History and culture
1. Explore Stone Town
Walk through narrow historic streets, admire traditional carved doors, visit the Old Fort, explore local markets and learn about Zanzibar's Swahili, Arab, Indian and European heritage.
Zanzibar Island Travel Guide: Plan Your Complete Island Holiday
Zanzibar is more than a beach destination. It is an Indian Ocean archipelago where visitors can discover historic Stone Town, explore tropical forests, visit spice farms, sail on traditional wooden dhows, enjoy beautiful beaches and experience Swahili culture.
Whether you are planning a romantic holiday, family vacation, honeymoon, backpacking adventure or a relaxing beach extension after a Tanzania wildlife safari, Zanzibar offers a wide range of experiences and accommodation choices.
At Bush & Forest Explorers, we can help you organise a personalised Zanzibar holiday, including airport transfers, accommodation arrangements, island excursions and combinations with Tanzania mainland safaris.
Best Things to Do in Zanzibar Island
There are many activities to enjoy in Zanzibar, from historical sightseeing and cultural experiences to ocean adventures and wildlife encounters. You can arrange individual excursions or combine several experiences into a multi-day island holiday.
Nature and wildlife
2. Visit Jozani Forest
Explore Zanzibar's famous forest habitat and look for the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Guided nature walks introduce visitors to forest ecology, mangroves and local conservation.
Local experiences
3. Take a Spice Farm Tour
Discover why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island. Learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, vanilla and tropical fruits while visiting a local spice farm.
Ocean adventure
4. Experience Safari Blue
Enjoy a traditional dhow excursion around the Menai Bay area. Depending on sea conditions and the selected trip, activities may include snorkelling, visiting sandbanks and enjoying a seafood lunch.
Marine activities
5. Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
Discover coral reefs and tropical marine life around selected locations such as Mnemba Atoll. Always use responsible operators and follow marine conservation guidance.
Island sightseeing
6. Visit Prison Island
Take a boat from Stone Town to Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island. Visitors can explore its history, enjoy the coastal scenery and see the giant tortoises at the sanctuary.
Beach activities
7. Enjoy Zanzibar Beaches
Relax on the white-sand beaches of Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani and Matemwe. Enjoy swimming where conditions are suitable, beach walks, sunset views and seaside dining.
Water sports
8. Try Kitesurfing
Paje is especially popular with kitesurfers. Visitors can book lessons or equipment with established local schools. Conditions depend on wind, tides and the season.
Sailing and sunsets
9. Take a Traditional Dhow Cruise
Enjoy an evening sailing experience along the coast, with views of the Indian Ocean and the changing colours of the sunset. Confirm the route and safety arrangements before departure.
Food and local life
10. Discover Swahili Cuisine
Taste local dishes, fresh seafood, coconut-based meals, Zanzibar pizza, urojo and tropical fruit juices. Forodhani Gardens is a popular evening food destination in Stone Town.
Culture and community
11. Visit Local Villages
Arrange respectful, locally guided visits to learn about fishing, farming, traditional crafts and everyday island life. Ask permission before photographing people.
Relaxation
12. Enjoy a Beach Resort Holiday
Spend time relaxing beside the ocean, enjoying a spa treatment, swimming pools, beach restaurants and peaceful island surroundings.
Best Beaches and Areas to Stay in Zanzibar
Choosing the right location is important because different parts of Zanzibar offer different holiday experiences. Consider the atmosphere, access to excursions, restaurants, swimming conditions and tidal patterns before selecting accommodation.
| Area | What makes it special | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Nungwi | Popular northern beach, restaurants, boat excursions and a lively visitor atmosphere. | First-time visitors, couples and social travellers. |
| Kendwa | Beautiful beach setting, sunset views and resort accommodation. | Beach holidays, couples and relaxation. |
| Paje | Known for kitesurfing, beach cafés and a youthful atmosphere. | Backpackers, water-sport enthusiasts and younger travellers. |
| Jambiani | A quieter coastal village with local character and a relaxed atmosphere. | Slow travel, couples and cultural experiences. |
| Matemwe | A peaceful northeastern coast and a convenient area for selected Mnemba boat excursions. | Snorkelling trips, peaceful stays and boutique accommodation. |
| Stone Town | Historic streets, cultural attractions, markets and access to boat trips. | History lovers, short stays and budget travellers. |
| Kiwengwa | A long eastern coastline with a selection of beach resorts. | Families and resort holidays. |
| Michamvi and Pingwe | Scenic coastal views, quieter accommodation and beautiful sunsets in selected locations. | Couples and peaceful escapes. |
Important beach-planning tip: Tides affect many beaches on Zanzibar's east coast. At some times of the day the sea retreats considerably, exposing large areas of reef and sand. Check local tide information and ask your hotel about swimming conditions before choosing your beach.
Hostels and Budget Accommodation in Zanzibar
Zanzibar has accommodation for backpackers, solo travellers and visitors looking for affordable places to stay. Hostels can be a good way to meet other travellers, join group excursions and explore the island without choosing a luxury resort.
Stone Town · Hostel
NOMAD Hostel Stone Town
A hostel in the historic Stone Town area, suitable for travellers who want to explore the old town, markets and cultural attractions.
Stone Town · Budget stay
Vuga Hostel
A budget accommodation option in Stone Town, with access to local streets, restaurants and cultural attractions.
Nungwi · Social hostel
Hostel 197
A social hostel in Nungwi offering dormitory and private room options, with activities and access to the beach.
Nungwi · Budget stay
Compass Hostel
A hostel option in Nungwi for travellers looking for a more budget-conscious beach stay.
Paje · Backpacker stay
Your Zanzibar Place
A social accommodation option near Paje Beach, suitable for travellers interested in beach life, water sports and meeting other visitors.
Hotels and Beach Resorts in Zanzibar
For travellers who prefer private rooms, beachfront facilities, restaurants, swimming pools and a higher level of comfort, Zanzibar has a range of hotels and resorts. The following are examples of established properties. Contact each property directly to confirm current prices, room availability and services.
Stone Town · Heritage hotel
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
A seafront hotel in historic Stone Town, offering a convenient base for cultural sightseeing and island excursions.
Stone Town · Boutique hotel
Tembo House Hotel
A historic seafront property close to Stone Town attractions, shops and the waterfront.
Kendwa · Beach resort
Zuri Zanzibar
A beachfront resort in Kendwa, suitable for guests looking for a relaxed coastal holiday and sunset views.
Kendwa · Beach hotel
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel
A beachside property in Kendwa, with a lively atmosphere and access to the northern coastline.
Other Islands to Explore Around Zanzibar
The Zanzibar Archipelago and Tanzania's wider Indian Ocean coastline offer more than the main island of Unguja. Depending on your available time, budget and interests, you may wish to add another island to your holiday.
Pemba Island
North of Unguja, Pemba is known for its green landscapes, clove-growing areas, traditional communities, diving and quieter island atmosphere. It is a good option for travellers seeking a less-developed island experience.
Changuu (Prison) Island
Located a short boat journey from Stone Town, Changuu is known for its historical buildings, coastal scenery and giant tortoise sanctuary. It is commonly visited as a half-day excursion.
Arrange boat trips through a responsible local operator.
Mnemba Atoll
A well-known marine area off the northeastern coast of Unguja, popular for snorkelling and diving trips. The atoll includes a private island, so visitors should not assume they can land there.
Book marine excursions with responsible operators and respect protected areas.
Chumbe Island
Known for its protected coral reef and conservation-focused visitor experiences. It is a good option for visitors interested in marine ecology and responsible tourism.
Mafia Island
South of Zanzibar, Mafia Island is a separate Tanzanian island destination known for marine activities, diving, snorkelling and a quieter atmosphere. It is not part of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
Consider it for a longer Tanzania island holiday.
Flights to Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar is served by Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located on Unguja Island near Zanzibar City. Visitors can arrive on international flights or connect through mainland Tanzania and other regional hubs.
Domestic flight connections
Travellers may be able to connect to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and selected safari destinations, depending on airline schedules and the season.
- Air Tanzania – check domestic and international flight options.
- Precision Air – check available Tanzania routes and bookings.
- Auric Air – regional and safari flight connections.
- Coastal Aviation – regional and safari air services.
- As Salaam Air – check its published route schedules.
International flights
International visitors should check available direct services and connecting flights from their departure country. Depending on the route and travel date, connections may be available through regional or international hubs.
Always confirm baggage allowance, connection time, terminal details, visa requirements and arrival arrangements directly with the airline before travelling.
Flying from the Serengeti to Zanzibar
For visitors combining a wildlife safari with a beach holiday, selected safari airstrips may offer flight connections to Zanzibar, sometimes with a change of aircraft or routing. These schedules vary by season and operator. We recommend checking the exact flight itinerary before confirming your safari and beach package.
Airport information
Visit Zanzibar Airports Authority for airport information and official updates.
Ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar
Another popular way to reach Zanzibar is by passenger ferry from Dar es Salaam to the main harbour in Stone Town. The journey is operated by marine transport companies and is a practical option for travellers already staying in Dar es Salaam.
Check departure times, ticket classes, baggage conditions, passenger requirements and current fares before travelling.
Visit Azam Marine official website or check its online booking system.
Travel advice: Arrive at the ferry terminal early, keep your ticket and identification documents accessible, and use official ticketing channels. Do not rely on old online ferry schedules or prices.
Suggested Zanzibar Holiday Itineraries
The best itinerary depends on your arrival time, accommodation location and interests. These examples can be adapted to your travel dates and budget.
3 Days in Zanzibar
- Day 1: Arrive and explore Stone Town.
- Day 2: Visit a spice farm and Jozani Forest.
- Day 3: Enjoy a beach or boat excursion before departure.
5 Days in Zanzibar
- Day 1: Arrive and discover Stone Town.
- Day 2: Spice farm and Jozani Forest.
- Day 3: Safari Blue or another marine excursion.
- Day 4: Relax on the beach and enjoy water activities.
- Day 5: Shopping, local food and departure.
7 Days in Zanzibar
- Day 1: Arrival and Stone Town.
- Day 2: Spice farm and Prison Island.
- Day 3: Jozani Forest and local experiences.
- Day 4: Transfer to a northern or eastern beach.
- Day 5: Snorkelling or diving excursion.
- Day 6: Relaxation, village visit or sunset cruise.
- Day 7: Departure.
Combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania Wildlife Safari
One of the best ways to experience Tanzania is to combine a wildlife safari on the mainland with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar. You can begin with the national parks of northern Tanzania and finish your journey on the Indian Ocean coast.
- Serengeti National Park – wildlife viewing and the Great Migration.
- Ngorongoro Crater – spectacular crater landscapes and wildlife.
- Tarangire National Park – elephants, baobabs and seasonal wildlife concentrations.
- Lake Manyara National Park – forest, lake scenery and birdlife.
- Arusha National Park – forest, Mount Meru scenery and walking safari opportunities.
Explore our Tanzania safari packages, private safaris and luxury safari experiences.
Responsible Travel in Zanzibar
- Choose responsible boat operators and follow marine conservation guidance.
- Do not touch, stand on or remove coral.
- Observe wildlife without feeding, chasing or disturbing animals.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites.
- Buy locally made products and support community businesses.
- Reduce plastic waste and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
- Ask permission before photographing local residents.
Useful Official Zanzibar Travel Links
- Visit Zanzibar – official tourism information
- Zanzibar Ministry of Tourism and Heritage
- Zanzibar Airports Authority
- UNESCO – Stone Town of Zanzibar
- Azam Marine ferry information
- Visit Pemba Island
Plan Your Zanzibar Holiday with Bush & Forest Explorers
Would you like to enjoy Zanzibar after a Serengeti safari, plan a honeymoon, explore Stone Town, visit spice farms or spend several days relaxing on a tropical beach?
Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, accommodation style and activities. Our team in Arusha can help you plan a personalised Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holiday.
WhatsApp: +255 626 249 868
Email: info@bushandforest.co.tz