Zanzibar
Whether it’s part of your safari to Tanzania or as a leisurely beach vacation, Zanzibar Island, with its white sandy beaches, turquoise seas and amazing history is one of the most exotic islands in the world.
How to Combine Your Safari with Zanzibar
Recommended Trip Length
Most travelers pair a 7–10 day Tanzania safari with a 3–5 day Zanzibar extension — enough time to properly unwind on the beach without stretching the trip too long. Even a short 2–3 night stopover is worthwhile if time is tight.
Getting from the Mainland to Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is a short 20–30 minute flight from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Dar es Salaam, with several daily connections. We handle all flight bookings and airport transfers as part of your itinerary.
Safari First or Beach First?
Most travelers do the safari first, then unwind in Zanzibar afterward — the perfect way to recover from early mornings and dusty game drives. Either order works logistically; it comes down to whether you’d rather ease into the trip or end on a high note.
Zanzibar the Spice Island
Zanzibar Island is located in the Indian Ocean approximately 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast, 60 miles long and 20 miles wide. This island is a great place to relax after your Tanzania safari. The island features magnificent sandy beaches with coral reefs and offers an abundance of water sports including scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, kayaking, wind surfing, water skiing and sailing on traditional local dhows, making Zanzibar a unique vacation destination. From airport transfers, to finding the right accommodations, to island tours and activities that are specifically tailored for you — no detail will be overlooked during your visit.
In days past, Zanzibar was known as a spice island, exporting cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cardamom across the world. The spices were brought over from Asia and South America and flourished in the tropical climates. Nowadays, the plantations are a tribute to the island’s past, swapping spices for tourism, combining both in a spice tour — one of the most popular excursions on the island.
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Nungwi
On the island’s northern tip, Nungwi has some of Zanzibar’s most powdery beaches with minimal tidal swing, making it swimmable at any time of day. Expect a lively sunset scene, beach bars, and a traditional dhow-building village.
Matemwe
A quieter stretch of the northeast coast, Matemwe is the gateway to Mnemba Atoll, home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in Zanzibar. A laid-back choice for travelers seeking a slower pace.
Stone Town
Zanzibar’s UNESCO World Heritage old town, with winding alleyways, spice markets, and centuries of history. A central, walkable base for day tours, close to the international airport.
Zanzibar Island Tours and Excursions
There are many tours and excursions the island has to offer. You can follow the trail of the sultans, slaves and explorers in the winding streets of Stone Town — your guide will tell you about the events that shaped Zanzibar, leading you through the buildings where it all happened. The City Tour is very flexible and can be adapted to suit your interest and time frame, whether you’re a shopaholic, culture vulture, or history buff. If you want to hunt for antiques or follow David Livingstone’s time in Zanzibar and walk the path of the slave trade, your concierge can recommend and develop routes and itineraries that optimize your time and get the most out of your trip.
Other activities Zanzibar Island has to offer include:
Prison Island Tour (which was used for prisoners during the slave trade)
Jozani Monkey Forest visit
Stone Town/historic tour or Spice tour
Sea turtles or dolphins encounter
Diving with whale sharks during migration
Sultan Panorama Tour
Princess Salme Tour
Freddie Mercury Tour
Slave Routes of Zanzibar
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Dry Season (June–Oct & Dec–Feb)
The best overall weather for a beach stay — warm, sunny, and low humidity. Ideal for diving, snorkeling, and spending full days on the sand.
Long Rains (March–May)
The quietest and most affordable time to visit, but with heavy daily rain and rougher seas. Best suited to travelers prioritizing value over guaranteed sunshine.
Short Rains (November)
A brief shoulder season with short afternoon showers that usually clear quickly, leaving plenty of sun. A good-value window between the peak seasons.
Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip
Let us help you plan your trip to Zanzibar Island as part of your Tanzania safari, or as your destination island vacation.
