Your Complete Guide to Zanzibar: Beaches, Culture, and Travel Tips
My first visit to Zanzibar was initially driven by the allure of its crystal clear oceans, a breathtaking natural wonder that I had dreamed of witnessing firsthand. Indeed, the waters were more pristine than I had ever imagined, shimmering under the warm African sun in countless shades of blue and green. However, what I didn’t anticipate was the profound cultural richness that Zanzibar offered. This vibrant island not only captivated my senses but also provided unexpected inspiration through its deep-rooted traditions and welcoming local communities. As in my previous travels, like my service trip in Costa Rica, where hard work intertwined with cultural immersion, Zanzibar presented an equally enriching experience.The island’s unique culture and history, layered beneath its picturesque landscapes, turned what I expected to be a simple beach getaway into a journey of surprising depth and connection. This Complete Guide to Zanzibar will help you discover the crystal clear waters and rich cultural tapestry that make Zanzibar a must-visit destination.
Your Complete Guide to Zanzibar
Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Zanzibar depends on a few components. Zanzibar has its dry season, hot dry season, long rainy season, and short rainy season. Based on my research, the best time to visit Zanzibar is during its dry season.The weather is cooler and drier, which is ideal for beach activities and exploring the island. The temperatures are comfortable, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is from June to October and can be considered its most busy season as far as tourists.
Another popular time to visit is from December to January during the hot dry season. This is another popular time to visit, especially for those looking to escape colder climates. The weather is hotter compared to the June to October season and the oceans are calmer making it a great time to go snorkeling or scuba diving.
The short rain period is in November which ultimately is days with short bursts of rain in the afternoon. The time of year you definitely want to avoid is the long rain season from March to May. Frequent and heavy rains can limit outdoor activities and travel around the island. However, this season also sees fewer tourists and lower prices, and the landscape is lush and green. We went in early October and although it said it was going to rain the week we were there, it ended up not raining at all.
Visa Requirements
You do need a visa when traveling as a tourist to Zanzibar and it is generally good for 90 days. I would suggest doing the visa online before you go as it does make the process a bit easier when you land. The airport is quite a small airport so it is possible you will have to wait in the customs area for a bit, so having your documents and visa ready to go is highly recommended. For U.S citizens traveling to Zanzibar, the entry fee is $100 and you can fill out your visa here.
Budgeting
Planning your budget for a trip to Zanzibar involves considering several key expenses to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Zanzibar was actually a lot more expensive than we thought it would be. Since the increase in popularity, accommodation options vary widely, with luxury beach resorts costing around $150 to $300 per night, while mid-range hotels might set you back $50 to $100, and budget lodgings are available from as little as $20 to $50 per night. Dining out offers similar flexibility, with local meals often costing between $2 to $10, whereas a dinner at a high-end restaurant could cost $30 or more per person.
You can take public transportation throughout the island for very cheap but using a taxi can range from $20 to $50 per day. For those interested in activities and tours, prices can vary; a guided spice tour might cost about $20, while a more involved diving expedition could be upwards of $100. Overall, a daily budget of $50 to $150 could cover modest accommodations and activities, but for those seeking luxury, setting aside $200 to $400 per day would ensure a comfortable and enriching Zanzibar adventure.
Parts of Zanzibar
Stone Town
Stone town is the main city in Zanzibar and it boasts a lot of history. It is where the airport is located and is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, ancient architecture, and vibrant markets. We actually didn’t stop in Stone Town but did drive through it which was quite an interesting sight to see. Staying here your entire life isn’t ideal as it isn’t close to any of the beaches but it could be fun to stay here a night just to experience it. You can also do a guided day trip to Stown Tone so you can still experience the history.
Nungwi
Situated on the northern tip of Unguja, Nungwi is known for its beautiful beaches and is one of the island’s main tourist hubs. It’s a great area for those looking for a beach holiday with plenty of amenities, including a variety of water sports, beach bars, and nightlife. The area also has several diving centers offering trips to nearby coral reefs.
Kendwa
Close to Nungwi, Kendwa has similarly stunning beaches but is generally quieter with less dense development. The beach here is well-known for its soft white sand and is one of the few places on the island where swimming is possible at low tide. Kendwa is popular for its relaxed atmosphere and is famous for its full moon parties.
Paje
On the southeast coast, Paje is popular among water sports enthusiasts, particularly kite surfers, due to its consistent winds and shallow waters. The area has a more laid-back vibe compared to Nungwi and Kendwa and offers a range of accommodations. They also have incredible shopping here and it is a great way to get yourself some handwoven baskets.
Jambiani
South of Paje, Jambiani is a quiet village stretching along a long, white sandy beach. It’s perfect for those looking to experience a more traditional side of Zanzibar. The pace is slow, and the atmosphere is peaceful, making it ideal for a relaxing retreat.
Matemwe
Located on the northeast coast, Matemwe overlooks the Mnemba Atoll and is renowned for its fine beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. It’s quieter than Nungwi and Kendwa and offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to simple guesthouses.
Michamvi
This peninsula on the east coast is split into Michamvi Kae (sunset) and Michamvi Pingwe (sunrise). It’s known for its spectacular beaches and upscale resorts, providing a secluded and exclusive atmosphere. This is the part of the island we stayed on. It definitely is more quiet and succleded so if you are looking for more bustling action I suggest staying in Nungwi.
Overwater Villas in Michamvi
Overwater Villas in Michamvi
Where to Stay
Luxury
There are plenty of luxury hotels in Zanzibar for all my finer travelers. From Melia, to the White Sands Luxury Villa and Spa, or The Residence you can find many high-end accommodations all over the island. I would suggest finding what area you want to stay in first and then finding your accommodation.
Mid-Range
In the heart of Stone Town, the Maru Maru Hotel impresses with its rooftop terrace and authentic Zanzibar charm, making it a perfect spot for cultural enthusiasts. Along the serene beaches of Paje, Paje by Night is renowned for its laid-back vibe and proximity to water sports, ideal for adventure seekers. In Nungwi, a great mid-range hotel option is the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar – Nungwi. The hotel’s location allows easy access to nearby attractions and water activities, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a blend of leisure and adventure in Nungwi.
Budget
Along the picturesque beaches of Jambiani, Casa Del Mar stands out as a budget-friendly beachfront hotel, offering simple, clean accommodations with exceptional ocean views and easy access to beach activities. For budget-conscious travelers visiting Nungwi, Bagamoyo Spice Villa offers a fantastic and affordable lodging option. It stands out as an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy Zanzibar’s natural beauty without breaking the bank, making it ideal for backpackers and budget travelers alike.
Unique Stay
We stayed in the Isaraya Overwater Luxury Villas which are the only overwater villas in Zanzibar. They are definitely pricey but when comparing them to overwater villas in Jamaica, Maldives, or Bora Bora, they are not even close to their prices. This is probably the only place you can experience beautiful overwater villas without completely breaking the bank. We also went to Zanzibar for our honeymoon so staying in the villas in the Michamvi area gave us a relaxing and romantic experience. Plus, these villas have the best sunsets in all of Zanzibar and are all-inclusive.
Luxury Overwater Villas
Luxury Overwater Villas
Getting Around
You can get around via renting a car but they do drive on the other side of the ride compared to the USA so that may be hard for you to even try. I would honestly suggest using the taxi tour guide that we used. They are a local taxi system but it honestly felt more like a private car service. Our driver, although I forget his name, was absolutely incredible. He brought us to and from a restaurant in the south part of the island and also brought us shopping in Paje. He then brought us to the airport and bought us water and candy! All the information for the taxi company is below but you can also visit their website. taxiinzanzibar.com. They also do plenty of excursions as well and although we didn’t book with them, I can imagine they offer incredible experiences.
Things to Do
Stone Town Tour
Delve into the heart of Zanzibar by exploring the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vibrant bazaars, intricate architecture, and the famous Freddie Mercury House. This cultural tour is a must for history enthusiasts wanting to experience Zanzibar’s rich heritage.
Spice Plantation Visit
Zanzibar is dubbed the “Spice Island” for good reason. Engage in a spice tour to learn about the cultivation and uses of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. This aromatic experience is perfect for those looking to add a sensory layer to their travel.
Jozani Forest Reserve
Home to the rare red colobus monkeys, Jozani offers guided walks through lush, verdant forest and mangroves. It’s a fantastic opportunity for wildlife lovers and eco-tourists to witness Zanzibar’s indigenous flora and fauna.
Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches
Spend a day (or several) lounging on the stunning beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa. Known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife, these beaches are ideal for sun-seekers and party-goers alike.
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Embark on a traditional dhow boat to enjoy a scenic sunset cruise along the Zanzibar coast. This romantic excursion offers breathtaking views and is a perfect way to end a day in Zanzibar.
Snorkeling and Diving at Mnemba Island
Explore the underwater marvels of Mnemba Island, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Both novice and experienced divers can enjoy these aquatic adventures. We did this and as part of the tour we were able to swim with wild dolphins. Like actually swimming with them, my husband even got to touch one of them. Also, we went through Zanzibar Paradise for this tour.
Sunset Dhow Tour
Snorkeling Mnemba Island
Paje Kite-Surfing
For the adventurous, Paje is not just a scenic spot but also a renowned kite-surfing destination. The consistent winds and shallow waters make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Clear Kayaking
This is probably offered through your hotel as we did ours at our hotel, but it is a great way to go kayaking but still enjoy the beautiful ocean.
Usumba Rock Restaurant
This restaurant is located on the southern tip of the island near Mtende Beach. The restaurant is located on the side of the cliff and during hightide it basically feels like you are floating on the water. We actually instead went during low tide so we could walk the beach and enjoy the beautiful views.
Mtende Beach
Usumba Rock Restaurant
Take a Day Trip to go on a Safari
This is one experience that we feel we regret not doing. Although it is a steep price, it is really worth it because Tanzania is considered one of the premier safari destinations in the world. The country offers some of the most spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities on the planet.
Cultural Etiquette and Tips
When visiting Zanzibar, embracing the local customs and etiquette can greatly enhance your experience and show respect for the island’s rich cultural heritage. Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim society, so it’s important to dress modestly, particularly when you’re away from the beach and in more rural areas. Clothing should cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting Stone Town or any villages. It’s also courteous to greet locals with “Jambo” or “Habari,” which are friendly Swahili salutations. During the holy month of Ramadan, be particularly mindful of eating, drinking, or smoking in public spaces during daylight hours as many locals will be fasting. Understanding these cultural nuances not only enriches your travel experience but also connects you more deeply with the vibrant community of Zanzibar. This awareness of local customs is essential for anyone looking to have an authentic Zanzibar travel experience.
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