According to Zanzibar’s Office of the Chief Government Statistician, 13,654 international tourists visited the island in May 2016. That was an 18.7% increase compared to May 2015.
But Zanzibar has much more to offer than just visitor numbers. Just think of waking up to beautiful white-sand beaches, walking through the old streets of Stone Town, and enjoying fresh Swahili food by the sea. Sounds amazing, right? And if you are a beach person who loves history, local food, and fun water activities, Zanzibar has plenty to offer. You can also visit spice farms and learn about the island’s rich culture. Planning a trip here? Don’t worry! This Zanzibar travel guide will help you discover the best places to visit, choose the right time for your trip, and learn how to get around easily. So, get ready to plan a holiday you’ll remember for years!
Zanzibar Travel Guide: What Should You Know Before You Go?
Zanzibar is a beautiful group of islands in the Indian Ocean, near the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. Its main island, Unguja, is where most travellers go when they plan a Zanzibar holiday. And trust us, there’s a lot more to enjoy here than just sunny beaches. You can walk through the historic streets of Stone Town, explore local spice farms, try delicious Swahili food, or go snorkelling in the clear blue water. There’s something for every kind of traveller. If you’re visiting Zanzibar for the first time, plan a 5–7 day stay. You’ll have enough time to explore the island, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local culture at your own pace.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Zanzibar?
Wondering which weather suits Zanzibar best? We have got your back; here are the full details on it.
June to October
Looking for an escape to Zanzibar? June to October is hot and dry, creating perfect conditions for a beach dinner and sightseeing, such as a tour of Stone Town or a Zanzibar spice farm tour. In addition, the temperature of the water is ideal for snorkelling and other water activities. So, if you plan to visit the island at this time, book your hotel.
December to February
Dreaming of warm weather and beautiful beaches? Visit Zanzibar between December and February. You can swim in the sea, explore coastal villages, enjoy fresh seafood, or take a boat trip. Just remember that days here can get quite hot. Hotels may also cost more during the holiday season, so plan your budget before you go.
March to May
Trip during these months? You should make sure that your plans are not rigid because the months of March to May are characterised by long rains, while November is a short rainy season. Rain may interfere with your plans to visit the beaches and go on safari, but it doesn’t mean you will not enjoy your time in Zanzibar. You can also spend time at Stone Town, try different Swahili cuisine, and learn more about Zanzibar’s culture.
Where in Zanzibar Should You Stay?
Having the tension of where we are going to stay and whether the place will be good or not is a universal thing…but dont worry, this list will solve all your queries.
Nungwi and Kendwa
For a beach person, Nungwi and Kendwa are great places to visit. Both are on Zanzibar’s Northern coast and offer plenty of ways to enjoy your holiday. You can relax at a beachside resort, go on a boat trip, or spend your evening watching the sunset. The beaches are also popular for swimming, making them a good choice if you want to spend more time in the water.
Paje and Jambiani
And if you are looking for water and an adventurous activity, go to Paje or Jambiani, on Zanzibar’s southeast coast. These are popular kite surfing areas. They have good guesthouses where you can relax and have a holiday. You can also visit nearby villages and experience local life. However, note that the sea can be shallow, especially at low tide, so it is a good idea to check tide times before going swimming.
Matemwe
Are you tired of the usual office routine and want to get away from the crowds of tourists and experience something different? Then consider staying in the village of Matemwe on Zanzibar’s northeastern coast, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views on morning walks and visit a local village. In addition, if conditions permit, you may want to go snorkelling. So if you are seeking solitude and a stress-free vacation away from crowds of tourists, consider visiting this place.
Things To Do In Zanzibar
Your Zanzibar trip won’t be complete without a visit to Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of narrow streets, beautiful wooden doors, and old buildings with stories to tell. You can visit the Old Fort, shop for local products at Darajani Market, and head to Forodhani Gardens in the evening to try delicious street food. Want to know more about the place? Join a walking tour and learn about Stone Town’s history as you explore its streets.
Visit a Spice Farm and Jozani Forest
Visit a local spice farm and discover how cloves, cinnamon, and other spices grow. There, you can learn how they’re used and enjoy the wonderful smells along the way. Next, head to Jozani Forest, where you may spot the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey. It’s a great way to experience the island’s wildlife and learn how local efforts help protect it.
Enjoy Adventures on the Indian Ocean
If you love being on the water, then Zanzibar has plenty of fun activities for you. You can go snorkelling, try scuba diving, or enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow boat. You can also take a boat trip from Stone Town to Prison Island. Just check the weather and sea conditions before booking, as rough waters can sometimes affect your plans.
A Practical 5-Day Zanzibar Itinerary
| Day | What to Do | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Explore Stone Town | Historic streets, carved doors, waterfront |
| Day 2 | Discover local culture | Old Fort, Darajani Market, Forodhani Gardens |
| Day 3 | Visit a spice farm and Jozani Forest | Local spices, Zanzibar red colobus monkeys |
| Day 4 | Enjoy beach adventures | Swimming, snorkelling, water sports |
| Day 5 | Relax before departure | Beach time, optional boat excursion |
Make Your Zanzibar Trip Your Own
Zanzibar is a place where everyone can find something to their liking. Whether you want to spend your days sunbathing, visiting local shops, tasting local specialities, or taking part in water sports, there will be something for you. Besides, with a little effort, you can make your holiday enjoyable by exploring the attractions without spending too much time on the road. To do that, choose which beaches you want to relax on, plan your expenses within your budget, and check the local weather forecast and tidal patterns. Most importantly, respect local traditions and take your time admiring the beauty of this place. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and suitcases and make unforgettable memories in Zanzibar!
FAQ:
Is Zanzibar Expensive For Indians?
Zanzibar can be moderately priced or expensive for Indian travellers. A budget trip starts at around ₹1.2 lakh per person, while luxury safari-and-beach vacations can exceed ₹8 lakh per person.
When Should You Not Visit Zanzibar?
The low season in Zanzibar is from March to May, when there is heavy rain and high humidity, making it an unfavourable time to visit.
What Is the Cheapest Month to Go to Zanzibar?
March, April, and May are the cheapest months to fly to Zanzibar, with April and May offering the biggest cost reductions at many resorts and accommodations.
