
Most travellers who do both say neither experience feels quite complete without the other.
By Air , The Easiest Option
Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct flights from Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Doha, Dubai, and several European cities. Most long-haul travellers connect through Nairobi or Dar es Salaam. Scheduled light aircraft connect Zanzibar to Arusha (approximately one hour), Dar es Salaam (approximately 20 minutes), and national park airstrips including the Serengeti, Ruaha, and Nyerere. Connecting from a Tanzania safari is fast, simple, and entirely reliable.
By Ferry , From Dar es Salaam
High-speed ferries run between Dar es Salaam port and Zanzibar Stone Town multiple times each day. The crossing takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours and offers a scenic approach to the island. Modern fast ferries are comfortable, though the open-ocean crossing can be rough in poor weather. Always choose the fast ferry service over the slower cargo-passenger option.
Getting Around the Island
Transport
Details
Private Transfer
Most resorts arrange private airport transfers. Comfortable, direct, and ideal for first-time visitors.
Taxi
Widely available at the airport and in Stone Town. Agree on a fare before departing.
Dala-Dala (Minibus)
Local shared minibuses cover most island routes cheaply. Slow and crowded, but an authentic local experience.
Scooter / Motorbike
Widely available for rent. A great way to explore independently. Road conditions vary across the island.
Bicycle
Available at most beach resorts. Good for flat coastal roads near your accommodation.
Organised Tours
Most activities , spice tours, Stone Town walks, snorkelling trips , include hotel pickup as standard.
Tanzania & Zanzibar
Combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania Safari
Zanzibar makes a natural end , or beginning , to any Tanzania safari. Dust and drama in the bush, then warm water and island ease on the shore.
Most travellers who do both say neither experience feels quite complete without the other.
Most travellers who do both say neither experience feels quite complete without the other.
Every Kori Safaris Tanzania package includes a Zanzibar extension option. Contact us to add beach time to any safari itinerary – we handle all flights, transfers, and accommodation.
Tanzania · Serengeti + Zanzibar
5-Day Zanzibar & Safari Combo
FROM $2,800 /Person Sharing
Tanzania · Northern Circuit + Zanzibar
8-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar
FROM $4,200 /Person Sharing
Tanzania · Full Northern Circuit + Zanzibar
10-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari
FROM $5,600 /Person Sharing
Tanzania · North & South + Zanzibar
14-Day Tanzania Grand Safari
FROM $7,800 /Person Sharing
Food & Culture
Cuisine, Culture & Etiquette
Zanzibari cuisine is one of the great pleasures of the island. Swahili cooking techniques combine with Arab spicing, Indian curry influences, and the remarkable abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled lobster, octopus salad, coconut fish curry, pilau rice, and Zanzibari pizza are all essential eating.
Fresh tropical fruit , papaya, mango, pineapple, jackfruit, and passion fruit , appears at every breakfast. Local coffee, ground with cardamom and ginger in the Swahili tradition, is worth seeking out.
Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. Its religious culture is strong and deeply felt. Visitors are generally welcomed with warmth and openness. Cultural sensitivity makes a real difference.
- Dress modestly away from the beach, especially in Stone Town. Cover shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes before entering mosques and private homes.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women.
- Greet people with ‘Jambo’ or ‘Habari’ , a simple Swahili greeting goes a very long way.
“Three Swahili words that will serve you well everywhere: ‘Asante’ (thank you), ‘Karibu’ (welcome), and ‘Pole pole’ (slowly, slowly , the island’s unofficial motto).”
Practical Information
Everything You Need to Know
| Detail | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Visa | Tanzania visa required for most nationalities. Available on arrival (USD 50) or via the Tanzania e-Visa portal. |
| Currency | Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). USD widely accepted. Credit cards work at most hotels and restaurants. Carry cash for markets. |
| Internet | Wi-Fi at most hotels and cafes. Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel) provide good 4G coverage across the island. |
| Tipping | 10% at restaurants is standard. USD 5–10 per day for guides and drivers is appropriate. |
| Yellow Fever | Vaccination certificate required if arriving from an endemic country. |
| Malaria | Zanzibar is a malaria zone. Antimalarial medication strongly recommended. Consult your doctor at least four weeks before departure. |
| Water | Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water widely available and inexpensive. |
| Dress Code | Swimwear on the beach only. Cover up in Stone Town and inland. Lightweight, modest clothing is both respectful and practical. |
Tanzania & Zanzibar
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Zanzibar covers every price point , from simple beach guesthouses to world-class boutique resorts.
Each part of the island suits a different kind of traveller.
Each part of the island suits a different kind of traveller.
Luxury Resorts
The north and northeast coasts , Nungwi, Kendwa, and Matemwe , are home to exceptional luxury resorts. Infinity pools overlook the Indian Ocean. Over-water suites at a number of properties. Private beach access, world-class spas, and exceptional restaurants as standard. A seamless continuation from any luxury Tanzania safari.
Nungwi
Kendwa
Matemwe
Boutique Hotels & Beach Lodges
Zanzibar excels at the boutique level. Small, independently owned properties with strong local character sit across the island. Many are positioned directly on the beach with their own snorkelling reef just offshore. Personal service is consistently a strength in this category.
Island-Wide
Paje
Matemwe
Staying in Stone Town
Beautifully restored historic buildings operating as hotels and guesthouses. Expect carved doors, inner courtyards, rooftop terraces with harbour views, and the sounds of the old city each evening. Suits travellers whose primary interest is culture and history rather than the beach.
Stone Town
UNESCO Area
Harbour Views
Tanzania & Zanzibar
