Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar combines the spice-scented alleys of Stone Town with turquoise beaches, dhow sails and reef snorkelling, often as the finish to a Tanzanian safari.
Trips to Zanzibar from every city
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When to go
| Month | Season |
|---|---|
| January | best |
| February | best |
| March | avoid |
| April | avoid |
| May | avoid |
| June | best |
| July | best |
| August | best |
| September | best |
| October | best |
| November | fine |
| December | best |
- February: Sauti za Busara African music festival in Stone Town.
- June, July, August, September, October: Cool, dry season with the clearest water for snorkelling and diving.
- December, January, February: Hot, dry and sunny, the second peak season.
March, April, May: Long rains with heavy downpours; some resorts close in April and May.
Where to stay in Zanzibar
- Stone Town: UNESCO old town of carved doors, spice markets and rooftop restaurants.
- Nungwi: Northern tip with swimmable beaches at all tides and the liveliest resort strip.
- Kendwa: Wide sandy beach next to Nungwi with sunset views and beach parties.
- Paje and Jambiani: East-coast kitesurfing beaches with laid-back guesthouses and tidal lagoons.
- Kiwengwa and Matemwe: North-east resorts near the Mnemba Atoll snorkelling sites.
What to do in Zanzibar
- Spice farm tour outside Stone Town
- Sunset dhow sail off Nungwi
- Wander the carved doors and alleys of Stone Town
- Snorkel Mnemba Atoll
- Kitesurf the shallows at Paje
- Red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest
Good to know
| Airports | Abeid Amani Karume International (ZNZ) |
|---|---|
| Passport from United States | Passport needed |
| Price level | mid-range |
| Time zone | Africa/Dar_es_Salaam |
| Kind of trip | beach, island, culture, history, romantic |
Questions about Zanzibar
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
June, July, August, September, October, December, January and February. March, April, May: Long rains with heavy downpours; some resorts close in April and May.
Do I need a passport for Zanzibar?
Passport needed: travellers from the United States need a valid passport for Zanzibar; check the expiry rule of the country before you book.
How expensive is Zanzibar on the ground?
Zanzibar is mid-range by US standards: plan about £68 per person per day for food, getting around and tickets.
Prices converted from US dollars at the rate of 15 Oct 2026.