A week is ideal: 2 nights in Stone Town and 5 on the coast. Zanzibar is a conservative Muslim society, so dress modestly away from the beach.
Top things to do in Zanzibar
- Stone Town: alleys, carved doors, the Old Fort and the Forodhani night food market.
- The former slave market and Anglican Cathedral, a moving memorial to the East African slave trade.
- Prison Island: giant tortoises, a short boat ride from Stone Town.
- A spice farm tour to learn why Zanzibar is called the Spice Island.
- Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll or a Safari Blue dhow trip.
- Jozani Forest, home of the rare red colobus monkey.
- Sunset dhow cruise in Nungwi or Stone Town.
See all 15 best things to do in Zanzibar, or
Where to stay in Zanzibar
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Stone Town | Culture, history, 1–2 nights |
| Nungwi / Kendwa (north) | Swimming at any tide, sunsets, nightlife |
| Paje / Jambiani (south-east) | Kitesurfing, laid-back vibe, budget |
| Matemwe / Kiwengwa (north-east) | Quiet resorts, Mnemba snorkelling |
| Michamvi peninsula | Sunsets, couples, The Rock restaurant |
More in where to stay in Zanzibar.
Getting around
There are no trains and local dala-dala minibuses are slow and crowded. Most visitors use pre-booked transfers or taxis between Stone Town and the beaches (about 1–1.5 hours). Agree the price before you get in. Driving yourself requires a local permit, and police checkpoints are common.
Getting to Zanzibar
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) has direct flights from Europe, the Middle East and East Africa. From the airport, a taxi to Stone Town takes 15–20 minutes and to Nungwi about 1–1.5 hours. See Zanzibar airport transfers. From mainland Tanzania, fast ferries link Dar es Salaam and Stone Town in about 2 hours: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry.
Best time to visit Zanzibar
The dry seasons, June to October and December to February, have sunny days and calm seas. The long rains fall from March to May, when some hotels close. November brings short rains. Month by month: best time to visit Zanzibar.
Visa, insurance and before you go
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so the Tanzania visa rules apply. Apply for an e-visa in advance through the official Tanzania Immigration portal. All foreign visitors also need the compulsory Zanzibar inbound travel insurance (US$44 per adult). Step by step: Tanzania visa and Zanzibar insurance.
Zanzibar guides
- 15 best things to do in Zanzibar
- Zanzibar itinerary: 5, 7 or 10 days
- Where to stay in Zanzibar
- Best time to visit Zanzibar
- Zanzibar airport transfers
- Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry
- Tanzania visa and Zanzibar insurance
More of Africa: our Cape Town, Marrakech and Cairo travel guides.
FAQ: Zanzibar travel
How many days do you need in Zanzibar?
Five to seven days: 1–2 nights in Stone Town and the rest on a beach.
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Use licensed taxis, avoid empty beaches and dark alleys at night, and keep valuables in your hotel safe.
What currency is used in Zanzibar?
The Tanzanian shilling (TZS). US dollars are widely accepted at hotels and for tours; bring clean notes printed in 2009 or later.
Do I need malaria tablets for Zanzibar?
Malaria is present in Tanzania, including Zanzibar. Ask a travel health clinic before you go and use insect repellent in the evenings.
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