Zanzibar Island
Turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and a rich Swahili culture — the Spice Island of the Indian Ocean.
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, blessed with powder-white beaches, coral reefs, and some of the clearest turquoise waters in the Indian Ocean. Known as the Spice Island, it has a rich history shaped by Arab, Persian, Indian, and African cultures that blends seamlessly into its food, architecture, and way of life.
Beyond its beaches, Zanzibar offers the UNESCO-listed Stone Town, spice farm tours, dolphin swimming, snorkelling, diving, and vibrant night markets. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Zanzibar delivers an experience unlike anywhere else in Africa.
1,651 km²
Island SizeUNESCO
Stone TownSpice Island
Rich CultureYear Round
Beach HolidayDestination Highlights
Stone Town
Wander the UNESCO-listed old city with its narrow alleyways, ornate carved doors, and vibrant spice markets.
Snorkelling & Diving
Zanzibar's coral reefs are among the finest in the Indian Ocean, teeming with sea turtles, dolphins, and colourful marine life.
Spice Farm Tours
Discover why Zanzibar earned its name — guided spice farm tours reveal cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg growing in lush tropical gardens.
Dolphin Swimming
Kizimkazi village on the southern coast is one of the best places in the world to swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
Forodhani Night Market
Every evening, Stone Town's waterfront comes alive with street food stalls serving fresh seafood, Zanzibar pizza, and sugarcane juice.
Pristine Beaches
From Nungwi's lively shores to the untouched sands of Matemwe and Paje, Zanzibar has a beach for every kind of traveller.
Top Beaches
Each part of the island offers a different beach experience.
Nungwi
The island's most popular beach — a stunning stretch of white sand with calm waters, beach bars, and a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
Kendwa
Just south of Nungwi, Kendwa is quieter and equally beautiful — famous for its full moon beach parties and spectacular sunsets.
Paje
Paje's consistent Indian Ocean winds make it the kitesurfing capital of East Africa, drawing adventure travellers from around the world.
Matemwe
A tranquil and unspoiled stretch of coastline with luxury resorts, excellent snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll, and peaceful seclusion.
Where To Stay
Accommodation options for every traveller and budget.
Luxury Resorts
- Zuri Zanzibar Hotel & Resort
- The Residence Zanzibar
- &Beyond Mnemba Island
Boutique Hotels
- Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas
- Essque Zalu Zanzibar
- Baraza Resort & Spa
Stone Town Hotels
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar
- Emerson Spice Hotel
- The Swahili House
Popular Tours
Zanzibar Escape
Four days of sun, sand, and Swahili culture on the Spice Island.
Explore Tour
Serengeti & Zanzibar
Tanzania's ultimate combination — wildlife on the plains, relaxation on the beach.
Explore Tour
Tanzania Grand Tour
Safari, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar — the complete Tanzania experience.
Explore TourFrequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
June to October and December to February are the best months — warm, dry, and ideal for beaches and diving. March to May brings the long rains and is best avoided. October to November offers quieter beaches at lower prices.
How do I get to Zanzibar?
Zanzibar has its own international airport with direct flights from Dar es Salaam (25 minutes), Nairobi, and several European cities. Fast ferries also connect Dar es Salaam to Stone Town in approximately 2 hours.
Is Zanzibar good for families?
Yes — Zanzibar is excellent for families. The calm waters of the north and west coasts are safe for children, and activities like spice tours, dolphin swimming, and Stone Town walks are enjoyable for all ages.
Can I combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari?
Absolutely — and it is the most popular Tanzania holiday combination. A Serengeti or Kilimanjaro trip followed by a Zanzibar beach stay makes for an unforgettable and perfectly balanced holiday.
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