dessert
The Best Zanzibar Itinerary: Exploring Tanzania’s Island Paradise
Last updated on January 31st, 2025 at 09:20 pm
Have you ever visited a location where the tide gets to be so low that boats actually get stuck in the water during the day? I know!! Crazy right? I’d never seen anything like it until I recently visited the beautiful island of Zanzibar!
Located off the coast of Tanzania, the semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar is a little bit off the beaten path, but is also the absolutely perfect beach destination if you’ve just finished a safari vacation to the Serengeti or the Masai Mara. (A little bit off the beaten path is an understatement as it took me 32 gutwrenching hours to get here from the states but boy was it worth it)
I recently spent a week on the main island of Unguja, which most people just call Zanzibar. I absolutely loved it, I spent a few days lounging on some of the best beaches I’ve ever visited, and had time for a dash of culture in the capital, Stone Town, and elsewhere.
Known for its incredible beaches, clear seas and reliable weather, Zanzibar offers safari travelers a relaxing end to their trip – a few days can be just what is needed after a week or two spent in the dusty grasslands, tracking wildlife or maybe even trekking up Kilimanjaro.
In this article, I’m going to help you plan your own Zanzibar itinerary. I’ll tell you the perfect amount of time to visit for, how to get there, the best time to go to Zanzibar and all the main things to do in Zanzibar as part of your trip. So you can grab your coffee and stop your travel planning, I’ve got you.
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
How Long Should I Visit Zanzibar For?
How long to spend in Zanzibar really depends on the purpose of your visit. If you’re purely after a beach break, then anything from 3 days to 5 is plenty of time to kick back and relax, whether it’s at a top Zanzibar all-inclusive resort or one of the island’s numerous other top hotels.
For a deeper dive into the culture and attractions of Zanzibar, whilst also leaving plenty of time for the beach, 7 to 10 days is a good amount of time to fully explore Unguja and the archipelago’s smaller islands. You wouldn’t want to spend any longer on your trip to Zanzibar, as there isn’t loads to keep you occupied outside of Stone Town and away from the golden sands and turquoise waters of the beach.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
There’s not really any such thing as spring, summer, fall and winter in Zanzibar. Instead, the seasons are split into wet and dry, and you probably don’t need me to tell you what each involves. Here’s a little more information about visiting throughout the year, the overall best time to go to Zanzibar, and my personal recommended month for you to plan your Zanzibar travel itinerary.
Visiting Zanzibar during dry season
Characterized by long days of sun, low humidity, high temperatures of 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F) and almost non-existent rainfall, the dry season is the peak time to visit Zanzibar. Perfect for a beach break and for exploring the archipelago’s natural wonders, this period is when the vast majority of travelers head to Zanzibar. This brings its own problems of course, with higher prices and bigger crowds, but there’s a reason for it.
The dry season can be split into two, with a short rainy season in November (more on that in a sec). June to October sees slightly cooler temperatures, but it’s the best time for a safari on mainland Tanzania, with the incredible Great Migration in full swing. So for a safari and beach combination trip, this is the time to be traveling. Meanwhile, December to March is when Zanzibar is at its hottest, with temperatures soaring. This coincides with the middle of winter in the Northern hemisphere, tempting many travelers to Zanzibar’s warmer climes.
Visiting Zanzibar during rainy season
I feel like calling it “rainy season” isn’t very accurate as it doesn’t actually rain for longer than like 30 minutes at a time here. The “long rains” of April to May also bring high humidity to Zanzibar. This is the season that brings life and much needed water to the archipelago, but its less than ideal for visitors. If there is a plus to visiting at this time of year, it’s that there will be far fewer tourists and prices will be much much lower. But again, it’s also worth noting that it rarely rains for hours and hours at a time. The Zanzibari rain tends to fall in intense bursts, with spells of sunshine in between.
November is an odd month, as the rains return in the middle of the dry season, albeit with less intensity than during the long rainy season. It’s still going to be warm, and the rain rarely disrupts an entire day.
The Best Month to Visit: July
Nothing like spending the 4th of July overseas in America am I right?? Haha yes that’s what I did but it was because I was maximizing my PTO per usual.
Coinciding with the peak of the Great Migration inland, July is easily the best month for a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach break combo. The temperatures are warm, skies clear and ocean conditions ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The slightly cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring Stone Town, whilst still plenty enjoyable enough for you to work on your tan.
How to Travel to Zanzibar
Although it’s an archipelago more than ~20 miles (35km) off the coast of the African mainland, Zanzibar isn’t that difficult to get to. You’ve got two main options:
Getting to Zanzibar by Air
Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is located on the main island of Unguja, just a few kilometers south of Stone Town. It’s well served by big international airlines including Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines and KLM, although direct flights are hard to come by – Doha, Addis Adaba, Amsterdam, Nairobi and Cairo are all common stopovers. Regional African airlines also make it easy to reach Zanzibar from Nairobi, Johannesburg and elsewhere.
If you’re spending the first part of your Tanzania trip spotting lions and rhinos in the Serengeti, then you’ll be glad to know that travel to Zanzibar is also possible via domestic airlines including Precision Air, Air Tanzania and ZanAir, with flights from Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and the safari hotspot of Arusha.
Ps. You might want to get your yellow fever shot as a precaution. The mosquitoes aren’t bad on the island but it’s apparently a requirement in order to get your visa to Tanzania. I say apparently because no one ever checked for my vaccine but it’s probably still smart to get before leaving the states (or wherever you’re from).
Getting to Zanzibar by Ferry
If you’re already in mainland Tanzania then booking a ferry to Zanzibar can be cheaper, greener and more time-efficient. Ferries depart from Dar es Salaam daily, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries is one suggested operator, with ships arriving at the port in Stone Town.
In retrospect, I actually kind of wish we took the ferry instead because then we could’ve spent more time in Tanzania but oh well.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Best Hotels
During my stay in Zanzibar, I based myself on the northeast side of Unguja, staying for a few nights in Kiwengwa and a few nights in Nungwi. Here are a couple of ideas for where to stay in Zanzibar, based on my own experiences of visiting.
Mvuvi Boutique Hotel
In the pretty coastal village of Kiwengwa, I stayed at a beautiful 4-star boutique resort called Mvuvi, which is located literally a couple of steps from the beach.
This tiny resort only has 18 rooms, which means the service is super personalized, I felt like I was being treated like some sort of celebrity. The resort has a private beach and rooms are split between two traditional, Swahili-style buildings, complete with thatched roofs.
The onsite restaurant served up some delicious Mediterranean-Swahili style fusion dishes, with views over the Indian Ocean. And I had to treat myself to a massage in the spa, it was the perfect setting to do so!
Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
In Nungwi, I booked myself in to a 5-star stay at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas, another relatively small resort, spread over a series of 12 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom villas. Peacefully secluded and located right on the beach, each villa offers something different.
All the rooms are freakin incredible at this resort. Like, probably one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed at. The main restaurant, BluFire blends flavors from around the world, whilst at the Drunken Monkey you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and design your own Tapas-style menu.
Don’t miss the full review of Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas here on the blog!
Zanzi Hotel
I didn’t stay here myself, but I’ve also heard excellent things about Zanzi Hotel, a 5-star resort on the west coast of the island. If I ever return to Zanzibar, which I hope I do, this is where I’ll be booking in, as its in an ideal place and comes well recommended.
Best Zanzibar All-inclusive Resorts
It’s not my usual sort of travel, but Zanzibar is a really popular destination for all-inclusive vacations. It has the weather, the beaches and the cuisine for it, I can’t argue with that. Some of the top Zanzibar all-inclusive resorts include The Mora, TUI Blue Bahari, Hotel RIU Palace and The Palms. I totally get the appeal, all you can eat and drink in a literal tropical paradise.
I usually stay away from these types of hotels (except Safira Blu obviously) but if you’re coming from the states, it could be a good option as they also take care of a lot of the transportation for you.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Zanzibar
I seriously don’t even know how wanting to visit Zanzibar popped into my head. But good thing it did because I just knew there’d be so much to do and see on this tiny island in Africa! I think I was also trying to optimize for closeness from Kenya after a safari that I ended up missing due to visa issues 🥴
Many people come to Zanzibar for the beaches and the beaches alone, with some of the world’s best found on the archipelago. But Zanzibar is also a watersports capital of the world, home to all sorts of amazing wildlife, and Stone Town is a cultural melting pot, well worth exploring. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Zanzibar during your vacation.
Explore Stone Town
Stone Town is the official name for the historic center of Zanzibar City, the capital and largest settlement in the archipelago, on the main island. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town has a long history as a trading port and old slave market – this has led to a dynamic mix of cultures and influences.
I was amazed to see what a mix it was, with elements of British, Indian, Persian, Swahili and Arabic cultures in the buildings, restaurants, clothes and general feel of the town. You walk down one street that wouldn’t look out of place in an English village, with historic churches. Then you turn a corner and could be wandering through Amman or Beirut, with aromatic spice markets and ancient mosques dating back hundreds of years.
You can take guided tours of Stone Town, or just throw yourself in like I did, getting lost down narrow alleys and using imposing minarets to guide yourself back out of the warren. Zanzibar has an interesting history as an old slave market and slave trading port too, which although traumatic, is a really interesting thing to learn about as you explore.
See the Giant Tortoises of Prison Island
Giant turtles, free lunch, and a beautiful sandbank?! Sign me up!
You know I love nothing more than a good day trip, especially if you’re visiting anywhere for the first time. (Fast travel is usually how I roll).
Giant tortoises are not native to Zanzibar. However, the Aldabra giant tortoise is native to the Seychelles, an African island nation about 1,800 kilometers east of Zanzibar. This tortoise was very nearly lost to the world, hunted to extinction for meat on many of the Seychelles islands.
Luckily, thanks to conservation efforts there are now more than 100,000 Aldabra giant tortoises. And approximately 100 of them live in Zanzibar, descendants of four tortoises gifted to the islands by the Governor of the Seychelles in the 18th century.
These tortoises roam safely on Prison Island, one of the main Zanzibar tourist attractions, which is located about 30 minutes from Stone Town. There’s more dark history to uncover here too, it’s named Prison Island as it was once used as a tough prison for misbehaving slaves.
Take a Dhow Cruise at Sunset
A dhow is a traditional Arabic sailing boat with a triangular sail, and they are absolutely everywhere in Zanzibar. The boats have an engine, but this is only used to take you about a kilometer out to sea, when it is switched off and the sail unfurled.
You can then spend some time floating peacefully in the Indian Ocean.
Sunset is by far the most popular (and romantic) time for one of these Zanzibar dhow cruises, but there are many operators all over the archipelago who offer the experience.
Visit a Spice Plantation
Zanzibar’s nickname is “Spice Island”, and it is one of Africa and the world’s most important exporters of spices including cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and nutmeg. These spices are all grown on huge plantations in the rural parts of the archipelago, and many of these are open to visitors for guided tours.
You can learn more about how each spice is grown and what it is used for, as well as being able to buy high quality local spices to take home with you. Just an FYI, US Customs should let you bring through dried spices, just avoid anything like fruit seeds and leaves, I’d hate for you to get them taken off you!
Explore Jozani Forest
Unfortunately, there’s not too much nature left on land in Zanzibar. Like many small islands, humanity has taken over and nature has been moved out of the way. Luckily, Jozani Forest has been protected, largely because it is the only place in the world where you can find Zanzibar red colobus monkeys.
This exciting Zanzibar safari opportunity makes the forest one of the best places to visit in Zanzibar. Extinct in most of the northern half of the island, around 6,000 monkeys survive in the southern half of the island, many of them taking refuge in Jozani Forest, in the south-east of the main island.
The forest is easily reached from the main tourist areas and sightings of the monkeys are all but guaranteed if you take a walk along one of the marked forest trails as part of your Zanzibar itinerary.
You can book a local guide here too, who will not only point out the monkeys, but also the various medicinal plants which grow naturally in the forest.
Spot Marine Life on a Scuba Dive
While Zanzibar’s land area may be naturally depleted, the archipelago’s waters are rich in marine life. Snorkeling is one way to enjoy this rich biodiversity, but for a deeper dive, visit one of the more than 30 dive sites around Zanzibar for a scuba dive.
Courses and tours can be booked by anyone, beginner or expert. Coral reefs teem with tropical fish, like angelfish and parrotfish, which use their tough beaks to feed on coral. Octopus hide out on the reefs too, while endangered sea turtles can be seen around Nungwi and Mnemba.
Most incredibly of all, the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, can be seen around Zanzibar during its migration season.
Although whale sharks can be spotted in Zanzibar, for the best chances to see them, you actually want to take the ferry to Dar es Salaam and then head south down the coast to Nyamisati, a small port with a daily connection to Mafia Island.
Mafia Island is a whale shark hotspot, and the best time to spot these incredible animals is from October through March. During this time, whale sharks can be seen close to the surface, feeding on plankton. Maybe consider a night or two here as part of your Zanzibar itinerary, if swimming with whale sharks is something you’d like to do!
Visit Zanzibar Butterfly Center
Another wildlife initiative and one of the more popular Zanzibar tourist attractions is the Zanzibar Butterfly Center, located near to Jozani Forest.
This collective is operated by around 40 local farmers, who breed native butterfly species to release into Zanzibar. The benefits of this are three-fold; they boost wildlife populations and provide an additional income to the farmers, as visitors to the Butterfly Center pay a small fee (around USD $6).
The butterflies also help with pollination, boosting the crop yields of the farmers.
Have a go at Kitesurfing
Shallow waters and consistent winds mean that Zanzibar is one of the world’s top kitesurfing spots.
And for anyone who’s never given it a go, a trip to Zanzibar offers a great opportunity. The south-east of the main island is the best place to try it, especially the beaches at Panje, Dongwe and Jambiani. You can rent equipment and take lessons at all of these beaches and many more
Go Tidepooling on the beaches
Tidepooling in Zanzibar is a popular activity during low tide, when the ocean’s floor is exposed, revealing coral formations and sandy tidal flats. Tide pools are home to many small sea creatures, including starfish, anemones, and minnows
Book the Blue Safari
One of the most popularly booked excursions on Zanzibar is the Blue Safari. The operators will pick you up from your accommodation, wherever that is on the island and take you the Menai Bay Conservation Area, home to isolated sandbanks and crystal clear water.
You’ll board a dhow and spend the day exploring the area, with guided snorkeling, the chance to spot dolphins, relax on the powdered sand of the sandbanks, swim in hidden lagoons and tuck into a mouthwatering Swahili barbecue.
Packaged tours like this are a great way to see a different side to Zanzibar, and to enjoy the archipelago’s incredible marine diversity.
Another activity people love is the Mnemba boat trip and dolphin snorkel from Kendwa!! After this trip to Zanzibar, you’ll basically be an expert of the ocean!
Paddleboard Through Mangrove Forests
Another watersport that Zanzibar excels in is paddleboarding. You can stand if you dare, or kneel if it’s easier, at least until you get the hang of things!
The best place to try paddleboarding in Zanzibar is in the island’s mangrove forests, where the trees ensure the water is always calm and the natural environment offers an amazing backdrop to the experience.
Again, you can book guided, tour-led packages to help you to get the most from this experience. I’m now realizing that Zanzibar is pretty “tour-heavy” compared to some other places I’ve traveled to. I guess it makes sense just because the island is pretty spread out.
While you always have the option of renting a car…it just makes it easier if someone’s taking care of the logistics for you!
The Best Zanzibar Beaches
If you’re heading to Zanzibar for sun, sea and sand, then I can’t blame you. I thought the archipelago had some of the most beautiful beaches I had ever set foot on. Here are some of the top beaches to visit as part of your Zanzibar travel itinerary.
Kendwa Beach
Located on the north-west coast of the main island, Kendwa Beach is a rare species in Zanzibar in that it offers much calmer waters than some of the beaches further south.
This is less attractive for watersports but ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, and for visiting with younger children. Kendwa is generally quieter than some of the beaches further south, and the sunset here is unreal too.
Nakupenda Beach
If you’re staying in Stone Town and not looking to travel too far, then this could be the beach for you.
Another of the best beaches in Zanzibar, Nakupenda is accessed by a 15-minute boat ride from Stone Town and is geographically the closest beach to the island’s capital. It’s not really a beach at all, but a sandbank known for its stunning white sand and coral reefs – this makes it one of the island’s top snorkeling destinations. It can get extremely busy in high season, so try to head over early if you can.
Nungwi Beach
If it’s a party atmosphere and decent nightlife you’re after, then Nungwi is the pick of Zanzibar’s beaches. Some of the top hotels in Zanzibar are located here, as are plenty of the best restaurants and bars. It’s got a great position for sunset and there’s a more remote stretch of beach to the north which can offer solace amongst the lively atmosphere.
Paje Beach
The choppier waters of Paje Beach along Zanzibar’s east coast make it one of the best beaches in Zanzibar for water sports, particularly kite surfing and wind surfing.
There’s plenty of marine life here too, making it a good beach for scuba diving, and there’s culture to be found in the adjacent village of Paje, which is a little more off the tourist trail and a bit less crowded than other parts of the archipelago.
What to Eat in Zanzibar
As I’ve already mentioned, Zanzibar is a fascinating blend of African, European, Arabic and Indian cultures and influences, and the Zanzibar food is no different. Dishes are packed with flavor and, of course, spices. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamon and other spices that grow well here are cheap, readily available and used generously in cooking.
In Stone Town and other larger settlements, street food is an important part of life, particularly at markets like the Forodhani Gardens Night Market. Zanzibar pizza is a popular dish, a sweet or savory stuffed pancake that is usually filled with mincemeat and vegetables, although can be filled with chocolate or other sweets to make a delicious dessert.
Another Stone Town specialty is Urojo soup, a spicy mix of chutney, mango, chilies and garlic, served with chunks of potato and bhajis. More familiar Zanzibar food and snacks found at street food vendors include samosas and kebabs, whilst biryani is a popular dish too.
Like any island, Zanzibar is heavily reliant on seafood, with fresh fish and other seafood available in all good restaurants. Lobster, prawns, octopus and snapper fish are all commonly found on menus across the archipelago, often grilled on an open fire or served up in curries, particularly coconut based curries.
That African staple food, ugali is never far away either. Made from ground corn, this thick porridge-like dish is an original Kenyan foodstuff that has spread around the continent thanks to its simplicity, cheapness and availability. It’s served alongside curries, stews, vegetables and fish, and can be hard to escape on Zanzibar!
When it comes to dessert, fresh, locally grown pineapple, passionfruit and mango offer a refreshing taste, so much better than the pesticide-ridden, imported fruit you find back home. For something sweeter, mandazi is a sort of donut, spiced of course. And all good meals are washed down with a glass of sugarcane juice, or a cup of spiced tea.
The Rock at Pingwe Beach
The Rock is a unique restaurant located on Zanzibar’s southeastern shore, off the coast of the small settlement of Pingwe. It’s an Italian restaurant that leans heavily on its Zanzibari roots, and uses only the finest local ingredients.
However, the food is actually of secondary importance at this unique restaurant. As the name suggests, the restaurant is built onto a large rock that juts out of the ocean, a few meters from the shoreline. At low tide, you can walk across the sand to reach it, whilst a small boat carries guests to and from the restaurant when the tide is high.
It’s a completely unique dining experience on Zanzibar. In fact, it’s so unique that it books up weeks in advance, and as you can imagine, it’s quite tight for space. So check out their website and book your reservation before you travel if you’d like to visit as part of your Zanzibar itinerary.
The Best Zanzibar Itinerary: Final Thoughts
For a small, easily forgotten cluster of islands off the coast of Africa, Zanzibar really packs a punch. Its location means it’s absolutely ideal for those looking to relax after an incredible but tiring safari vacation, and its reliable weather means that you are guaranteed sun and warm temperatures virtually all year round.
The archipelago is absolutely teeming with marine life, making it an ideal destination for diving, swimming and snorkeling, whilst Stone Town offers a healthy dose of history and culture, even if some of that history is somewhat uncomfortable.
I think about a week or slightly more is absolutely perfect for a Zanzibar itinerary, though if you’re just looking for a few days of R&R then 4 or 5 days is also plenty.
Make sure to throw yourself into the archipelago’s amazing street food, try your hand at watersports like kite surfing, and enjoy plenty of leisure time on some of the world’s best beaches – you won’t regret it!
DId you get a chance to visit Zanzibar? Let me know in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Tanzania?
Check out my other travel guides on Tanzania here.
Visiting other parts of Africa?
Check out my other travel guides on Africa here.
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on January 31st, 2025 at 09:20 pm
Have you ever visited a location where the tide gets to be so low that boats actually get stuck in the water during the day? I know!! Crazy right? I’d never seen anything like it until I recently visited the beautiful island of Zanzibar!
Located off the coast of Tanzania, the semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar is a little bit off the beaten path, but is also the absolutely perfect beach destination if you’ve just finished a safari vacation to the Serengeti or the Masai Mara. (A little bit off the beaten path is an understatement as it took me 32 gutwrenching hours to get here from the states but boy was it worth it)
I recently spent a week on the main island of Unguja, which most people just call Zanzibar. I absolutely loved it, I spent a few days lounging on some of the best beaches I’ve ever visited, and had time for a dash of culture in the capital, Stone Town, and elsewhere.
Known for its incredible beaches, clear seas and reliable weather, Zanzibar offers safari travelers a relaxing end to their trip – a few days can be just what is needed after a week or two spent in the dusty grasslands, tracking wildlife or maybe even trekking up Kilimanjaro.
In this article, I’m going to help you plan your own Zanzibar itinerary. I’ll tell you the perfect amount of time to visit for, how to get there, the best time to go to Zanzibar and all the main things to do in Zanzibar as part of your trip. So you can grab your coffee and stop your travel planning, I’ve got you.
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
How Long Should I Visit Zanzibar For?
How long to spend in Zanzibar really depends on the purpose of your visit. If you’re purely after a beach break, then anything from 3 days to 5 is plenty of time to kick back and relax, whether it’s at a top Zanzibar all-inclusive resort or one of the island’s numerous other top hotels.
For a deeper dive into the culture and attractions of Zanzibar, whilst also leaving plenty of time for the beach, 7 to 10 days is a good amount of time to fully explore Unguja and the archipelago’s smaller islands. You wouldn’t want to spend any longer on your trip to Zanzibar, as there isn’t loads to keep you occupied outside of Stone Town and away from the golden sands and turquoise waters of the beach.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
There’s not really any such thing as spring, summer, fall and winter in Zanzibar. Instead, the seasons are split into wet and dry, and you probably don’t need me to tell you what each involves. Here’s a little more information about visiting throughout the year, the overall best time to go to Zanzibar, and my personal recommended month for you to plan your Zanzibar travel itinerary.
Visiting Zanzibar during dry season
Characterized by long days of sun, low humidity, high temperatures of 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F) and almost non-existent rainfall, the dry season is the peak time to visit Zanzibar. Perfect for a beach break and for exploring the archipelago’s natural wonders, this period is when the vast majority of travelers head to Zanzibar. This brings its own problems of course, with higher prices and bigger crowds, but there’s a reason for it.
The dry season can be split into two, with a short rainy season in November (more on that in a sec). June to October sees slightly cooler temperatures, but it’s the best time for a safari on mainland Tanzania, with the incredible Great Migration in full swing. So for a safari and beach combination trip, this is the time to be traveling. Meanwhile, December to March is when Zanzibar is at its hottest, with temperatures soaring. This coincides with the middle of winter in the Northern hemisphere, tempting many travelers to Zanzibar’s warmer climes.
Visiting Zanzibar during rainy season
I feel like calling it “rainy season” isn’t very accurate as it doesn’t actually rain for longer than like 30 minutes at a time here. The “long rains” of April to May also bring high humidity to Zanzibar. This is the season that brings life and much needed water to the archipelago, but its less than ideal for visitors. If there is a plus to visiting at this time of year, it’s that there will be far fewer tourists and prices will be much much lower. But again, it’s also worth noting that it rarely rains for hours and hours at a time. The Zanzibari rain tends to fall in intense bursts, with spells of sunshine in between.
November is an odd month, as the rains return in the middle of the dry season, albeit with less intensity than during the long rainy season. It’s still going to be warm, and the rain rarely disrupts an entire day.
The Best Month to Visit: July
Nothing like spending the 4th of July overseas in America am I right?? Haha yes that’s what I did but it was because I was maximizing my PTO per usual.
Coinciding with the peak of the Great Migration inland, July is easily the best month for a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach break combo. The temperatures are warm, skies clear and ocean conditions ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The slightly cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring Stone Town, whilst still plenty enjoyable enough for you to work on your tan.
How to Travel to Zanzibar
Although it’s an archipelago more than ~20 miles (35km) off the coast of the African mainland, Zanzibar isn’t that difficult to get to. You’ve got two main options:
Getting to Zanzibar by Air
Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is located on the main island of Unguja, just a few kilometers south of Stone Town. It’s well served by big international airlines including Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines and KLM, although direct flights are hard to come by – Doha, Addis Adaba, Amsterdam, Nairobi and Cairo are all common stopovers. Regional African airlines also make it easy to reach Zanzibar from Nairobi, Johannesburg and elsewhere.
If you’re spending the first part of your Tanzania trip spotting lions and rhinos in the Serengeti, then you’ll be glad to know that travel to Zanzibar is also possible via domestic airlines including Precision Air, Air Tanzania and ZanAir, with flights from Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and the safari hotspot of Arusha.
Ps. You might want to get your yellow fever shot as a precaution. The mosquitoes aren’t bad on the island but it’s apparently a requirement in order to get your visa to Tanzania. I say apparently because no one ever checked for my vaccine but it’s probably still smart to get before leaving the states (or wherever you’re from).
Getting to Zanzibar by Ferry
If you’re already in mainland Tanzania then booking a ferry to Zanzibar can be cheaper, greener and more time-efficient. Ferries depart from Dar es Salaam daily, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries is one suggested operator, with ships arriving at the port in Stone Town.
In retrospect, I actually kind of wish we took the ferry instead because then we could’ve spent more time in Tanzania but oh well.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Best Hotels
During my stay in Zanzibar, I based myself on the northeast side of Unguja, staying for a few nights in Kiwengwa and a few nights in Nungwi. Here are a couple of ideas for where to stay in Zanzibar, based on my own experiences of visiting.
Mvuvi Boutique Hotel
In the pretty coastal village of Kiwengwa, I stayed at a beautiful 4-star boutique resort called Mvuvi, which is located literally a couple of steps from the beach.
This tiny resort only has 18 rooms, which means the service is super personalized, I felt like I was being treated like some sort of celebrity. The resort has a private beach and rooms are split between two traditional, Swahili-style buildings, complete with thatched roofs.
The onsite restaurant served up some delicious Mediterranean-Swahili style fusion dishes, with views over the Indian Ocean. And I had to treat myself to a massage in the spa, it was the perfect setting to do so!
Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas
In Nungwi, I booked myself in to a 5-star stay at Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas, another relatively small resort, spread over a series of 12 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom villas. Peacefully secluded and located right on the beach, each villa offers something different.
All the rooms are freakin incredible at this resort. Like, probably one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed at. The main restaurant, BluFire blends flavors from around the world, whilst at the Drunken Monkey you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and design your own Tapas-style menu.
Don’t miss the full review of Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas here on the blog!
Zanzi Hotel
I didn’t stay here myself, but I’ve also heard excellent things about Zanzi Hotel, a 5-star resort on the west coast of the island. If I ever return to Zanzibar, which I hope I do, this is where I’ll be booking in, as its in an ideal place and comes well recommended.
Best Zanzibar All-inclusive Resorts
It’s not my usual sort of travel, but Zanzibar is a really popular destination for all-inclusive vacations. It has the weather, the beaches and the cuisine for it, I can’t argue with that. Some of the top Zanzibar all-inclusive resorts include The Mora, TUI Blue Bahari, Hotel RIU Palace and The Palms. I totally get the appeal, all you can eat and drink in a literal tropical paradise.
I usually stay away from these types of hotels (except Safira Blu obviously) but if you’re coming from the states, it could be a good option as they also take care of a lot of the transportation for you.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Zanzibar
I seriously don’t even know how wanting to visit Zanzibar popped into my head. But good thing it did because I just knew there’d be so much to do and see on this tiny island in Africa! I think I was also trying to optimize for closeness from Kenya after a safari that I ended up missing due to visa issues 🥴
Many people come to Zanzibar for the beaches and the beaches alone, with some of the world’s best found on the archipelago. But Zanzibar is also a watersports capital of the world, home to all sorts of amazing wildlife, and Stone Town is a cultural melting pot, well worth exploring. Here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in Zanzibar during your vacation.
Explore Stone Town
Stone Town is the official name for the historic center of Zanzibar City, the capital and largest settlement in the archipelago, on the main island. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town has a long history as a trading port and old slave market – this has led to a dynamic mix of cultures and influences.
I was amazed to see what a mix it was, with elements of British, Indian, Persian, Swahili and Arabic cultures in the buildings, restaurants, clothes and general feel of the town. You walk down one street that wouldn’t look out of place in an English village, with historic churches. Then you turn a corner and could be wandering through Amman or Beirut, with aromatic spice markets and ancient mosques dating back hundreds of years.
You can take guided tours of Stone Town, or just throw yourself in like I did, getting lost down narrow alleys and using imposing minarets to guide yourself back out of the warren. Zanzibar has an interesting history as an old slave market and slave trading port too, which although traumatic, is a really interesting thing to learn about as you explore.
See the Giant Tortoises of Prison Island
Giant turtles, free lunch, and a beautiful sandbank?! Sign me up!
You know I love nothing more than a good day trip, especially if you’re visiting anywhere for the first time. (Fast travel is usually how I roll).
Giant tortoises are not native to Zanzibar. However, the Aldabra giant tortoise is native to the Seychelles, an African island nation about 1,800 kilometers east of Zanzibar. This tortoise was very nearly lost to the world, hunted to extinction for meat on many of the Seychelles islands.
Luckily, thanks to conservation efforts there are now more than 100,000 Aldabra giant tortoises. And approximately 100 of them live in Zanzibar, descendants of four tortoises gifted to the islands by the Governor of the Seychelles in the 18th century.
These tortoises roam safely on Prison Island, one of the main Zanzibar tourist attractions, which is located about 30 minutes from Stone Town. There’s more dark history to uncover here too, it’s named Prison Island as it was once used as a tough prison for misbehaving slaves.
Take a Dhow Cruise at Sunset
A dhow is a traditional Arabic sailing boat with a triangular sail, and they are absolutely everywhere in Zanzibar. The boats have an engine, but this is only used to take you about a kilometer out to sea, when it is switched off and the sail unfurled.
You can then spend some time floating peacefully in the Indian Ocean.
Sunset is by far the most popular (and romantic) time for one of these Zanzibar dhow cruises, but there are many operators all over the archipelago who offer the experience.
Visit a Spice Plantation
Zanzibar’s nickname is “Spice Island”, and it is one of Africa and the world’s most important exporters of spices including cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and nutmeg. These spices are all grown on huge plantations in the rural parts of the archipelago, and many of these are open to visitors for guided tours.
You can learn more about how each spice is grown and what it is used for, as well as being able to buy high quality local spices to take home with you. Just an FYI, US Customs should let you bring through dried spices, just avoid anything like fruit seeds and leaves, I’d hate for you to get them taken off you!
Explore Jozani Forest
Unfortunately, there’s not too much nature left on land in Zanzibar. Like many small islands, humanity has taken over and nature has been moved out of the way. Luckily, Jozani Forest has been protected, largely because it is the only place in the world where you can find Zanzibar red colobus monkeys.
This exciting Zanzibar safari opportunity makes the forest one of the best places to visit in Zanzibar. Extinct in most of the northern half of the island, around 6,000 monkeys survive in the southern half of the island, many of them taking refuge in Jozani Forest, in the south-east of the main island.
The forest is easily reached from the main tourist areas and sightings of the monkeys are all but guaranteed if you take a walk along one of the marked forest trails as part of your Zanzibar itinerary.
You can book a local guide here too, who will not only point out the monkeys, but also the various medicinal plants which grow naturally in the forest.
Spot Marine Life on a Scuba Dive
While Zanzibar’s land area may be naturally depleted, the archipelago’s waters are rich in marine life. Snorkeling is one way to enjoy this rich biodiversity, but for a deeper dive, visit one of the more than 30 dive sites around Zanzibar for a scuba dive.
Courses and tours can be booked by anyone, beginner or expert. Coral reefs teem with tropical fish, like angelfish and parrotfish, which use their tough beaks to feed on coral. Octopus hide out on the reefs too, while endangered sea turtles can be seen around Nungwi and Mnemba.
Most incredibly of all, the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, can be seen around Zanzibar during its migration season.
Although whale sharks can be spotted in Zanzibar, for the best chances to see them, you actually want to take the ferry to Dar es Salaam and then head south down the coast to Nyamisati, a small port with a daily connection to Mafia Island.
Mafia Island is a whale shark hotspot, and the best time to spot these incredible animals is from October through March. During this time, whale sharks can be seen close to the surface, feeding on plankton. Maybe consider a night or two here as part of your Zanzibar itinerary, if swimming with whale sharks is something you’d like to do!
Visit Zanzibar Butterfly Center
Another wildlife initiative and one of the more popular Zanzibar tourist attractions is the Zanzibar Butterfly Center, located near to Jozani Forest.
This collective is operated by around 40 local farmers, who breed native butterfly species to release into Zanzibar. The benefits of this are three-fold; they boost wildlife populations and provide an additional income to the farmers, as visitors to the Butterfly Center pay a small fee (around USD $6).
The butterflies also help with pollination, boosting the crop yields of the farmers.
Have a go at Kitesurfing
Shallow waters and consistent winds mean that Zanzibar is one of the world’s top kitesurfing spots.
And for anyone who’s never given it a go, a trip to Zanzibar offers a great opportunity. The south-east of the main island is the best place to try it, especially the beaches at Panje, Dongwe and Jambiani. You can rent equipment and take lessons at all of these beaches and many more
Go Tidepooling on the beaches
Tidepooling in Zanzibar is a popular activity during low tide, when the ocean’s floor is exposed, revealing coral formations and sandy tidal flats. Tide pools are home to many small sea creatures, including starfish, anemones, and minnows
Book the Blue Safari
One of the most popularly booked excursions on Zanzibar is the Blue Safari. The operators will pick you up from your accommodation, wherever that is on the island and take you the Menai Bay Conservation Area, home to isolated sandbanks and crystal clear water.
You’ll board a dhow and spend the day exploring the area, with guided snorkeling, the chance to spot dolphins, relax on the powdered sand of the sandbanks, swim in hidden lagoons and tuck into a mouthwatering Swahili barbecue.
Packaged tours like this are a great way to see a different side to Zanzibar, and to enjoy the archipelago’s incredible marine diversity.
Another activity people love is the Mnemba boat trip and dolphin snorkel from Kendwa!! After this trip to Zanzibar, you’ll basically be an expert of the ocean!
Paddleboard Through Mangrove Forests
Another watersport that Zanzibar excels in is paddleboarding. You can stand if you dare, or kneel if it’s easier, at least until you get the hang of things!
The best place to try paddleboarding in Zanzibar is in the island’s mangrove forests, where the trees ensure the water is always calm and the natural environment offers an amazing backdrop to the experience.
Again, you can book guided, tour-led packages to help you to get the most from this experience. I’m now realizing that Zanzibar is pretty “tour-heavy” compared to some other places I’ve traveled to. I guess it makes sense just because the island is pretty spread out.
While you always have the option of renting a car…it just makes it easier if someone’s taking care of the logistics for you!
The Best Zanzibar Beaches
If you’re heading to Zanzibar for sun, sea and sand, then I can’t blame you. I thought the archipelago had some of the most beautiful beaches I had ever set foot on. Here are some of the top beaches to visit as part of your Zanzibar travel itinerary.
Kendwa Beach
Located on the north-west coast of the main island, Kendwa Beach is a rare species in Zanzibar in that it offers much calmer waters than some of the beaches further south.
This is less attractive for watersports but ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, and for visiting with younger children. Kendwa is generally quieter than some of the beaches further south, and the sunset here is unreal too.
Nakupenda Beach
If you’re staying in Stone Town and not looking to travel too far, then this could be the beach for you.
Another of the best beaches in Zanzibar, Nakupenda is accessed by a 15-minute boat ride from Stone Town and is geographically the closest beach to the island’s capital. It’s not really a beach at all, but a sandbank known for its stunning white sand and coral reefs – this makes it one of the island’s top snorkeling destinations. It can get extremely busy in high season, so try to head over early if you can.
Nungwi Beach
If it’s a party atmosphere and decent nightlife you’re after, then Nungwi is the pick of Zanzibar’s beaches. Some of the top hotels in Zanzibar are located here, as are plenty of the best restaurants and bars. It’s got a great position for sunset and there’s a more remote stretch of beach to the north which can offer solace amongst the lively atmosphere.
Paje Beach
The choppier waters of Paje Beach along Zanzibar’s east coast make it one of the best beaches in Zanzibar for water sports, particularly kite surfing and wind surfing.
There’s plenty of marine life here too, making it a good beach for scuba diving, and there’s culture to be found in the adjacent village of Paje, which is a little more off the tourist trail and a bit less crowded than other parts of the archipelago.
What to Eat in Zanzibar
As I’ve already mentioned, Zanzibar is a fascinating blend of African, European, Arabic and Indian cultures and influences, and the Zanzibar food is no different. Dishes are packed with flavor and, of course, spices. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamon and other spices that grow well here are cheap, readily available and used generously in cooking.
In Stone Town and other larger settlements, street food is an important part of life, particularly at markets like the Forodhani Gardens Night Market. Zanzibar pizza is a popular dish, a sweet or savory stuffed pancake that is usually filled with mincemeat and vegetables, although can be filled with chocolate or other sweets to make a delicious dessert.
Another Stone Town specialty is Urojo soup, a spicy mix of chutney, mango, chilies and garlic, served with chunks of potato and bhajis. More familiar Zanzibar food and snacks found at street food vendors include samosas and kebabs, whilst biryani is a popular dish too.
Like any island, Zanzibar is heavily reliant on seafood, with fresh fish and other seafood available in all good restaurants. Lobster, prawns, octopus and snapper fish are all commonly found on menus across the archipelago, often grilled on an open fire or served up in curries, particularly coconut based curries.
That African staple food, ugali is never far away either. Made from ground corn, this thick porridge-like dish is an original Kenyan foodstuff that has spread around the continent thanks to its simplicity, cheapness and availability. It’s served alongside curries, stews, vegetables and fish, and can be hard to escape on Zanzibar!
When it comes to dessert, fresh, locally grown pineapple, passionfruit and mango offer a refreshing taste, so much better than the pesticide-ridden, imported fruit you find back home. For something sweeter, mandazi is a sort of donut, spiced of course. And all good meals are washed down with a glass of sugarcane juice, or a cup of spiced tea.
The Rock at Pingwe Beach
The Rock is a unique restaurant located on Zanzibar’s southeastern shore, off the coast of the small settlement of Pingwe. It’s an Italian restaurant that leans heavily on its Zanzibari roots, and uses only the finest local ingredients.
However, the food is actually of secondary importance at this unique restaurant. As the name suggests, the restaurant is built onto a large rock that juts out of the ocean, a few meters from the shoreline. At low tide, you can walk across the sand to reach it, whilst a small boat carries guests to and from the restaurant when the tide is high.
It’s a completely unique dining experience on Zanzibar. In fact, it’s so unique that it books up weeks in advance, and as you can imagine, it’s quite tight for space. So check out their website and book your reservation before you travel if you’d like to visit as part of your Zanzibar itinerary.
The Best Zanzibar Itinerary: Final Thoughts
For a small, easily forgotten cluster of islands off the coast of Africa, Zanzibar really packs a punch. Its location means it’s absolutely ideal for those looking to relax after an incredible but tiring safari vacation, and its reliable weather means that you are guaranteed sun and warm temperatures virtually all year round.
The archipelago is absolutely teeming with marine life, making it an ideal destination for diving, swimming and snorkeling, whilst Stone Town offers a healthy dose of history and culture, even if some of that history is somewhat uncomfortable.
I think about a week or slightly more is absolutely perfect for a Zanzibar itinerary, though if you’re just looking for a few days of R&R then 4 or 5 days is also plenty.
Make sure to throw yourself into the archipelago’s amazing street food, try your hand at watersports like kite surfing, and enjoy plenty of leisure time on some of the world’s best beaches – you won’t regret it!
DId you get a chance to visit Zanzibar? Let me know in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Tanzania?
Check out my other travel guides on Tanzania here.
Visiting other parts of Africa?
Check out my other travel guides on Africa here.
Comments Off on The Best Zanzibar Itinerary: Exploring Tanzania’s Island Paradise