Discover Zanzibar

A tropical paradise with layered history and pristine scenery

Zanzibar: The Spice Island of Tanzania

For centuries, seasonal trade winds in Zanzibar carried the aroma of spices across the sea, anchoring its status as the Spice Island. Today, Zanzibar offers more than a standard retreat. It's the ideal gateway to post-safari relaxation, providing a smooth transition after a wildlife trek on the Tanzanian mainland. Beyond its powdery sands and turquoise waters, a 20,000-year historical melting pot unfolds through a mix of local traditions and global influences. Travel to Zanzibar and see a landscape shaped by centuries of maritime trade and an active coastal lifestyle that absorbs you completely.

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Zanzibar is best for

Beach seekers, cultural explorers, wildlife lovers, and foodies

Highlights of Zanzibar

Located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is home to spectacular coastal scenes, landmarks, and food adventures. These best things to do in Zanzibar offer experiences that define its charm.

Beach & wildlife beauty
Cultural spots
Food & spice experiences

Zanzibar is famous for its vibrant coastlines and some of the clearest waters on Earth. Discover the best places to visit on the island across its sun-soaked edges.

Beautiful coasts

Swim all day long in the turquoise waters of Kendwa and Nungwi, with powdery white sands that gleam in the sun, or visit Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve for pristine sandbars. They stand out as the best beaches in Zanzibar.

Kitesurfing & water sports

Many resorts around Zanzibar offer thrilling water sports, from kitesurfing at Paje to windsurfing and kayaking across the lagoons. You can paddleboard, parasail over the shallow blue waves, or jet ski across the open ocean.

Wildlife encounters

Meet the endangered red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest or swim with the wild dolphins at Mnemba Atoll. You can also explore untouched dive sites along the southeast coast, or see giant tortoises on Changuu Island.

Quick fact

Zanzibar is nicknamed the Spice Island because its massive spice farming economy produces vast crops of aromatic cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper.

As a historical melting pot, Zanzibar houses landmarks that connect you with its storied heritage. Explore an ancient past at these must-see attractions in Zanzibar.

Stone Town Labyrinth

Explore this grand UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its labyrinth of winding alleys. See a mix of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European architecture, carved wooden doors, and the spice-scented atmosphere of Zanzibar.

Anglican Cathedral

Stand inside this stunning coral-stone cathedral to discover its deeply moving history and heritage milestones. Explore its beautiful architecture, see its historic high altar, and learn more about the past life of Zanzibar.

Royal ruins

Discover the weather-worn coral walls of the 17th-century Old Fort and the atmospheric pillars of Maruhubi Palace. These grand structures highlight the captivating architectural legacy left by ancient royalty in Zanzibar.

Experience Zanzibar’s vibrant culinary scene, where rich heritage is evident in its bold flavours. Taste your way through the best food adventures in Zanzibar and discover the delicious Swahili cuisine.

Spice farm safaris

Touch, smell, and taste fresh vanilla, turmeric, ginger, and cloves on rural agricultural estates. Discover the aromatic farming secrets that made Zanzibar a famous spice trading hub, earning the nickname “Spice Island”.

Swahili delicacies

Savour a tangy bowl of Urojo soup, authentic spiced tea, and traditional fish curries served alongside hearty ugali porridge. Every bite or sip of these staples introduces you to the vibrant food culture thriving in Zanzibar.

Local markets

Join the lively crowds at the seaside stalls of Forodhani Night Market or Stone Town Market – some of Zanzibar’s best culinary spots and markets to visit. Taste authentic shawarma, fresh sugarcane juice, and stuffed pizza.

Plan your trip to Zanzibar

Unlock the perfect seven-day escape in Zanzibar with a mapped-out itinerary. Plan your route and activities well so you don’t miss any of the best places to visit on the island.

Day 1

Land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in the afternoon. Check in and refresh, then head to Forodhani Night Market or Stone Town Market to sample Swahili delicacies.

Day 2

Explore the historic Stone Town. Walk through the labyrinth of alleys, the Old Fort, and the Anglican Cathedral. You can also stop by Maruhubi Palace just north of town to see its beautiful coral pillars.

Day 3

Board a traditional boat to Changuu Island in the morning to meet giant tortoises, or meet red colobus monkeys at Jozani Forest. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine sandbars of Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve.

Day 4

Travel north to experience the island's premier beaches, like Kendwa or Nungwi. Swim all day long in turquoise waters, kayak across the lagoons, and watch a breathtaking sunset from the powdery white sands.

Day 5

Journey east to Paje to try thrilling kitesurfing, windsurfing, or kayaking across the shallow lagoons. In the afternoon, you can visit a rural spice farm to taste fresh spices like vanilla and cloves.

Day 6

Discover the island's vibrant marine world. Ride a boat to Mnemba Atoll to swim with wild dolphins and explore pristine coral reefs. Relax as you take in the beautiful marine views. In the evening, see more of Stone Town’s nightlife.

Day 7

Your holiday in Zanzibar ends today. Take your favourite highlights with you as you head straight to the airport for your flight home or to other parts of Tanzania.

Did you know?

Queen's legendary lead singer Freddie Mercury was born in Stone Town, Zanzibar

Important travel information

Know the entry rules, ideal weather, and local transit options before you book flights to Zanzibar. Staying on top of these essentials makes you more prepared to dive straight into the warm, welcoming island.

Zanzibar mostly enjoys tropical warmth, high humidity, and endless sunshine. It's best to travel to Zanzibar between June and October to score flawless blue skies. The peak heat happens during the brief dry spell in January and February, while heavy downpours arrive from March to May.

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, located on Unguja Island, easily connects you to major destinations across East Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Since the modern terminals sit a mere five kilometres from Zanzibar City, it's incredibly fast to reach the city centre. You can even reach Stone Town in just 13 minutes via a taxi ride. For summer travel, Etihad Airways flies here seasonally, offering four weekly flights. The IATA code for Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is ZNZ.

Sort your visa or entry requirements, if necessary, before you even pack your bags. Look up the latest official guidelines so your trip stays on track.

Tourist visa validity: An ordinary single-entry visa for Tanzania is valid for 90 days and allows travellers to stay in the country for up to 90 days.
General requirements: The general requirements include (but are not limited to) a valid passport, visa fee (up to USD100 depending on the nationality), passport photo, and return flights.

Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) serves as the official currency in Tanzania. While major resorts, hotels, and upscale restaurants in Zanzibar routinely accept credit cards, cash remains essential for day-to-day transactions. Travellers can access ATMs or visit currency exchange centres within the main tourist hubs to get cash.
Language: Swahili and English function as the two official languages across Zanzibar. Local communities speak Swahili as their primary tongue, while professionals widely adopt English for official business transactions, administrative documentation, and education.

Travelling around Zanzibar is completely simple since the local transit options are incredibly diverse. Discover the best coastal spots and historical sites using tuk tuks, private taxis, local minibuses, rental cars, and more:

Tuk tuks: Hail these swift, budget-friendly three-wheeled vehicles for quick trips across towns in Zanzibar. You'll generally pay TZS500-1,000, depending on the distance, traffic, and your bartering skills.
Official taxis: Get predictable rates and complete peace of mind by booking trusted operators in Zanzibar. It is also the best and most comfortable way to travel from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport to Stone Town, taking only 13 minutes.
Car hire: Rent your own vehicle for absolute freedom of movement across Zanzibar. This option works perfectly provided you feel entirely confident managing the narrow, bumpy, and occasionally potholed island roads.
Dala dalas: Board these local minibuses for a highly authentic transit adventure in Zanzibar. They're affordable if you aren't rushing, though you must secure your personal belongings throughout the entire lively ride.
Boda bodas: Ride these rapid motorbike taxis only during your trip to Zanzibar if you want to navigate heavy traffic quickly.

Fly to Zanzibar with Etihad

Etihad now offers an easy access to the Indian Ocean's legendary spice island with four weekly seasonal flights. Fly to Zanzibar with us to experience the world's safest airline for 2026, allowing you to kick back, settle in, and unwind completely.

Settle on board our modern fleet, where comfortable amenities and award-winning hospitality turn your travel into pure relaxation. From takeoff to landing, we offer seamless attention to detail that allows you to reset, feel at ease, and fully embrace your upcoming tropical island holiday.

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Frequently asked questions

We operate four weekly seasonal flights to Zanzibar.

Aim for the long dry season between June and September to secure the absolute clearest skies. You can also travel in January and February if you're looking to lounge on the beach in the tropical warmth.

Head straight to Nungwi and Kendwa for the best all-day swimming beaches on the island. You should also map out a trip to see the stunning sandbars at Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve, and book an ethical diving session around Mnemba Atoll.