The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide

Zanzibar. The name alone conjures images of spice-scented bazaars, pristine white beaches, and centuries of cultural crossroads. This Tanzanian archipelago delivers on every promise and then some.

Having explored Zanzibar extensively—from the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town to the secluded beaches of the north—we've compiled everything you need to know for an unforgettable island escape. Whether you're seeking romance, adventure, or simply the most beautiful beaches in East Africa, this guide has you covered.

Why Visit Zanzibar?

Zanzibar occupies a unique place in the travel world. It's simultaneously a beach destination rivaling the Maldives, a cultural treasure trove with UNESCO World Heritage status, and a natural paradise with world-class diving and snorkeling. Few destinations offer this combination.

The archipelago consists of two main islands—Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar) and Pemba—along with numerous smaller islands. Most visitors focus on Unguja, which offers the greatest variety of experiences, though Pemba rewards adventurous travelers with exceptional diving and authentic island life.

Stone Town: The Cultural Heart

No visit to Zanzibar is complete without exploring Stone Town, the archipelago's historic capital. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a mesmerizing maze of narrow streets, ornate wooden doors, bustling markets, and crumbling palaces that tell the story of centuries of trade between Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe.

Must-See Attractions

• The House of Wonders: Stone Town's most iconic building, this former sultan's palace now houses the Museum of History and Culture
• Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe): A 17th-century fortress that now hosts cultural events and an evening food market
• Forodhani Gardens: The famous night food market where locals and tourists gather for street food at sunset
• Zanzibar Doors: The elaborate carved wooden doors are one of Stone Town's most photographed features
• Anglican Cathedral: Built on the site of the former slave market, a powerful memorial to Zanzibar's complex history

"Stone Town is best experienced by getting lost. Put away the map, wander the alleys, and let the island reveal itself to you."

Where to Stay in Stone Town

Stone Town's best accommodations blend historic charm with modern comfort. Look for properties in restored merchant houses or former palaces. Many rooftop terraces offer stunning sunset views over the waterfront.

Zanzibar's Best Beaches

The island's beaches are legendary, but they're not all created equal. Each coast offers a different experience, and understanding the tides is essential for planning your beach time.

North Coast: Nungwi and Kendwa

The north coast is famous for beaches where the tide change is less dramatic, meaning you can swim throughout the day. Nungwi offers a more developed scene with beach bars and restaurants, while Kendwa maintains a slightly more relaxed vibe. Both offer excellent sunsets.

East Coast: Paje, Jambiani, and Bwejuu

The east coast is known for dramatic tidal variations and a strong kite-surfing culture, particularly around Paje. These beaches are stunningly beautiful but require timing your swims with the tides. At low tide, you can walk far out on the exposed sandbars—a unique experience, but not ideal for spontaneous swimming.

Southeast: Michamvi Peninsula

This peninsula offers some of Zanzibar's most exclusive and peaceful beach experiences. The dramatic difference between the wild ocean side and the calm lagoon side makes it a fascinating area to explore.

Experiences Not to Miss

Spice Tour

Zanzibar earned its nickname "The Spice Island" for good reason. A spice tour takes you into the island's lush interior to learn about the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and black pepper that once made this island one of the most valuable territories in the world.

Jozani Forest

This protected forest is home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, found nowhere else on Earth. A guided walk through the forest also reveals the unique mangrove ecosystem and diverse birdlife.

Prison Island

A short boat ride from Stone Town, Changuu Island (Prison Island) is home to a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, some over 100 years old. The island's fascinating history includes stints as a prison, quarantine station, and now a popular day-trip destination.

Dhow Sailing

Experience the traditional mode of transport that connected Zanzibar to the trading routes of the Indian Ocean. Sunset dhow cruises from Stone Town or extended sailing trips to the smaller islands offer unforgettable experiences.

Snorkeling and Diving

Zanzibar's coral reefs are among East Africa's best. Mnemba Atoll, off the northeast coast, is the premier diving destination, though excellent sites exist around the island. Expect to see dolphins, sea turtles, and spectacular reef fish.

The Best Time to Visit

Zanzibar has two rainy seasons: the long rains (Masika) from mid-March to May, and the short rains (Vuli) in November. The dry seasons offer the most reliable beach weather, though the island's east coast can be windy from June to September.

For the best diving conditions, visit between October and March when the waters are warmest and clearest. If you're planning to combine Zanzibar with a mainland Tanzania safari, the dry season (June to October) works well for both.

Where to Stay

Zanzibar offers everything from budget guesthouses to ultra-luxury resorts. Here's how the areas break down:

Stone Town

Best for culture, history, and nightlife. Choose boutique hotels in restored buildings for the most authentic experience.

North Coast (Nungwi/Kendwa)

Best for reliable swimming beaches and a social scene. A mix of budget options and luxury resorts.

East Coast (Paje/Jambiani)

Best for kite-surfing, authentic village life, and a laid-back atmosphere. Budget to mid-range focus.

Southeast (Michamvi)

Best for exclusivity and romance. Several luxury resorts occupy this peaceful peninsula.

Getting There and Around

Most international visitors arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). Direct flights connect to Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and several Middle Eastern hubs. From mainland Tanzania, you can also take a ferry from Dar es Salaam (approximately 2 hours).

Getting around the island is easy. Taxis and private transfers are available, though many visitors arrange transport through their hotels. For flexibility, consider hiring a car with a driver for day trips or renting a scooter (though be aware of road conditions and traffic patterns).

Practical Tips

• Dress modestly in Stone Town and villages—Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and covering shoulders and knees shows respect
• Bargaining is expected in markets and with taxi drivers
• Carry cash—many smaller establishments don't accept cards, and ATMs can be unreliable outside Stone Town
• Check visa requirements—most nationalities need a visa, available on arrival or online in advance
• Take malaria precautions—consult a travel health professional before your trip
• Understand the tides—this is essential for planning beach time, especially on the east coast

The Bottom Line

Zanzibar delivers a unique blend of beach bliss and cultural richness that's hard to find elsewhere. Whether you spend your days exploring Stone Town's history, lounging on powdery beaches, or diving pristine reefs, the island leaves a lasting impression.

For the quintessential experience, we recommend splitting your time between Stone Town (2-3 nights) and a beach resort (3-4 nights). This combination captures both sides of Zanzibar's magic.

Combine Zanzibar with an East African safari for the ultimate trip. Explore our curated itineraries for inspiration.