Rates: 120 to 2820
Best time to visit: June to October
High season: July to October
Introduction to Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a Tanzanian archipelago located on the eastern coast of Tanzania, Africa, right in the middle of the Indian Ocean. It is a semi autonomous region of Tanzania, bursting with culture and history. Zanzibar is so much more than white sand beaches, clear warm waters, and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. The archipelago is made up of many small islands and two major islands. The first is Unguja, which is the main island and informally referred to as Zanzibar. The second is Pemba. After the union of Zanzibar and Tanganyika, Tanzania was born. Within this union, Zanzibar remains a semi autonomous region.
The Zanzibar archipelago sits about 25 to 50 kilometers off the coast of mainland Tanzania. The capital is Zanzibar City, located on Unguja island. Its historic center is Stone Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Like mainland Tanzania, the official languages are Swahili and English, but many Zanzibaris are also fluent in Arabic. The official currency is the Tanzanian shilling. Islam is the dominant religion, practiced by over 90 percent of the population. The population is over 1.3 million according to the 2012 census. The main industries are spices, raffia, and tourism.
Best Time to Visit
You can visit Zanzibar throughout the year, but the dry season from June to October is regarded by many as the best time to visit.
Why June to October is the best time to visit Zanzibar
First, the skies are clear and most days are sunny, giving you perfect weather for your stay. Second, you can combine your trip with a safari, a Mount Kilimanjaro hike, or another extension in mainland Tanzania because this is also a favorable time to visit the mainland. Third, moving around is much easier when it is dry compared to the rainy season. Fourth, there are fewer mosquitoes during this time, unlike the rainy season which creates favorable conditions for mosquitoes. Fifth, it is easier to meet people, join group tours, participate in group activities, and enjoy larger parties. Finally, there are plenty more options for activities to do during the dry season.
A few considerations against this period
Prices are high because this is peak season. There are also many travelers during this time, so if you prefer a quiet trip, this might not be ideal.
November
It is expected to be dry and sunny, making it a great time for a visit. There is a small chance of short shower rains, which are more expected in December and January.
December
The weather will be a mix of sunny days and short rain showers, which helps reduce dust. There is also a small peak season around the festival season.
January to February
It is expected to be sunny and dry, so this is a great time for a visit.
March
This is a grey area. It is not clear if it will remain dry or if the rainy season will begin.
April to May
This is probably the least favorable time to visit Tanzania because it is expected to be the rainy season. It can be very difficult to move around or enjoy the sun. However, there are some advantages to this period. You will find lower rates and fewer travelers since this is low season.
Getting to Zanzibar
The best way to get to Zanzibar is to fly directly to Zanzibar International Airport. If you are coming from a foreign country, you can fly directly to Zanzibar. You can also fly to Zanzibar from Kilimanjaro International Airport, from Arusha Airport, from Dar es Salaam International Airport, or from Mwanza Airport. Arusha Airport is more recommended after a northern circuit safari.
Flight options
Air Tanzania has a flight at 7:40 pm from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Zanzibar. This is possible after a northern circuit safari, but it is recommended not to fly directly after a safari because any major emergency can hurt your chances of catching your flight. Air Tanzania also has a flight at 7:15 am from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Zanzibar. Precision Air has a flight at 4:00 pm from Arusha Airport (ARK) to Zanzibar. Coastal Air, Flight Link, Precision Air, Air Tanzania, and Auric Air run multiple flights from domestic airports to Zanzibar.
Taking a ferry to Zanzibar
You can also take a bus to Dar es Salaam for about 17 to 25 US dollars and then take a two hour ferry to Zanzibar for about 35 US dollars. However, this option is not as valuable as a direct flight to Zanzibar. The bus takes almost ten hours to reach Dar es Salaam, and the ferry takes about two hours from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar.
Budget and Cost
Your budget for your stay in Zanzibar will be highly influenced by your accommodation choices. With a variety of budget hostels to luxury villas, Zanzibar can accommodate travelers of different budget levels.
Accommodation
Budget hostels cost between 20 and 30 US dollars per night. Budget hotels cost between 35 and 70 US dollars. Mid range hotels cost between 80 and 300 US dollars. Luxury accommodation costs over 400 US dollars.
Daily meals and drinks budget
Budget meals cost between 6 and 12 US dollars. Mid level restaurants cost between 20 and 40 US dollars. High end restaurants cost over 70 US dollars.
Transfers
For budget travel using public transport, set aside about 2 US dollars per day. For private transportation, costs range from 5 to 80 US dollars. Private transportation from Stone Town to the beach or elsewhere averages 45 US dollars. Car rental starts from 120 US dollars per day.
Tours and activities
Budget tours such as Prison Island, Stone Town, and Mnemba Atoll cost between 20 and 40 US dollars. Jet ski rental is about 40 US dollars per hour. Scuba diving costs between 180 and 300 US dollars.
A daily budget of 70 US dollars can be enough for a strict budget traveler to cover essentials like accommodation, meals, and something to do for the day.
How Long to Stay
As you plan your vacation, you might wonder how many days or weeks you should spend in Zanzibar. We understand that how long you stay is sometimes not a flexible choice for many people, but we recommend a minimum of 7 days as ideal. A maximum of 2 to 3 weeks is advisable. This allows you to move from beach to beach or to a different island during your stay.
Weather and Climate
Zanzibar enjoys great weather throughout the year, with the exception of late March to May which is the rainy season.
Why You Should Visit Zanzibar
The Zanzibar archipelago is one of the best destinations for a beach stay in Africa and around the world. Here are reasons why you should visit.
Stunning beaches with white sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets offer a perfect mix of what you want on a beach stay. There is unique and great culture, the Swahili culture which is highly influenced by traders from Europe and the Middle East dating back to the 14th century. Spices and spice tours are famously known as Zanzibar earned its nickname as the Spice Island from its influence in the spice trade. There is fascinating history. Stone Town was the capital of different colonial influencers and traders on the Swahili coast, so it is rich with history and is a World Heritage site. Zanzibar is a great add on for you to relax after finishing your Tanzanian safari, Mount Kilimanjaro hike, or East African safari. It is budget friendly, accommodating all travelers from strict budget travelers to high end travelers. There are great reef sites perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. It is peaceful and safe. Depending mostly on income derived from tourism, Zanzibar is pretty safe for tourists, with some areas like Stone Town equipped with surveillance cameras. There is great weather throughout the year. And finally, it is a great romantic getaway. If you are looking for a romantic destination that is not very crowded where you can have time to yourselves, Zanzibar is the way to go.
Where to Stay
Travelers often face the question of where they should stay in Zanzibar. After saving up and yearning for your vacation in Zanzibar, it is right for you to know which side of the island you should stay on. The best answer is that you should stay at different parts of Zanzibar because they differ slightly. To your benefit, we are going to share insights on this.
Things to Do
You have already decided to visit Zanzibar, maybe after a safari in mainland Tanzania. Apart from this archipelago having beautiful beaches, there is plenty more to do than just relaxing at the beach. From nature and historical tours to water sports and activities, here is a list of some of the things you can do.
Stone Town tour
Stone Town has been the capital of this archipelago from the first colonial rulers to an independent Zanzibar. It is now still the capital of the semi autonomous government of Zanzibar. This town is full of history and culture. It is one not to miss on your stay in Zanzibar.
Spice tour
This archipelago is famous for its spices and its influence on the spice trade, with roots in the trade dating back before the 16th century. To date, there are still many spice plantations. Taking a spice tour where you can visit a spice farm and learn about how they grow and process different spices will be a great thing to do.
Visit Jozani Forest
Jozani Chakwa Bay National Park is famous for the rare red colobus monkeys. You can also expect to see bushbabies, different species of birds, and butterflies. Walking through the forest is adventurous and something not to miss if you are on a longer stay. It is best to visit when you are in transit heading to Paje to avoid doing a detour and save time.
Visit Prison Island
This island, also known as Changuu Island, is just off the coast of Stone Town. The name can be intimidating, but there is a lot to learn about the history of the island and how they used to house rebellious slaves there. In the present day, the island is a tourist destination home to giant tortoises. It is a peaceful sanctuary for this vulnerable species. The tortoises on the island are estimated to be more than 150 years old. Getting to Prison Island requires taking a 25 minute boat ride from Stone Town.
Boat trip and snorkeling
On this great archipelago, taking a boat ride off for snorkeling is one of the popular things to do. It is done in various areas of the island, but the most popular is Mnemba Atoll and Safari Blue Atoll. The Mnemba Atoll tour is done from the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, and the Safari Blue Atoll is popular in the southwest. But there are many other snorkeling boat cruises you can do.
Dolphin tour
Taking a tour to swim with the dolphins or just going for spotting them is a popular activity. It is mostly done from the northern and southern beaches. But it is recommended you do this tour from Kizimkazi or Safari Blue in the south, where you are more likely to see them.
Visit a turtle aquarium
A visit to the Mnarani Marine Aquarium is something not to miss. This natural aquarium is a sanctuary for sea turtles. It is located at the north end of Zanzibar. You can walk from Nungwi and Kendwa beaches or take a boat ride.
Sunset dhow cruise
You can hop on a dhow and enjoy a cruise as the sun sets. Usually the cruise is mixed with singing and other interesting interactions while you enjoy the beautiful views of the sunset. This is something not to miss. This cruise is done on the western part of the islands, where you can see the sunset kissing the sea.
Scuba diving
On the archipelago, scuba diving is done in various places. Depending on where you are, you can book a session and head into the waters to explore.
Water sports
There are various water sports you can do, especially on the popular northern beaches. These include jet skiing, para surfing, fly board surfing, banana boat rides and other boat rides, hoverboard surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding.
ATV quad bike rides and tours
Driving off road to discover the island’s wild nature and beautiful landscapes is a great experience. There are definitely great trails and routes that go through rice fields, sugar cane plantations, and other farms.
Horse riding
Riding a horse on the beach or just off the beach is something you can do in Zanzibar. For those heading to Nungwi, there is a horse club. Exploring Zanzibar island on horseback is something great. Picture yourself riding down the beach at sunset or even swimming with a horse.
Wine and dine at The Rock
The Rock is a popular restaurant situated on a solid rock slab and surrounded by water. Many travelers yearn to dine here and surely enjoy the experience. You can reach the restaurant on foot when the tide is low, or you will go by boat if the water level rises.
Skydiving
This activity is available in Zanzibar with a skydiving school already set up. Travelers should stay ready to grace the Zanzibar skies. Tandem dives are offered for 450 US dollars per person.
Fishing
Zanzibar is fortunate in having superb fishing almost all year round. Fishing in Zanzibar is synonymous with some of the most exhilarating and challenging deep sea fishing available.
Things to Do in Stone Town
Besides just wandering around the streets, there are lots of things to do in Stone Town. This is the perfect city to really get a better understanding of Zanzibar’s people and culture. Here are a few things we recommend checking out in Stone Town.
Take a guided tour
Walking without a guide in Stone Town is tempting, but you will be at risk of getting lost and missing out on some hidden gems and lots of stories about the town. We offer guided day tours around the city, and I definitely recommend doing the tour with a guide. All the tourists you will see walking around are led by guides. You will learn so much more information with a guide, and it is not expensive either. You will not regret it. Your guide can also tell you about the dark past of the island.
Admire Stone Town’s intricate doors
The fascinating architecture of the buildings starts with their doors. As you wander through the streets, make sure you look around at the beautiful carved doors that are a special feature of the city. The designs and carvings of the doors tell about the residents who lived there. You can also tell whether the doors are Swahili, Indian, or Arab based on the shape and design.
See the birthplace of Freddie Mercury
If you love Queen, do not miss the chance to see where Freddie Mercury was born. It is located right in the city center, so you will not miss it. Some people say this might not be the real house because his father moved several times when Freddie was young, but it is still a great opportunity to learn a little more about the background and upbringing of this amazing singer.
Admire the Old Fort
This is exactly what the name says it is. Take a look around a unique piece of history and check out the Old Fort. This is an old fortification built by the Omani Arabs in 1699. It is also one of the oldest buildings in town. A more recent addition to the fort is an open air amphitheater where you can watch local shows or other events. You can ask the tourist information desk at the fort if there are any upcoming events that could fit into your Zanzibar travel plans.
Visit the House of Wonders
This is the tallest and largest building in town and was originally a palace facing the town’s central square. The building is now home to the National Museum of History and Culture.
Learn about the slave trade at the Slave Museum
The island has a dark past. This market was the last functioning slave market in the world, and it only closed in 1873. Although this might seem like a bit of a downer, it is an important part of the history of the region. Thousands of Africans were brought to the island as slaves to work on plantations. Slave traders also used the island as a base camp before sending slaves on the long journey east to be sold in Persia, Arabia, the Ottoman Empire, and Egypt. At the Slave Museum, you can tour chambers where they kept slaves before they were sold. You can go down to see the rooms where slaves were kept, a 12 by 12 foot basement with one tiny window near the ceiling. They kept over 30 people in these types of rooms. Although this happened hundreds of years ago, it can still send shivers down your spine as you stand there. The museum is open every day from 8 am to 6 pm. There is a 5 US dollar entrance fee, and you can expect to spend about an hour in the museum.
Visit one of the rooftop restaurants
Because the city is right on the water, something you have to do while in Stone Town is enjoy the amazing view from a rooftop. After a long day of taking in the sights and the culture, it is recommended to find a rooftop restaurant for dinner and a drink as the sun sets. The Tea House Restaurant is recommended. It is a great place to see the sunset, but make sure to make a reservation in advance. The restaurant gets busy with other tourists who want to enjoy the view as well. Another option is The Beach House Restaurant, which has an amazing outdoor balcony overlooking the water. The food is a mix of Italian, French, and Mediterranean, and it is delicious. You can also check out 6 Degrees South, which is perfect for a romantic dinner looking out at the ocean.
Wander around the Darajani Market
While you are there, why not wander around the main bazaar in town? You will definitely get a taste of life in Zanzibar, and a whiff as well. I found the market to be a really authentic experience. There is an indoor section of the market, but also a lot of pop up vendors on the surrounding streets. You will be able to experience a lot of traditional Zanzibar food and ingredients, as well as admire clothes, shoes, and traditional hats. Just be prepared for the smell because part of this market is a fish market.
Forodhani Gardens
These are not actual gardens. This is the central square of Stone Town with only small gardens. It has lots of trees and is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. It is recommended to go after sunset and enjoy the street food market. To get the full experience, look around for the stands that have the longest lines of locals and try some authentic Zanzibar dishes here. Long lines mean the food is good. A pro tip is to avoid the seafood here though because it is not always fresh. Another pro tip is to be careful of people trying to overcharge you or pretending to be waiters. Some tourists have had issues with waiters trying to charge them ridiculously high prices.
Drink coffee at Jaws Corner
It might take you a while to find it because it is among the narrow streets, but Jaws Corner is a small plaza. You can stop by and try the Arabic style local coffee. Just be prepared, it is definitely not like a cup of coffee with cream and sugar like you might be used to. It is typically served black and bitter, and it is very strong.
Do some shopping
There are so many little boutique stores all over Stone Town. There are a bunch on Gizenga Street, Kenyatta Road, and Changa Bazaar Street. You will also be sure to see some great stores for souvenirs as you wander around.