Overview
Zanzibar is the perfect end to a safari. Explore the winding lanes of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then unwind on the beaches of the north and east coasts.
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago of Tanzania. Its main island, Unguja, is what most people mean by Zanzibar; Pemba lies to the north. The islands have a long Swahili trading history, which you can see in Stone Town’s architecture, food and spice farms.
Choose the north coast for swimming at any tide and sunsets, the east coast for long beaches and quiet villages, and Stone Town for culture. Snorkelling at Mnemba, the red colobus at Jozani and a spice tour are the most popular excursions.
Parks & places in Zanzibar
- Stone TownBest time: June – October, December – February
- Nungwi & Kendwa BeachesBest time: June – October, December – February
- Paje, Jambiani & MatemweBest time: June – October, December – February
- Jozani Chwaka Bay National ParkBest time: All year
- Mnemba AtollBest time: October – March
- Pemba IslandBest time: October – March
- Mafia IslandBest time: October – March
Key facts
- Main town
- Stone Town (Zanzibar City)
- Currency
- Tanzanian shilling; US dollars widely accepted
- Languages
- Swahili and English
- Airport
- Abeid Amani Karume (ZNZ)
- Visa
- Same as mainland Tanzania
- Dress
- Cover shoulders and knees away from the beach
Planning your trip to Zanzibar
Getting there
About an hour by air from Arusha or Kilimanjaro, or a short flight or fast ferry from Dar es Salaam.
Culture
Zanzibar is largely Muslim. Cover shoulders and knees away from the beach, and be respectful during Ramadan.
Tides
On the east coast the tide goes far out; the north coast is better for swimming at all times of day.
Practical tips
- Spend one or two nights in Stone Town, then move to the beach.
- Zanzibar is a perfect three- to seven-night end to a safari.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania, so the same visa covers the mainland and the islands.
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