Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar Travel Guide 2025 — Best Time, Hotels & Vacation Tips
Discover iconic Zanzibar
Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in the world, a place where turquoise waters meet white sandy beaches and centuries of history blend with vibrant local culture. Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar is famous not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural richness and welcoming people. Located just off the coast of Tanzania, this island paradise is a dream for travelers who want to experience both adventure and relaxation.
For many visitors, Zanzibar is more than just an island—it’s an entire experience. From exploring the narrow streets of Stone Town to relaxing at world-class resorts, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to tasting delicious Swahili cuisine, every moment on the island feels special. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo getaway, Zanzibar offers something unforgettable for everyone.
This Zanzibar Travel Guide 2025 will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your trip, including the best time to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.
👉 Expert Tip: Zanzibar is a top vacation choice for travelers who want to relax after a safari. With its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, rich history in Stone Town, spice plantations, and world-class snorkeling and diving, Zanzibar offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure—making it one of the most preferred holiday destinations in East Africa.
Zanzibar Photo Gallery
Explore our Zanzibar Photo Gallery and see stunning moments captured by our clients during their island getaway. From the white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to the vibrant life of Stone Town and spice plantations, these photos showcase why Zanzibar is one of the most preferred vacation destinations in East Africa.
Expert recommendation
Many travelers love to combine their safari adventure with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar. After exciting days of game drives and wildlife viewing in Tanzania, Zanzibar becomes the perfect place to slow down, rest, and recharge. Its soft white-sand beaches, warm ocean, and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for families who want quality time together or for anyone looking for private “me time.” This balance of adventure and relaxation is why Zanzibar is one of the most popular choices after a safari.
Laurent Karume
Tanzania Safari Specialist
Safari Highlights
- White sandy beaches & turquoise waters.
- UNESCO World Heritage Stone Town.
- Famous spice plantations & tours.
- Rare red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest.
- Giant tortoises on Prison Island.
- Stunning sunsets at Nungwi & Kendwa.
At a glance
- Pristine Beaches
- Rich Culture & History
- Perfect Safari & Beach Combo
Tailormade itineraries
Every Tanzania Safari Experience adventure is customized just for you—no fixed tours or set dates. Speak with our Tanzania Safari experts to help you plan your perfect Tanzania Safari itinerary.
📍 Where is Zanzibar Located?
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “Where is Zanzibar located?” Zanzibar is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about 25 to 50 kilometers off the coast of mainland Tanzania in East Africa. It is made up of two main islands—Unguja (often simply called Zanzibar Island) and Pemba—along with several smaller islets.
Although many people wonder if Zanzibar is a country, the answer is no. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, meaning it has its own government and even its own flag, but it is politically united with Tanzania. The Zanzibar flag features blue, black, and green horizontal stripes with a small Tanzanian flag in the corner, representing its dual identity.
If you look at a Zanzibar map, you will notice that its location makes it easy to combine a beach holiday with a safari. Many travelers spend a few days exploring the Serengeti or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro before flying to Zanzibar for some well-deserved relaxation. This is why Zanzibar is often described as the perfect balance between adventure and tranquility.
Zanzibar Map
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Planning the right season is key for your Zanzibar vacation.
June – October: Best time to visit Zanzibar for dry weather, clear skies, and calm seas. Ideal for beach holidays and diving.
December – February: Warm and sunny, perfect for honeymooners and festive vacations.
March – May: Rainy season. Fewer tourists, but not ideal for beach lovers.
November: Short rains, but still a good month for budget travelers.
👉 Zanzibar Weather Tip: Average temperatures range between 25°C – 30°C (77°F – 86°F) year-round.
Top Zanzibar Beaches
Discover the best Zanzibar beaches, from lively Nungwi and romantic Kendwa to adventurous Paje and tranquil Matemwe—perfect for a dream beach holiday.
Best accommodation in zanzibar
Zanzibar offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly stays, charming boutique hotels, or luxury five-star resorts with world-class service, the island has it all. From simple beachside guesthouses to high-end resorts with private villas and infinity pools, Zanzibar makes it easy for every visitor to find the perfect place to relax and enjoy their holiday.
Melia Zanzibar
All-inclusive resort with stunning ocean views.
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Riu Jambo Zanzibar
Family-friendly resort with full of entertainment.
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Zanzibar Tourism & Top Attractions
Zanzibar is not just about its beautiful beaches—the island is full of unique attractions to explore. From the historic streets of Stone Town and its spice plantations to the Jozani Forest with rare red colobus monkeys and the scenic sandbanks perfect for day trips, there’s so much to see and do. These experiences add culture and adventure to your beach holiday, making Zanzibar a truly unforgettable destination.
Prison Island
Mnemba Atoll
Safari Blue Tour
Zanzibar Vacation Packages
Our friendly safari experts are ready to design your perfect Zanzibar getaway—beautiful beaches, rich culture, tasty food, and unforgettable activities. These sample itineraries are here to inspire you. Enquire today to start planning your dream trip.
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Planning a vacation can sometimes feel overwhelming, but booking a Zanzibar vacation package makes the process much easier. Packages usually include flights, airport transfers, hotel stays, and sometimes even meals and guided tours. This means you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the details.
If you’re looking for a stress-free getaway, Zanzibar vacation packages all inclusive are a great choice. Resorts like Melia Zanzibar and Riu Palace Zanzibar offer all-inclusive deals that cover food, drinks, and activities, so you can enjoy luxury without constantly checking your wallet. These packages are especially popular with honeymooners and couples who want a romantic escape.
For families, Zanzibar family vacation packages include kid-friendly resorts such as Riu Jambo Zanzibar, which offers spacious rooms, children’s pools, and fun entertainment for younger guests. Parents can enjoy some relaxation while the little ones are kept busy with supervised activities.
Couples who want a romantic experience can choose Zanzibar vacation packages for couples. Resorts like The Mora Zanzibar and Zuri Zanzibar specialize in private villas, candlelight dinners on the beach, and spa treatments designed for two.
Budget travelers don’t need to miss out either. Affordable Zanzibar vacation deals often combine boutique guesthouses with local tours, giving you an authentic island experience at a fraction of the price. Backpackers especially love packages that include kite surfing in Paje or cultural tours in Stone Town.
👉 With Tanzania Safari Experience, you can even combine your safari adventure with a Zanzibar beach holiday. These tailor-made packages are perfect if you want to spot lions in the Serengeti and then unwind on a white-sand beach in Zanzibar—all in one unforgettable trip.
Is Zanzibar Safe for Tourists?
Safety is always a top concern when planning an international trip, and the good news is that Zanzibar is safe for tourists. The island depends heavily on tourism, so both the government and locals work hard to make sure visitors feel welcome and secure.
Like any destination, it’s important to use common sense. In Stone Town, dress modestly out of respect for the local Muslim culture. Swimwear is perfect for the beach, but when walking through markets or villages, it’s better to cover up a bit. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewelry, especially in crowded areas.
At night, stick to well-lit and busy places, and if you need a ride, ask your hotel to arrange a trusted taxi. On the beaches, it’s generally safe to walk around, but it’s best not to wander into isolated areas after dark.
Zanzibar is also politically stable and welcoming to foreigners. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, and most visitors leave with stories of how kind and helpful people were. With simple precautions, you can enjoy your Zanzibar holiday with peace of mind.
Flights to Zanzibar & Zanzibar Airport
Getting to and from Zanzibar
Getting to Zanzibar is easier than many travelers think. The island is served by Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), commonly known as Zanzibar Airport, located just a few kilometers outside Stone Town. This makes it very convenient to access your hotel or resort after arrival.
There are daily flights to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, with a flight time of only 20 to 30 minutes. Many safari-goers in Tanzania use this route after visiting the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater. There are also regular flights from Kilimanjaro Airport and Arusha, which makes it easy to combine a safari adventure with a Zanzibar holiday.
For international travelers, Zanzibar Airport also receives direct flights from major cities such as Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, and Nairobi, making it easy to reach from Europe, the Middle East, and other parts of Africa. Increasingly, charter flights and seasonal routes from Europe are also connecting directly to Zanzibar, especially during peak tourist seasons.
If you are already in mainland Tanzania, another option is the ferry from Dar es Salaam. The ferry ride takes about two hours and offers beautiful views of the ocean, though flights remain the faster and more comfortable choice.
👉 Pro tip: Booking Zanzibar vacation packages all inclusive with flight can save both time and money. Many travel companies, including Tanzania Safari Experience, combine safari and beach holidays into one seamless package with flights included.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
Connect with our local experts for personalized travel planning
Plan your Zanzibar Vacation today
Everything You Need to Know About Your Safari
Every safari adventure begins with a question. Whether it’s your first or second time, it’s natural to wonder about the best time to visit, what to pack, or how the journey works. Here, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Tanzania safari, so you can plan with confidence and look forward to unforgettable memories.
Many people wonder if Zanzibar is its own country, but the answer is no. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, meaning it has its own flag, president, and local government, yet it still forms part of the United Republic of Tanzania. It enjoys some independence in local matters but shares international representation with mainland Tanzania. For travelers, this means visiting Zanzibar is the same as visiting Tanzania.
The best time to visit Zanzibar depends on what kind of holiday you want. The dry seasons, from June to October and December to February, are perfect for beach holidays, diving, and cultural tours. During these months, you can expect clear skies and calm seas. If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling in the short rains of November, which usually come as brief showers rather than full-day storms.
Since Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, the same visa rules apply. Most visitors, including those from the US, UK, and EU, need a Tanzanian tourist visa. You can apply online through the eVisa system before your trip or get a visa on arrival at the airport. It’s always best to check the latest requirements before you travel, as entry rules can change.
Yes, Zanzibar is generally considered a very safe destination for tourists. The island’s economy relies heavily on tourism, so visitors are warmly welcomed by locals. As with any destination, it’s important to take normal precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys late at night and keeping valuables secure. Respecting local culture, especially in Stone Town where dress is more conservative, will also ensure a smooth experience.
Yes, combining Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari is one of the most popular holiday experiences in Africa. Many travelers spend a week exploring Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire, then fly to Zanzibar to unwind on the beaches. This combination gives you the thrill of wildlife adventures followed by relaxation in a tropical paradise. It’s an unforgettable way to experience both sides of Tanzania.
There is no shortage of things to do in Zanzibar. Relax on world-class beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa, explore Stone Town’s culture, or take a boat trip to Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling and diving. Don’t miss a spice farm tour, where you’ll see cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla grown fresh. Other highlights include visiting Prison Island to see giant tortoises, or Jozani Forest to spot the rare red colobus monkeys.
Yes, Zanzibar has many luxurious all-inclusive resorts where everything is taken care of. Popular choices include Melia Zanzibar, Riu Palace Zanzibar, Riu Jambo Zanzibar, and Zuri Zanzibar, which offer packages with meals, drinks, and activities included. These resorts are perfect for honeymooners, families, or anyone who wants a stress-free beach holiday. Budget-friendly guesthouses and boutique hotels are also available for those seeking a more local experience.
Yes, Zanzibar is a fantastic choice for families. Many resorts have family-friendly facilities like kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and babysitting services. Children love exploring the beaches, seeing giant tortoises on Prison Island, and spotting monkeys in Jozani Forest. With warm waters, safe swimming areas, and a variety of excursions, Zanzibar offers something for every age group.
Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25–30°C (77–86°F). The island has two main rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains in November. The rest of the year is sunny and dry, making it perfect for beach holidays. Even during the rainy months, showers are often short, leaving plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities.
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