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Zanzibar
The Spice Islands of Paradise
Why Visit Zanzibar?
Africa's Premier Beach Paradise
Zanzibar is the perfect finale to an African safari. After days tracking wildlife across savanna plains, sink your toes into powder-white sand beaches lapped by warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This semi-autonomous archipelago off Tanzania's coast offers pure tropical bliss.
Beyond beaches, Zanzibar captivates with rich history. Stone Town's UNESCO-listed labyrinth reveals centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influence. Ornate carved doors, bustling spice markets, and coral stone buildings transport you through time. The island's spice plantations earned it the nickname "Spice Islands."
Water enthusiasts discover paradise. Mnemba Atoll offers world-class diving with visibility exceeding 30 meters. Swim alongside dolphins, sea turtles, and countless tropical fish. Pristine coral gardens teem with marine life. Whether snorkeling, kitesurfing, or sailing traditional dhows, the ocean beckons.
Accommodation suits every taste—from backpacker beach bungalows to exclusive luxury resorts. Fresh seafood grilled on the beach, Swahili cuisine bursting with spices, and sunset cocktails create unforgettable evenings. Zanzibar delivers the perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
About Zanzibar
Official Name: Zanzibar (part of Tanzania)
Capital: Stone Town (Zanzibar City)
Population: ~1.9 million
Main Islands: Unguja (Zanzibar Island) & Pemba
Languages: Swahili, English, Arabic
Religion: 99% Muslim (respect modest dress)
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) & USD
Time Zone: EAT (UTC+3)
Water Sports Paradise
Snorkeling, scuba diving, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and deep-sea fishing in warm Indian Ocean waters with visibility up to 30 meters.
Beach Bliss
Powder-white sand beaches lined with palm trees. Choose from lively Nungwi, peaceful Paje, or exclusive Matemwe. Year-round swimming with warm 26°C water.
Dhow Sailing
Traditional wooden sailing boats at sunset. Romantic cruises with fresh seafood, snorkeling stops, and stunning ocean views. Authentic Swahili experience.
Year-Round Sunshine
Tropical climate with 300+ days of sunshine annually. Best weather June-October and December-February. Even rainy season offers sunny beach days.
Choose Your Perfect Beach
Each beach has its own character. From party vibes to secluded serenity, find your ideal Zanzibar experience.
Nungwi
Northern tip beach with restaurants, bars, and water sports. Minimal tides, great swimming. Vibrant nightlife and social atmosphere.
Best For:
Couples, groups, water sports enthusiasts
Kendwa
Next to Nungwi but quieter. Stunning sunsets, calm waters, boutique resorts. Full moon parties once monthly. Perfect for relaxation.
Best For:
Honeymoons, romantic getaways, sunset lovers
Paje
East coast beach famous for kitesurfing. Shallow waters with strong winds June-March. Backpacker-friendly with yoga retreats and beach bars.
Best For:
Kitesurfers, budget travelers, yogis
Matemwe
Quiet east coast village with luxury boutique lodges. Long pristine beach with seaweed farming. Mnemba Island diving access. Very peaceful.
Best For:
Luxury seekers, divers, privacy lovers
Jambiani
Traditional fishing village on southeast coast. Budget-friendly with cultural authenticity. Seaweed farming, local restaurants, kite surfing.
Best For:
Culture seekers, budget travelers
Top Zanzibar Experiences
Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches
Pristine white sand beaches on the northern tip. Crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and spectacular sunsets. Minimal tidal variation ensures beach access all day.
Stone Town UNESCO Heritage
Historic capital with narrow winding streets, ornate Arab doors, bustling markets, and Swahili architecture. Former slave trading hub now showcasing rich cultural fusion of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.
Spice Farm Tours
Explore aromatic plantations growing cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Learn why Zanzibar earned the nickname "Spice Islands." Interactive tours include tasting fresh tropical fruits and traditional Swahili lunch.
Mnemba Island Diving
World-class diving and snorkeling around pristine coral reefs. Swim with dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. Exclusive private island experience with luxury eco-lodges.
Jozani Forest Reserve
Home to endangered Red Colobus monkeys found nowhere else on Earth. Explore mangrove boardwalks, tropical forest trails, and unique wildlife. Zanzibar's only national park offering nature walks.
Prison Island & Tortoises
Historic island with giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. Excellent snorkeling spots with vibrant coral gardens. Short boat ride from Stone Town with fascinating colonial history.
Zanzibar Holiday Packages
Perfect beach extensions after your African safari. Combine wildlife adventure with tropical relaxation.
Zanzibar Beach Escape
5 Days Beach Holiday
Zanzibar Beach Escape
Perfect post-safari relaxation. Stay in beachfront resort on Nungwi or Kendwa beaches. Includes Stone Town tour, spice farm visit, and dhow sunset cruise.
Includes:
From
$1,250
Zanzibar Culture & Beach
7 Days Beach Holiday
Zanzibar Culture & Beach
Comprehensive island experience blending culture and relaxation. Explore historic Stone Town, spice farms, Jozani Forest, then unwind on pristine beaches with water sports.
Includes:
From
$1,650
Zanzibar Luxury Diving
6 Days Beach Holiday
Zanzibar Luxury Diving
Premium diving experience at Mnemba Atoll. Stay in luxury boutique hotel with private beach. Multiple dive sites, dolphin encounters, and sunset cruises included.
Includes:
From
$2,450
Zanzibar Travel Guide
Getting There
Direct flights from Nairobi (1.5hrs), Dar es Salaam (20min), and Kilimanjaro Airport (1hr). International flights via Doha, Dubai, and Istanbul. Ferry from Dar es Salaam available.
Best Time to Visit
June–October: Dry season, best diving visibility. December–February: Hot and sunny, peak season. March–May: Green season with occasional rain, lowest prices.
Visa & Entry
Most nationalities receive visa on arrival ($50–100 USD). Tanzania e-visa available online. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic areas.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) and US Dollars widely accepted. ATMs available in Stone Town. Credit cards accepted at hotels and restaurants. Carry cash for local markets.
What to Pack
Light cotton clothing, swimwear, reef shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, modest clothing for Stone Town, and a light jacket for evenings.
Health & Safety
Malaria prophylaxis recommended. Drink bottled water. Zanzibar is very safe for tourists. Respect local Muslim culture. Beach touts can be persistent but harmless.
Ready for Your Zanzibar Escape?
Combine your African safari with pristine beaches, historic culture, and tropical paradise. Let us create your perfect island getaway.