Zanzibar Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go
Picture this: a traditional wooden sailboat gliding across the Indian Ocean at sunset, the scent of cloves and cinnamon on the breeze, and the call to prayer echoing through a labyrinth of coral-stone alleyways. Welcome to Zanzibar—an island where cultures collide, the pace slows, and the sea shimmers in impossible shades of blue.
Just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar has long been a magnet for travellers in search of something different. History lovers can lose themselves in Stone Town’s UNESCO-listed streets, beach seekers will find paradise along the coastline, and food enthusiasts will fall for the island’s spice-laden cuisine.
But it’s more than just a pretty postcard. Beneath the palm-fringed surface lies a complex cultural heritage shaped by African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern-day island life, and where the best experiences come from venturing just a little off the tourist trail.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before you go—from the best time to visit and the top beaches to local etiquette and where to find the tastiest octopus curry. Whether it’s your first visit or a long-awaited return, this guide will help you experience Zanzibar at its best.
Location, Origins & Island Identity
Zanzibar isn’t just a tropical island escape—it’s an entire archipelago floating off the coast of East Africa, around 25 to 50 kilometres from mainland Tanzania. The main island, Unguja, is where you’ll find the capital Stone Town, the busiest beaches, and most of the region’s accommodation. To the north is Pemba, a lush, less-touristed island known for its spice farms and pristine coral reefs. Scattered between them are dozens of smaller islets, some barely more than a spit of sand and coconut palms.
Though now part of Tanzania, Zanzibar has a long history of autonomy—and identity. For centuries, it was a hub for traders from Persia, Arabia, India, and beyond. By the 12th century, it had become a vital stop along the Indian Ocean trade routes, exporting spices, ivory, and sadly, enslaved people. In 1698, it came under the rule of the Sultanate of Oman, and Stone Town’s architecture still reflects that Arab influence—think carved wooden doors, narrow alleys, and coral-stone buildings.
In the 19th century, Zanzibar became the world’s largest producer of cloves and played a central role in the spice trade. It was also a key site in the East African slave trade, with the Anglican Cathedral now standing on the site of the former slave market—a sobering but essential stop for understanding the island’s past.
Zanzibar gained independence from British colonial rule in 1963, briefly became a republic, and then joined with Tanganyika in 1964 to form Tanzania. Today, it retains a semi-autonomous government and a strong cultural identity that blends African, Arab, Indian, and European influences—seen in its food, religion, language (Swahili), and way of life.
It’s this rich cultural tapestry, combined with dazzling beaches and a laid-back rhythm, that gives Zanzibar its unforgettable character.
When to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar has a warm, tropical climate year-round, but timing your trip right can make all the difference—especially if you're chasing sunshine, avoiding crowds, or planning specific activities like diving or kite-surfing.
Dry Season (June to October)
This is considered the best time to visit. Clear skies, lower humidity, and steady sunshine make it perfect for beach days, snorkelling, and exploring Stone Town without breaking a sweat. It’s also the coolest time of year (though “cool” still means mid-20s°C). July and August are peak months, so expect higher prices and more visitors—especially in popular spots like Nungwi.
Short Rains (November to mid-December)
Showers tend to be brief and mostly fall in the late afternoons. The upside? Fewer crowds, lusher scenery, and lower accommodation rates. It’s still a great time to visit if you don’t mind the occasional downpour and want a quieter experience.
Hot Season (mid-December to February)
This is the warmest period on the island, with daytime temperatures pushing into the 30s°C. It’s also a festive time, with Christmas and New Year drawing international visitors. The sea is at its clearest, making it ideal for diving and snorkelling.
Long Rains (March to May)
Zanzibar’s low season, and for good reason—heavy rains can last for hours and roads may flood in more rural areas. Some hotels even close temporarily. That said, if you’re after rock-bottom prices and don’t mind moody weather, it can still be worth a look.
For Kite-Surfers & Divers
Kite-surfing is best in June–August and December–February, particularly in Paje.
Scuba diving and snorkelling are excellent in February–March and July–August, with clear visibility and calm waters.
Top Things to Do in Zanzibar
There’s more to Zanzibar than beach hammocks and turquoise waves—though those are pretty fantastic too. The island is packed with history, natural wonders, and cultural experiences that reward both slow travellers and spontaneous explorers. Here’s your guide to the best things to do while soaking up the magic of the Spice Island.
Wander Through Stone Town’s Historic Streets
Stone Town is the beating heart of Zanzibar—an atmospheric maze of winding alleys, ancient mosques, carved wooden doors, and lively street markets. Start at the Old Fort, a 17th-century stronghold built by the Omanis, then visit the House of Wonders, once the largest building in East Africa and the first to have electricity.
The Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of the old slave market, offers a sobering but essential insight into Zanzibar’s role in the East African slave trade. Stop by Darajani Market for spices and street snacks, and don’t miss Forodhani Gardens at sunset, where food stalls fire up grills and serve fresh seafood, samosas, and the famous Zanzibar pizza.
🧭 Tip: Hire a local guide to uncover the hidden history behind the buildings and alleyways—it’s well worth it.
Explore Zanzibar’s Famous Beaches
You can’t visit Zanzibar without spending time on its iconic beaches—each one offering a different slice of island life. Whether you’re after social vibes, water sports, or complete tranquillity, there’s a stretch of sand with your name on it.
Nungwi & Kendwa (North Coast): Best for all-day swimming and epic sunsets. Nungwi is lively with bars and backpackers, while Kendwa offers a quieter, more refined take with golden-hour cocktails and occasional Full Moon Parties.
Paje & Jambiani (Southeast Coast): Paje is the island’s kite-surfing hub, buzzing with boho cafés and backpacker energy. Jambiani, just down the road, offers a slower pace and a deeper connection to local life.
Matemwe (Northeast Coast): Think boutique resorts, peaceful mornings, and direct access to the snorkelling hotspot of Mnemba Atoll. It’s ideal for honeymooners or anyone craving serenity.
🏖️ Tip: Beaches on the east coast experience dramatic tides—plan swims for high tide and low-tide walks for shell-hunting and sunrise views.
Snorkel or Dive at Mnemba Atoll
Just off the northeast coast, Mnemba Atoll is a private marine conservation area famous for its crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reef system. Boat tours typically leave from Matemwe or Nungwi and include all snorkelling or diving gear. Underwater, you’ll find a technicolour world of parrotfish, clownfish, moray eels, sea turtles, and the occasional dolphin pod.
Visibility is excellent year-round, and it’s one of the best places in Zanzibar to try a discovery dive if you’re new to scuba.
🐠 Tip: Go early to beat the crowds and enjoy calmer waters. If diving’s not your thing, the snorkelling here is still some of the best in East Africa.
Take a Spice Tour Through the Island’s Farms
Zanzibar’s spice tours are more than a tourist stop—they’re a hands-on journey through the island’s rich agricultural heritage. At one of the many spice farms near Kizimbani or Kidichi, you’ll wander past rows of clove trees, vanilla vines, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Guides usually encourage you to touch, smell, and taste everything, with surprising facts about how each spice is harvested and used.
Most tours finish with a traditional Swahili meal cooked using the very spices you’ve just encountered—think fragrant rice, creamy coconut curry, and spiced tea.
🌿 Tip: Buy small packets of fresh spices at the source—they’re often cheaper and more aromatic than market stalls in town.
See the Red Colobus Monkeys in Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest, located about halfway between Stone Town and Paje, is a protected area and the only national park on Zanzibar. It’s home to the rare red colobus monkey, a playful and curious species found only here. The forest itself is a mix of coastal woodland and mangrove swamp, with a well-maintained trail system and elevated boardwalks that let you walk right through the jungle canopy.
You might also spot bush babies, duikers, or even the elusive Zanzibar leopard (though sightings are extremely rare).
🐒 Tip: Early morning visits offer the best chance to see the monkeys up close while they’re most active.
Sail into Sunset on a Traditional Dhow Cruise
Few experiences capture Zanzibar’s charm like a sunset cruise aboard a traditional dhow. These elegant wooden sailing boats have plied the Swahili coast for centuries and still set off from Nungwi or Stone Town each evening. As the sun dips low, the sails catch the wind and you drift across the ocean with a drink in hand and live taarab or acoustic music setting the mood.
Some cruises include fresh seafood snacks, while others offer private hire for something extra special.
🌅 Tip: Bring a light jacket or scarf—the sea breeze can turn cool after sunset, especially if you’re out on the water a while.
Try Kite-Surfing in Paje
If you’re after an adrenaline rush, Paje is one of the best kite-surfing spots in East Africa. The consistent winds, shallow lagoon, and long stretch of flat, sandy beach make it ideal for both beginners and pros. You’ll find plenty of kite schools offering lessons, gear hire, and multi-day packages for travellers keen to master the sport.
When the tide is high and the wind is steady, the beach becomes a colourful blur of kites—there’s a real energy here that’s infectious, even if you’re just watching from a beach bar.
💨 Tip: The best months for kite-surfing are June to August and December to February.
Hidden Gem: Chumbe Island Coral Park
Chumbe Island is a private nature reserve located just off Zanzibar’s west coast. It’s known for its unspoiled coral reef sanctuary, eco-friendly bungalows, and protected forest trails. Only a small number of guests are allowed each day, which keeps the island pristine and the reef healthy.
A visit includes guided snorkelling (with marine biologists), a walk through the island’s coral rag forest, and a tour of its innovative eco-lodge facilities—think solar energy, composting toilets, and rainwater catchment systems. It’s one of the best examples of sustainable tourism in East Africa.
🦜 Tip: Book in advance—day trips and overnight stays are limited, and it fills up quickly during peak season.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s accommodation scene is as varied as its beaches—whether you're chasing barefoot luxury, rustic charm, or somewhere cheap and cheerful by the sea. Most places are set along the coastline, with each area offering a different vibe. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right base:
For Laid-Back Luxury: Kendwa & Matemwe
If you’re after white linens, infinity pools, and lazy days with cocktails in hand, Kendwa and Matemwe are great bets. Kendwa offers easy access to bars and boat trips while still delivering on dreamy sunsets and direct beach access. Matemwe, meanwhile, is quieter, often home to smaller boutique lodges and romantic getaways.
🛎️ Try:
Zuri Zanzibar (Kendwa) – eco-conscious luxury with private bungalows.
Zanzibar Retreat Hotel (Matemwe) – beachfront charm with a peaceful, low-key vibe.
For Culture & Convenience: Stone Town
Want to dive into local life without compromising comfort? Stone Town is perfect for shorter stays, especially if you're into heritage hotels, street food, and historical charm. While beaches here aren’t swimmable, you’re close to the ferry, markets, and nightlife.
🏨 Try:
Emerson on Hurumzi – a beautifully restored merchant house with rooftop dining.
Kisiwa House – elegant and central with a nod to the island’s Swahili roots.
For Boho Beach Vibes: Paje & Jambiani
Perfect for backpackers, digital nomads, and travellers staying a little longer. Paje is dotted with beach cafés, kite-surf schools, and hostels that lean into barefoot cool. Jambiani is quieter, more authentic, and ideal for those seeking a peaceful local rhythm.
🎒 Try:
Drifters Zanzibar (Paje) – a sociable beachfront stay with a relaxed feel.
Blue Earth Bungalows (Jambiani) – eco-friendly, community-focused, and right on the beach.
On a Budget? You're Covered
From beachfront bungalows to cheerful guesthouses in local villages, Zanzibar has no shortage of wallet-friendly stays. East coast villages like Bwejuu and Jambiani are great for stretching your money further while still soaking up the scenery.
💰 Tip: Book ahead during high season (June–October, December–February), as even budget rooms fill fast near the coast.
What to Eat & Drink in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s cuisine is a flavourful reflection of its cultural crossroads. Influences from Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe have mingled here for centuries, and the result is a richly spiced, seafood-heavy diet that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether you're tucking into street food in Stone Town or enjoying a beachfront dinner under the stars, these are the dishes and drinks to look out for.
Zanzibar Pizza
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t your classic mozzarella-and-tomato slice. Zanzibar pizza is a street food staple: a thin dough parcel stuffed with minced meat, veggies, cheese, egg, and mayo (or sometimes Nutella and banana for dessert), then pan-fried until golden. You’ll find it sizzling away at Forodhani Night Market.
🧆 Try it: Hot and fresh from one of the food stalls by the seafront in Stone Town.
Octopus Curry
A local delicacy, octopus curry is made with coconut milk, garlic, lime, and a mix of warming spices. It’s creamy, rich, and best enjoyed with fluffy rice or chapati. You’ll find versions of this dish all over the island, especially in coastal villages like Jambiani.
🐙 Tip: Many local eateries cook with what’s freshly caught—ask what seafood is in season.
Urojo (Zanzibar Mix)
A spicy, tangy street food soup made with flour dumplings, potatoes, crispy bhajias, boiled egg, mango, and a bright yellow curry sauce. It’s cheap, cheerful, and packed with flavour—a true taste of local life.
🍲 Best enjoyed: At small roadside stalls or local markets during lunchtime.
Biryani & Pilau
A nod to Zanzibar’s Indian influence, these spiced rice dishes are common at both local restaurants and family gatherings. Pilau is subtler and often served with meat or vegetables; biryani is richer, layered with saffron, fried onions, and often slow-cooked goat or chicken.
🥄 Look for: Local spots in Stone Town serving these dishes at lunch, often from large clay pots.
Sugarcane Juice & Spiced Tea
Cool off with a glass of freshly pressed sugarcane juice—sometimes flavoured with lime and ginger. For something more warming, try Zanzibari chai: black tea brewed with cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and sometimes a splash of condensed milk.
🥤 You’ll find it: On street corners or served alongside breakfast in most guesthouses.
Konyagi & Sundowners
Konyagi is Tanzania’s local spirit, a clear, citrusy gin-like drink often mixed with tonic or soda. It’s an acquired taste, but it’s cheap, popular, and definitely worth a try. Most beachfront bars also serve rum-based cocktails and fresh fruit daiquiris perfect for watching the sun go down.
🍹 Best sipped: On the beach in Kendwa or Paje, toes in the sand and sky on fire.
Culture & Etiquette in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is warm, welcoming, and laid-back—but beneath the island charm lies a deep respect for tradition, religion, and community. Travellers who take the time to understand local customs will find their experience far richer (and far more appreciated by locals).
Dress Modestly Beyond the Beach
While bikinis and swimwear are totally fine on the sand, things are different once you step into villages or Stone Town. As a predominantly Muslim society, modest clothing is a mark of respect—shoulders and knees covered is a good rule of thumb. A light scarf or sarong can be useful for covering up quickly when needed.
Learn a Few Swahili Phrases
English is widely spoken, but using local greetings like Jambo (hello), Asante (thank you), and Karibu (welcome) is always appreciated. Don’t be surprised if locals want to chat—it’s part of the island’s friendly rhythm.
Ask Before Taking Photos
The colours and characters of Zanzibar are incredibly photogenic, but always ask before snapping portraits—especially in markets or villages. Some locals may say no, and that’s okay. A respectful approach builds trust.
Be Mindful During Ramadan
If you’re visiting during Ramadan, it’s polite not to eat, drink, or smoke in public during the day, particularly in Stone Town or rural areas. Many restaurants still serve tourists discreetly, but awareness goes a long way.
Tipping & Bartering
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated—especially in restaurants and for drivers or guides. In markets, haggling is part of the fun, just keep it friendly and light-hearted.
Essential Travel Info: Getting There, Around & What to Know
Before you pack your bags and head for the Spice Island, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Getting to Zanzibar
Most travellers arrive via Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located just outside Stone Town. There are direct international flights from hubs like Doha, Dubai, and Istanbul, or you can fly via Dar es Salaam on the Tanzanian mainland (a 15-minute hop across).
Alternatively, ferries run between Dar es Salaam and Stone Town several times a day. The journey takes around two hours, though sea conditions can be rough—book with a reputable operator like Azam Marine and opt for the VIP section if you want air con and fewer crowds.
✈️ Tip: If flying from Europe, it’s often cheaper to fly into Dar and book a separate local flight or ferry onward to Zanzibar.
Getting Around the Island
Zanzibar may look small on the map, but getting around can take time. Here are your main options:
Taxis & Private Transfers: Widely available, especially around airports and hotels. Always agree on a price in advance or book through your accommodation.
Dala-Dalas: These shared minibuses are the cheapest way to get around, but they're slow, cramped, and not the most tourist-friendly. Great for adventurous travellers on a budget.
Car & Scooter Hire: Available in Stone Town and major resorts. You'll need an international driving permit and a Zanzibar-specific licence, which rental companies can usually arrange. Roads are decent, but driving is on the left and signage is limited.
Guided Tours: Ideal for day trips to spice farms, Jozani Forest, or remote beaches if you’d rather not DIY your way around.
🚐 Tip: Most journeys take longer than expected—leave buffer time, especially for airport transfers.
Money & ATMs
The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). US dollars and euros are widely accepted at hotels and tour operators, but you’ll need shillings for local shops, taxis, and market stalls. ATMs are available in Stone Town and larger towns, but they can run out or go offline.
💳 Tip: Bring some cash as a backup, and don’t rely solely on cards—many places are cash-only.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafés, but it can be patchy. For better coverage, grab a local SIM card from Zantel or Airtel at the airport or in town. eSIM services like Airalo also work well across the island.
📱 Tip: Data is cheap—load up a local SIM for around £5–10 (€6–12) for a few GB.
Health & Safety
Malaria is present—take advice from your GP or travel clinic before arriving and use repellent and mosquito nets at night.
Tap water isn’t safe to drink—stick to bottled or filtered water.
Travel insurance is essential, especially if you plan to dive, kite-surf, or hire a scooter.
🦟 Tip: Most mid-range and upmarket hotels provide mosquito nets, but it's still worth packing your own spray.
Zanzibar isn’t just a beach destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the echo of the call to prayer across Stone Town’s rooftops, the scent of cloves drifting from spice plantations, and the slow rhythm of island life that makes you forget what day it is. From vibrant markets and centuries-old history to coral reefs and candlelit dinners on the sand, the island blends culture, nature, and serenity in a way that few places on Earth can match.
Whether you’re heading here for the first time or finally making a return, Zanzibar rewards those who dive deeper. Linger in the alleyways, chat with locals, eat with your hands, and watch the tide roll out across a beach that feels like it was made just for you.
This is more than a holiday—it’s a full sensory journey. And trust us: it stays with you long after your footprints have faded from the sand.
