Zanzibar is an archipelago off the Tanzanian coast, and its main island, Unguja, combines some of the most beautiful beaches in the Indian Ocean with a rich Swahili, Arab and Indian heritage. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of carved doors, markets, mosques and rooftop restaurants.
The north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa has swimming at all tides, while the east coast offers wide lagoons and kitesurfing. Spice farm tours, dhow sunset cruises, snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll and the Jozani Forest, home of the endemic red colobus monkey, provide plenty to do between lazy beach days.
Highlights
- Stone Town walking tour
- Nungwi and Kendwa beaches
- Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll
- Spice farm tour
- Red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest
Wildlife & what you'll see
- Zanzibar red colobus
- Dolphins and sea turtles
- Coral reef fish
Things to do
- Beach relaxation
- Snorkelling and diving
- Spice tour
- Sunset dhow cruise
- Stone Town tour
Best time to visit
June to October and December to February. March to May is the rainy season.
Getting there
Fly from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti airstrips, Dar es Salaam or Nairobi.
Experiences in Zanzibar
FAQs about Zanzibar
Which side of Zanzibar is best?
The north (Nungwi/Kendwa) has swimming at all tides; the east coast has quieter, wide lagoons with strong tidal changes. We match the beach to your style.
