Zanzibar Island
The Spice Island – where white beaches meet turquoise waters and ancient history.
1,651 km2
Area
Year-round
Best Season
Stone Town
UNESCO
World-class
Beaches
26-30°C
Water Temp
35 km
From Mainland
About Zanzibar Island
Africa's Most Enchanting Island
Zanzibar is the jewel of the Indian Ocean – an archipelago of coral islands 35 kilometres off the Tanzanian coast, combining some of the world’s finest beaches with a rich cultural history shaped by Arab, Persian, Indian and African influences. Stone Town, the historic quarter of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, ornate carved doorways, mosques and colonial buildings. The warm turquoise waters offer world-class snorkelling and diving at Mnemba Atoll, while spice farm tours round out a truly complete island escape.
Wildlife
Animals You Will Encounter
- Humpback Whale
- Spinner Dolphin
- Green Sea Turtle
- Zanzibar Red Colobus
- Flying Fox
- Coconut Crab
- Manta Ray
- Hawksbill Turtle
Planning
Best Time to Visit
Clear skies and calm seas. Perfect for diving at Mnemba Atoll and beach relaxation. Peak season with the very best conditions.
Long rains fall March-May. Still warm and enjoyable but seas can be rough. Significantly lower prices and far fewer tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most convenient option is a short domestic flight from Kilimanjaro or Arusha – about 1 hour. We include this in all our Safari & Zanzibar packages. A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes 2 hours.
Zanzibar is generally very safe for tourists. Stone Town requires reasonable awareness at night, but the island’s beaches and resorts are extremely safe and welcoming.
Ready to Visit?
Plan Your Zanzibar Holiday
Our local experts will design the perfect itinerary for your dates and budget.
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Quick Facts
- Area: 1,651 km2
- Best Season: Year-round
- UNESCO: Stone Town
- Beaches: World-class
- Water Temp: 26-30°C
- From Mainland: 35 km