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About this guide
Zanzibar, Tanzania, has an aquatic beauty made of equal parts breathtaking nature and rich African island culture. With a profound historical significance at UNESCO World Heritage’s site of Stone Town to the pristine white-sand beaches perfect for the ultimate getaway, this Tanzanian archipelago invites travelers to explore and connect on a nearly spiritual level. The warm and welcoming locals share their deep-rooted African heritage with travelers looking for a sense of belonging and adventure. Whether indulging in local cuisine, engaging in cultural excursions, or simply soaking up the sun, Zanzibar promises a rejuvenating experience too refreshing to miss.
- Best time to travel: December to January and June to October (peak season), March to May and November (off-season), January to February and June to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: East Africa Time (EAT)
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Language: Swahili (Kiswahili), English, Arabic
- Noteworthy: Sauti za Busara (February), Mwaka Kogwa (July), Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) (August), Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival (December)
- Best for: East African History,Beach Getaway, Outdoor Adventures, Tanzanian Cuisine
Parlé: Key Phrases
- Jambo — Hello
- Asante sana — Thank you very much
- Karibu — Welcome
- Pole pole — Slowly / Take it easy
- Bei gani? — How much is it?
- Hakuna matata — No worries / Everything’s okay
Get Away: Getting To And Around Zanzibar, Tanzania
By Air
To reach Zanzibar by air, travelers can fly directly into the island through Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. International visitors can also go through Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, then take a short connecting flight to Zanzibar. Major airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Ethiopian Airlines offer flights to Dar es Salaam, with local carriers providing regular connections to Zanzibar.
By Car
Renting a vehicle from one of the local or international car rental companies can be a more convenient option for getting around Zanzibar. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road and visitors need an International Driving Permit. For those who prefer not to drive, hiring a private driver or using local taxis are reliable alternatives.
By Public Transit
Travelers can use Zanzibar’s primary mode of public transportation called "dala-dalas," or local mini buses. These are affordable and cover most areas of the island, although they can be crowded and less punctual. For a more comfortable experience, visitors can opt for shared taxis or ride-hailing services available in some parts of Zanzibar.
Explore Zanzibar, Tanzania On Foot
Zanzibar is particularly enjoyable on foot because of all the historic areas like Stone Town with its narrow and winding streets. Walking tours are available throughout the island to learn about key cultural and historical sites as guides share the island's heritage. For safety, stay in well-populated areas and be mindful of local customs and dress codes ahead of time.
Quick facts
Good For
East African History
Beach Getaway
Outdoor Adventures
Tanzanian Cuisine
Keep in mind
- Sauti za Busara (February)
- Mwaka Kogwa (July)
- Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) (August)
- Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zeebar serves ice-cold beers, cocktails, and tasty snacks that are perfect for taking in magnificent views of the Indian Ocean. Located in Nungwi, this oceanfront cocktail bar and beach restaurant bar offers guests a satisfying space to unwind.
Savor the finest coastal cuisine at Breadfruit Restaurant And Café in a tranquil courtyard perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From fresh seafood to hearty salads, this Stone Town al fresco dining spot focuses on quality and sustainability with expertly crafted coffee.
For a fantastic meal right on the white-sand beaches, Fisherman's Seafood And Grill offers a truly island dining experience. This waterfront spot features live music every Monday and dishes like the vegan-friendly Mixed Mezze platter, grilled octopus, and Cajun Blackened Tuna.
Kick back at the ZanziBarista Beach Bar from breakfast to dinner with dishes like avocado eggs Benedict, Tom Yum Shrimp soup, and coconut poached fish, and beef fillets. The restaurant has scenic beachfront seating that’s perfect for relaxing throughout the day.
Known for its iconic location on the water, The Rock Restaurant offers panoramic ocean views, local ingredients, and sustainability. The Zanzibari recipes with Italian technique include grilled seafood, homemade pasta, and specialty desserts like Green Tanzanite pistachio tiramisù.
The Lost Soles Bar sits on a tranquil beachside in Jambiani featuring live music every Wednesday and Saturday evening. The warm atmosphere and attentive service complements their selection of freshly caught fish, speciality sides, and island-inspired cocktails and desserts.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Zanzibar, Tanzania
Book the Zanzibar Spice Tour And Cooking Class to immerse in the local culture and learn techniques of regional dishes. Afterward, guests explore spice farms in Kisongoni Village to learn about local spices and start the cooking class with an experienced local chef.
Go Snorkeling And Swimming With Dolphins On Mnemba Island in Tanzania's prime wildlife-watching spots with the rarest marine life. An experienced guide takes guests on the motorboat tour with snorkeling equipment and complimentary bottled water and fruit.
Experience the feeling of a cheetah’s fur, feeding lemurs and zebras, and contributing to wildlife conservation efforts at Cheetah's Rock. This unforgettable tour includes convenient baggage storage and free roundtrip transfers from most locations in Zanzibar.
Spend a full day experiencing the highlights of Zanzibar on this Private Stone Town, Spice Farm, And Prison Island Tour. Take private transportation to learn about Zanzibari history at the Jambo Spice Farm, see giant tortoises, and even snorkel at Prison Island.
A knowledgeable local guides visitors on this in-depth Stone Town Historical And Cultural Walk with a Local of Zanzibar's architecture, culture, and history. The tour highlights significant areas and historical sites that reveal how Zanzibar's cosmopolitan roots blend with African traditions.
Visit Mikumi National Park for a quintessential safari experience in Tanzania's most popular parks, renowned for scenic plains and baobabs. There’s spectacular wildlife, including rare species like Sable antelope and African hunting dog, in the vast miombo woodland savanna.
The Cool Quads Tour Zanzibar explores a different side of the island beyond the beaches into local villages and agricultural areas. Guided by an expert, this small-group tour allows single or paired vehicles with a stop at Pongwe Beach for fresh fruit juice.
With carefully selected local vendors beloved by the community, these Authentic Street Food Tours In Stone Town offer a chance to explore hot spots just off the beaten path. Each visit supports hardworking locals as they share delicious dishes with traditional recipes passed down through generations.
