Zanzibar Travel Guide: Best Beaches, Hotels, and Things to Do

Zanzibar offers pristine beaches, rich culture, and incredible marine life. This guide covers everything you need to plan your perfect island getaway.

Quick Facts

• Best Time: June-October or December-February
• Visa: On arrival, $50-100 USD
• Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (USD accepted)

Best Beaches

Nungwi - Most popular beach with year-round swimming, nightlife, and stunning sunsets. Best for couples and divers.

Paje - Kitesurfing paradise with laid-back vibes. Perfect for water sports and budget travelers.

Kendwa - Quieter than Nungwi with spectacular sunsets and full moon parties.

Matemwe - Authentic village experience with excellent snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll.

Jambiani - Untouched beauty with local culture and affordable stays.

Where to Stay

Luxury: The Residence Zanzibar, Zuri Zanzibar, Mnemba Island Lodge

Mid-Range: Zanzibar White Sand Villas (Paje), Kendwa Rocks, Diamonds La Gemma (Nungwi)

Budget: Sunset Kendwa, Paje by Night, Zanzibar Coffee House (Stone Town)

Top Activities

Stone Town - UNESCO heritage site with Arab architecture, spice markets, and Forodhani night market. Walking tours $20-30.

Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling - Swim with sea turtles and dolphins. Half-day trips $60-100.

Spice Farm Tour - Learn about cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon with traditional lunch. $25-40.

Prison Island - Meet giant tortoises over 100 years old. $15-25 including boat.

Jozani Forest - See red colobus monkeys in Zanzibar's only national park. $10 entry.

Sunset Dhow Cruise - Traditional sailing with drinks and snacks. $40-60.

Kite Surfing - Best in Paje from June-September. Beginner courses from $250.

The Rock Restaurant - Iconic dining on a rock in the ocean. Book ahead.

Sample Itineraries

3 Days: Stone Town (1 day) + Beach relaxation (2 days)

5 Days: Stone Town + Prison Island (2 days) + Beach and snorkeling (3 days)

7 Days: Cultural tours (2 days) + Beach and diving (4 days) + Jozani Forest (1 day)

When to Visit

June-October: Best weather, calm seas, higher prices

December-February: Great weather, fewer crowds

Rainy Seasons: Big discounts but unpredictable weather

Travel Tips

• Dress modestly outside resorts
• Drink bottled water only
• Budget: $50-100/day (budget), $150-250 (mid-range), $300+ (luxury)
• Taxis cost $10-20 for short distances
• Yellow fever vaccine required from endemic countries

Zanzibar combines culture, adventure, and relaxation in one compact island—perfect for pairing with mainland Tanzania safaris or as a standalone beach escape.