Travel Zanzibar (2025 Guide): Where It Is, When to Go & Where to Stay
- Craig Howes
- Apr 2
- 8 min read
You’ve seen the Big Five. Your boots are still dusty from the bush. But before you head home, there’s one last adventure waiting — Zanzibar.
This spice-scented archipelago off Tanzania’s east coast is where barefoot luxury meets cultural depth. Whether you're honeymooning after the Serengeti or craving turquoise waters post-Masai Mara, Zanzibar offers a soul-soothing finale to any African safari.
Here’s how to plan your perfect Zanzibar escape in 2025.
📍 Where Is Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, located in the Indian Ocean about 25–50 kilometers off the coast of mainland East Africa. Often searched as "Zanzibar on world map" or "where is Zanzibar," it sits just south of the equator — a tropical island that’s closer than you think.
Whether you're flying in from Arusha, Nairobi, or even the Serengeti, direct flights make reaching this island surprisingly simple. And the reward? Warm breezes, white sands, and a total change of pace.
🏝 Zanzibar Island: The Heart of the Archipelago
Zanzibar Island (Unguja) is the largest and most visited in an archipelago of over 50 tropical islands. Alongside Pemba Island, Mafia Island, and smaller islets like Chumbe and Mnemba, the archipelago offers an array of experiences — from diving and turtle conservation to historic ruins and secret beaches.
Pemba Island: Lush and wild, great for diving, kayaking, and birding.
Chumbe Island: A marine sanctuary ideal for snorkelling.
Prison Island: Home to giant Aldabra tortoises and stunning beaches.
Mafia Island: Whale shark haven and cultural heritage site.
🏖 Best Beaches in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s coastline is as diverse as it is stunning. Each beach offers a different mood, from buzzing party spots to peaceful barefoot escapes.
Nungwi (North): Vibrant, swimmable at all tides, and home to top resorts like Zuri Zanzibar. Great for sunset walks and beach bars.
Kendwa (North): Quieter than Nungwi but equally beautiful. Ideal for honeymooners and luxury stays.
Paje (East): A boho haven and kite-surfing hotspot. Think palm trees, beach cafés, and a youthful energy.
Jambiani (East): Relaxed, friendly, and perfect for long walks and local guesthouses.
Matemwe (Northeast): More secluded, with access to Mnemba Atoll diving and exclusive boutique lodges.
Kizimkazi (South): Known for dolphin spotting and close to Jozani Forest.
🏙 Zanzibar City & Stone Town
Zanzibar City is the island's capital, and its historic core, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This maze of narrow alleyways, carved wooden doors, and coral stone buildings is the cultural heartbeat of the island.
Visit the House of Wonders, Livingstone House, and Old Fort
Stroll the Forodhani Night Market for seafood and Zanzibari street food
Explore cathedrals, mosques, and museums that echo centuries of Arab, Swahili, and European influence
Stone Town is not just about the past. Its vibrant street food scene, artisan shops, and rooftop dining make it a must for any visitor.
🍛 Spice Island & Street Food Scene
Zanzibar earned its nickname the "Spice Island" for good reason. A historic center of the global spice trade, it’s still rich with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, turmeric, and ginger.
Take a spice tour: Visit working plantations near Kizimbani and Kidichi to smell, taste, and learn how spices are harvested.
Buy spice blends: Local markets sell spice mixes and teas perfect for gifts or your own kitchen.
And if you're hungry, Stone Town’s culinary scene will steal your heart:
Try octopus curry, Zanzibari biryani, mishkaki skewers, and urojo soup.
Grab snacks like samosas, mandazi, and fresh sugarcane juice.
For a sensory feast, head to Forodhani Gardens at night where vendors serve Zanzibar pizza and seafood under the stars.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but some seasons suit specific traveler types better:
June to October (Dry Season): Peak sunshine, clear skies, and calm waters — perfect for pairing with East Africa’s safari high season.
November (Short Rains): Lush and quieter, with passing showers and great deals.
December to February: Ideal for winter escapes from Europe or North America. Expect beach-perfect weather.
March to May (Long Rains): It is humid and wet, and some lodges close. It is best for budget travelers or solitude seekers.
🗓 Planning a July safari in Tanzania or Kenya? Zanzibar is the perfect add-on before flying home.
🏨 Zanzibar Accommodation Guide (Where to stay in Zanzibar)
Whether you're seeking indulgent beachfront villas or charming budget stays, Zanzibar has a bed for every traveler:
Luxury Resorts: Try Zuri Zanzibar, White Sand Villas, or The Residence for world-class service and views.
Boutique Hotels in Stone Town: Emerson on Hurumzi and Upendo House offer stylish stays with rich cultural touches.
Eco-Friendly & Mid-Range Options: The Loop in Jambiani and Sharazad Boutique Hotel combine comfort with character.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: You'll find clean, welcoming family-run stays especially in Jambiani, Paje, and Matemwe.
Want to wake up to the sound of the waves? Choose a room with beachfront access and enjoy island life from sunrise to starlight.
What to Do in Zanzibar (Besides Lounge on the Beach)
Stone Town Explorations: Narrow alleys, spice markets, rooftop bars, and UNESCO-listed history.
Spice Tours: Learn why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island with a tour of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom plantations.
Diving & Snorkeling: Mnemba Atoll is your underwater playground — dolphins, turtles, coral.
Dhow Cruises & Sandbank Picnics: Traditional wooden boats take you to dreamy sandbanks at sunset.
Jozani Forest: Walk among red colobus monkeys in Zanzibar’s only national park.
Whale Shark Watching (June–Sept): Swim or spot one of the ocean's gentle giants near Mafia Island.
🥘 Zanzibar’s Street Food Scene & Culinary Culture
Spice up your travels with the island’s bold, unforgettable cuisine. From beachside BBQS to the back alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar is a feast for the senses.
Try: Zanzibari biryani, octopus curry, urojo (Zanzibar mix), and freshly grilled mishkaki (skewered meat).
Snack Stops: Grab samosas, mandazi (fried dough), and sugarcane juice on the go.
Forodhani Gardens: Every night, this waterfront square turns into a street food festival under the stars — seafood skewers, Zanzibar pizza, and local sweets included.
“The seafood I ate in Stone Town is still some of the best I’ve ever had. So simple. So fresh. So spicy.” — Guest from London, UK
🌿 Spice Island Legacy: Why Zanzibar Smells So Good
Zanzibar isn’t just beautiful — it’s fragrant. Known as the “Spice Island,” it was once the global epicentre of clove production, and today you can still walk through working plantations bursting with cinnamon, nutmeg, turmeric, lemongrass, and vanilla.
Spice Tours: Visit traditional spice farms near Kizimbani or Kidichi. Guides will let you taste, touch, and smell your way through the island’s botanical treasures.
Local Tip: Don’t leave without trying fresh fruit with a pinch of tangawizi (ginger) or buying hand-ground spice mixes for your kitchen back home.
Real Traveler Testimonials
"Hands down, the best travel experience I’ve had. Zanzibar is now my favorite destination." — Eni Popoola
"Z Hotel in Nungwi was incredible. It’s got the best of beach life and a little buzz too." — Reddit User
"White Sand Villas was a delightful splurge after our Asilia safari camps. Worth every cent." — JC, USA
Is Zanzibar Safe?
Zanzibar is peaceful and used to international guests. Like anywhere, use common sense: dress modestly in town, avoid flashy valuables, and book with reputable guides. Be especially respectful in Stone Town during Ramadan.
Getting to Zanzibar
From Safari Hubs: Flights from Arusha, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Serengeti.
From Abroad: Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) now welcomes flights from Doha, Dubai, and Europe.
Visas: Available on arrival for most nationalities or online in advance.
✈️ From lions to lagoons in a single day — few places offer that kind of contrast.
Why Zanzibar After Safari Makes Sense
After days on game drives or walking safaris, Zanzibar lets you slow down. The shift in rhythm, culture, and landscape is refreshing. It’s barefoot luxury, East African hospitality, and a setting sun over the Indian Ocean — a final chapter that belongs in your travel story.
Whether you're ending a honeymoon, ticking off bucket list dreams, or just need a beautiful place to exhale, this island delivers.
Is Zanzibar Right for You?
Perfect for Honeymooners
Zanzibar’s mix of white sand beaches, private resorts, candlelit dining, and dreamy sunsets makes it one of Africa’s top honeymoon destinations. Whether you’re ending your trip in a luxury villa at Kendwa or watching stars from a rooftop restaurant in Stone Town, the island delivers romance in spades.
Family-Friendly Fun
From dolphin spotting in Kizimkazi to paddleboarding in Jambiani and exploring the alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar is surprisingly family-friendly. Many lodges and resorts offer multi-room villas, kids’ activities, and private guides to make the trip easy and enriching for all ages.
Zanzibar Travel Essentials
After days on game drives or walking safaris, Zanzibar lets you slow down. The shift in rhythm, culture, and landscape is refreshing. It’s barefoot luxury, East African hospitality, and a setting sun over the Indian Ocean — a final chapter that belongs in your travel story.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your Zanzibar trip smooth and stress-free:
✈️ Entry & Visa Info
Visa on arrival for most nationalities
E-visa is available via the Tanzania Immigration portal
A Passport must be valid for 6+ months
💸 Currency & Costs
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD widely accepted
Budget travelers can enjoy Zanzibar from $50/day
Luxury travelers: Expect $300–$1000/night for top-tier stays
🚖 Getting Around
Taxis available but confirm prices in advance
Dala-dala minibuses for local, budget transport
Private drivers & rental cars available through most resorts
🌐 Internet & Connectivity
Wi-Fi is common in hotels, but speeds vary
Buy a local SIM (Zantel or Vodacom) for better coverage
🧳 What to Pack
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, insect repellent
Modest attire for Stone Town & cultural visits
Waterproof bag for island excursions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zanzibar safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for solo travelers. Use standard precautions — avoid isolated areas at night, dress modestly in town, and book tours with reputable guides. Many solo travelers find Zanzibar welcoming, especially in Stone Town and beach villages.
Can I combine a safari and a trip to Zanzibar?
Absolutely. Many travelers do a safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro, then fly directly to Zanzibar for beach downtime. Arusha, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam all offer flights to the island.
Do I need malaria medication for Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a malaria-risk zone. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for the most current advice on prophylaxis and vaccines. Also bring insect repellent and sleep under nets where provided.
What language do they speak in Zanzibar?
Swahili is the main language spoken in Zanzibar. English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. See how to say hello in Africa.
Ready to Plan Your Zanzibar Escape?
Let us help you dream big and travel well. Subscribe to African Safari Mag for destination guides, lodge reviews, and behind-the-scenes safari stories — delivered straight to your inbox.
🌍 Planning your first safari? Already in Tanzania and wondering how to add Zanzibar? We’ve got you covered.
About the Author
Craig Howes is a safari storyteller, photographer, and editor of African Safari Mag. From lion tracking in the Okavango Delta to sipping tea in Stone Town, he brings a traveler’s curiosity and a creative eye to every journey.
About African Safari Mag
African Safari Mag is your trusted guide to planning, experiencing, and falling in love with Africa’s wild places. We blend expert advice, real traveler stories, and immersive guides to help you go beyond the brochure and into the bush. From gorilla trekking to coastal escapes, we bring the soul of Africa to your screen.
Comentarios