Zanzibar Island, part of Tanzania’s archipelago in the Indian Ocean, sits about 40 km off the coast of East Africa. The main island of Unguja, often referred to as Zanzibar, together with Pemba Island, forms a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. Its historic centre, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its blend of Swahili, Arab, and Indian cultures. Beyond its cultural heritage, Zanzibar is famous for white‑sand beaches, spice plantations that give it the nickname “Spice Island”, and turquoise lagoons teeming with marine life. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, diving or romance, Zanzibar delivers an unforgettable tropical escape.

Quick Facts

• 📍 Location: About 40 km off Tanzania’s coast in the Indian Ocean
• 🕌 Heritage: Stone Town is a World Heritage Site, occupied for over 1,000 years, and an important Swahili trading centre
• 🌱 Spice Hub: Main industries include cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and tourism, giving Zanzibar the nickname “Spice Islands”
• ✈️ Access: Five ports and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport connect the island to mainland Africa and beyond
• ⭐ Highlights: Stone Town, Jozani Forest (home of the red colobus monkey), spice farms, pristine beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa and Paje

When to Visit & Climate

• ☀️ Dry Season: The best time to visit is July – September when the weather is dry and sunny. January–February also offer hot, clear days ideal for diving.
• 🌧️ Long Rains: Avoid April – May, the peak of the long rains when heavy downpours make beaches hot and very wet.
• 🌦️ Short Rains: November–December brings short showers separated by sunshine, making it a quieter time with fewer visitors.
• 📷 Divers & Snorkelers: Water visibility is clearest between January – February and July – October.

How to Get There

• ✈️ By Air: Daily flights from Dar es Salaam and other Tanzanian hubs land at Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.
• 🚢 By Sea: High‑speed ferries connect Dar es Salaam with Stone Town in about two hours.
• 🚐 Transfers: Private transfers can take you directly to your beach resort or Stone Town hotel; your tour operator can arrange this.

Highlights & Experiences

• 🏛️ Stone Town: Explore the maze of narrow alleys, bustling markets and historic buildings like the House of Wonders (built in 1883 and the first in East Africa with electricity and an elevator) and the Old Fort. Admire intricately carved doors and the fusion of Swahili, Arab and Indian architecture.
• 🌿 Jozani Forest: Visit Zanzibar’s only national park to see the endemic red colobus monkey and walk through mangrove boardwalks. The forest lies about 35 km southeast of Stone Town and is best explored during the dry season.
• 🥘 Spice Tours: Discover cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper on a guided spice farm tour. Learn about Zanzibar’s spice heritage and sample aromatic teas and tropical fruits.
• 🏝️ Beaches & Water Sports: Relax on powdery sands and swim in turquoise waters at Nungwi or Kendwa on the northern tip, kitesurf in windy Paje, snorkel in quiet Jambiani or dive near Mnemba Atoll off Matemwe.
• ⛵ Sailing & Dolphin Trips: Take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset or join a dolphin tour around Kizimkazi. Sea turtles can be seen at conservation ponds near Nungwi.
• 🕌 Cultural Encounters: Stroll through local markets in Stone Town, visit the Old Slave Market museum and Anglican Cathedral, attend a spice cooking class or taste street food at Forodhani Gardens.

Where to Stay

• 🏝️ Eco‑Luxury: Secluded resorts like Zuri Zanzibar on Kendwa and Melia Zanzibar at Kiwengwa offer private beaches, stylish villas and spa treatments.
• 🌿 Boutique: Stay in atmospheric hotels like Emerson Spice and Jafferji House in Stone Town or eco‑chic lodges along the east coast.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family‑Friendly: Large beach resorts in Nungwi and Paje feature pools, kids’ clubs and water‑sports centres; perfect for families.

Suggested Itineraries

Choose from our most loved experiences, designed for every traveller — from history enthusiasts to beach lovers.

Travel Tips

• 👕 Dress Modestly: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim; wear modest clothing when exploring towns and villages. Beachwear is fine at resorts.
• 💰 Carry Cash: Tanzanian shillings are widely used; credit cards are accepted in hotels but small markets prefer cash.
• 🧴 Sun & Reef Protection: Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect against strong tropical sun.
• 🦟 Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be present; pack repellent and consider malaria prophylaxis on your doctor’s advice.
• 💧 Stay Hydrated: Carry water during tours; Stone Town alleys can be hot and humid.
• 🤝 Respect Local Culture: Learn basic Swahili greetings like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) and ask permission before photographing locals.