Holidays in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise like no other. A place with a fascinating history, incredible nature, enchanting sunset and magnificent beaches. If you are looking for a peaceful yet active escape, Zanzibar is the perfect place for your holiday!
The Spice Island
Zanzibar has a past as a trading outpost for spice merchants transporting goods from Africa to Arabia. Today Zanzibar is well known as the Spice Island due to the farming and processing of aromatic spices like cloves, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemongrass and black pepper.
A Natural Paradise
Offshore, a selection of kaleidoscopic reefs and atolls make Zanzibar a prime diving spot, with turtles, dolphins and whale sharks all frequenting the waters here.
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, part of the United Republic of Tanzania. Located in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar consists of many small islands and two large ones: Unguja, which is the main island, referred to informally as Zanzibar, and Pemba.
The position of Zanzibar, which is washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, made this archipelago a favorable base for traders voyaging between Africa, Arabia, and India. These three cultures shaped Zanzibar’s history, traditions, food and language.
Name
The name Zanzibar comes from the Arabic Zanjibār and Persian Zang-bār. It combines the words Zang (“Black“) + bār (“coast, land, country“). So, in essence, Zanzibar means “land of the Blacks”.
Capital
The capital is Zanzibar City, located on the island of Unguja. Its historic center, Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site.
Language
Official languages are Kiswahili, English and Arabic.
Local Time
Local time in Zanzibar is GMT + 3 during the winter season and GMT + 2 during the summer season.
Religion
The main religion is Islam, and almost 95% of the inhabitants are Muslim.
The best time to visit Zanzibar
If you are considering taking a vacation to Zanzibar it is important to think about the climatic conditions. Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar archipelago, enjoys a tropical climate, with pleasant temperatures all year round. This tropical island is therefore good to visit at most times of the year, thanks to its regular sunshine and balmy weather. The real difference is made by the rain or rather the rainy season.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season from June to October.
The main rainy season lasts from March-May, where tropical downpours are not uncommon during the afternoon. During November and December the downpours return – the ‘short rains’. While they’re lighter than what you’d experience during the rainy season, they’re not as reliable.
January and February represent another dry window and as it’s often quieter than the main dry season, it’s a great time to travel. 
Zanzibar Holidays: what to do
In Zanzibar you have many options to choose from. For an exotic African Island experience with a special twist, you can’t go wrong choosing to have your holiday in Zanzibar. Tours of Zanzibar combine laid-back beach accommodation with plenty of activities and superb locations to offer a culturally-rich but super-relaxed vacation.
Jozani Forest
ZANZIBAR
Explore Zanzibar’s most famous natural reserve with a guided walk through Jozani Forest, home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey and unique tropical ecosystems.
half day
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Jozani Forest + Butterfly Centre
ZANZIBAR
Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s natural beauty with a visit to Jozani Forest and the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, where tropical species thrive in a lush environment.
full day
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Mnemba Island Snorkeling
ZANZIBAR
Explore one of Zanzibar’s most spectacular marine reserves while snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and crystal-clear waters around Mnemba Atoll.
Dolphins Tour
ZANZIBAR
Set out along Zanzibar’s southern coast to discover Kizimkazi and observe dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying the beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Stonetown + Spice Tour
ZANZIBAR
Discover the perfect blend of culture and tradition by exploring the historic streets of Stone Town and the fragrant spice plantations that shaped Zanzibar’s history.
Spice Tour
ZANZIBAR
Explore the island that earned Zanzibar its nickname, the Spice Island, through a sensory journey of exotic spices, tropical fruits and centuries-old cultivation traditions.
Stonetown Tour
ZANZIBAR
Step into the cultural heart of Zanzibar and wander through the narrow streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, architecture and local life.
Prison Island
ZANZIBAR
Visit one of Zanzibar’s most fascinating islands known for its giant tortoises, turquoise waters and captivating history just a short boat ride from Stone Town.
Stonetown + Prison Island
ZANZIBAR
Explore Zanzibar’s rich history and island beauty with a guided visit to Stone Town and a scenic boat trip to the famous Prison Island.
Stonetown + Spice Tour+ Prison Island
ZANZIBAR
Discover the essence of Zanzibar in a single day through its cultural heritage, spice traditions and the natural beauty of the historic Prison Island.
Jozani Forest + Prison Island
ZANZIBAR
Experience two of Zanzibar’s most remarkable natural attractions from the red colobus monkeys of Jozani Forest to the giant tortoises and crystal waters of Prison Island.
full day
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Jozani Forest + Spice Tour
ZANZIBAR
Combine Zanzibar’s unique wildlife and spice heritage with a visit to Jozani Forest, home of the rare red colobus monkey, followed by an immersive spice farm experience.
full day
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Sunset Cruise
ZANZIBAR
Sail into the colors of the Indian Ocean sunset aboard a traditional dhow and enjoy one of the most unforgettable experiences Zanzibar has to offer.
Stone Town + Sunset Cruise
ZANZIBAR
Discover Zanzibar’s cultural heritage by day and its magic at sunset with a guided tour of Stone Town followed by a traditional dhow cruise along the coast.
Quad Adventure
ZANZIBAR
Experience Zanzibar from a different perspective on an exciting quad bike adventure through villages, countryside landscapes and the island’s authentic natural scenery.
Jozani Forest+ Dolphin Tour
ZANZIBAR
Enjoy a day surrounded by Zanzibar’s extraordinary nature combining dolphin watching in Kizimkazi with a guided exploration of the island’s famous Jozani Forest.
full day
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Nakupenda
ZANZIBAR
Escape to a stunning tropical sandbank surrounded by turquoise waters where relaxation, snorkeling and fresh tropical flavors create an unforgettable island experience.
Safari Blue
ZANZIBAR
Embark on Zanzibar’s most famous sea adventure exploring pristine sandbanks, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and discovering the spectacular Menai Bay Conservation Area.
full day
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Zanzibar Hotels and Resorts
Zanzibar offers a wide range of accommodations. Browse our highly curated collection of Zanzibar hotels to see what’s right for your holiday.
FRUIT AND SPICE & WELLNESS RESORT
ZANZIBAR
Experience luxury at Fruit & Spice Wellness Resort, a 5-star beachfront retreat in Zanzibar.
Surrounded by the tropical beauty of Kizimkazi, the resort offers elegant villas, a unique Jungle Spa, infinity pool, fine dining and unforgettable experiences between ocean, wellness and safari adventures.
honeymoon | couple | family
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Sensations Eco-Chic Hotel
ZANZIBAR
Sensations is an adults-only, all-inclusive eco-chic retreat on Zanzibar’s tranquil Pwani Beach. With just 20 luxurious accommodations set amid lush tropical greenery, it offers privacy, sustainability, and refined barefoot luxury in one of the island’s most unspoiled settings.
honeymoon | couple
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BLUE MOON RESORT
ZANZIBAR
Escape to paradise at Blue Moon Resort in Zanzibar!
Nestled on the pristine shores of Jambiani, it offers private beach access, infinity pool with solarium, and breathtaking ocean views. Enjoy fine dining with fresh seafood and international flavors, relax with cocktails at the bar, and let our team create your unforgettable island getaway.
honeymoon | couple
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Rori Private Luxury Villas
ZANZIBAR
An exclusive collection of luxury seafront villas in Zanzibar. Located in Bwejuu, each villa features a private pool, tropical gardens, personalized services, private chef experiences and tailored island adventures for an unforgettable stay.
honeymoon | couple
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MAREA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
ZANZIBAR
A cozy beachfront retreat located on the white sands of Jambiani. With elegant rooms, a private beach, authentic Italian cuisine, relaxing wellness experiences and a peaceful atmosphere, Marea is the perfect escape for an unforgettable island stay.
adventure
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PONGWE BAY RESORT
ZANZIBAR
A refined 5-star barefoot retreat on Zanzibar’s pristine east coast. Surrounded by tropical gardens and crystal-clear waters, the resort offers elegant suites, a spectacular over-water jetty, wellness experiences and unforgettable oceanfront moments.
honeymoon | couple
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Zanzibar Travel Tips
Visa
A visa is required to visit Zanzibar. A single three-month entry tourist visa for your Zanzibar holiday can be requested from Tanzanian embassies and high commissions. Visitors flying directly to Zanzibar are able to purchase a visa on arrival at the airport, where the price is USD 50.
Vaccines and Medicines
If your trip involves a stopover of more than 12 hours in a country with risk of YF (Yellow Fever), such as Ethiopia and Kenya, then you will need to be vaccinated against yellow fever. If your trip includes safaris, then antimalarial prophylaxis is advisable. Mosquitoes are the main cause of infections in both Zanzibar and Tanzania, but they are also easily neutralized with a good repellent. Take a basic medical kit for treating insect bites, sun-stroke/dehydration and diarrhea.
How to pay
The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). US dollars are also widely accepted as payment throughout the island. Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted at larger establishments.
Electricity in Zanzibar
Electricity is 230 V. Usually English-style sockets are used, with the possibility of borrowing convertors at your hotel reception, although it is a good idea to bring your own.
Local Time
Local time is GMT + 3 during the winter season and GMT + 2 during the summer season.
Flying to Zanzibar
Zanzibar International Airport is located in the historic Stone Town, the only airport on the island is served by flights from Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. Once you have arrived, take a taxi to your accommodation or enjoy the services of your hotel’s shuttle bus.
Drinking water
The tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink, so it is strongly recommended to stick to bottled water, which is widely available across the island. This includes avoiding ice in your drinks and not eating salads which may have been washed in the tap water.
How to dress
Light and loose clothes are recommended, better if from natural fabrics. The best shoes are flip-flops or sandals, however a firm pair of walking shoes is recommended for trips to the forest. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical sun. Zanzibar is a conservative, predominantly Muslim society. Travelers are advised to dress and behave with respect to local customs and sensibilities. Women, in particular, should dress with shoulders and knees covered. Bikinis and minis are fine at hotels and resorts, but Zanzibaris appreciate modest dressing in the villages and towns. Likewise, men should not go shirtless and should dress conservatively. Nudity on the beach is not acceptable.
