Things To Do
in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a beautiful island located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. It is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island has a rich history influenced by Arab, Portuguese, and British settlers, evident in its architecture, spice markets, and cultural traditions.
Zanzibar also offers visitors a chance to explore the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and historic buildings showcasing its diverse heritage.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Nzuri sana" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by soaking up the sun on the pristine sands of Nungwi Beach. Enjoy breakfast at a beachside café while watching the local fishermen at work.
Explore the nearby coral reefs by snorkeling or diving. Grab lunch from a local seafood restaurant to fuel your afternoon adventures.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the beach to enjoy the breathtaking views. End your day with a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Visit the historical Stone Town, starting with the iconic Forodhani Gardens. Enjoy a guided tour of the Old Fort and the House of Wonders.
Have lunch at a local café and then explore the vibrant markets, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Don't miss the Spice Market to learn about Zanzibar's famous spices.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant for stunning views of the city. Experience the local culture by catching a live music performance in the square.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with white sand and turquoise waters
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance
- Vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine
- Opportunities for water sports and diving
- Warm and welcoming local population
- Unique wildlife and natural parks
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Higher tourist traffic during peak seasons
- Insufficient medical facilities in remote areas
- Possible health concerns such as malaria
- Language barriers for non-Swahili speakers
- Environmental concerns such as coral reef damage
Best Activities in Zanzibar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs in the clear, warm waters around Zanzibar
Enjoy a leisurely sail on a traditional wooden dhow and witness beautiful sunsets and coastal scenery
Take advantage of the strong and consistent winds for an exhilarating kite surfing experience
Embark on a tour to discover the rich history and cultivation of spices on the island
Visit the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to see unique flora and fauna including the rare red colobus monkeys
Tours
Uncover the best of Zanzibar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zanzibar
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic city center of Zanzibar City with its narrow streets and vibrant markets offers stunning views and photo opportunities, including the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens.
Known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters, Nungwi Beach provides breathtaking sunsets and scenic photo spots.
This island offers great views of the surrounding ocean and the chance to photograph the resident giant tortoises.
A serene beach with picturesque views and opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Zanzibar.
Food in Zanzibar
Zanzibar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with a mix of spices, often served with meat or fish. Must-try at Lukmaan Restaurant or Forodhani Gardens night market.
Must-Try!
A tangy and spicy soup with origins in India, featuring potatoes, lentils, and bhajias. Best enjoyed at Darajani Market.
A popular street food made with a thin pastry filled with various ingredients like minced meat, vegetables, and cheese at the Forodhani Gardens night market.
Grilled skewers of marinated fresh seafood, often served with spicy tamarind sauce. Not to be missed at the Maru Maru hotel rooftop restaurant in Stone Town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zanzibar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Stone Town, this vibrant market is famous for its array of street food stalls offering local delicacies such as Zanzibar Pizza, Mishkaki, and fresh seafood BBQ.
One of the oldest and most bustling markets in Zanzibar, offering a wide variety of produce, spices, and street food, including the popular Urojo soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zanzibar, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. This means covering shoulders, chest, and legs, and avoiding excessively revealing clothing.
Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population, so it's essential to respect Islamic customs. This includes refraining from public displays of affection, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, and being mindful of prayer times.
Greetings are an important part of Zanzibari culture. It is customary to greet people with 'Jambo' or 'Salam aleikum' and to use respectful language when speaking to elders or people in positions of authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zanzibar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zanzibar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zanzibar, Tanzania, tipping is generally practiced in the tourism and hospitality industry. It is customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers. A common practice is to tip around 10% of the total bill or service cost, but tipping amounts may vary based on the level of service provided and local customs.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Zanzibar, Tanzania. While some businesses, especially those in tourist areas, accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for daily expenses. ATMs are available in major towns on the island, but it's important to have cash on hand, especially when visiting more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zanzibar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with clear skies, little rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. Ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Expect occasional showers, but still a good time to visit with warm temperatures and fewer tourists.
Not the best time to visit due to heavy rainfall and rough seas. Many accommodations and activities may be closed.
Zanzibar at Night
Hiking in Zanzibar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve that offers guided walks through the lush forest, where you can see the rare Red Colobus monkeys and a variety of endemic plant species.
While primarily known for its beach, the trails around Kendwa allow for scenic walks along the coast with stunning sunset views.
Located on Pemba Island, this reserve offers hiking through dense forest, where you can explore unique ecosystems and spot various birds and wildlife.
The highest point on Zanzibar, offering more challenging hikes with rewarding views from the summit.
Popular for snorkeling and diving, but nearby walking paths offer a scenic experience along the beaches of this private island.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zanzibar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zanzibar by plane.
Zanzibar's main international airport, serving domestic and international flights.
Located in Dar es Salaam, about 55 km from Zanzibar, this is Tanzania's busiest airport serving many international flights.
Another airport in Dar es Salaam, primarily serving regional and domestic flights.
Located in Arusha, around 80 km from Zanzibar, it serves flights to various international and domestic destinations.
Located in Mwanza, approximately 600 km away from Zanzibar, it mainly operates regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Zanzibar, comprising about 99% of the population, primarily descended from Bantu-speaking peoples.
A significant minority, mainly consisting of individuals descended from Persian and Arab traders, with historical influence in politics and culture.
Another notable minority, including descendants of Indian traders who settled in Zanzibar, contributing to the economy and cultural diversity.
A small group primarily made up of descendants of colonial settlers, though their impact on the demographic landscape is limited.
Includes smaller communities of people from various backgrounds who have moved to Zanzibar over time, adding to the island's cultural tapestry.
The Soul of Zanzibar
Discover the essence of Zanzibar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Zanzibar, football has a huge following among locals, with many clubs and local leagues.
Basketball has gained popularity, especially among the youth, with various teams and competitions being organized.
Athletics, including running events, is popular in Zanzibar, with local competitions taking place regularly.
Handball has emerged as a popular sport in schools and local clubs, contributing to the sporting culture.
Netball is particularly popular among women and is played in schools and communities across Zanzibar.
Cricket, although less popular than football, has a small but dedicated following, especially among youth and expatriates.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zanzibar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Zanzibari cuisine traditionally features a lot of seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in tourist areas offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in Stone Town.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find that several restaurants and cafes in Zanzibar provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly those catering to international tourists.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zanzibar with these cultural adventures.
