Complete Zanzibar travel guide covering getting there, best time to visit, where to stay, culture, food, safety, and budget tips from a local Tanzania operator.
Zanzibar is not just a beach destination — it's an archipelago where centuries of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influence have created something you won't find anywhere else on earth. Spice-scented alleyways, turquoise water over white sand, UNESCO heritage, and seafood so fresh it was swimming an hour ago. After arranging hundreds of safari-and-Zanzibar combinations from our base in Moshi, we know this island intimately. Here's everything you need to plan your trip.
Zanzibar at a Glance
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, about 35 kilometres from the mainland. When people say "Zanzibar," they usually mean Unguja — the main island, 85 km long and 30 km wide. Pemba Island, 50 km to the north, is quieter, hillier, and home to world-class diving. Together with dozens of smaller islands, they form the Zanzibar Archipelago.
The population is approximately 1.8 million, overwhelmingly Muslim (95%+), and the culture is distinctly different from mainland Tanzania. Swahili is the first language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are accepted everywhere tourists go — hotels, restaurants, and tour operators all quote in USD.
A Brief History
Zanzibar's history reads like an adventure novel. For over a thousand years, monsoon winds carried traders between the Arabian Peninsula, India, and the East African coast. By the 19th century, the Sultanate of Oman had made Stone Town its new capital, and Zanzibar became the world's largest clove producer and — tragically — the centre of the East African slave trade. An estimated 50,000 enslaved people passed through Zanzibar's markets annually at its peak.
The slave trade was abolished in 1873 under British pressure. The Anglican Cathedral now stands on the former slave market site — its underground chambers are a sobering reminder. In 1964, the Zanzibar Revolution overthrew the Sultan, and the islands merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
This layered history is visible everywhere: in Stone Town's carved doors (Arab geometric patterns vs Indian brass studs), in the food (biryani from India, pilau from Persia, coconut curries from the coast), and in the architecture (Portuguese forts, Omani palaces, British colonial buildings).
How to Get to Zanzibar
By Air
- From Dar es Salaam20-minute flight, multiple daily departures. Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Precision Air. $80-$150 one way.
- From Arusha/Kilimanjaro1.5-hour flight. Coastal Aviation, Auric Air. $200-$350 one way. Perfect after a safari or Kilimanjaro climb.
- From Nairobi2-hour direct flights with Kenya Airways and Precision Air. $150-$300 one way.
- InternationalDirect charter flights from Europe during peak season — Condor (Frankfurt), Edelweiss (Zurich), TUI (multiple European cities). Some scheduled flights via Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) and Qatar Airways (Doha).
By Ferry
Fast ferries run between Dar es Salaam and Stone Town multiple times daily. Journey time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: $35 economy, $40-$50 business class. Azam Marine is the most reliable operator. Book in advance online or at the port. The ferry terminal in Dar is chaotic — arrive 1 hour early and ignore touts.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
| Season | Months | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry season | June–October | Warm, dry, 25-28°C | Beach, diving, best overall |
| Short rains | November–December | Brief afternoon showers | Fewer tourists, good value |
| Hot season | January–February | Hot, humid, 30-33°C | Beach, kite surfing |
| Long rains | March–May | Heavy rain, humid | Budget (30-50% off), lush |
June through October is the sweet spot — dry, warm, and perfect for both beach and water activities. January-February is hot but great for kite surfing in Paje. Avoid April-May unless you're on a tight budget — many restaurants and smaller hotels close, and rain can be heavy. Check our safari timing guide if you're combining with a mainland safari.
Where to Go: Zanzibar's Regions
Stone Town
The historic heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend 1-2 days exploring the labyrinthine alleyways, visiting the slave market memorial, eating at Forodhani Gardens night market, and soaking in centuries of history. It's also where the ferries and many flights arrive. Read our full Stone Town guide.
North Coast: Nungwi & Kendwa
The most popular beach area and for good reason — the north coast has minimal tidal effect, so you can swim at any time. Nungwi has the liveliest scene (beach bars, restaurants, nightlife), while Kendwa is slightly quieter with the famous Full Moon party. Best for: swimming, sunsets (west-facing), socialising, snorkelling trips to Mnemba Atoll.
East Coast: Paje, Jambiani & Matemwe
The east coast has dramatic tidal swings — at low tide, the water can retreat over a kilometre, exposing seaweed farms and tidal flats. This makes Paje the kite surfing capital of East Africa (consistent winds June-September and December-February). Jambiani is quieter with a strong village feel. Matemwe is the closest to Mnemba Atoll for diving.
Southeast: Michamvi
A secluded peninsula home to The Rock Restaurant — Zanzibar's most photographed dining spot, perched on a rock in the ocean. Quiet, romantic, perfect for honeymoons.
West Coast: Fumba
Jumping-off point for Menai Bay dolphin tours and the Safari Blue full-day excursion. Less developed, more authentic.
Pemba Island
Zanzibar's quieter, greener sister island. Hilly terrain, clove plantations, and some of the best diving in the Indian Ocean (Misali Island). Difficult to reach (20-minute flight or 3-5 hour ferry) but extraordinary for adventurous travellers who want to escape the crowds.
Budget Guide
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per day | $50-$100 | $100-$300 | $300-$1,000+ |
| Accommodation | Guesthouses $20-$50 | Boutique hotels $80-$200 | Resorts $200-$700+ |
| Food | Local restaurants $3-$10 | Tourist restaurants $15-$30 | Fine dining $40-$80 |
| Transport | Dalla dalla $0.50 | Private taxi $30-$50 | Hotel transfer $40-$80 |
| Activities | Beach + walking $0-$15 | Excursions $30-$70 | Private tours $100-$300 |
Culture & Etiquette
Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim society, and respecting local customs will make your experience richer:
- Dress codeCover shoulders and knees when walking through Stone Town and villages. Beach resorts are relaxed — swimwear is fine at the pool and beach. Topless sunbathing is inappropriate everywhere.
- RamadanIf visiting during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect. Tourist restaurants still serve food, but be discreet.
- Greetings"Jambo" (hello) and "Habari" (how are you?) go a long way. Locals appreciate the effort.
- PhotographyAsk permission before photographing people, especially in Stone Town and villages.
- AlcoholAvailable at tourist hotels and some restaurants, but not in local bars or shops in more traditional areas.
Food & Drink
Zanzibar's food scene is a revelation:
- Forodhani GardensStone Town's legendary night food market opens at sunset. Try Zanzibar pizza (a stuffed crepe, not Italian pizza), seafood skewers, octopus, sugar cane juice, and urojo (Zanzibar mix soup). Budget $3-$10 for a feast.
- SeafoodLobster, prawns, octopus, red snapper, kingfish — fresh and affordable. A lobster dinner at a beachfront restaurant costs $15-$30 (a fraction of Western prices).
- Local dishesPilau (spiced rice with meat), biryani (Indian influence), coconut bean curry, chapati, mandazi (fried dough — the local breakfast), cassava chips.
- Tropical fruitsJackfruit, rambutan, soursop, passion fruit, mango, papaya — many of these grow on the island.
- Spice coffee and teaZanzibar coffee with cardamom and ginger is exceptional. Street vendors sell it for $0.25 a cup.
Safety
Zanzibar is very safe for tourists. Violent crime against visitors is extremely rare. Common-sense precautions:
- Use your hotel safe for valuables
- Don't walk on empty beaches alone at night
- Be cautious with beach boys (persistent but mostly harmless — a firm "no thank you" works)
- Watch for traffic in Stone Town's narrow streets (motorbikes appear suddenly)
- Female solo travellers: dress modestly outside resort areas, trust your instincts, stick to well-lit areas at night
Health
- MalariaPresent in Zanzibar. Take prophylaxis (Malarone or doxycycline recommended). Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets (most hotels provide them).
- WaterDrink bottled or filtered water only. Hotels provide safe drinking water.
- SunThe equatorial sun is fierce. SPF 50 sunscreen, hat, and rehydration are essential.
- Yellow feverVaccination certificate may be checked on arrival, especially if coming from an endemic country.
- Medical facilitiesBasic clinics exist but serious medical issues require evacuation to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.
Getting Around
- Dalla dallaLocal minibuses, $0.50-$1 per journey. Cheap but crowded and slow. An experience in itself.
- Private taxiNegotiate the price before getting in. Stone Town to Nungwi: $30-$40. Stone Town to Paje: $35-$45. Airport to Stone Town: $15-$20.
- Hotel transfersMost hotels arrange airport/ferry transfers for $20-$80 depending on distance.
- Rental scooter$15-$25/day. Popular but roads can be rough and driving is on the left. International driving permit technically required.
- Rental car$40-$60/day. Not necessary unless you want maximum flexibility. Roads outside Stone Town are mostly unpaved.
Visa & Entry
Same requirements as mainland Tanzania: e-visa costs $50 USD, processed online in 3-5 business days. Apply at the official government portal before departure. Passport must be valid for 6+ months beyond your travel dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Zanzibar?
Minimum 3 days for a taste (1 day Stone Town + 2 days beach). Ideal is 5-7 days to explore properly — Stone Town, beach time, excursions, and relaxation. If combining with a mainland safari, 4-5 days in Zanzibar is the sweet spot.
Is Zanzibar expensive?
It can be done on any budget. Budget travellers can get by on $50-$100/day with guesthouses and local food. Mid-range runs $100-$300/day. Luxury can easily exceed $500-$1,000/day at premium resorts. Compared to the Maldives or Seychelles, Zanzibar offers far better value for similar beach quality.
Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, with sensible precautions. Dress modestly in Stone Town and villages (cover shoulders and knees), avoid walking alone on empty beaches at night, and trust your instincts. The tourist areas are well-accustomed to solo women travellers. Many of our solo guests are women and they consistently report feeling safe.
What is the best area to stay in Zanzibar?
Depends on your priorities. Nungwi/Kendwa for swimming and socialising, Paje for kite surfing, Matemwe for diving, Stone Town for culture, Michamvi for romance. See our accommodation guide for detailed recommendations.
Can you drink the tap water in Zanzibar?
No. Drink bottled or filtered water only. All hotels and restaurants serve safe water. Bottled water costs $0.50-$1 in shops.
Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?
If you need a visa for Tanzania, yes — Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. Most nationalities can get a $50 e-visa online. Some nationalities (EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia) can also get a visa on arrival, but the e-visa is faster and avoids airport queues.
What currency should I bring to Zanzibar?
US dollars are the most useful — hotels, restaurants, and tours all quote in USD. ATMs in Stone Town and Nungwi dispense Tanzanian Shillings. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and upscale restaurants but carry cash for smaller businesses, markets, and local restaurants.
Is Zanzibar good for families?
Excellent. The north coast beaches (Nungwi/Kendwa) are great for kids — calm water, no strong currents. Activities like the turtle sanctuary at Nungwi, spice tours, and Prison Island tortoise visits are family favourites. Many resorts have kids clubs and family rooms.
What should I pack for Zanzibar?
Light, breathable clothing, modest cover-ups for Stone Town, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen (protect the coral), insect repellent with DEET, a light rain jacket (for short rains season), and comfortable walking shoes for Stone Town's uneven streets. See our beach guide for coast-specific packing tips.
Can I combine Zanzibar with a safari?
Absolutely — this is our most popular combination. Fly from Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar in 1.5-2 hours. A typical combo is 5-6 days safari + 4-5 days Zanzibar. Read our detailed safari and Zanzibar combo guide.
Is Zanzibar part of Tanzania?
Yes. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of the United Republic of Tanzania. It has its own president and government for local affairs, but foreign policy, defence, and immigration are handled by the union government. The same visa covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
What language do they speak in Zanzibar?
Swahili (Kiswahili) is the first language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas — hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and guides all speak English. Arabic is spoken by some older residents, reflecting Oman's historical influence. Basic Swahili phrases (jambo, asante, karibu) are always appreciated.