About Zanzibar Island
Tanzania is renowned for its incredible safaris, rich indigenous African culture, and, of course, the majestic
Mount Kilimanjaro. However, its lively coastal life is an experience you shouldn’t miss! That’s why Tanzania’s islands deserve a spot on your must-visit list. With their tropical, paradise-like beaches, you might feel as if you’ve stepped into the Caribbean—yet you’re right in the heart of East Africa.
Get ready to explore Tanzania’s breathtaking marine world! Discover palm-lined white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, luxurious resorts, and more. Below, you’ll find a selection of Tanzania’s most famous and secluded islands, perfect for your dream beach getaway. Let yourself be inspired! Pick your ideal island and plan a personalized trip, or choose from expertly curated travel packages.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Zanzibar Island offers a wide selection of beaches and resorts spread across all four cardinal directions. However, our top recommendation is the island’s east coast, known for its breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil beaches, diverse activities, and an array of multi-cuisine restaurants that cater to even the most refined tastes. According to our travel experts, this part of Zanzibar delivers the ultimate island experience.
With countless resorts and lodges to choose from, we’ve handpicked our top three favorites across different price categories:
- Silver Category: Fun Beach Hotel – Featuring 42 rooms with either pool or beach views, this hotel offers modern amenities designed for maximum comfort.
- Gold Category: Next Paradise – A boutique resort overlooking the ocean, boasting 25 elegantly designed rooms and an exceptional dining experience. Each room category has its own unique charm and special features.
- Platinum Category: Qambani Luxury Resort – The epitome of luxury, this resort features six uniquely themed villas, each with exquisite interior design and artistic touches that create a homely yet opulent atmosphere. With outstanding service and top-tier amenities, Qambani redefines comfort and elegance in Zanzibar.
Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, these accommodations offer the perfect stay for your dream Zanzibar getaway!
A deep-rooted heritage and vibrant history
The Zanzibar Islands are often called the Spice Islands due to their historical significance in the spice trade and the numerous spice plantations. The historic Stone Town offers a fascinating blend of cultures. For food lovers and culture seekers, there are must-visit sites like the Sultan’s Palace, the House of Wonders, and the vibrant Darajani and Forodhani food markets. The possibilities for exploration here are truly limitless!
Activities in Zanzibar
- Spice Tour: Take a guided walk through spice plantations where you can see pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and various fruits growing.
- Kitesurfing: Head to the beaches of Paje, Kiwengwa, and Nungwi for an exciting kitesurfing experience.
- Mountainbike Excursion: Enjoy an adventurous bike ride through the island’s scenic terrain.
- Stone Town Excursion: Wander through the narrow streets of this vibrant town, visit local markets, and explore the historic former slave market.
- Prison Island Excursion: Take a 30-minute boat ride to Prison Island, once a slave detention site, now a nature reserve for giant tortoises and home to the ruins of the old prison.
- Safari Blue: Visit three islands during this trip, where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a delicious BBQ.
- Jozani Forest Visit: Explore the last remaining indigenous forest on Zanzibar, home to various monkeys, including the rare red colobus.
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Dive into the waters at one of Zanzibar’s many amazing reefs for vibrant underwater experiences.
- Cultural Tour: Get an immersive look into the local lifestyle and traditions through this cultural exploration.
- Mnemba Island Tour: Embark on a snorkeling adventure at Zanzibar’s most famous snorkeling destination, Mnemba Island.
Travel time to Zanzibar
A flight from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar takes only 20 minutes. You can also combine Zanzibar with a safari on the mainland. The distance from Arusha (safari capital) to Zanzibar is about 420 kilometres.
Information and facts
Zanzibar Island is Africa’s tropical paradise with the world’s most beautiful beaches. It offers laid-back beach life, but also a vast variety of activities and a colorful culture and history.
This is the essence of Zanzibar Island.
- Crystal white sandy beaches with palm trees
- Azure blue Indian Ocean
- Beautiful coral reefs
- Breathtaking sceneries
- Culture and history in Stone Town
- Friendly people
- Good service
- Delicious food
Zanzibar Island facts
- Total surface 1554 km2 (965 mi)
- 85 km (53 mi) long and 20-30 km (12-19 mi) wide
- Zanzibar lies 35 km (22 mi) off the coast
- Population 1,3 million
- Language: Swahili & English
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
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