Zanzibar

Indian Ocean

Zanzibar

The natural second half of a Tanzanian journey: warm ocean, dhow sails on the horizon, and the spice-scented alleys of Stone Town.

Overview

Zanzibar offers a genuine change of pace after safari. The east coast has the widest beaches, the north-east the best swimming at all tides, and the north-west the sunsets.

We match the coast to your travel style, whether that is a barefoot boutique hotel, a family-friendly resort or a honeymoon suite with a private pool.

Why Visit

  • Direct flights from the Serengeti and Arusha
  • Stone Town's UNESCO-listed old quarter
  • Excellent snorkelling, diving and dhow sailing
  • Outstanding honeymoon and family properties

Wildlife

DolphinSea turtleRed colobus monkey in Jozani ForestReef fish and coralHumpback whales in season

Best Time to Visit

Jun – Oct

Dry, sunny and reliably beautiful.

Dec – Feb

Hot and clear; peak season around the holidays.

Mar – May

Long rains; many properties offer lower rates.

Nov

Short rains, usually brief afternoon showers.

Things to Do

  • Stone Town walking tour and Forodhani night market
  • Spice farm visit
  • Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll
  • Sunset dhow cruise
  • Jozani Forest red colobus walk

Where to Stay

  • Boutique beach hotels on the east coast
  • Family resorts in the north-east
  • Historic houses in Stone Town
  • Private-pool honeymoon villas

Getting There

Short scheduled flights from the Serengeti, Arusha or Dar es Salaam into Zanzibar's Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Light aircraft connect Serengeti airstrips to Zanzibar with a stop in Arusha, usually arriving in the afternoon on the same day.

On parts of the east coast the ocean recedes a long way at low tide. We recommend the coast and property that suits how you want to spend your days.

Itineraries

Safaris Including Zanzibar