Zanzibar Beach Holidays

Zanzibar Holidays: 20+ Private Tour Packages

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Featured Zanzibar Holiday Packages

Our featured packages cover the most common ways travelers experience Zanzibar, while more than 20 private combinations are available. These itineraries are starting points rather than fixed products, and each one can be modified according to your arrival airport, hotel preference, group size, budget, and planned safari.

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$359$2,390
The itineraries shown are examples - your journey will be personally tailored to you.

Safari Highlights

At a glance

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.

A Zanzibar holiday is ideal for travelers who want a private beach escape, cultural experiences, or a safari-and-island combination planned around their own dates and budget.

At Tanzania Safari Experience, we arrange tailor-made Zanzibar tour packages with private airport transfers, carefully selected hotels, island activities, and optional Tanzania safaris. You can book Zanzibar as a complete holiday or add it after visiting Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Nyerere, or Mikumi.

The most important decision is not simply choosing Zanzibar. It is choosing the right coast. Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe, Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi, and Stone Town offer very different swimming conditions, atmospheres, activities, and hotel styles.

Many travelers choose a hotel based only on photographs and later discover that the beach, tides, location, or travel time does not suit them. We usually recommend selecting the coast first, then choosing the hotel and activities that match how you want to spend your holiday.

Tailor-Made Zanzibar Tour Packages and Beach Holidays

Our Zanzibar holidays are privately arranged around your travel dates, preferred coast, accommodation level, and planned activities. You can spend the entire trip at one beach hotel, divide your stay between different parts of the island, or combine Stone Town with a longer beach stay and a mainland Tanzania safari.

There is no single Zanzibar itinerary that works for everyone. A couple looking for a quiet beachfront resort will need something different from a family wanting easy swimming, a solo traveler interested in culture, or an active traveler planning diving and kiteboarding.

We can arrange:

  • Private airport and hotel transfers
  • Stone Town stays and guided cultural tours
  • Beach accommodation across Zanzibar
  • Snorkeling, diving, sailing, fishing, and spice tours
  • Romantic trips and honeymoon arrangements
  • Family-friendly Zanzibar holidays
  • Safari and Zanzibar combinations
  • Domestic flights between Zanzibar and Tanzania’s safari parks
  • Multi-hotel stays for travelers who want to experience more than one coast

Every package can be adjusted. You are not required to accept fixed dates, fixed hotels, or a standard activity schedule.

Safari + Zanzibar Packages

A safari and Zanzibar package is the best choice for travelers who want to combine Tanzania’s wildlife areas with a relaxing beach stay in one well-planned journey. Most itineraries begin with safari and finish in Zanzibar, allowing you to rest after several days of game drives.

You can combine Zanzibar with Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Nyerere National Park, or Mikumi. The best option depends on your available time, travel budget, preferred wildlife experience, and whether you want to fly directly from the safari area to the island.

For a classic northern Tanzania experience, we usually recommend at least five safari days covering Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti, followed by five to seven nights in Zanzibar. Travelers with less time may find a two- or three-night fly-in safari to Nyerere more practical than trying to fit Serengeti into a rushed 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

Zanzibar Island Map

Which Zanzibar Coast Should You Choose?

Where you stay on the island completely dictates your experience. Zanzibar’s tides are dramatic, sometimes receding over a mile, leaving behind “moonscapes” of coral and seaweed.

The best Zanzibar coast depends on how you want to spend your days. The north is generally better for easy swimming and a busier holiday atmosphere, while the east and south-east offer long beaches, stronger tidal changes, watersports, and a quieter coastal character. Stone Town is best for culture rather than a traditional resort stay.

AreaBest forSwimming and tidesAtmosphereMain drawback
NungwiFirst visits, activities and nightlifeGenerally easier swimmingBusy and socialCan feel crowded
KendwaBeach time, couples and familiesLess affected by tidesRelaxed but developedFewer local village experiences
MatemweQuiet stays and Mnemba accessStrong tidal changesCalm and low-keyLimited swimming at low tide
PajeKiteboarding and active travelersStrong tidal changesSocial and energeticWindy during kite seasons
JambianiLonger stays and village atmosphereStrong tidal changesRelaxed and localFewer large-resort facilities
MichamviCouples and quiet beach staysVaries by locationPeacefulMore isolated
Stone TownHistory, food and cultureNot a main beach destinationBusy and historicNot suitable for a full beach holiday
KizimkaziQuiet south-coast staysVariesRemote and peacefulLong transfers to northern attractions

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.

Nungwi Beach

Kendwa Beach

Paje Beach

Matemwe Beach

Stone Town Seafront

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.

Mwezi Boutique Resort - Zanzibar HotelMid Range
Jambiani, Zanzibar

Mwezi Boutique Resort

At Tanzania Safari Experience, we recommend Mwezi Boutique Resort for travelers looking for a peaceful beachfront escape on Zanzibar’s southeast coast. Located

Sunset Kendwa Photos - ZanzibarBudget
Kendwa, Zanzibar

Sunset Kendwa

Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is a beautiful beachfront hotel located in Kendwa, one of the most loved beach areas in northern Zanzibar.

Tembo House Hotel (Stone Town)Budget
Stone Town, Zanzibar

Tembo House Hotel

Tembo House Hotel is a wonderful choice for clients who want to experience the real charm of Stone Town, Zanzibar. It is located

Zanzibar Queen Hotel - Matemwe BeachMid Range
Matemwe, Zanzibar

Zanzibar Queen Hotel

The Zanzibar Queen Hotel is located in Matemwe, on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania. It sits directly along the island’s peaceful

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.

Stone Town

Spice Plantations

Jozani Forest

Prison Island

Mnemba Atoll

Safari Blue Tour

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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.

Tanzania Safari Specialist- Agness Boma

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Tanzania Safari Zanzibar TripAdvisor Reviews

SEE WHAT OUR GUESTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THEIR TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERIENCE.

*For the most recent reviews/testimonials from our guests, please visit our TripAdvisor page and Trustpilot.

Tripadvisorreviews
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5
Excellent · 4 reviews
Travellers’ Choice
  • mattropolis
    mattropolis
    July 31, 2026

    Great Tanzanian vacation

    We toured with Tanzania Safari Experience for an eight day trip to Tanzania. Five days of safari and then three days of beach vacation in Zanzibar. They were great to work with and customized everything exactly the way we wanted it. The lodges we were booked in were all incredible, particularly the Lahia Tented Lodge in the Serengeti. Our driver, Jay, seemed to know every road in every national park and as a result the wildlife viewing was unparalleled. There were times where we were the only vehicle seeing lions or hippos. The owner, Laurent, was extremely responsive and any issues we had in-country with our logistics were immediately sorted by him. He genuinely wanted us to have a first-rate experience. The only thing we were unprepared for is that some of the days in the safari vehicle were very long (10+ hours) and the roads can be really rough. But there were plenty of cold drinks in the car and it was worth it to see the wildlife. The safari/beach split was a great way to do the vacation and the beaches of Zanzibar were beautiful with clear blue water.

    Family · July 31, 2026
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  • nicolykiardopoul2018
    nicolykiardopoul2018
    June 2, 2026

    Safari May 2026

    This company exceeded everything we’d hoped for. From the start, the tour operator had everything covered — a detailed itinerary laid out well in advance, quick responses to any questions, and a genuine attentiveness that made the whole thing feel effortless. The accommodation was seriously impressive. Not what I was expecting at all — comfortable, well-appointed, and luxurious. We also spent time right in the heart of the bush. A proper treat. The two people who really made this trip were our guide Mariki and photographer Agnes. Mariki’s knowledge of the bush and animal behaviour is something else — he always seemed to know exactly where to go, and his instincts paid off every single time. Agnes has a brilliant eye and captured shots we could never have got ourselves. As for the wildlife — we saw far more than we ever imagined we would. Elephants, lions, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippos — the lot. As a first safari, I couldn’t have asked for more. Would recommend without hesitation.

    Friends getaway · June 2, 2026
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  • 370godsong
    370godsong
    January 3, 2026

    Great Experience with Tanzania Safari Experience

    We had an amazing safari with Tanzania Safari Experience, and honestly the whole trip was put together really well by Laurent and his team. From our first message to the last day, they were easy to reach, quick to reply, and clear about everything. The plan made sense, the timing was smooth, and we didn’t have to stress about anything. Uncle J was a big part of what made it special. He knows the parks incredibly well and seems to notice things before anyone else. He’d position the vehicle perfectly for photos and often got us to sightings before the crowds built up. We were lucky to see [your highlights: migration / lions / cheetahs / elephants / a crossing], and every drive felt exciting and different. The vehicle was comfortable and in good shape, and everything ran on schedule. If you’re looking for a well-organized safari with a great guide, I’d definitely recommend Tanzania Safari Experience.

    Solo travel · January 3, 2026
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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.