Travel to Zanzibar

Welcome to Zanzibar, a slice of paradise located off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean!

Beyond the beaches, history runs through the narrow streets of Stone Town, and the air smells of cloves and cardamom. 

Zanzibar enjoys a sunny, tropical climate year-round, making any time a great time to visit. Its culture blends African, Arab, Indian and Portuguese influences, and its clear water and coral reefs make it one of the best places in East Africa to snorkel and dive. 

Come for the beaches, stay for the old town, the spice farms and the food stalls of Forodhani at night.

Quick Tips to Plan Your Trip to Zanzibar

Here are a few of our favorite things to do and places to stay in Zanzibar.

Top activities

• For foodies: Visit Forodhani Gardens
• For water lovers: Go snorkeling
• For a cultural experience: Join a Spice Farm tour
• For beach lovers: Visit Mnemba Island

Accommodation

• Luxury experience: Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa – Relais & Chateaux (views of the pristine Paje beach, on-site spa, restaurants, bars and a kite surfing center)
• All-inclusive: The Mora Zanzibar (restaurants serving African, Brazilian and Chinese cuisine, plus loads of activities and amenities)
  • Boutique resort: Zen Boutique Resort (tropical resort overlooking a forest)
• Family-friendly: Baraza Resort and Spa (includes a kids club!)
• Budget-friendly: Antonio Beach Tree House Hotel & Spa (good rates, including free breakfast)

Planning Your Trip to Zanzibar

Before booking your trip to Zanzibar, you need to figure out when to go and how to get there.

Best Time to Visit

Zanzibar is sunny and inviting almost all year round, but there are some sweet spots for your visit! 

The island has two rainy seasons: heavy rains from March to May and lighter rains in November. 

For sun-seekers, the best times are June to October and December to February, when the weather is dry and perfect for beach days. 

If you’re into cultural festivities, July’s Zanzibar International Film Festival is a treat, and February’s Sauti za Busara music festival is a blast!

Related read: How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon in Zanzibar

Getting There

Jetting off to Zanzibar is easier than you might think! 

International flights land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), just outside Stone Town. Many travelers fly to Dar es Salaam on the mainland and take the fast ferry, which takes about one to two hours. 

For the best flight deals, keep your dates flexible and book in advance. Don’t forget to check out local airlines for budget-friendly options too!

Check out: How to Find Cheap Flights With a VPN

Visa and Entry Requirements

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so Tanzanian visa rules apply. The easiest option is the eVisa at visa.immigration.go.tz, applied for at least three weeks ahead: a single-entry tourist visa costs $50, and US citizens pay $100 for a multiple-entry visa. A single-entry visa is also available on arrival. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.

Since October 2024, all visitors to Zanzibar must buy the government’s inbound travel insurance, $44 per adult and valid for up to 92 days. Buy it online before you travel or on arrival. One policy also covers mainland Tanzania, which has required the same insurance since October 2026, and your own travel insurance does not replace it. 

A yellow fever certificate is required if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, including Kenya, so carry it if you come from a Kenya safari. Otherwise, make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date. Malaria precautions are recommended, so bring along some repellent and consider antimalarial meds.

Accommodation

Zanzibar has a place to stay for every budget.

You can choose between beach resorts with pools overlooking the ocean, small hotels in Stone Town’s old merchant houses and family-run guesthouses.

• Luxury Resorts: For those looking to splurge on that once-in-a-lifetime dream vacation, Zanzibar’s luxury resorts on the east coast offer private beaches, spa treatments, and dining under the stars. Ideal for couples on a romantic getaway or anyone celebrating something special.
• Budget Hotels & Guesthouses: Traveling on a shoestring? No problem! Budget hotels and guesthouses offer comfortable, clean accommodations that won’t break the bank. They’re great for solo travelers and backpackers, often located in Stone Town, putting you right in the middle of the action.
• Family-Friendly Stays: Families will find plenty of resorts and hotels with family-sized rooms, kid-friendly pools, and activities. Some places even offer babysitting services, so parents can enjoy a little downtime.
• For Solo Travelers & Backpackers: The island is a friendly place for solo adventurers and backpackers. Look for hostels with communal areas to meet fellow travelers, or guesthouses where the host can give you the inside scoop on the best local spots.

Check out our complete guide on Where to Stay in Zanzibar.

Things to Do and See in Zanzibar

Days on Zanzibar mix beaches, history and time on the water.

Beaches

Zanzibar’s beaches are the stuff of postcards. 

• Nungwi in the north is perfect for those who love soft white sands and lively beach bars.
• Paje on the east coast has a wide, shallow lagoon and steady winds, which make it one of the best kite surfing spots in Africa. 
• For a quieter day by the sea, Mnemba Island is a private island, but the reef around it is open to snorkeling and dive trips. 

Remember to respect local customs by dressing modestly off the beach and always ask before taking photos of people.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Zanzibar’s history goes back more than a thousand years of trade across the Indian Ocean. Popular cultural and historical sites include:

• Stone Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the cultural heart of Zanzibar. Wander through winding alleyways, marvel at intricately carved doors, and feel the pulse of centuries-old markets. The Freddie Mercury House celebrates the iconic singer born here, and the Old Fort offers a glimpse into the island’s past defenses. Don’t miss the carved doors and the Forodhani Gardens for delicious street food in the evening.
• Spice Farms: Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island for a reason. Join a spice farm tour to discover the origins of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and more. It’s not just informative; it’s a feast for the senses!
• Slave Market Site: A visit here is a solemn reminder of the island’s role in the slave trade. The site includes memorials and the historic Anglican Cathedral, built on the location of the former slave market.

When exploring Zanzibar’s towns or cultural sites, modesty is a sign of respect. Covering shoulders and knees goes a long way toward respecting local customs.

Zanzibar is full of photogenic spots, but always ask for permission before taking photos of people. It’s not just polite; it’s an opportunity to connect and learn more about the local culture. Whether you buy souvenirs or choose a guide, supporting local businesses helps contribute to the community and offers a more authentic experience.

Activities and Excursions in Zanzibar

From reefs to kite beaches and spice farms, here are the activities most visitors fit into a trip.

Snorkeling and Diving

The warm water around Zanzibar is good for snorkeling and diving all year. Mnemba Island is the best-known spot, with coral reefs, turtles and dolphins, and dive centers that take beginners as well as experienced divers.

Kite Surfing

Zanzibar’s east coast, especially around Paje, is renowned for its excellent kite surfing conditions. The steady trade winds from about June to September and December to February make it a good place to learn.

Spice Farm Tours

A visit to a Spice Farm lets you step into the aromatic world of Zanzibar’s spice trade. Learn how spices are grown, harvested, and used in local cuisine. It’s not just educational; it’s a sensory experience that ends with a delicious spice-infused meal.

Day Trips from Zanzibar

• Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town fills with food stalls every evening. It’s the perfect spot to try local delicacies and mingle with locals.
• Prison Island offers a glimpse into the island’s history, plus the chance to meet the giant tortoises that call it home.
• The northern beaches of Nungwi are ideal for relaxing, with clear water and sunsets over the sea.

Related read: Most Popular Day Trips from Zanzibar

Booking Tours and Activities Responsibly

When booking tours and activities:

• Choose local operators to support the community.
• Look for eco-friendly tours that respect the environment and wildlife.
• Read reviews and ask for recommendations to find reputable providers.

At Travel Dudes, we’ve partnered with top local tour providers in Zanzibar, including:

• Zanzibar Local Experience
• Gowitos

Food and Dining in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s cuisine is a delicious melting pot of flavors, with influences from Africa, the Middle East, India, and beyond. Centuries of the spice trade show up in almost every dish. 

You can eat well at every level, from street food to restaurants on the beach.

Make sure to try these dishes:

• Zanzibar Pizza: A must-try street food that’s unlike any pizza you’ve had before. Found in Forodhani Gardens, this treat can be sweet or savory.
• Pilau and Biryani: These rice dishes are a testament to the island’s spice culture, flavored with a blend of spices and either seafood, chicken, or vegetables.
• Urojo: Also known as Zanzibar mix, this is a spicy soup that combines various textures and flavors, including mango, fried potato balls, and sometimes meat or fish.

Where to get the best food in Zanzibar:

• Street food at Forodhani Gardens: As the sun sets, the gardens fill with vendors selling grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizzas and sugarcane juice. Agree on prices before you order.
• Local eateries: Scattered across Stone Town and beyond, local restaurants offer the chance to try authentic Zanzibar dishes at very reasonable prices. Don’t miss the opportunity to try fresh seafood, grilled right in front of you.
• Fine dining: For a special night out, Zanzibar has several fine dining options that blend local ingredients with international cuisine, often with ocean views.
• Markets The markets in Stone Town are not just places to buy food; they are experiences in themselves. The Darajani Market is the heart of Zanzibar’s culinary scene, where locals shop for spices, seafood, and fresh produce. Go in the morning to see it at its busiest, and try fruits and snacks you won’t find at home.

Nightlife in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s nightlife mixes traditional music with beach bars and DJ nights. 

After sunset you’ll find beach bonfires, live taarab music and busy night markets. 

Forodhani Gardens transforms into a nocturnal feast, where locals and travelers alike gather to sample street food under the stars. 

Beach bars in Nungwi and Kendwa offer the perfect blend of cocktails and sand between your toes, often accompanied by DJ sets or live bands. 

Whether looking for a chilled evening or a night of dancing, Zanzibar’s nightlife provides a memorable end to your day in paradise.

Related read: Zanzibar After Dark: Sundowners, Dance Floors and Moonlit Beaches

Shopping and Souvenirs in Zanzibar

Shopping in Zanzibar means markets, small craft shops and spices you can take home.

Where to shop in Zanzibar

• Stone Town’s markets: Wander through the maze-like streets of Stone Town to discover markets and shops filled with colorful textiles, handmade jewelry and wood carvings. The Darajani Market is perfect for spices and local flavors, while the smaller stalls and shops offer a variety of crafts and souvenirs.
• Curio shops: Scattered around the island, curio shops are treasure troves of Zanzibar’s artistry, from colorful Tinga Tinga paintings to delicate soapstone carvings.

What to buy in Zanzibar

• Spices: As the Spice Island, Zanzibar’s cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg are fresher than anything you’ll find back home.
• Zanzibar doors: Miniature versions of the famous Zanzibar doors make a good souvenir that is easy to pack.
• Kangas: These brightly colored cloths worn by local women are versatile and make for a lovely gift or keepsake.

Bargaining and supporting local artisans

• Bargaining: It’s part of the shopping experience in Zanzibar. Start by offering a lower price than asked, but do it with a smile. Remember, it’s about finding a price that’s fair to both you and the seller.
• Supporting local artisans: Buying directly from artisans gives you a more meaningful souvenir and helps support the local economy. Look for cooperatives or shops that source locally made products.

Safety and Travel Tips

Zanzibar is a welcoming destination for travelers. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind.

General safety advice

• Stay aware: Like any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid isolated areas after dark.
• Respect local customs: Zanzibar is mostly Muslim. Dress modestly away from the beach, especially in Stone Town, as tourists can be fined for inappropriate clothing in public.
• Travel insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations.

Health precautions

• Vaccinations: Consult with a travel doctor before your trip to ensure you have all the necessary vaccinations. A yellow fever certificate is required if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, including Kenya. Typhoid, hepatitis A and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
• Malaria prevention: Zanzibar is an endemic area. Prophylaxis, using mosquito repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets can significantly reduce your risk of contracting malaria.
• Drink bottled water: To avoid any stomach issues, stick to bottled water and ensure your food is thoroughly cooked.

Emergency contact information

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local police, your country’s embassy or consulate, and local medical facilities. 

Here are some general numbers:

• Police, fire and ambulance: 112
• It’s also wise to have the contact information for your accommodation readily available.

FAQs

1. Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar?

Most visitors need a Tanzanian visa. Apply for the eVisa at visa.immigration.go.tz at least three weeks ahead ($50 single entry, $100 multiple entry for US citizens), or get a single-entry visa on arrival. You also need Zanzibar’s mandatory inbound travel insurance ($44 per adult), and your passport must be valid for at least six months.

2. What currency is used in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) as its currency. While US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, you’ll get better prices, and it’s more convenient to have local currency for smaller purchases, tipping, and local markets. ATMs are available in Stone Town and major tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable as not all places accept cards.

3. Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. Like any popular travel destination, it’s important to take standard safety precautions such as safeguarding your belongings, avoiding walking alone at night in less populated areas, and respecting local customs and advice.

4. What language is spoken in Zanzibar?

Swahili is the main language spoken in Zanzibar, and it’s a great gesture to learn a few basic phrases. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, so communication is typically not an issue for English-speaking travelers.

5. What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry months, from June to October and December to February. These periods offer the best weather for beach activities and exploring the island. However, Zanzibar’s warm climate makes it a great year-round destination. When planning your trip, just be mindful of the rainy seasons in March to May and November.