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Zanzibar Island is a captivating African beach paradise. Described as Africa’s Indian Ocean jewel, the Zanzibar Archipelago lies just off the coast of Tanzania, a short 35-minute flight from Dar es Salaam. This enchanting tropical island is home to a fascinating blend of cultures, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters, that attract travellers from across the globe.
Zanzibar's rich history includes Roman, Arabian, Persian, Indian, Chinese, and African influences, creating a unique cultural mosaic. Zanzibar Island was an entrepot whose trade centred on the monsoon trade winds that saw salt, gold, ivory, and porcelain pass through its ports. The centre of Zanzibar Island’s old-world trade was undoubtedly the aromatic spices that once made the island a pivotal Indian Ocean hub in the spice trade.
Stone Town, the heart and soul of Zanzibar Island, reflects the archipelago's intriguing historical influences. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow winding streets full of charming nooks and crannies, where intricately carved doorways and colonial-era architecture whisper tales of the Swahili Coast's trade and maritime prowess. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets as you stumble upon bustling markets, vibrant bazaars, and the haunting history of the slave trade.
A culinary voyage awaits those who seek to tantalize their taste buds with Zanzibar's gastronomic delights. The diverse heritage of Zanzibar Island has resulted in a gastronomic fusion of flavours, with African, Asian, and European sensibilities. Fresh fish straight from the azure waters, mouthwatering seafood feasts, and spice-fueled infusions of biryani and pilau dishes are all part of the eclectic Zanzibari food experience.
Zanzibar offers a unique combination of island charm, fascinating historical influences, vibrant culture, excellent food, and fun activities for the whole family. From wandering Stone Town’s historical streets to swimming with whale sharks or relaxing undisturbed poolside with views of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar Island offers something for every taste. Add to this the island’s proximity to the famous Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit, and the wonders of the Serengeti, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and Ngorongoro Crater, and Zanzibar is the perfect addition to an African beach and bush break.
- Visit Stone Town and get lost in the labyrinthine streets, intricate wooden doorways, spice markets, and eclectic architecture.
- Zanzibar Island’s Spice Tours are a great way to experience the sounds, culture, and tastes of this exotic island.
- Pay homage to Freddy Mercury by visiting his family’s former home which is now a museum.
- Relax on the idyllic Zanzibar beaches. Zanzibar has some incredible beaches to choose from including Paje Beach, Nungwi Beach, and Kendwa Beach.
- Forodhani Gardens Food Market is a buzzing nighttime food market that teams with delicious Zanzibari cuisine.
- Visit the Old Fort, built in the 17th century, Zanzibar’s oldest building.
- A meal at the Rock Restaurant is not to be missed.
- The unique setting of Prison Island is a sanctuary for endangered Aldabra tortoises – one of the largest and longest-living tortoise species in the world.
- Visit the former Slave Market and learn about the dark past of Zanzibar Island.
- Visit Mafia Island for amazing scuba experiences with the possibility of diving with whale sharks.
- Pemba Island is a more exclusive option for escaping the crowds and bustle of the main Zanzibari Island.
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Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, is the largest and most visited island within the Zanzibar Archipelago. Zanzibar island's coastline offers diverse experiences, from dynamic culture in the south to serene barefoot luxury in the north. Beyond the iconic palm trees, white sands, and turquoise waters, the archipelago encompasses smaller, exclusive islets perfect for intimate getaways, particularly suited for those seeking paradise away from the crowds, honeymooners, and romantics.
Curious? Read our blog 12 Reasons to Visit Zanzibar Island.
As a rule, the further north you travel on Zanzibar Island, the more secluded and tranquil the beaches become. The North-east coast also experiences less tidal fluctuation, and as a result, has become a top Zanzibar vacation destination. Nungwi and Kendwa offer access to the archipelago’s finest reefs around Mnemba Island, minimal tidal change, and top-notch accommodation, all combine to make the northeast one of Zanzibar Island’s most sought-after areas.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the northeast and east coast beaches; Matemwe, Kiwengwa, and Pongwe. These Zanzibar beaches are pristine and offer a larger variety of accommodations for budget travellers. The tidal variations are more pronounced on these beaches and often require a short walk to reach the best swimming and snorkelling spots.
As you journey along Zanzibar's south coast, population density increases. The southeast coast boasts beautiful beaches, with notable favourites being Paje, Jambiani, and Michamvi. Zanzibar Island’s southeast beaches have very pronounced tidal variations, and a huge array of accommodations on offer, making the southeast popular with a variety of different travellers.
The west coast of Zanzibar Island has a more remote feel, owing to fewer lodges, and the absence of classical beaches. However, the southwest is also home to some of Zanzibar’s finest marine experiences. Menai Bay and Chumbe Island offer amazing snorkelling and diving, and pods of dolphins are a common sight when boating from Kizimkazi and Fumba. The charm of the southwest is to be found sailing between deserted islands, picnicking on deserted sandbanks, and spending timeless hours on sparkling Indian Ocean waters.
Mafia Island is a more remote tropical paradise. Secluded sandbars, whale shark migrations, nesting turtles, and a serene ambience, create a secluded escape away from the bustle of the more touristy main Zanzibar Island. Just 160km south of Zanzibar Island, the Mafia Island archipelago, remains a relatively unexplored sanctuary. Mafia Island has long been a favourite of discerning travellers seeking the intimacy of the ocean with toes firmly in the sand.
Mafia's coastline features mangroves and sunlit bays where traditional dhows and kayaks glide into turquoise waters. The adventurous embark by boat to pristine sandbars, immersed by the soothing sound of ocean waves, enjoying picnics, and swims along pristine, powder-white crescent beaches. The Indian Ocean is, however, the star of the show.
The establishment of Mafia Island Marine Park in 1995 safeguarded its reefs, thus securing its future as Tanzania’s premier diving destination. Shallow reefs within Chole Bay beckon snorkellers and novice divers, while beyond the bay, a sprawling coral wall entices experienced divers with its magnificent table and blue-tipped staghorn corals. From vibrant clownfish to octopuses, rays, groupers, sharks, and dolphins in deeper waters, the underwater world provides an ever-changing spectacle. In addition to this, you may be lucky enough to swim with whale sharks or take part in Juani Islands green turtle conservation initiatives.
Mafia Island does not have the same range of accommodation as Zanzibar Island, and as a result, is less budget-friendly. However, intimate lodges, whimsical treehouses, and world-class private villas, all make a trip to Mafia well worth the money spent. The exceptional Indian Ocean diving, modest tourist numbers, and idyllic beaches all make Mafia Island a tropical retreat not to be missed.
The sole national park in Zanzibar, Tanzania, resides within the Jozani – Chwaka Bay Biosphere Reserve. This region presents a medley of mangroves, tropical forests, coral rug forests, groundwater forests, salt marshes, and urban and rural zones. An enclave of biodiversity, the reserve hosts reef fish, dolphins, and 168 bird species, both rare and globally significant.
The Jozani - Chwaka Bay National Park, spans 50 km² (19 mi²), and is home to Zanzibar's flagship conservation symbol, the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, African civets, mangrove kingfishers, and endemic species like Ader’s duiker, the Kassina Jozani frog, and the Zanzibar servaline genet. There is speculation that the park may also hold a population of the thought-to-be extinct Zanzibar leopard, adding some intrigue and mystery.
The lush, tropical Ngezi Forest Reserve, situated on the north of Pemba Island, spans 1,440 hectares (3,600 acres) and is one of the last remaining areas of indigenous forest anywhere in Zanzibar. Established in 1959, Ngezi is bordered by various villages and extends along the Pemba Channel. The forest trails can be explored during the day or at night on guided hiking trails.
Ngezi’s diverse biomes include tropical and riverine forests, as well as maquis shrubland. The rich mangrove forests are a particular highlight that is home to endemic trees and orchids. The reserve is the home of the Pemba flying fox, vervet monkeys, Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, blue duikers, and the Pemba scops owl which makes it a popular destination for birders.
Chumbe Marine Park is a privately managed marine park located on Chumbe Island, a few kilometres southwest of Stone Town, Zanzibar Island. Established in 1994, Chumbe is a successful ecotourism project with the primary goal of preserving and enhancing coral biodiversity. This sanctuary features a terrestrial Nature Trail, an Eco-lodge for accommodation, and an educational centre. Chumbe Marine Park is an award-winning eco-tourism retreat that is renowned for its stunning and diverse shallow reefs which shelter 90% of East Africa's hard coral species. There are over 400 fish species, and the reserve is a significant feeding ground for green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Chumbe plays a crucial role in conserving biodiversity and supporting regional fisheries, through conservation and tourism. Staying on Chumbe Island is a truly magical experience, but it is also possible to do day trips to snorkel in these protected waters.
The Menai Bay Conservation Area, at 470 km² (180 mi²), is Zanzibar’s largest marine protected area. Officially established in August 1997, this conservation area covers the tropical marine expanse of coral reefs, tropical fish, sea grasses, and mangrove forests that lie in the southwest of Zanzibar Island. The area is managed by the Fisheries Department and local villages and has support from the WWF, USAID, the British Government, and Switzerland. The area is most notable for the robust guided dolphin tours operated from Kizimkazi, and the ongoing protection of the area against illegal fishing.
| INFO BOX: Swimming with Dolphins |
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Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat is a bucket list item for many travellers to Zanzibar Island. Like shark-cage diving in South Africa, this experience is an important contributor to local people and tour operators. The demand to get close to wild animals often leads to poorly operated tours, but this doesn’t have to be the case if you choose carefully and responsibly. So what does an ethical tour look like? These dolphins are wild, and tours cannot predict their movements, and thus often include island visits and snorkelling in day trips. Trained boat captains will observe dolphins from a safe distance, there is no high-speed chasing that forces dolphins to change direction or dive to avoid contact with boats. Clients are not permitted to jump on dolphins or make commotion near them. Following these guidelines will make for an enjoyable and sustainable future for dolphins and tourists alike. |
Zala Park was created to educate local children about endangered species and the imperative of conservation in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Situated around 5km from Zanzibar's Jozani National Park, this compact reserve showcases various captive animals. Created by Mohammad, the Park's Ranger, notable species include large pythons, chameleons, geckos, tortoises, crabs, dik-dik, striped lizards, monitor lizards, and hyrax. Zala Park is an educational haven for local Zanzibaris, and the lush grounds boast orange, lime, grapefruit, nutmeg, banana, ginger, chilli, black pepper, and cinnamon trees, a fitting backdrop while visiting the Spice Islands.
Tropical beaches are synonymous with Zanzibar Island. The warm Indian Ocean water, palm-fringed, powder-white sand, and azure blue waters are what people expect from a tropical beach vacation, and Zanzibar does not disappoint.
Situated in the far north of Zanzibar Island, Nungwi and Kendwa are the island's most exquisite (and popular) beaches. With expansive white sand beaches, against the endless blue Indian Ocean, these areas are distinguished by milder tides and a distinct absence of seaweed and sea urchins found at beaches. Nungwi is famous for its large luxury hotels and lodges that attract 5-star experiences set on these incredible Zanzibar beaches. Over the years, Nungwi has evolved into a vibrant destination during the peak season. Neighboring Kendwa presents a more tranquil alternative for those seeking the same stunning beaches minus the crowds. Both locales are ideal for savouring sunsets.
Located in the northeast of Zanzibar Island, Matemwe lies about 1,5 hours from Stone Town Airport. This tranquil beachside enclave is dotted with boutique hotels, creating a laid-back atmosphere, unlike the bustling Nungwi with its grand resorts. Matemwe offers stunning beaches, and features a handful of standalone restaurants, giving the area an unmistakable island charm. The beaches here are characterized by significant high and low tides, a fascinating spectacle of nature as the shoreline extends out 500 meters during low tide, exposing the breaking reef. Matemwe is where you will find the launch site for the Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine that offers some of the best diving and snorkelling on Zanzibar Island.
Renowned for some of the finest beaches beyond Nungwi, this region of Zanzibar Island boasts dramatic tides while offering predominantly sandy shores as opposed to the coral and urchin presence in the north. The largest town in the area is Paje, which has earned the title of Zanzibar's kitesurfing capital due to consistent east-to-west winds that blow almost all year round. The southeast includes other towns like Jambiani, Bwejuu, and Michamvi. Notably, this is where to come for spice tours, and the famous Rock Restaurant is located at Michamvi’s Pingwe Beach on the southeast Peninsula.
The heart of Zanzibar Island is undoubtedly Stone Town. This captivating historical gem showcases the trading legacy of Zanzibar that spanned two millennia. Today, the labyrinth of narrow, meandering streets exudes a historical charm that is unparalleled in East Africa. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its diverse architectural styles, linguistic mosaic, and vibrant blend of cultural influences from Asia, Arabia, Africa, and Europe.
Walking Stone Town’s labyrinthine streets is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the ambience of this fascinating historical gem. Opting for a guided tour will ensure a comprehensive experience, that unravels the complex tapestry that includes a treasure trove of museums, forts, cathedrals, and mosques, with colourful markets and neighbouring spice plantations enhancing the adventure.
Stone Town can easily be enjoyed in a day, but also boasts excellent budget accommodation, that encourages you to resign to the island rhythms of this vibrant town. Stone Town's elegant villas and boutique hotels offer a refreshing retreat after the vibrant streets, and an evening dhow cruise is the quintessential Stone Town conclusion.
No trip to Zanzibar Island is complete without a trip to Stone Town, which delves into the history of the spice trade, the slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires.
The winter dry season is the best time to visit Zanzibar Island. Optimal for exploration, June to October offers mild temperatures and clear blue skies. This is also Tanzania's peak safari season, making Zanzibar Island a favoured post-safari haven. Yet, the island's tropical charm is inviting throughout the year, courtesy of its consistent sunshine and mild Zanzibar climate.
Visiting Zanzibar's beaches is the perfect accompaniment to the renowned Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti. The awe-inspiring wildlife migration, involving one to two million wildebeest alongside zebras and gazelles, unfolds year-round based on weather conditions and grazing needs. Daily flights from Serengeti airstrips to Zanzibar Island ensure easy access between the wildlife-rich African plains and tropical Zanzibar beaches.
Zanzibar's tropical climate offers warm, sun-drenched days year-round, perfect for fulfilling your beach getaway fantasies. Nonetheless, certain periods are more favourable than others. The high seasons run from June to October, boasting cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall—ideal for post-Serengeti safari relaxation. December to February marks the second high season with warmer temperatures and limited rainfall, making it popular for kitesurfing in spots like Paje. The rainy season on Zanzibar Island is from March to May, accompanied by intermittent downpours, causing some resorts to close temporarily. November ushers in a milder "small rainy season" with sporadic showers, while a month-long stay during this period can still offer sunny and pleasant days.
Zanzibar loves tourism and has an excellent range of accommodations to choose from. The cost of your Zanzibar holiday will hinge on the duration of your stay, the level of comfort you budget for, the activities you want to do, and of course which Tanzania safari destinations you want to include in your itinerary.
The Average Daily Zanzibar Vacation Cost Per Day
A taxi from the airport to the city centre will cost around US$ 20. Generally, Zanzibar Island dining options revolve around tourist-oriented eateries. Anticipate spending between US$6-US$10 for a grilled calamari main dish with rice, while budget dinners start at around US$ 3, and hotel-affiliated eateries vary according to their luxury levels. Local beers like Serengeti and Safari typically cost around $3 for a 500ml bottle, and water goes for just under US$ 1.
A much easier option is to purchase an all-inclusive package deal. African Budget Safaris has 62 safari packages that include Zanzibar vacations and range from US$ 552 to US$ 9690 per person. Another important cost predictor is the season you choose to travel. Travelling during the peak holiday months from June to October will be more expensive, while shoulder seasons offer the best deals.
4-Day Zanzibar Beach Resort Package
Zanzibar Island is a part of Tanzania, and Tanzania offers some of the best safaris in Africa. To take advantage of amazing Tanzania safari destinations like Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater, you can sign up for a longer tour that takes advantage of the classic bush and beach break synonymous with East Africa. For example, the 10-day Zanzibar & Tanzania Safari (an Africa Overland Tour with lodge accommodation) rate for January to December 2023, is US$ 1889 per person. The below table gives basic safari cost ranges for Tanzania, and if you’d like to compare in more detail, see How Much Does a Tanzania Safari Cost?
All safari prices are meant to give you a quick overview. For accurate and up-to-date safari prices, check out the Tanzania Safari Tours on African Budget Safaris.
| INFO BOX: Zanzibar Island Money Matters |
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| The official currency of Zanzibar Island is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) which, at the time of publishing, traded at US$ 1 = TZS 2,4. While many tourist-centric establishments use both, most independent accommodations, bars, and restaurants will transact in TZS. It is advisable to carry cash in Tanzania because of surcharges and high ATM fees. |
Zanzibar Island is an easily accessible East African beach destination, that caters to both budget and luxury travellers. The island enjoys strong international flight connectivity, which includes direct routes by Qatar Airways from Doha and Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa. If you are on safari in Tanzania, there are swift air connections from places like Kilimanjaro and Arusha, and even directly from the Serengeti’s Seronera valley. Flying does add extra cost, and budget-savvy travellers can take advantage of the regular ferry services from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar Island. There are four ferry departures daily which cost between US$ 30 – and US$ 40 one way, on modern ferries with ample space, for a journey of around 2 hours.
Navigating Zanzibar Island requires planning, particularly if you intend to move around the island. For short stays, simple taxi rides to resorts suffice. Estimated taxi costs vary and depend on your negotiation skills and the individual driver. Alternatively, Zanzibar relies mainly on dala dalas, local transport reminiscent of vintage vans. These budget-friendly options are ideal for solo travellers. A ride from Stone Town to Paje or Nungwi costs around $2 by dala dala, versus US$ 30 – 40 by taxi, and takes roughly twice as long due to frequent pickups and drop-offs. With an all-inclusive package, your transport costs should be included, and if not, will be specified.
Zanzibar Island is a beach destination, and your packing list should follow accordingly. Swimwear, cool comfortable casual clothes, and something warm for the evenings and early mornings. Zanzibar is very tourist-friendly, but it is also a predominantly Muslim island. While travellers will rarely encounter any issues, especially at tourist resorts and beach venues, it is a good idea to dress conservatively by covering shoulders and legs when visiting towns, especially religious or holy sites.
If you are planning a Tanzania safari, with a Zanzibar Island vacation, remember that many short-hop safari flights will limit your luggage to 15kg. Paying careful attention to your packing list of lightweight but sensible items is key. The way to think about a safari packing list is in layers. Check out our Guide on what to pack for African safaris
Zanzibar Island has two broad seasons. The long dry season is from June to October, and the long rainy season in March to April. In between these two broad seasons, there is a ‘short dry season’ between January and March and a ‘short rain season’ from November to January. Our Zanzibar Island month-by-month guide is a rough guide. While we try to be as accurate as possible, shifting weather patterns do make the weather difficult to predict. Ditto the movements of wild animals that follow their own rhythms.
January in Zanzibar is hot and humid, often above 30°C, with only occasional rain. This period offers optimal diving conditions, with clear waters for exploring vibrant lagoons and coral reefs, especially along the south coast. Whale sharks migrate near Zanzibar Island, making it a prime time to visit.
More hot sunny days - with very little rain - are perfect for exploring Zanzibar’s beaches. Mafia Island is an excellent destination to see migrating whale sharks. Water temperatures are in the high 20° C and February
The hot and humid weather lasts until around mid-March when the weather begins to change for the long rains. Afternoon showers become normal as the month progresses, and humidity remains high with temperatures in the high 20°s.
April signals the start of Tanzania’s 'long rains'. The month is mild but persistently wet with heavy rainfall and cloudy skies in between. Though temperatures are in the high 20°s, this is not classic beach weather.
In addition to the persistent rain seen in April, May month can be windy too. The persistently wet conditions make this time unfavourable for a visit. However, by the end of the month, the skies begin to clear and rain tapers off in preparation for the dry season.
June has sporadic rain showers, but in general, the sunny weather dominates. This is a fine month to visit Zanzibar Island. With less humidity and long sunny days, June’s weather conditions are perfect for beach relaxation and island exploration.
Day-time temperatures hover around 26° and 28° C, with fine, clear blue skies, making July nothing short of perfect. Explore, relax, and take part in water sports, the island is your playground, but don’t expect to have it to yourself as this is the high season.
Another fine month with balmy days and warm nights. These are the best months to explore this tropical beach paradise. August is the last month characterized by mild temperatures, and towards the end of the month, breezes blow from the south to cool the gradually warming islands.
September sits on the shoulder of the hot summers. Mafia Island boasts hatching sea turtles and abundant marine life, though rough conditions can occur in deeper channels. The warmer weather is great for snorkelling.
October is the last of the peak months. The mild weather gives way gradually to the heat of summer and is punctuated by gentle breezes. The ocean warms as a prelude to the November rains.
November’s short rains herald the start of the rainy season and the end of the dry winter Zanzibar months. Cloudless mornings build to striking thundershowers in the afternoon, giving this time of year a unique ambience. Take advantage of the showers by scheduling massages, or yoga sessions to while away the time.
While the afternoon showers persist through December, the chance of sunshine increases towards Christmas and New Year's Eve, and the Mafia Archipelago attracts marine enthusiasts hoping for the chance to swim alongside whale sharks.
Approximately 50 km (30 mi) east of the African continent, Zanzibar is an archipelago of islands. It comprises two main islands, namely Unguja - also known as Zanzibar Island - and Pemba, as well as several smaller islets. Unguja spans 1650 km² (637 mi²), predominantly formed from limestone, coral, and sandstone, rendering the landscape fairly level with its highest point at 390 feet above sea level. Once lush forests adorned the islands, but human influence diminished the natural tree cover, leaving only scattered remnants. Presently, mangrove swamps grace their eastern fringes. Zanzibar’s tropical climate, coupled with well-drained soil, provides an optimal environment for cultivating clove trees, a primary spice export. Cloves thrive alongside other crops like coconuts and rice, a vital local staple.
| INFO BOX: Where Does the Name Zanzibar Come From? |
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The name Zanzibar comes from the Arabic Zanjibār (زنجبار), which in turn comes from the Persian Zang-bār (زنگبار), a compound of Zang (زنگ, “Black“) + bār (بار, “coast, land, country“), name given by Persian navigators when they visited the area in the middle ages. So, in essence, Zanzibar means the “land of the Blacks” or “the land of the Black people,” or “the coast where Black people live.” Zanzibar is one of the main archipelagos of Tanzania, and actually, the name Tanzania comes from combining the names Tanganyika and Zanzibar. |
For centuries, Zanzibar served as a strategic island for maritime trade bridging the realms of Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa. In antiquity, the archipelago bore the moniker "Spice Islands," attaining fame for the copious production of cloves and an array of other prized spices. The first recorded reference to the Zanzibar Islands is in the 1st-century Greco-Roman text, known as the Periplus. However, traders originating from the Arabian Peninsula, the Persian Gulf region (particularly Shiraz) of present-day Iran, and western India are also likely to have visited the Spice Islands throughout this trading period.
The year 1498 marked the arrival of European influence in the Indian Ocean with the arrival of Vasco da Gama. Zanzibar became an integral part of the Portuguese Empire in 1503 or 1504, remaining under Portuguese control for nearly two centuries. The year 1698 saw the Sultanate of Oman assume dominance over Zanzibar, shaping its trajectory for years to come. A significant shift transpired in either 1832 or 1840 when Said bin Sultan orchestrated a pivotal move of his capital from Muscat, Oman to the captivating Stone Town nestled within Zanzibar City, an event that left an indelible mark on the island's evolution.
Malindi in Zanzibar City served as the primary port for the Middle East slave trade on the Swahili Coast, witnessing up to 50,000 annual slave passages in the mid-19th century. Notorious figures like Tippu Tib profited from this trade, leaving behind remnants of slave forts in Stone Town. Until around 1890, Zanzibar's sultans controlled a vast part of the Swahili Coast, including Mombasa and Dar es Salaam, known as Zanj. From 1886, Great Britain and Germany sought Zanzibar's territories, resulting in the loss of most of these lands to European empires.
In 1890, Zanzibar became a British protectorate, maintaining the Sultan of Zanzibar's sovereignty. Until 1913, traditional viziers governed Zanzibar and were overseen by Colonial Office-appointed advisors. However, a shift to direct British rule under governors occurred in 1913. The death of pro-British Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini in August 1896 and the disputed succession of Sultan Khalid bin Barghash triggered the 38-minute Anglo-Zanzibar War, earning the title of history's shortest war.
On December 10, 1963, the United Kingdom terminated the Protectorate over Zanzibar, in place since 1890. Rather than granting independence, the UK dissolved the Protectorate through the Zanzibar Act of 1963, paving the way for self-government as an independent nation within the Commonwealth. Zanzibar transitioned into a constitutional monarchy under Sultan Jamshid bin Abdullah.
However, a mere month later, the Zanzibar Revolution ousted Sultan Jamshid bin Abdullah, leading to the establishment of the People’s Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba in January 1964. In April of the same year, the republic merged with mainland Tanganyika, resulting in the formation of the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, later renamed the United Republic of Tanzania, where Zanzibar retained a semi-autonomous status.
| INFO BOX: The Shortest War in History |
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| The Anglo-Zanzibar War, lasting only 38 minutes on August 25, 1896, is renowned as the shortest conflict in history. Triggered by a disputed succession to the Zanzibar Sultanate, British forces swiftly bombarded the reigning Sultan's palace, leading to his surrender, and the installation of a pro-British sultan. |
The contemporary Zanzibari population is a blend of African, Omani, and other Middle Eastern ancestries, and Islam is the predominant religion. Many identify themselves as Arab or Swahili and the lingua franca is Swahili, a Bantu dialect enriched with Arabic vocabulary, although recent Omani migrants speak Arabic.
Rural residents sustain themselves through farming, fishing, clove picking, and small enterprises. Urban centres are hubs of trade, with merchants vending both imported and locally crafted goods in open-air markets. Furthermore, the emergence of tourism has introduced modern amenities such as hotels, shops, and restaurants to the capital, Zanzibar Town, comprising two sections: the historic Stone Town, characterized by narrow stone-paved lanes and historic landmarks like the former sultan's palace and a church established by David Livingstone; and Ng'ambo, the newer and more expansive side of the city.
Zanzibar Island adheres to the visa and entry regulations of Tanzania. Typically, Western travellers require a visa for entry. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport, costing $50 for most nationalities and $100 for US citizens.
Alternatively, e-visas can be purchased online before arrival. Payment for visas can now be made via credit card, eliminating the need for US$ for cash transactions.
This information does change and you should always talk to your local travel agent a few months before your departure dates.
Yes, Zanzibar is safe to visit. Thousands of tourists visit Zanzibar safely every year and it is considered to be a safe destination. There are, however, reports of petty theft on public beaches, as well as some tourist-related scams involving perpetrators absconding with deposits.
If you are booked on an all-inclusive Zanzibar vacation package, none of these should be a concern. If you are out and about, it is good to follow all the regular precautions like staying aware of your surroundings, travelling in a group, and not walking alone at night.
Most visitors to Zanzibar, Tanzania, describe the Islands as extremely friendly and laid back, and their trips come off without a hitch.
For more information see our post about Popular Zanzibar Travel FAQs.
Zanzibar Island is part of Tanzania, and as such is a tropical destination that requires precautions. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and the World Health Organisation suggest the following immunizations for Tanzania and Zanzibar Island:
*Proof of yellow fever vaccination is obligatory if arriving from a region where yellow fever is prevalent. These vaccinations are the recommended precautions for visiting Zanzibar, though they serve as general guidance. We strongly recommend consulting a travel clinic or your physician while planning your Zanzibar trip to ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations.
Most travellers to Zanzibar Island will visit mainland Tanzania. While Zanzibar’s malaria infection rate is reported to be less than 1%, malaria is a significant risk on the mainland. If you are planning a bush and beach break that visits both the safari hot spots and Zanzibar islands, it is recommended that you take malaria prophylactics which are easy to get and effective.
On this island paradise, there are plenty of water sports and adventure activities to choose from, starting with our top Zanzibar activities. Don’t forget to take sunscreen, and drink enough bottled water to keep you hydrated (tap water is not recommended).
When booking tours and day trips avoid using unregistered guides and services. Rather, vet them online or seek advice from your hotel or resort.
Zanzibar uses the Tanzania Shilling (TZS), yet most tourist-centric hotels quote prices in dollars for simplicity, and this applies to services and goods at resorts as well. Rustic guesthouses or backpacker spots often display prices in Shillings. Local restaurants expect payments in Shillings, reflecting the local currency preference. Most hotels accept credit cards but may charge a 4-5% surcharge, while smaller establishments prefer cash payments. Notably, ATMs in Zanzibar impose high fees, ranging from $6-9 per use, and have a withdrawal limit of 400,000 shillings ($180). Multiple withdrawals might be necessary for larger expenses.
Tipping should reward good service but should always be fair and at your discretion. Generally 10% to 15% for waiters and waitresses in restaurants, and US$ 3 – US$ 5 per day for general resort or hotel staff.
While tipping is an important part of the economy, tipping too much can be just as detrimental as tipping too little. Strive always to be fair.
Zanzibar’s main religion is Islam. It is important to be respectful of the local culture and religion. Homosexuality is illegal in Zanzibar, and public shows of affection of any kind are frowned upon. At your hotel or beach resort, bikinis and bare skin are normal, but when visiting towns and exploring, it is important to acknowledge the conservative nature of this society by covering up your shoulders, and legs. This is especially important when visiting religious sites. Lastly, foreigners are unlikely to be reprimanded for breaking taboos, but it never hurts to be respectful of the prevailing beliefs.
Zanzibaris are famously friendly and good-natured people. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s picture.
It is a good travel practice to be conscious of your belongings and don't leave your baggage unattended either at the airport, train station, hotel lobby or on the beach. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and never flash your cash. It's always a good idea to be on your guard in big cities, and markets with high levels of noise and distraction where pickpockets sometimes target tourists. Most hotels will have safe boxes where you can stash your valuables, cash, and passports during your Zanzibar vacation.
While visiting a foreign country, in addition to your digital documents and records, it’s good practice to have photocopies of all your travel documents tucked away safely in your luggage.
Zanzibar Island has diverse attractions for visitors of all kinds. Take a look at a few of our Zanzibar Vacation Packages and Tanzania Safari Packages.
Get some inspiration for your Zanzibar vacation:
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Use the Google map to explore Zanzibar Island.
Our longest affordable Zanzibar Vacation Package, this cheap 8-day Best of Zanzibar Holiday includes Stone Town, a spice tour, beach resorts and Jozani Forest.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Family Safaris
This Zanzibar Honeymoon is the ideal, affordable Zanzibar package for honeymooners and newlywed couples wanting a special romantic getaway to Zanzibar Island.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Budget Safari Packages
An affordable Zanzibar Holiday, this adventure package includes a dhow cruise, Mnemba Island snorkelling trip, Muyuni beach, spice tour, Stone Town and more.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Family Safaris
This affordable Zanzibar Vacation includes Stone Town, a Zanzibar beach resort holiday, and a spice tour on one cheap holiday to Zanzibar Island.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Family Safaris
A super cheap Zanzibar vacation. This short Zanzibar beach, Stone Town and spice tour combines culture, island spices and a tropical Zanzibar beach resort.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Budget Safari Packages
One of the most affordable Zanzibar vacation packages, this short Zanzibar Beach Resort Package is a perfect quick beach holiday on Zanzibar Island.
Trip Style Zanzibar Island Family Safaris