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Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an island of white beaches, spice farms and a historic old town. It is a favourite place to rest after a safari, with warm water for swimming and plenty to see when you want to explore.

A Blend of Culture and History

Stone Town, the old town of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow lanes, carved wooden doors, markets and old merchant houses show centuries of trade with Africa, Arabia, India and Europe.

Swahili culture shapes the food, music and language of the island. A guided walk through Stone Town is the easiest way to understand its history.

Aerial view of Stone Town and its waterfront

The Beaches and Marine Life of Zanzibar

Zanzibar's beaches are lined with coconut palms and fringed by coral reefs. In the north, Nungwi and Kendwa are good for swimming at any time of day, and the east coast has wide beaches that change with the tide.

The surrounding reefs are home to colourful fish, turtles and dolphins. Snorkelling and diving trips leave from the north and east coasts.

Beach and clear water in Zanzibar

Top Things to Do in Zanzibar Island

Stone Town

Walk the old town with a guide, visit the markets and finish with sunset on the waterfront.

Spice farm tour

Visit a spice farm to see cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and pepper growing, and taste fresh tropical fruit.

Snorkel and dolphins

Take a boat trip from the south or north coast to snorkel on a reef and look for dolphins.

Sunset dhow cruise

Sail on a traditional wooden dhow at sunset along the coast.

Jozani Forest

Walk in the forest to see the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey.

Weather & Climate

Zanzibar is warm all year, with daytime temperatures usually in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius and a sea breeze on the coast. The main rains come from March to May, with a shorter wet spell around November.

The Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

The driest and clearest months are June to October, with calmer weather and cooler evenings. December to February is hotter and also good for the beach. The long rains from March to May bring heavy showers and some quiet hotels.

  1. JanGood
  2. FebGood
  3. MarLong rains
  4. AprLong rains
  5. MayLong rains
  6. JunBest months
  7. JulBest months
  8. AugBest months
  9. SepBest months
  10. OctBest months
  11. NovShort rains
  12. DecGood
  • Best months
  • Good
  • Short rains
  • Long rains

Getting There

Zanzibar Airport has scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and other places in East Africa, and international connections through the region. Fast ferries also run between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City, and the crossing takes about two hours.

Zanzibar holiday packages

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

June to October is the driest and clearest period. December to February is hotter and also good for the beach. March to May is the long rainy season.

You can fly to Zanzibar Airport from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and other places, or take a fast ferry from Dar es Salaam, which takes about two hours.

Yes. Safari and beach combinations are some of our most popular trips. We arrange the flights between the parks and the island.

Yes. Many hotels have calm swimming areas, and activities such as a spice tour or a dhow cruise suit children of different ages.

Plan your Zanzibar stay

Tell us what you have in mind and we will plan the rest.

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