Zanzibar Islands

Location: Indian Ocean, 35km off Tanzania coast
Access: 25-min flight from Dar; direct from Kilimanjaro
Best Beaches: Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Matemwe, Michamvi
UNESCO Site: Stone Town (since 2000)
Water Temp: 26–29°C year-round
Best Season: June–October and December–March
Visa: Tanzania visa covers Zanzibar
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling / USD accepted

The Spice Island of the Indian Ocean

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania — a heady mix of palm-fringed beaches, turquoise seas, and a rich melting pot of African, Arab, Indian and European cultures accumulated over centuries of trade. The main island (Unguja) and Pemba Island together form the Zanzibar Archipelago.

Zanzibar is the perfect complement to a Tanzania safari — just a 25-minute flight from Dar es Salaam or direct connections from Kilimanjaro International Airport. After the dust and excitement of the savannah, the white sands and warm Indian Ocean waters offer the perfect relaxation.

Stone Town — UNESCO World Heritage Site

The historic Stone Town is Zanzibar's old city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with Arab houses featuring intricately carved doors, mosques, churches, and bustling bazaars. The former slave market is a sobering and important historical site. The culture is a fascinating blend — Swahili, Arab, Indian, and African influences at every turn.

Beaches

Nungwi & Kendwa (North): Stunning white sand, calm water, excellent for swimming year-round. Vibrant nightlife and water sports.
Paje & Bwejuu (East): Beautiful kite-surfing beaches with a more relaxed, bohemian vibe.
Matemwe (Northeast): Quieter and more exclusive. Michamvi: Famous for spectacular sunsets over the Ras Michamvi Peninsula.

Water Activities

Snorkelling and scuba diving at Mnemba Atoll (one of the best dive sites in East Africa), dolphin swimming at Kizimkazi, spice tours of the inland plantations, traditional dhow sunset cruise, deep-sea fishing, and kayaking through mangroves.