Paje Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Paje, Tanzania with this detailed travel guide featuring top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Paje is a little-known yet captivating village located in the southeast coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania. This scenic and laidback destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, beach adventures, and cultural experiences. Paje boasts crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world. If you’re planning a trip to Paje, then read on to learn more about this exciting destination.

Introduction to Paje

Paje is a small village situated on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. It is an unspoiled, picturesque destination that attracts visitors from across the world. The village features long stretches of white sandy beaches interspersed with swaying palm trees. The best time to visit Paje is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it the perfect time for swimming and beach activities.

List of Places to Visit in Paje

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Paje boasts a rich history and culture that you must explore during your stay. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in Paje:

  • Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
  • Jozani Forest
  • Mizingani Seafront
  • Kidichi Persian Bath

Natural Attractions of Paje: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Paje is paradise for nature lovers, with its numerous natural attractions, outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Paje:

  • Menai Bay Conservation Area
  • Kizimkazi beach
  • Paje Beach
  • Scuba diving and snorkeling

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paje

In addition to beautiful beaches and watersports, Paje is perfect for anyone looking for some outdoor adventure. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Paje:

  • Jambiani Village
  • Kae Beach
  • Michamvi Peninsula

Best Things to Do in Paje: Activities and Tours

Apart from swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the pristine waters of Paje, there are tons of other activities that you can engage in, such as

  • Visit a spice farm
  • Go kite surfing or windsurfing
  • Take a sunset cruise tour
  • Visit the local markets

Week-Long Itinerary for Paje

Here is a possible itinerary for a week-long stay in Paje:

Day 1: Arrive and explore the village Day 2: Spices, Stone Town and shopping in central Zanzibar Day 3: Swim, sunbathe and relax on the beach Day 4: Kite surfing lessons and other water sports Day 5: Take a boat tour to see the dolphins at Kizimkazi Day 6: Visit the Jozani Forest Reserve and the Butterfly Centre Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Paje

Must-Try Dishes

Paje offers some of the most delicious food options in Tanzania. Here are some dishes you must try while visiting Paje:

  • Spiced Rice (Pilau)
  • Seafood Curry
  • Zanzibar Pizza
  • Fresh Seafood BBQ

Local Beverages

Apart from the delicious food, Paje also offers a wide range of traditional drinks to try during your visit. Here are a few local beverages to add to your list:

  • Coconut water
  • Kahawa (black coffee)
  • Tanzanian beer

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

Paje has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here is a list of some of the top places to stay in Paje:

  • Villa de Coco
  • Arabian Nights Suites Hotel
  • Coral Rock Hotel
  • Reef & Beach Resort

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

Paje has a wide variety of souvenirs and unique products to take back with you. Here are some of the top souvenirs to buy in Paje:

  • Spices
  • Hand-woven baskets
  • Paintings and photographs
  • Handcrafted jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Paje

Paje has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is well known around the world. It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions during your visit. Here are some cultural customs you should be aware of:

  • Clothing: It is expected that you dress modestly when outside the beach areas.
  • Greetings: It’s customary to greet people with “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you)
  • Etiquette: It’s impolite to eat, drink, or smoke in public during the month of Ramadan.

Best Time to Visit Paje

The best time to visit Paje is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. These months offer warm, dry weather perfect for beach activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paje

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs of the people
  • Dress modestly outside of the beach areas
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in public areas
  • Take photographs of people without their permission
  • Walk around the village at night alone

Safety and Health

Safety in Paje

Paje is a generally safe destination, but it’s important to take precautions while visiting. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while in Paje.

  • Avoid walking around the village at night alone
  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach
  • Ask the locals and hotel staff for advice and guidance

Health in Paje

Before you travel to Paje, make sure you check with your doctor for all necessary vaccinations. It’s important to pack sufficient medication for your trip. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water and use mosquito nets to prevent malaria.

Getting to Paje: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paje

The closest airport to Paje is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar City. The airport is about 45 minutes away from Paje via taxi or minibus.

Bus Stations Near Paje

Paje is easily accessible via bus from Zanzibar City bus station. The journey takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Other Options

You can also get to Paje via taxi or private transfer. It’s important to negotiate a price before boarding as there are no metered taxis in Zanzibar.

How to Get Around in Paje

The easiest way to get around Paje is by minibus or taxi. You can also rent a bike or a car to explore the village at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Paje: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to explore more of Tanzania after visiting Paje, then here are some destinations to consider:

  • Stone Town, Zanzibar
  • Kilimanjaro National Park
  • Serengeti National Park

Conclusion

Paje is one of the most stunning destinations in Tanzania offering a plethora of things to do and explore. Its pristine waters, lush greenery, and exceptional cultural sites make it a great destination for travelers of all tastes. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make your travel experience to Paje unforgettable!

Seaweed gathering in Paje Seaweed gathering in Paje