Wander the lanes of historic Stone Town, taste spices straight from the plantation and swim in warm Indian Ocean water. Zanzibar is the perfect finish to a Tanzania safari, or a journey all of its own.
• Intro: Off Tanzania's coast, Zanzibar blends Swahili, Arab, Indian, and African influences. Stone Town's stone houses and carved doors, clove and nutmeg plantations, and white-sand beaches fringed by coral reefs all sit within a short drive of one another.
Swahili means “of the coast,” and Zanzibar sits at the heart of that coast. For centuries, dhows rode the monsoon winds across the Indian Ocean, carrying spices, ivory, and cloth between Arabia, India, and East Africa. Merchants from Oman, Gujarat, and beyond settled here and built the tall stone houses that define Stone Town, and the Omani sultans of the 18th century planted the spice plantations that still scent the island today. Landmarks such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the cathedral built over the former slave market tell that story honestly, while the beaches, coral reefs, and fishing villages give you the room to unwind.
From history-rich streets to coral reefs and spice farms, choose the experiences that match your pace.
2–3 hoursExplore narrow lanes, carved doors, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Forodhani Gardens with a local guide who brings the history to life.
Ask about this
Half daySee, smell and taste cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and tropical fruit on a working farm, and learn how spices shaped the island's fortunes.
Ask about this
Half dayTake a short boat ride from Stone Town to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises, then swim or snorkel in clear shallow water.
Ask about this
2–3 hoursWalk with a ranger through Zanzibar's last large patch of indigenous forest to see the endemic red colobus monkeys and a mangrove boardwalk.
Ask about this
Full daySail out to a protected coral reef for snorkeling or diving among tropical fish, with a good chance of turtles and dolphins.
Ask about this
2 – 3 hoursDrift along the coast on a traditional wooden dhow as the sky turns gold, with music, fruit and cool drinks on board.
Ask about this
FlexibleRelax on the soft sand of Nungwi, Kendwa, or Matemwe, or learn to kitesurf where steady winds meet shallow lagoons at Paje.
Ask about this
2–3 hoursLook for pelicans, cranes, ostriches and, when conditions allow, flamingos on the soda lake and across the crater floor.
Ask about thisZanzibar sits close to the equator, so temperatures stay warm all year. The long rains bring the biggest change in scenery and crowds.
Warm, sunny weather with calm seas, ideal for beach days and snorkeling. February often brings the Sauti za Busara music festival.
Peak beach seasonHeavy showers, lush green scenery, and the lowest rates. Some lodges close, and humidity is high.
Quiet seasonLower humidity, clear skies, and pleasant sea breezes. A favorite time for beaches, culture, and cultural festivals.
Great weatherReliable sunshine, excellent diving visibility and good winds for kitesurfing. Book early.
Peak seasonBrief afternoon showers, warm water, and fewer visitors, with festive-season crowds arriving by late December.
Seasonal transitionFrom restored Stone Town palaces to barefoot beach lodges, choose the base that matches your pace.
All year round
All year round
All year round
All year round
SeasonalPrepare for your Ngorongoro safari with essential information about getting to the conservation area, entry fees, accommodation options, and practical travel tips.
In the Indian Ocean about 35 km off the coast of mainland Tanzania. Unguja is the main island, with Pemba to the north.
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport near Stone Town, and the ferry port in Stone Town.
About 20–30 minutes by air from Dar es Salaam, or around 2 hours by fast ferry. Flights also connect from Arusha and Kilimanjaro, so it is easy to add a beach stay to a safari. Confirm schedules with your operator.
Stone Town boutique hotels, beach resorts on the north and east coasts, and private island lodges.
A Tanzania tourist visa covers Zanzibar, and you will usually show your passport on arrival from the mainland. Entry fees apply at sites such as Jozani Forest and Prison Island, and tourism taxes are set by the authority, so confirm current rates before you travel.
Tell us when you want to travel and what inspires you, and we will design your journey.
Zanzibar pairs beautifully with the rest of the Swahili coast and Tanzania's famous parks.
Zanzibar Archipelago Southern CoastSurrounded by a barrier reef marine park, with calm beaches and a hidden-gem feel.
Visit Destination
Swahili CoastRuins of a medieval Swahili trading city once visited by famed traveller Ibn Battuta.
Visit Destination
Swahili CoastA historic coastal town that once marked the end of the inland caravan routes.
Visit Destination
Northern CircuitHome to the Great Migration and some of the richest wildlife viewing on Earth.
Visit Destination
MountainsAfrica's highest peak, ideal before a well-earned beach finish.
Visit DestinationFind answers to common questions about visiting Zanzibar Island, including the best time to visit, top attractions, beaches, and activities. Discover how to plan your ideal Zanzibar holiday around your interests, travel dates, and preferred experiences.
Ask us a question →A little preparation makes your journey smoother. Consider your travel dates, how you will combine the island with a safari, and the pace you want.
Decide between dry-season sunshine and quieter, greener months. Festivals and wind seasons can also shape the best time for you.
Explore the seasonsPair Zanzibar with a safari or a Kilimanjaro climb, choose between Stone Town and the beaches, and allow time to relax between activities.
Discover destinationsCheck passport and visa requirements, travel insurance, recommended health advice and local dress customs.
Discuss your tripTell us when you would like to travel, what inspires you and what kind of experience you have in mind.
