Zanzibar Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Zanzibar

Most visitors combine a few days in Stone Town with time on the beaches of the main island, Unguja. Distances are short, so it is easy to mix culture and relaxation.

• Stone Town — A UNESCO World Heritage Site of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, mosques, churches and bustling markets. Wander without a map and let the lanes guide you.
• Forodhani Gardens — The waterfront park in Stone Town comes alive at dusk with a street-food market serving grilled seafood and Zanzibar 'pizza'.
• Old Fort and the former slave market — The fort is one of Stone Town's oldest buildings, while the former slave market site, now a memorial beside the Anglican cathedral, tells a painful and important story.
• Spice farms — Guided visits introduce the cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla that made Zanzibar known as the Spice Island.
• Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — Forest walks to see the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, plus a boardwalk through mangroves.
• Prison Island — A short boat ride from Stone Town, home to giant tortoises and good swimming spots.
• Beaches and reefs — Swim in the north at Nungwi and Kendwa, try kitesurfing at Paje, or snorkel around Mnemba Atoll.

Best time to visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar is warm year-round. The dry season from June to October brings sunny days, lower humidity and pleasant sea breezes, making it the most popular time to visit. December to February is hotter and also mostly dry, ideal for beach holidays and diving.

The long rains usually fall from March to May, when many visitors stay away, and the short rains arrive around November. Tides vary greatly on the east coast, so check tide times for swimming.

Getting from the airport

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is a short drive from Stone Town. Taxis wait outside arrivals, and most hotels arrange transfers, which is especially useful for the beach areas in the north and east of the island. Agree taxi fares before setting off.

Where to stay

Each part of the island has its own character, so many travellers split their stay.

• Stone Town — Stay in the historic centre for atmosphere, rooftop views, culture and easy access to the ferry port.
• Nungwi and Kendwa — On the northern tip, with beaches that are less affected by tides and lively sunsets.
• Paje and Jambiani — On the south-east coast, with wide beaches, a relaxed village feel and good conditions for kitesurfing.
• Matemwe and Kiwengwa — Quieter stretches on the north-east coast, close to Mnemba Atoll.

Travel tips

• Money: Carry Tanzanian shillings for markets and small purchases. Cards work in many hotels, but cash machines are mostly in Stone Town, so plan ahead before heading to the coast.
• Dress code: Zanzibar is a largely Muslim society. Cover shoulders and knees in Stone Town and villages, and keep swimwear for the beach.
• Ramadan: During the holy month, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight away from your hotel, out of respect.
• Getting around: Taxis and hotel transfers are the easiest options. Agree prices before any journey or boat trip.
• What to pack: Light, modest clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water shoes for coral and seaweed.
• Entry requirements: Check the latest entry requirements for Tanzania and Zanzibar before you travel.