CITY GUIDE
Zanzibar
Discover Zanzibar, explore the places worth seeing and build a route that matches your travel time.
15 September
Mostly clear
Humidity 70%
ABOUT THE CITY
Get to know Zanzibar
Zanzibar is one of the destinations worth exploring in Tanzania. Its neighbourhoods, local culture, architecture and everyday rhythm make it a city best understood beyond a simple checklist of landmarks.
Use this guide to understand the city's basic geography, decide how much time to spend and create a more efficient itinerary.
Discovery Map
Places to visit in Zanzibar
Explore the city's notable historic places, museums and tourist attractions.
Floating off the coast of East Africa in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is an intoxicating archipelago where centuries of trade routes, Swahili culture, and tropical splendor collide. Known historically as the Spice Island, this semi-autonomous part of Tanzania whispers tales of Omani Sultans, Persian merchants, Portuguese explorers, and British administrators through its labyrinthine alleys and carved wooden doorways. Beyond the aromatic air of cloves and cinnamon, the islands offer pristine white-sand beaches, dhow-filled horizons, and a vibrant coastal rhythm that has captivated travelers for generations. The heart of the archipelago beats in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where time seems to stand still amidst bustling bazaars, coral-stone houses, and echoes of the call to prayer. Yet Zanzibar is much more than its historical capital; it is a diverse sanctuary of coastal villages, emerald mangrove forests, and translucent shallows ideal for diving and snorkeling. Whether you are getting lost in the maze of ancient streets, sailing into a golden sunset on a traditional wooden dhow, or unwinding under the shade of a coconut palm on Nungwi's northern shores, Zanzibar promises an unforgettable sensory journey.
How should you explore the city?
Sightseeing in Zanzibar is a tale of two worlds: the rich, labyrinthine history of Stone Town and the breathtaking natural paradise of the island's coastal fringes. Exploring the historic quarter involves walking tours past architectural marvels like the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the bustling Darajani Market, where locals trade spices, textiles, and fresh catch. Beyond the capital, travelers can venture inland to aromatic spice farms or head north and east to discover world-class beaches, marine conservation areas, and indigenous wildlife reserves like the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the rare red colobus monkey.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but the ideal time to visit is during the dry season from June to October, when skies are clear, humidity is lower, and daytime temperatures hover comfortably around 25°C to 28°C. Another great window is the short dry season from January to February. The long rainy season typically runs from March to May, bringing heavy downpours and temporary closures at some beach resorts, while November brings shorter, unpredictable afternoon showers known as the short rains.
Getting Around Zanzibar
Navigating Zanzibar requires a mix of walking, road travel, and occasional water transport. Stone Town is best explored entirely on foot, as its narrow, winding alleys are completely inaccessible to cars. For traveling between Stone Town and beach destinations like Nungwi, Paje, or Kendwa, travelers can hire licensed taxis, rent a car, or take local dala-dalas, which are communal minibuses offering an authentic, budget-friendly experience. Rental scooters and bicycles are also popular for exploring specific coastal regions at a relaxed pace.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar depends largely on your travel style and preferences. Stone Town is the top choice for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and night-market foodies who want boutique hotels housed in restored merchant mansions. For beach lovers and nightlife seekers, the northern tip of the island—specifically Nungwi and Kendwa—offers vibrant resort scenes, stunning sunset views, and swimming largely unaffected by extreme tidal changes. Meanwhile, the east coast, including Paje and Jambiani, attracts kitesurfers, backpackers, and travelers looking for laid-back, bohemian beach vibes.
LOCAL FOOD
What to eat in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s culinary identity is a delicious reflection of its geopolitical history, blending Swahili traditions with heavy influences from Persia, Arabia, India, and China. Because it is the Spice Island, local dishes are heavily scented with cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger, creating bold and unforgettable flavor profiles. From the legendary night food market at Forodhani Gardens to humble local cafeterias in Stone Town, dining here is an adventure in fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and savory street food.
Zanzibar Pizza
Unlike traditional Italian pizza, this is a street food favorite made by wrapping dough around minced meat, onions, peppers, an egg, and cheese before frying it on a hot griddle. It is typically served hot with a dollop of mayonnaise and piri-piri sauce.
Urojo
Often called Zanzibar mix, this is a tangy, spicy mango and tamarind soup loaded with crispy fritters, potatoes, chutneys, and falafel. It is a comforting local delicacy commonly enjoyed at street stalls in Stone Town.
Octopus Curry
Freshly caught local octopus is slow-cooked in a rich, creamy coconut milk gravy infused with local spices like garlic, ginger, and turmeric. It is usually served alongside steaming white rice or flatbreads.
Mishkaki
These are juicy, marinated skewers of skewered beef, goat, or chicken that are slowly charcoal-grilled to smoky perfection. They are a staple of evening barbecue sessions across the island.
Zanzibar Biryani
A fragrant rice dish deeply influenced by Indian culinary traditions, featuring tender meat or fish cooked separately from intensely spiced rice. Caramelized onions and potatoes complete this festive, aromatic meal.
Mandazi
These are lightly sweetened, triangle-shaped East African fried dough pastries spiced with cardamom and coconut milk. They are frequently enjoyed for breakfast alongside spiced local coffee or tea.
FIRST VISIT
Useful things to know before you go
- 01
Dress modestly outside the beach resorts, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for the local Muslim culture.
- 02
Always negotiate taxi fares before setting off, as most cabs do not use meters.
- 03
Take time to explore Stone Town on foot early in the morning before the midday heat and crowds set in.
- 04
Protect the marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling.
- 05
Carry some Tanzanian Shillings for small purchases, though US Dollars are widely accepted.
- 06
Book a guided spice tour to experience the island's agricultural heritage firsthand.
FAQ
Zanzibar travel questions
Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar?+
Most travelers visiting Zanzibar and Tanzania require a visa, which can easily be obtained upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport or applied for online in advance as an e-visa.
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?+
Zanzibar is generally safe for travelers, though standard precautions apply, such as avoiding unlit areas at night, safeguarding valuables against petty theft, and respecting local customs and traditions.
What language is spoken in Zanzibar?+
The official languages are Swahili and English. Swahili is spoken by all locals, while English is widely understood and spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
Can I drink tap water in Zanzibar?+
No, tap water in Zanzibar is not potable for visitors. It is strongly recommended to drink bottled or filtered water and use it even for brushing your teeth.
What currency should I use in Zanzibar?+
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are also widely accepted. Note that US Dollar bills printed before 2013 are often rejected by local businesses and banks.
How do tides affect swimming in Zanzibar?+
Zanzibar's east coast experiences dramatic tidal shifts, meaning the ocean can recede significantly during low tide, making swimming difficult. The northern beaches, like Nungwi, are less affected by these tidal extremes.
CITY EXPERIENCE
What to do in the city?
A city becomes more memorable when you combine major sights with local neighbourhoods and everyday experiences.
Discover the historic core
Start with the areas that explain the city's history, architecture and cultural identity.
Explore local neighbourhoods
Move beyond the main landmarks and spend time in residential streets, markets and local districts.
Taste the local food scene
Use markets, traditional restaurants and street-food areas to understand the city's everyday culture.
See the city after dark
Evening walks, illuminated landmarks and lively neighbourhoods can reveal a completely different side of the city.
HOW MANY DAYS?
Plan your time in Zanzibar
Choose the amount of time you have and use the suggested rhythm as a starting point for your itinerary.
SUGGESTED PACE
Balanced itinerary
Cover the classic route on day one, then explore local neighbourhoods, markets and food spots.
BUILD YOUR JOURNEY
Start planning your Zanzibar route
Choose your starting point, add the places you want to visit and shape the route around the time you have.
Open Route Planner