Zanzibar Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Zanzibar with this comprehensive guide that covers its culture, history, natural attractions, food scene, safety, and more.


Introduction to Zanzibar

Located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago consisting of two large islands, Unguja and Pemba, and several smaller ones. With its turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and rich Swahili culture, Zanzibar is a paradise for tourists looking for an exotic getaway. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Zanzibar, covering its culture, history, natural attractions, food scene, safety, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Zanzibar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visiting Zanzibar’s museums and historical places is a must-do activity for those interested in the island’s rich history and culture. Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • (1) The Zanzibar Museum of History and Culture: Located in Stone Town, the museum features exhibits on Zanzibar’s history, culture, and economy.
  • (2) The Palace Museum: Previously the residence of the Sultan of Zanzibar, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and furniture from the 19th century.
  • (3) The House of Wonders: A grand palace built in the 19th century, this museum features exhibits on Swahili culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Zanzibar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aside from its idyllic beaches, Zanzibar also boasts several natural attractions that are worth exploring. Some of them include:

  • (1) Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: Home to the rare Red Colobus monkey, the park also features diverse flora and fauna, including mangrove forests and salt pans.
  • (2) Prison Island: A small island off the coast of Zanzibar that was previously used as a prison, it now serves as a haven for giant tortoises and offers visitors the opportunity to swim and snorkel.
  • (3) The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre: Located in the southern part of the island, this attraction houses a sanctuary for various species of butterflies.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a relatively small island, and there are not many hiking or biking routes available. However, visitors can still explore the island’s rural areas on foot or by bicycle. One popular route is the Spice Tour, where visitors can cycle through rural villages and spice plantations and learn about the island’s spice trade history.

Best Things to Do in Zanzibar: Activities and Tours

Zanzibar offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Some of the best things to do include:

  • (1) Snorkeling and diving: Zanzibar is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
  • (2) Spice tours: As mentioned above, a spice tour is a great way to experience the rural side of Zanzibar while learning about the island’s famous spice trade.
  • (3) Sunset dhow cruises: A romantic way to end the day, visitors can take a traditional dhow boat ride and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zanzibar

  • Day 1-3: Explore Stone Town and its cultural attractions, such as the Zanzibar Museum of History and Culture and the House of Wonders.
  • Day 4-5: Head to the east coast of the island and spend your days lounging on the stunning beaches or snorkeling in the clear waters of Mnemba Atoll.
  • Day 6-7: Take a day trip to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and visit the rare Red Colobus monkeys before heading to the northern tip of the island to swim with dolphins in the wild.

Food and Drink Scene of Zanzibar

Must-Try Dishes

Zanzibar’s food scene is heavily influenced by its Swahili culture and its history as a spice trading center. Some must-try dishes include:

  • (1) Zanzibar pizza: A popular street food made with a thin savory pancake filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese.
  • (2) Biryani: A fragrant rice dish typically prepared with meat or vegetables flavored with an array of spices.
  • (3) Seafood: With its proximity to the ocean, Zanzibar offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including grilled prawns, lobster, and fish.

Local Beverages

Zanzibar offers a variety of local beverages, including:

  • (1) Spice Tea: A hot beverage made with black tea, milk, and a variety of spices including cinnamon and cardamom.
  • (2) Coconut water: Freshly harvested from the island’s abundant coconut trees, coconut water is a refreshing and healthy drink.
  • (3) Zanzibar beer: Brewed locally, Zanzibar’s beer is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zanzibar caters to all budgets and offers a range of accommodation options. Some popular options include:

  • (1) Luxury hotels: Zanzibar has several world-renowned luxury hotels such as the Park Hyatt Zanzibar and the Four Seasons Resort Zanzibar.
  • (2) Boutique hotels: Smaller hotels with unique designs, such as the Emerson Spice Hotel in Stone Town are also popular among tourists.
  • (3) Guesthouses and hostels: For those on a budget, there are many guesthouses and hostels that offer affordable accommodation, such as The Loop in Paje.

What to Buy in Zanzibar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zanzibar is famous for its spice trade, and visitors can take home a range of local products such as:

  • (1) Spices: Visitors can purchase local spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg from markets in Stone Town.
  • (2) Handicrafts: Zanzibar has a thriving handicraft culture, and visitors can purchase unique items such as carved wooden masks and baskets woven from palm leaves.
  • (3) Khanga: A brightly colored traditional fabric used by local women as a wrap, visitors can purchase these colorful fabrics as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s culture is heavily influenced by its Swahili heritage and its history as a spice trading center. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting mosques or public places.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar has a tropical climate, with temperatures averaging between 25-30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season between June to October when there is less rain and more sunshine.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zanzibar

Do:

  • (1) Dress modestly when visiting mosques or public places.
  • (2) Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.
  • (3) Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • (1) Consume drugs or alcohol in public places.
  • (2) Swim outside designated areas as it may be dangerous.
  • (3) Engage in public displays of affection.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a relatively safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take necessary precautions such as:

  • (1) Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches or at night.
  • (2) Only use licensed taxis or tour operators.
  • (3) Keep valuable items such as passports and cash in a safe place.

Health in Zanzibar

Visitors should take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. It is recommended that visitors take prophylaxis medication, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use mosquito repellent.

Getting to Zanzibar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zanzibar

Zanzibar has one international airport, Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), located approximately 6km from Stone Town. It has regular flights to other African cities such as Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.

Bus Stations Near Zanzibar

There are no bus stations in Zanzibar, but visitors can take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Stone Town or a boat ride from Tanga to Zanzibar City.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a private taxi or arrange a private transfer from the airport or ferry port.

How to Get Around in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a small island, and visitors can get around easily by taxi or local buses known as dala-dalas. Visitors can also rent bicycles or motorcycles to explore the island at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Zanzibar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After spending a few days in Zanzibar, visitors can explore other destinations in Tanzania such as:

  • (1) Serengeti National Park: One of the most famous national parks in Africa, visitors can see the “Big Five” game animals and witness the annual wildebeest migration.
  • (2) Mount Kilimanjaro: The highest peak in Africa, Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
  • (3) Dar es Salaam: Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam is located on the mainland and offers a range of cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Zanzibar is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a mix of natural attractions, cultural experiences, and relaxing beach holidays. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their trip to Zanzibar with ease and make the most of their time on the island.

Beach at Zanzibar Beach at Zanzibar Tourists in boat are chasing dolphins in the India Ocean near Zanzibar Tourists in boat are chasing dolphins in the India Ocean near Zanzibar


    Kendwa
    Nungwi
    Paje
    Stone Town