Zanzibar Island, Tanzania

Zanzibar Island

Island

Zanzibar is a tropical archipelago off Tanzania's coast, best known for its powder-white beaches, turquoise water, and centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European trading history. Stone Town, the island's historic heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, spice markets, and rooftop cafés overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Beyond its beaches, Zanzibar is famous as the original "Spice Island", where cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla have been cultivated for centuries. It's the natural add-on to a Tanzania safari — a chance to trade the bush for the beach at the end of your trip.

Category

Island

Getting There

Fly into Kilimanjaro Int'l or Arusha Airport

Ideal For

Safari travelers

Region

Northern Tanzania

Best Time to Visit

June to October and December to February are the driest, sunniest periods and the most popular times to visit. March to May brings the long rains and quieter, cheaper travel.

Climate

Hot and tropical year-round, with high humidity and average temperatures between 25–32°C. The long rains fall March to May and short rains in November.

Wildlife You Might See

  • Red colobus monkeys, found only on Zanzibar, in Jozani Forest
  • Dolphins off the southern coast near Kizimkazi
  • Vibrant coral reefs and marine life around Mnemba Atoll
  • Giant fruit bats and a variety of tropical bird species

Activities & Attractions

  • Relaxing on beaches such as Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje
  • Stone Town walking tours and spice farm visits
  • Snorkeling or diving around Mnemba Atoll
  • Kitesurfing at Paje, one of East Africa's top kitesurfing spots

Travel Tips for Zanzibar Island

  • Combine Zanzibar with a mainland safari — many itineraries fly directly between the Serengeti and Zanzibar in a matter of hours.
  • The east coast (Paje, Bwejuu) is better for kitesurfing, while the north (Nungwi, Kendwa) has calmer swimming beaches.
  • Dress modestly when visiting Stone Town out of respect for local Islamic customs.
  • Book accommodation early during the peak July-September and December-January seasons.

Zanzibar Island Safari Packages

Real itineraries that include Zanzibar Island — pick one to see the full day-by-day plan and pricing.

12-Day Honeymoon and Beach Holiday — Arusha Excursions

12-Day Honeymoon and Beach Holiday

From $3765
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A 2-Day Wildlife Safari from Zanzibar — Arusha Excursions

A 2-Day Wildlife Safari from Zanzibar

From $1001
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4-Day Fly-In Classic Safari, Zanzibar to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit — Arusha Excursions

4-Day Fly-In Classic Safari, Zanzibar to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit

From $2310
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4 Days from Zanzibar to Serengeti — Arusha Excursions

4 Days from Zanzibar to Serengeti

From $2420
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Frequently Asked Questions

Most travelers take a short domestic flight, typically 1.5-2 hours, connecting safari airstrips to Zanzibar's airport.

Yes, its calm northern beaches and range of family-friendly resorts make it a popular add-on for family safaris.

The historic core of Zanzibar City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Swahili-Arab architecture, markets, and centuries of trading history.

3-5 days is typical for a relaxing beach stay after a mainland safari.

Related Destinations

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park
Chemka Hot Springs, Tanzania

Chemka Hot Springs
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