A Perfect Trip to Zanzibar (Detailed Guide + My Personal Recommendations)
Looking to spend the perfect holiday in Zanzibar? Here’s how to plan a glorious trip to Tanzania’s very own paradise – from someone who’s done it.
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.
IN A RUSH? CLICK TO JUMP:
I first visited Zanzibar in the summer of 2024, and it was easily one of my favourite island trips to date.
After months of busy London life, the island felt like exactly what I needed…in other words, warm Indian Ocean water, slow beach days, spiced seafood, winding Stone Town streets.
But Zanzibar goes far beyond just being a beach destination.
Of course, you can absolutely spend your days stretched out on the sand in Paje, Nungwi or Kendwa with a cocktail in hand and no real plans beyond lunch.
But there’s also history, spice farms, rooftop dinners, local markets, boat trips, beach villages, Swahili culture and some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything I’d recommend for planning a brilliant trip to Zanzibar—including where to stay, when to go, how to get around, what to pack, where to eat, what to book, common tourist scams to know about and the things I’d personally do again.
Shall we?
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
Zanzibar Planning Tips, Things to Do & My Personal Hotel & Activity Recommendations
Zanzibar Quick Overview
🏝️ Where is Zanzibar? Zanzibar is an East African island off the coast of Tanzania, Africa.
🇹🇿 Country: Tanzania (semi-autonomous)
🎫 Visa: To visit Zanzibar you’ll need a Tourist Visa which you can apply for online before your travel or at the airport on arrival for $69 (£55).
✈️ Nearest Airport: Zanzibar’s main airport Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
💰Currency: Tanzanian Shillings or USD used in more touristy places like Stone Town.
🤳🏽 EU SIM Card: While travelling in Zanzibar, it’s beneficial to have consistent access to data. I strongly recommend installing an eSIM for your trip (here’s the one I suggest).
🗣 Language: Swahili & English – given the tourist infrastructure you can get by with English, but always use ‘Jambo’ to say hello and ‘Asante Sana’ to say thank you very much.
🕌 Religion: Zanzibaris are primarily Muslim and the local women here tend to dress modestly.
❌ Safety: Zanzibar is a friendly and very safe island to visit, however there are a few common scams to watch out for and I still wouldn’t recommend wandering through the local neighbourhoods here at night without a guide.
🚍 Public Transport: Zanzibar is very walkable but to get to different parts of the island I suggest using a taxi.
🚘 Getting from the Airport to the City Centre: Take a taxi from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport to your accommodation.
🌟 Best Tours & Experiences: Prison/Turtle Island with Zanzibar Sandbank Tour + Lunch 🐢 & Snorkelling in Tumbatu Island 🤿
Why Visit Zanzibar?
Before you take the long flight over, you want to make sure Zanzibar’s the best travel destination for you.
Given I’m writing this blog you already know my opinion, but just in case you need a bit more convincing, here’s why Zanzibar deserves your travel time.
The Beach Scene & History
The first thing that’ll make you drawn to Zanzibar is its beaches, and rightly so.
Here you’ll find soft, white sands that stretch for miles, fringed by consistently beautiful crystal-clear turquoise waters—from the popular sunsets at Nungwi to beach clubs and kite surfing in Paje.
It’s also a destination worth visiting for the history too—from its days as a key spice trade hub to its rich cultural blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, the island’s past is everywhere you look.
Especially so in Stone Town, where you’ll find centuries-old coral buildings, bustling markets, and reminders of its role in global trade.
💡 Fun Fact – Freddie Mercury is from Zanzibar!
Pre or Post-Safari Destination
For many that visit Zanzibar (including for our trip), it’s a great destination to combine with safari in Tanzania.
You can go from a laid-back island escape to being in the heart of Africa’s wildlife with just a 1 hour direct flight to Tanzania and its world-famous Safari destinations like Serengeti & Ngorongoro (we went to both).
Otherwise, you can do it the other way around and end your safari trip with some R&R in Zanzibar.
Either way, it makes for a fantastic combo trip and one more reason to go to Zanzibar!
Not *too* Off the Beaten Path + Variety of Activities
Although undiscovered destinations are great—when it comes to activities and staying in nice accommodations, visiting places that have *some* form of tourist infrastructure is always important, at least to me.
Zanzibar has a great range of beautiful accommodations, from boutique hotels like Tembo to charming guesthouses, all set against the backdrop of its stunning natural beauty.
For activities, there’s a variety of options too—from island hopping to snorkelling and diving in pristine coral reefs, visiting turtles in their natural habitat, tasting local Tanzanian street food, exploring local spice farms, or simply relaxing on quiet, uncrowded beaches.
When to Visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from June to October when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities like snorkelling and relaxing on the beach.
We visited in July and surprisingly it wasn’t too crowded in most places we went, and of course, the weather was perfect.
If you prefer fewer crowds and want to take advantage of travel deals, the shoulder seasons—April to May and November—offer a quieter experience.
During the rainy season, from March to May and again in November, you can expect occasional showers, but it’s still possible to enjoy lush landscapes and lower prices, just be ready for some showers throughout your trip.
Flying to Zanzibar + Getting Around the Island
To get to Zanzibar you’ll want to fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city first.
From Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, you can easily connect to Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport via several airlines, including Fastjet, Precision Air, and Zanair, with direct 1-hour flights departing regularly throughout the day.
You can also fly to Doha, Qatar, first which has direct flights to Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on airlines like Qatar Airways.
Alternatively, there are daily ferry services from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar offering a scenic and affordable way to travel between the two (about a 2-hour journey).
P.S. – If you do want to take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar rather than a flight, you can WhatsApp the taxi driver we used from our trip to take you from the airport to the Zanzibar Ferry terminal (Edson – +255 765 023 397).
If you have the time have him drop you off and wait for you first at The Waterfront restaurant for a lovely Dar es Salaam lunch and views!
Once on the island, getting around is straightforward.
Taxis are readily available as soon as you land at Zanzibar’s airport or ferry to take you to your hotel, but my personal hack is to have a taxi driver for the whole trip.
This will make your whole trip run smoothly compared to getting a new one each time (especially when it comes to negotiating rates) and is something most of them will offer from your first taxi ride.
Here’s a rough guide to how much your taxi should cost during your holiday:
- Airport to Stone Town – around 38,000 Tanzanian Shilling / $15 / €14 / £12
- Short trips within Zanzibar – 12,650 – 25,300 Tanzanian Shillings / $10 – 15 / €9 – 14 / £8 – £12 or less
- Longer trips within Zanzibar – 50,600 – 102,000Tanzanian Shillings / $20 – $40 / €19 – €39 / £16 – £34
You can walk from place to place in areas like Stone Town easily using Google Maps and feel safe, but I wouldn’t suggest using the public transport for your time in the island as they may run on island time…and taxis are easiest.
💡 Safety Tips: Always make sure to only go in clearly marked official taxis or Ubers for your time in Zanzibar – we used Sheha Taxi and they were great (+255 773 808 800).
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
During your trip, I suggest staying in a few different areas in Zanzibar to really get a feel for the island, including:
Stone Town: For culture, history, and boutique hotels.
my personal recommendation: stone town
📍Tembo House Hotel
Nestled along the waterfront in the heart of Stone Town, the Tembo House Hotel exudes timeless charm and history.
Once a grand merchant’s house, this boutique hotel blends traditional Zanzibari architecture with modern comfort and a prime location.
Nungwi or Kendwa: For lively beaches and nightlife.
my personal recommendationS: Nungwi or Kendwa
📍 Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas in Nungwi
Perched on the pristine shores of Nungwi, Safira Blu Luxury Resort & Villas is a slew of stunning oceanfront villas along the northern coast of Zanzibar.
📍Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa in Kendwa
For a stylish Zanzibar stay and an ample balance of Kendwa partying and relaxation stay at the luxurious Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa.
Paje or Jambiani: For serene/calm beaches, seafood and kitesurfing.
📍 Nakupenda paje villa in Paje
my personal recommendation: Paje or Jambiani
Just a few moments from miles of Paje’s beachfront restaurants, bars and kitesurfing and you’ll find the peaceful villa oasis Nakupenda paje villa, great for a relaxing Zanzibar holiday.
📍 Jambiani, Casa Paradis Boutique Hotel in Jambiani
Another beachside gem right on Jambiani Beach with sea view rooms, a pool and a delicious onsite restaurant.
What to Pack for Zanzibar
When it comes to packing for Zanzibar it’s all about balancing tropical ease with cultural respect (given the high Muslim population here).
With that said, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential—think cotton dresses, linen shirts, and loose trousers to keep cool.
For beach days swimsuits and cover-ups are a must, I’d also suggest bringing a sarong or lightweight scarf for modesty when visiting local villages or religious sites like mosques.
Add to the list—reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to help shield yourself from the very nice but very strong East African sun.
Finally, consider eco-friendly toiletries and reusable items like a water bottle to minimise your footprint while enjoying Zanzibar’s natural beauty.
Top Experiences and Things to Do in Zanzibar
The thing I love most about Zanzibar is just how much variety it has for a small island.
Whether you’re looking for history, sun & sand, great restaurants, fabulous cocktail bars, adventure sports or nature and wildlife – there’s truly a bit of everything.
Here’s my personal recommendations for the island!
Personal Recommendations: Cultural Immersion in Zanzibar
Explore Stone Town:
Stone Town is Zanzibar’s most well-known and touristed areas, but for good reason.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with white narrow alleys lined with intricately carved wooden doors from its Middle Eastern influences, vibrant bazaars, and historic landmarks like the Old Fort and the former slave market at Christ Church.
Visit Zanzibar’s Spice Farms:
Did you know Zanzibar is nicknamed the ‘Spice Island’? And for good reason.
Visit Zanzibar’s spice farms for a deeper look at the island beyond the beaches while you wander through fields of cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla and learn how spices shape local life here.
There’s tons of immersive Spice Tours on the island but here’s the one I personally recommend (it comes with a cooking class with the spices too!).
Freddie Mercury Museum:
If you’re a music lover or Queen fan alike you’ll also have to visit the Freddie Mercury Museum.
Located in Stone Town the small museum celebrates the life and legacy of Freddie Mercury (Farrokh Bulsara) who was born and raised in Zanzibar until age 8.
The museum offers a glimpse into his early years on the island, his rise to global stardom, and his cultural impact—filled with Queen memorabilia, photographs, and his personal journals and stories.
Personal Recommendations: Zanzibar Beach Scene
Of course the most iconic thing about Zanzibar is it’s turquoise waters and powdery white sand, but you’ll need to go out of Stone Town to find them properly.
🏝️Nungwi & Kendwa:
Nungwi and Kendwa are about an hour and a half drive from Stone Town and are some of Zanzibar’s most popular beach destinations known for their clear turquoise waters and lively atmosphere & nightlife.
You can spend the day here relaxing on the pristine white sands of Nungwi Beach, getting a spa treatment at Essque Zalu’s Spa or relaxing with views at Kendwa Beach and Kendwa Rocks Beach Bar, a short walk away.
P.S. – For nightlife here check out the ZeeBar or the Kendwa Rocks Official Nightclub
🏝️ Paje:
For a bit more boutique and upscale vibe I suggest Paje.
It’s about an hour’s drive from Stone Town and is a laid-back beach paradise on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, known for its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and bohemian vibe.
Spend the day kite surfing (Paje is one of the best spots on the island), sipping cocktails at the chic Mr. Kahawa Beach Bar, or lounging at the Maisha Matamu Beach Hotel—cocktail in hand of course.
Looking for nightlife in Paje? Check out Why Not Club Jambo right on Paje’s beachside or go for dancing and live music at the Bento Paje Food Court.
P.S. – We stayed in Nakupenda paje villa when we were in the area for our trip and absolutely loved it.
🏝️ Jambiani:
Just a 15-minute drive south of Paje and you’ll find the tranquil fishing village of Jambiani — perfect for a more peaceful, authentic Zanzibar experience.
Spend the day walking along its serene coastline, enjoying fresh seafood at The Loop Beach Resort, or taking a traditional dhow boat tour.
For a relaxing vibe, Bahari Pizza right on the beach is a hidden gem, but there’s tons of local bars along Jambiani’s coast with similar laid-back vibes.
Personal Recommendations: Adventure Activities in Zanzibar
When in Zanzibar you’ll also have plenty of chance to scratch your adventure itch, so take your pick!
Scuba Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater life at hotspots like Mnemba Atoll. Recommended Scuba Diving Excursion in Zanzibar 🤿
Snorkeling: Swim alongside tropical fish in crystal-clear waters at Prison Island, Tumbatu Island or Chumbe Island. Recommended Snorkeling Excursion in Zanzibar 🤿
Kite Surfing: Catch the wind and ride the waves in Paje, Zanzibar’s kite-surfing mecca. Recommended Kite Surfing Lessons & Rentals in Zanzibar. 🪁
Jet Skiing: Experience the thrill of jet skiing across Zanzibar’s turquoise waters for a lovely (adrenaline-filled) island adventure. Recommended Jet Skiing Experience in Zanzibar 🌊
Sky Diving: Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush the East African way with panoramic views of Zanzibar’s coastline from above. Recommended Sky Diving in Zanzibar ☁️
Personal Recommendations: Nature & Wildlife in Zanzibar
Prison Island/Turtle Island:
A short boat ride from Stone Town, Prison Island is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers.
Despite its ominous name, the island never served as a prison but was instead used as a quarantine station in the late 19th century for yellow fever patients.
Today, and randomly so, it’s most famous for its sanctuary of giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old.
You can walk among these gentle giants, feed them, and learn about their conservation all at once.
Around the island also offers beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a swim or snorkelling too.
📌 Tour I recommend to visit Prison Island + Zanzibar’s Sandbanks with lunch
Zanzibar’s Sandbanks:
Zanzibar is also home to some of the most stunning sandbanks in the Indian Ocean—i.e. picturesque stretches of sand that emerge at low tide, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters.
These true hidden gems are a serene escape where you can bask in the sun, swim in the calm seas, and enjoy a peaceful picnic on your own private slice of paradise.
A visit to Zanzibar’s sandbanks also pairs wonderfully with a trip to Prison Island as there’s a few closeby. Here’s the tour I recommend to visit them both.
Jozani Forest:
Nestled in the heart of Zanzibar, Jozani Forest is a lush, biodiverse haven that offers a unique glimpse into the island’s natural beauty.
As the only national park on Zanzibar, it’s a protected area that’s home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, which can only be found here.
Here’s the tour I recommend to see them for yourself!
Where to Eat & Drink in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s food scene is an instant reflection of the island’s rich cultural tapestry—including African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.
From bustling street food markets in Stone Town to the laid-back beachside cafes, when it comes to Zanzibar cuisine think fragrant spices, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits.
Here’s some of my favourite restaurants & cocktail bars from my Zanzibar trip to add to your list.
Outside of this list you’ll find plenty of great and local options across the island during your stay just by wandering the beaches or stumbling on a local market like we did!
Emerson Spice Hotel
📍 1494, Tharia Street TZ, 1497 Kiponda, Zanzibar 4044, Tanzania
If you ever find yourself in Stone Town, you absolutely have to check out Emerson Spice Hotel for a rooftop seafood lunch (the view alone is worth the visit).
They have an incredible tasting menu including fresh salted prawns, squid, and seafood platters, Arabian flatbread, goat curry and pumpkin tagine…to name a few.
Make sure you go to their Tea House restaurant as there’s a few within the hotel.
Lukmaan in Stone Town
📍R5HW+R3P, The Mkunazini Baobab tree, New Mkunazini Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania
This is by far the most well-known restaurant in Zanzibar, but for good reason.
Known for their local Swahili cuisine Lukmaan serves up a friendly, no-fuss and buffet-style Zanzibarian meal with standout dishes like spicy fish curry, pilau rice, and grilled seafood—fresh prawns and fish straight from the ocean.
They’re also known for their Zanzibar mix, a flavourful bowl of soup with crispy fried dough, boiled eggs, and potatoes. It’s casual and oh so delicious.
Floating Bar, Stone Town
📍R5QQ+VCM, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Now if you want to work for your food (& drink) take a boat from Stone Town’s shore to reach the iconic Floating Bar.
The cool and trendy cocktail bar & restaurant is in the middle of the sea, about a 5-7 minute ride out from shore.
While here you can sip on delicious island Pina Coladas and feast on delicious casual island cuisine.
Shanga Restaurant Paje
📍Paje, Tanzania
For something a bit more upscale I suggest Shanga Restaurant Paje.
It’s a cocktail lounge and beachfront restaurant on Paje’s beautiful beachside with a fusion menu of local flavours and international cuisine + chic decor.
Think fresh seafood, like lobster and prawns, perfectly grilled and served with rich sauces.
They also offer creative dishes like mango ceviche and slow-cooked lamb, all prepared with a focus on quality island ingredients.
Definitely a bit more spendy than a local spot but worth the visit, great for watching sunset too!
Mr. Kahawa Boutique Hotel & Café-Restaurant
📍 Paje Beach, Paje, Tanzania
Lastly if you’re in the mood for a chic, yet laid-back dining experience in Paje (one of my favourite areas in Zanzibar as you can see!) Mr. Kahawa Boutique Hotel & Café-Restaurant needs to be a pit stop.
Sit outside and take in the ocean breeze while enjoying their fusion of contemporary African flavours, like grilled tuna steaks, spicy seafood pasta, and tender coconut curry.
And save room for their Mango cake…
Ideal for a meal with a view!
P.S. – Finish it off with cocktails from Maisha Matamu Beach Hotel.
And whatever you do, make sure you don’t leave the island without having at least 2-3 of the below….
🍴🇹🇿 Must-Try Zanzibar Dishes:
Zanzibar Pizza: A deliciously unique street food, with a thin, crispy dough stuffed and variety of fillings like cheese, egg, vegetables, or meat—often cooked on a griddle and served with spicy sauce.
Spicy Fish Curry: A rich, flavourful Zanzibar dish made with fresh local fish cooked in a fragrant coconut milk-based curry, often seasoned with cloves, cinnamon, and Zanzibar’s famous spices.
Pilau Rice: A fragrant, spiced rice dish typically cooked with meat (chicken, beef, or goat), vegetables, and a blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Grilled Seafood: Including divinely fresh grilled prawns, lobster, or fish, often served with a side of coconut rice or chips.
Samosa: A popular snack, these deep-fried pastries are filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils, and make for a perfect street food bite.
Urojo (Zanzibar Mix): A savoury soup-like dish made with a spicy broth, potatoes, fried dough, boiled eggs, and chutneys, offering a complex, flavorful blend of textures.
Chips Mayai: A simple but delicious dish of fries cooked with eggs, similar to an omelette, often topped with a spicy sauce or served with a side of vegetables.
Mandazi: A deep-fried pastry, similar to a doughnut, lightly sweetened and perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Coconut Juice: Freshly tapped coconut water served directly from the coconut, providing a refreshing and hydrating drink to accompany your Zanzibar meal.
Zanzibar Travel Tips & Common Tourist Scams
🇹🇿Cultural Etiquette and Tips for Women Travelers in Zanzibar
- Respect Local Muslim Culture: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and around religious sites. A light scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders is always a good idea.
- Engage Respectfully: Locals in Zanzibar are friendly, but it’s important to engage in a way that respects personal space and boundaries. When greeting, a simple “Jambo” (hello) is always appreciated, but avoid overly personal questions or touching. ‘Asante Sana’ is thank you very much when speaking with hospitality staff.
- Safety Tips: Stay aware of your surroundings in Zanzibar but don’t let safety concerns stop you from enjoying your trip as it’s a very safe island. Avoid walking alone after dark, particularly in less populated areas.
- Tide Schedules: The tides in Zanzibar go up and down throughout the day and can still shift unexpectedly. Make sure to check local tide schedules or ask a local at the nearest restaurant/cafe before venturing out into the water.
🐢 Responsible Travel Tips for Zanzibar
- Support Local Zanzibar Businesses: Opt for locally owned Zanzibari restaurants, markets, and shops where you can. Not only will you get a more authentic experience, but you’ll also directly contribute to the local economy.
- Respect Marine Life: When engaging in water activities in Zanzibar like snorkelling or diving, always respect the marine environment. Avoid touching coral or disturbing marine life, and consider using eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the ocean.
❌ Tourist Scams to Watch Out For in Zanzibar
- Overpriced Taxis: While taxis are convenient, always agree on a price before getting in. Some drivers may charge exorbitant rates if they sense you’re unfamiliar with the area.
As a rough guide here’s what getting around should cost you:
- Airport to Stone Town – around 38,000 Tanzanian Shilling / $15 / €14 / £12
- Short trips within Zanzibar – 12,650 – 25,300 Tanzanian Shillings / $10 – 15 / €9 – 14 / £8 – £12 or less
- Longer trips within Zanzibar – 50,600 – 102,000Tanzanian Shillings / $20 – $40 / €19 – €39 / £16 – £34
- Overzealous Street Vendors: Be prepared for persistent vendors, especially in tourist-heavy spots like Stone Town. Politely but firmly say “Hapana Asante” which means ‘no thank you’ in Swahili if you’re not interested and don’t be afraid to be stern with your NO.
- Fake Guides: Beware of unofficial “guides” offering tours around Stone Town or beaches. We actually got scammed this way when we first arrived, twice! While many are legitimate, others may not be, so always book through reputable sources or your hotel.
- Currency Exchange Scams: Avoid changing money with street vendors or in areas with unclear exchange rates. Use authorized money changers or ATMs inside secure banks to avoid losing money.
- Beach Traps: At some of the more popular beaches, you may be approached with offers from tribal locals for “free” services as a friend (like a boat ride or excursion) only to find hidden fees later on. Always clarify the cost upfront before agreeing to anything.
💡 While you’re planning, also remember to stay mindful of the local culture, support the community by shopping locally, and of course, respect the incredible environment that makes Zanzibar so special.
Be mindful of these tips to have a more enjoyable and safe experience in Zanzibar, but understand you’re very likely to leave with a super positive experience of the island and the people in it too. So don’t stress too much!
Final Thoughts on Planning the Perfect Zanzibar Holiday
Overall I highly recommend taking a trip to Zanzibar for its pristine beaches, fascinating island culture, rich history, and incredible nature (and food…and cocktails).
Trust me, you’ll be planning your next trip back the moment you leave. On that note…
Happy travels,
