Why Go to Zanzibar
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Zanzibar smells like cloves and sea air, and it feels like nowhere else on Earth. This storied archipelago off the coast of Tanzania blends African, Arab and Indian cultures, and the result is a place that's equal parts history, spice and tropical beach.
Get lost in the maze-like lanes of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built from coral stone, with carved wooden doors, bustling markets and centuries of trading history around every corner. Take a spice tour to see where those cloves and cinnamon come from. Head north to the powdery white beaches of Nungwi, and visit Jozani Forest to spot the rare red colobus monkey, found only here.
U.S. travelers usually connect through Doha, Dubai or Nairobi. As you fly in, look for traditional dhow sailboats gliding over the bright blue reefs below. Zanzibar is the perfect way to wind down after a Tanzania safari, and I'll connect the two so you go straight from the Serengeti to the sand.
BEST FOR
Beach lovers, honeymooners, divers, history buffs and post-safari travelers
BEST MONTHS
June to October
EXPLORE
- Stone Town: The historic center.
- Nungwi & Kendwa: Northern beaches.
- Paje: Kitesurfing beach.
- Michamvi: Quiet beaches and The Rock.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Zanzibar
Africa › East Africa › Tanzania › Zanzibar Archipelago
Spice-scented Stone Town, white-sand beaches and turquoise Indian Ocean water.
Beach & Resort
Spices
Historical & Heritage
Tropical
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Check the tide tables when choosing a beach; on the east coast, the sea can retreat far out at low tide.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Join a walking tour.
Stone Town
A UNESCO-listed old town with winding alleys, markets and historic buildings.
Watch the sunset.
Nungwi Beach
A beach in the north with swimmable water at all tides.
Walk the mangrove boardwalk.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
A forest home to the rare red colobus monkey.
Combine it with snorkeling.
Prison Island
An island with giant tortoises.
Book in advance.
The Rock Restaurant
A restaurant on a rock in the sea.
A luxurious waterfront hotel in a historic building.
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Stone Town
Hotel Tags
A boutique hotel with a famous rooftop restaurant.
Emerson Spice
Stone Town
Hotel Tags
A stylish beach resort with gardens.
Zuri Zanzibar
Kendwa
Hotel Tags
A luxurious all-inclusive resort with villas.
Baraza Resort & Spa
Bwejuu
Hotel Tags
An exclusive private island lodge.
&Beyond Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Zanzibar
High 87°F · Low 73°F · Rain 3.8 in
The short rains bring brief showers.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is June through October, during the dry season. December to February is also hot and dry. The long rains fall from March to May.
Best Times to Visit Zanzibar
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Zanzibar's cuisine is a blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian and African flavors.
- Street food: Try Zanzibar pizza at Forodhani Gardens.
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh octopus, lobster and fish.
- Must-try: Zanzibar pizza, urojo soup, biryani and spiced tea.
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Walking
Stone Town is best explored on foot.
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Rental Cars
Rental cars and scooters are available.
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Dala-Dalas
Shared minibuses are cheap, but crowded.
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Taxis
Taxis are the easiest way to get around.
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Ferries
Ferries connect Dar es Salaam with Stone Town in about two hours.
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Flying In
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) has flights from across Africa and the Middle East.
Most travelers fly into Zanzibar or take the ferry from Dar es Salaam. Once you're here, taxis are the easiest way to get around.
Getting Around Zanzibar
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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