Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide to Zanzibar, Tanzania: Flights, Hotels & more

Explore Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, vibrant culture, and spice tours. Perfect for holidays! Discover top things to do in Zanzibar with our travel guide

Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that captivates travelers with its stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and aromatic spices.

Officially part of the United Republic of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago comprising two main islands—Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba—along with numerous smaller islets.

Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach getaway, an adventure-filled holiday, or a deep dive into history and culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone.

Zanzibar: An Overview

Zanzibar is an archipelago located approximately 25–50 kilometers (16–31 miles) off the coast of mainland Tanzania.

Its largest island, Unguja, is often simply called Zanzibar, and it’s here that most visitors spend their time. The capital, Zanzibar City, is home to the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the island’s diverse cultural heritage.

Pemba Island, to the north, is less developed but equally enchanting, known for its lush greenery and pristine dive sites.

Together with smaller islands like Mnemba and Chumbe, Zanzibar forms a dazzling mosaic of natural beauty and historical significance.

The archipelago’s nickname, the “Spice Islands,” stems from its centuries-old role as a hub for spice production and trade, particularly cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper.

Today, tourism has overtaken spices as the primary economic driver, drawing visitors from around the globe to its powdery white beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant markets.

is zanzibar safe

Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and locals are known for their hospitality. Tourist areas like Stone Town, Nungwi, and Paje are well-patrolled and welcoming.

However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded markets, so keep valuables secure and avoid flashing wealth.

Walking alone at night in isolated areas is not advised—stick to well-lit, populated spots. Malaria is a health concern, so use repellents and prophylaxis.

Overall, with common-sense precautions—locking accommodations, using reputable transport, and respecting local customs—Zanzibar offers a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors.

what is zanzibar famous for

Zanzibar is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for sun-seekers and divers.

Known as the “Spice Islands,” it’s famous for producing cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices, a legacy showcased in its popular spice tours.

The historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates with its blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences, seen in its architecture and bustling markets.

Additionally, Zanzibar’s rich marine life, including dolphins and turtles, and its cultural heritage, highlighted by taarab music, draw travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Travel to Zanzibar

Getting There

Zanzibar is accessible by air and sea. The Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on Unguja welcomes flights from major hubs like Dar es Salaam (a 20-minute flight), as well as international connections via cities like Dubai, Doha, Amsterdam, and Johannesburg.

For a more scenic approach, ferries depart regularly from Dar es Salaam, a two-hour journey across the Indian Ocean. Private boats and smaller airlines also serve Pemba and other islands.

Visa Requirements

Most visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania, including Zanzibar. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or ferry terminal ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for U.S.

citizens, payable in cash) or apply for an e-Visa online in advance. The process is straightforward, requiring a passport valid for at least six months and a completed Entry Declaration Form.

Check your nationality’s specific requirements before traveling, as some countries are exempt.

Getting Around

Once on the islands, transportation options include taxis (often minivans), rental cars, scooters, and local buses called dala-dalas.

Taxis are widely available and affordable—expect to pay around $20 for an hour-long ride. For a more immersive experience, consider hiring a bicycle or walking, especially in Stone Town.

About Zanzibar flights; Entebbe to Zanzibar flights price

Zanzibar, a stunning Tanzanian archipelago, is easily accessible from Entebbe, Uganda, via direct and connecting flights.

Airlines like Uganda Airlines, Air Tanzania, and Kenya Airways operate flights from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar.

Direct flights, available several times a week, take about 1 hour and 50 minutes, offering a quick escape to Zanzibar’s beaches and spice markets.

Flight prices vary based on season, booking time, and airline. As of early 2025, one-way tickets typically start at $128–$200 USD, while round-trip fares range from $256–$350 USD, according to travel platforms like Kayak, Expedia, and Trip.com.

Booking early (at least 71 days in advance) and traveling during the low season (e.g., April) can secure the cheapest rates. Prices peak in June–September, the dry season, when demand surges. For the best deals, compare options on sites like Cheapflights or set price alerts.

Best Time to Visit

Zanzibar’s tropical climate features two main seasons: dry and rainy. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when temperatures hover between 25°C and 30°C (77°F–86°F), and humidity is lower.

This period is ideal for beach activities, diving, and exploring. The short rains (November–December) bring brief showers but are manageable, while the long rains (March–May) can be intense, with heavy downpours and higher humidity.

History of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s history is a tapestry woven from threads of African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.

Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation dating back 20,000 years, with significant settlement by Bantu peoples from the mainland.

By the 1st century AD, Zanzibar was a key stop on trade routes linking the African Great Lakes, the Arabian Peninsula, and India.

The Portuguese arrived in the 15th century, establishing control for nearly 200 years until the Sultanate of Oman took over in 1698. Under Omani rule, Zanzibar became a thriving center for the spice and slave trades, with Stone Town emerging as a bustling port.

In 1861, Zanzibar became an independent sultanate, but British influence grew, culminating in a protectorate in 1890 that lasted until 1963.

Independence in December 1963 was short-lived; a violent revolution in January 1964 overthrew the sultanate, killing thousands of Arabs and Indians and establishing a republic.

In April 1964, Zanzibar united with Tanganyika to form Tanzania, retaining semi-autonomous status. Today, this history is palpable in Stone Town’s architecture, markets, and cultural blend.

Culture of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s culture is a vibrant fusion shaped by its diverse past. The population of approximately 1.3 million is predominantly Muslim (97%), with small Christian and Hindu minorities. Swahili (KiSwahili) is the primary language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

The island’s Islamic heritage is evident in its mosques, modest dress, and the haunting call to prayer that echoes through Stone Town.

Yet, Zanzibar’s Muslim community is notably moderate, accustomed to tourists and relaxed about dress codes outside sacred sites. Visitors can wear beach attire on the coast, though covering up in Stone Town is respectful.

Music and dance, particularly the rhythmic taarab—a blend of Arabic, Indian, and African styles—are cultural cornerstones.

Festivals, markets, and the aroma of spices further define daily life, reflecting a heritage that’s both rooted and cosmopolitan.

Tourism in Zanzibar

Tourism is Zanzibar’s economic lifeblood, contributing nearly 25% of its income and surpassing agriculture.

The Zanzibar Commission for Tourism and Tanzania Tourist Board actively promote the islands, which welcomed 376,000 visitors in 2016, up from 19,000 in 1985.

This boom has brought prosperity but also challenges, including environmental strain and limited benefits for local communities.

Key draws include coastal tourism (beaches, diving, snorkeling), terrestrial wildlife (like the red colobus monkey), spice tours, and dhow cruises.

Stone Town, with its historical sites, anchors the cultural tourism scene. Accommodations range from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, though infrastructure can be inconsistent, with some areas relying on generators due to unreliable electricity.

Attractions in Zanzibar

Stone Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is Zanzibar’s cultural heart. Its labyrinthine alleys, carved wooden doors, and historic buildings—like the House of Wonders and Old Fort—offer a glimpse into the past. Don’t miss the Freddie Mercury Museum, honoring the Queen frontman born here as Farrokh Bulsara.

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

This biodiversity hotspot on Unguja is home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, plus 40 bird species and 50 butterfly varieties. A guided walk through its mangrove swamps is a must for nature lovers.

Prison Island (Changuu)

A short boat ride from Stone Town, this island offers snorkeling, giant tortoises, and a dark history as a former slave quarantine site. It’s a blend of relaxation and reflection.

Spice Farms

Zanzibar’s spice tours let you see, touch, and taste cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and more in their natural setting. These plantations highlight the island’s “Spice Islands” legacy.

Mnemba Island

A private atoll off Unguja’s northeast coast, Mnemba is a snorkeling and diving paradise with vibrant reefs and marine life, including turtles and dolphins.

Chumbe Island

An eco-tourism gem, Chumbe boasts pristine coral reefs and a forest reserve, perfect for sustainable exploration.

Beaches of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s beaches are world-renowned for their powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Here are the standouts:

• Nungwi and Kendwa: On Unguja’s northern tip, these lively beaches offer swimming at all tides, nightlife, and water sports.
• Matemwe: A tranquil escape with proximity to Mnemba Atoll, ideal for a quieter retreat.
• Paje and Jambiani: On the southeast coast, these beaches are kite-surfing hubs with vibrant village vibes.
• Nakupenda Beach: A sandbar near Stone Town, perfect for a day trip of snorkeling and seafood.

Tides can affect swimming, especially on the east coast, so check local conditions.

Weather in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s tropical climate is warm year-round, with temperatures averaging 25°C–33°C (77°F–91°F). The dry season (June–October) is sunny and breezy, while the short rains (November–December) bring quick showers.

The long rains (March–May) are wetter, often disrupting outdoor plans. Humidity is high, especially in the wet seasons, and global warming has made patterns less predictable, occasionally causing floods or dry spells outside norms.

Cuisine of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s cuisine is a delicious fusion of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and Portuguese flavors, spiced with local cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Must-try dishes include:

• Zanzibar Pizza: A street-food crepe filled with meat, eggs, or veggies.
• Pilau: Spiced rice with meat or seafood.
• Urojo: A tangy soup with potatoes, meat, and mango.
• Spice Cake: A dessert blending cloves, nutmeg, and chocolate.

Seafood is abundant—think octopus, lobster, and fish—often served with coconut rice. Forodhani Gardens’ night market in Stone Town is a foodie haven, offering grilled skewers and fresh juices.

Activities in Zanzibar

Zanzibar brims with activities:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore coral reefs at Mnemba, Chumbe, or Menai Bay.
• Kite-Surfing: Paje and Jambiani are top spots.
• Dhow Cruises: Sail at sunset or spot dolphins.
• Spice Tours: Learn about Zanzibar’s spice heritage.
• Deep-Sea Fishing: Chase sailfish off the coast.
• Cultural Tours: Visit villages or historic ruins like the Chwaka Ruins on Pemba.

Economy of Zanzibar

Tourism dominates Zanzibar’s economy, followed by spices (cloves now at 7% of global supply), seaweed farming, and fishing.

Historically the world’s leading clove producer, Zanzibar faced decline due to socialism and competition.

Potential oil reserves off Pemba could shift the economic landscape, though disputes with mainland Tanzania persist. Despite tourism’s growth, poverty remains, with many locals earning less than $1 daily.

People of Zanzibar

Zanzibaris are warm and welcoming, shaped by their multicultural roots. Most are Swahili-speaking Muslims, living a slow-paced life tied to fishing, farming, or tourism.

The population blends Bantu, Arab, and Indian ancestry, creating a unique identity. Tourists are advised to respect local customs—dress modestly in towns and avoid public drunkenness—though attitudes are generally relaxed.

Zanzibar Hotels

Zanzibar, Tanzania’s tropical gem, boasts a stunning array of hotels that cater to every traveler’s dream. From luxurious beachfront resorts to charming boutique stays, the island’s accommodations blend Swahili, Arabic, and European influences with modern comforts.

High-end options like Zuri Zanzibar and Baraza Resort & Spa offer 5-star indulgence—think private villas, infinity pools, and all-inclusive dining—set against powdery white sands and turquoise Indian Ocean waters.

In historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hotels like Zanzibar Serena Hotel merge colonial elegance with cultural immersion, steps from bustling markets.

Budget-friendly gems like Pongwe Beach Hotel provide barefoot luxury at lower rates, ideal for honeymooners or families.

Many hotels feature eco-conscious designs, spice garden tours, and water sports, reflecting Zanzibar’s natural and cultural riches.

As of April 08, 2025, booking early ensures the best rates for this paradise escape—your island adventure awaits!

FAQs About Zanzibar

What is Zanzibar best known for?

Zanzibar is famous for its beaches, spices, Stone Town, and marine life, blending natural beauty with cultural richness.

Is Zanzibar safe?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe. Exercise common sense—avoid flashing valuables or wandering alone at night in isolated areas.

What currency is used?

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Do I need vaccinations?

Recommended vaccines include yellow fever (required if coming from an endemic area), typhoid, hepatitis A, and malaria prophylaxis, as Zanzibar is a malaria zone.

What should I wear?

Beachwear is fine on the coast, but cover shoulders and knees in Stone Town or villages. Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.

Can I drink alcohol?

Yes, alcohol is available at resorts and tourist spots, though many locals abstain due to religious beliefs.

How’s the nightlife?

Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje offer lively beach bars and clubs, while Stone Town has quieter rooftop lounges.

In conclusion, Zanzibar, Tanzania, is a destination that blends the allure of a tropical paradise with a storied past and vibrant present.

From the historic streets of Stone Town to the serene shores of Nungwi, the archipelago offers endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.

Whether you’re savoring a spice-laden meal, diving into coral reefs, or tracing the island’s complex history, Zanzibar promises an unforgettable experience.

Plan your trip with this guide in hand, and let the Spice Islands enchant you as they have travelers for centuries.