Zanzibar Town vacation packages

Best time to visit Zanzibar

The Zanzibar archipelago offers a warm climate year-round with temperatures averaging around 86°F, making it a perfect destination in any season. The dry season, spanning from mid-June to the end of October, is ideal for enjoying the most pleasant weather. However, January and February also see relatively low rainfall. This peak dry season from June to October aligns with Tanzania's mainland safari high season, so expect Zanzibar to be bustling as many tourists extend their vacation with a visit to the islands. January to mid-March is considered the optimal time for scuba diving. After this period, the 'long rains' occur from mid-March to May, which might not be the best time to visit. From August to October, the weather is not too hot or humid, with October bringing pleasantly cool breezes, calm seas, and clear skies, enhancing ocean temperatures and providing balmy nights just before November's rains arrive. If you prefer visiting during winter, the 'short rains' usually only last an hour or two each day before clearing.

How to get to Zanzibar

Reaching Zanzibar is straightforward even though there are no direct flights from the US. Most routes include one stop. You can travel through hubs like Istanbul or Nairobi. An alternative is flying into Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, first; from there, you can take a ferry to Zanzibar for around $40–$50, with the trip taking between one and a half to three hours, depending on the ferry. This route is popular among tourists and is a convenient option if you're adding Zanzibar at the end of a longer Tanzania vacation. Additionally, short domestic flights from Tanzania's mainland to the islands are available.

Getting around Zanzibar

Upon arriving at your hotel in Zanzibar, you may find it offers everything you need for your vacation, including a beautiful beach, clear waters, pools, and great dining. Hotels often arrange excursions and day trips. However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, using a taxi or private-hire driver is generally the most efficient and direct way, and not too costly, with hotel assistance available for booking. For a more budget-friendly and adventurous option, you might try the local minibus, known as a Dala-Dala. These can be crowded, and the schedule isn't always precise, but it's an authentic and unique experience.

With a valid international driver's license, renting a car or scooter gives you the freedom to explore the island on your own timetable. The roads are generally less crowded compared to busier cities, providing a stress-free driving experience. To explore the smaller islands around the main island of Zanzibar, you'll need to book a boat tour through a tour company or your hotel.

Top things to do in Zanzibar

• Explore historic Stone Town, the old center of modern-day Zanzibar City. A guided walking tour is one of the best ways to learn about its rich history and heritage, as you wander through winding alleys, past intricately carved doorways, delicate minarets, and charming, colorful shops.

• Visit a spice farm. This archipelago is renowned for its spice exports, and a spice tour is a must on any visit here. You'll see the vibrant spices growing and learn about their cultivation, harvesting, and traditional culinary uses. Even better, combine a spice tour with a cooking class or a food tour.

• Check out one of the many amazing beaches – more details on that below.

• Try watersports. Kitesurfing, surfing, and kayaking are all popular here, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling. In calmer lagoons, paddleboarding is also a favorite activity.

• Visit an island. There's more to Zanzibar than just the main island of Unguja. There's also a second, less-visited island – Pemba – and dozens of small islands nestled close to Unguja’s coastline. 'Prison Island' or Changuu Island and Nakupenda Beach are two of the most popular, along with the small islets in the Menai Bay Conservation Area. You can also visit various sandbars to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the enchanting experience of being (almost) ‘stranded’ on a desert island.

• Explore nature. Zanzibar may not have the big-ticket safari animals found on the mainland, but it offers an abundance of colorful flora and fauna. Jozani Forest is the perfect place to get close to nature, with or without a guide, and nearby you’ll also find the butterfly center and Zala Park.

• Dine at The Rock. It may not fit everyone’s budget, but the iconic restaurant The Rock is definitely on some bucket lists. This small, thatched restaurant perched atop a rock rising from the sea is a true icon, featured on countless travel magazine covers and Instagram posts. It’s a uniquely magical place to visit, and the food is exceptional too.

Most popular beaches in Zanzibar

It would be hard to deny that the main reason most people visit this paradise island is for its beaches. Generally, you can expect sugar-white sand, exceptionally clear sea, and beaches that may be very tidal-ideal conditions for seaweed growing here. Many hotels offer direct access to stunning beaches, or even a private beach area, but there are also many fantastic public beaches to explore.

• Nungwi – This is one of Zanzibar’s most popular and top-rated beaches, known for its nightlife, pristine sand, clear sea, and watersports. It is surrounded by numerous luxury hotels and quality beachfront restaurants.

• Kendwa – Close to Nungwi but not as crowded, Kendwa is a wide, sandy, non-tidal beach with clear, aquamarine water at great depths all day. It’s famous for its long, stunning sunsets.

• Kiwengwa – Kiwengwa is a heavily tidal beach with white sand and a landscape that's constantly changing and beautiful. It's popular for relaxing, swimming, walking, and also has a kitesurfing school on its shore.

• Nakupenda Sandbar – This ‘beach’ is really a sandbar in the Indian Ocean requiring an organized boat trip, but it’s well worth the trip for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Located just off the coast of Stone Town, this magical stretch of snow-white sand is like a mirage in the azure waters. Boat trips run several times a day for tourists to experience the magic, snorkel, and swim.

• Kizimkazi Beach – Located in the island's south, Kizimkazi is a quieter beach since it has no big beach parties or tourist-focused restaurants. It offers a more authentic feel with its cream-colored shore backed by palms. It’s best known for boat tours and dolphin spotting.

• Paje Beach – Like many Zanzibar beaches, Paje Beach changes dramatically from high tide, when it’s perfect for swimming and watersports, to low tide, when the sea retreats into the distance, leaving behind rockpools to explore on foot. At high tide, the bay is a kitesurfing haven.

Secret beaches in Zanzibar

While these beaches may not be a complete secret, they are great options if you're searching for quieter, uncrowded shores with a laid-back atmosphere.

• Jambiani Beach – Located on the same coast as Paje, Jambiani Beach offers a quieter, more authentic vibe. You’ll still find white sands, azure sea, and a palm-fringed shore, as well as sandbars, tidal pools, and local seaweed farms during low tide. You can windsurf and kitesurf here too, but mostly it’s a peaceful place for a day on the beach.

• Pingwe – Pingwe is probably best known for its iconic restaurant, The Rock, located on a rocky outcrop in the ocean. With shimmering sands and gentle waves, it’s better for snorkeling than some nearby spots and remains surprisingly peaceful, despite the restaurant’s fame.

• Pongwe – Pongwe is noticeably quieter than Nungwi and Kendwa, and it’s no surprise it feels uncrowded-the shore is vast. It has a very sheltered sea for swimming, unaffected by tides. The white sand is backed by a jungle of palm trees and a calm atmosphere; the only watersports occasionally include snorkeling or kayaking.

• Matemwe Beach – Matemwe Beach is another long, palm-lined stretch of dreamy sand with magnificent sea and coral reefs teeming with life. Because of its length, you can walk the sand for miles and find a secluded or lively spot to your liking, or wander to nearby fishing villages along the shoreline. It’s pristine and generally on the quieter side.

What to eat in Zanzibar

In Zanzibar, you'll find a diverse range of foods, from upscale hotel restaurants offering global cuisine to laid-back local eateries and romantic beach-front spots. Street food is also a major highlight, with numerous markets and night markets worth exploring in Stone Town. Naturally, these islands deliver fantastic seafood and shellfish, making them a must-try during your visit. Octopus is a local specialty. For food enthusiasts, Spice Tours are a fantastic activity as they often include a traditional lunch bursting with flavor. Besides these, here are a few unique dishes you won't find on any other vacation:

• Zanzibar pizza: Unlike a traditional Italian pizza, this version is a ball of dough stuffed with fillings (instead of topped with them) and cooked similarly to a crepe, with the dough becoming crispy on both sides.

• Chips mayai: A type of omelet filled with French fries, often served with hot sauce on the side.

• Biryani and pilau: Due to Zanzibar's Middle Eastern and Indian influences, biryani is a staple in Zanzibar cuisine and is one of the most popular dishes here.

• Urojo: A very spicy soup that's a staple street food in Stone Town. It's packed with crispy bhajias, fried mashed potatoes, and topped with coconut chutney, chili, and cassava shavings.

• Mishkaki: Zanzibar beef (usually steak) kebabs, often grilled by street vendors or in beachside restaurants.

• Vitumbua: A deep-fried sweet donut infused with local spices like cardamom. Another delightful donut-like sweet treat here is Mandazi.

• Coconut bean maharage: This authentic local bean stew is vegan, hearty, and deliciously flavorful.

Sports in Zanzibar Town: Your Guide to Staying Active and Entertained

Local sports events: Join the fun!

Zanzibar Town isn't just about stunning beaches and historical sites; it's also a hub for thrilling local sports events. Fancy watching a lively soccer match? Or how about a traditional ngoma drumming and dance event that turns into a community sports fest? Keep an eye out for posters and local announcements-they're the best way to experience Zanzibar's vibrant culture and maybe even join in a game or two. After all, nothing says 'living like a local' more than cheering on a team surrounded by passionate fans!

Stadiums or arenas: Where passion meets play

While Zanzibar Town might not have mega stadiums, Amaan Stadium stands proud as the heart of local sports. Whether it's a high-stakes soccer match or a community gathering for a sports day, this is where you'll feel the island's pulse. Don't miss the chance to witness a match here; the atmosphere is electrifying, with fans' enthusiasm as warm as the Zanzibar sun.

Where to watch a match: Feel the buzz

Looking for the perfect spot to catch a game? Head to one of the local cafes or bars in Zanzibar Town. These venues often broadcast live sports events, from soccer to cricket, and you'll find yourself in good company. Imagine sipping on a cold drink, snacking on some local delicacies, and soaking up the exciting atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to meet locals and fellow travelers alike.

Sports facilities for visitors: Stay active in paradise

Zanzibar Town offers a plethora of sports facilities for those looking to stay active. From swimming pools nestled in beautiful hotel grounds to yoga classes with views of the Indian Ocean, there's something for everyone. If tennis is your game, you'll find courts available for a friendly match or a competitive game. For those into fitness or dancing, join a local class and move to the island's rhythm.

Dive into fun: Swimming pools and water sports

With Zanzibar's crystal-clear waters, it's no surprise that swimming and water sports are a big hit. Whether you're staying at a resort or exploring local beaches, you'll find plenty of opportunities to dive in. Snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing are just a taste of the aquatic adventures awaiting you. For those who prefer the calmness of a pool, many hotels and resorts offer stunning swimming pools for a refreshing dip.

Yoga, fitness, dancing, tennis: Balance and energy

Embrace the island's laid-back vibe with a yoga session on the beach, or get your heart racing with a fitness class. Dance classes, offering everything from traditional Swahili moves to modern beats, provide a unique way to experience the local culture while staying active. Tennis enthusiasts won't be disappointed either, with facilities available for a game under the tropical sun.

Cycling in Zanzibar Town: Explore on two wheels

Bike rental shops are your gateway to discovering Zanzibar Town and its surroundings at your own pace. Grab a map and follow popular cycling routes through historic streets, lush spice farms, and along stunning coastlines. It's an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to see the sights, with the added bonus of a gentle workout.

Hiking: Trails with a view

For those who love to explore on foot, Zanzibar offers some picturesque hiking trails. Venture into the Jozani Forest for a chance to spot rare wildlife, or follow coastal paths for breathtaking ocean views. It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and discover the island's hidden gems.

Making a splash: Water sports galore

Water sports enthusiasts, rejoice! Zanzibar's beaches are a paradise for kite surfing, snorkeling, and diving. The island's waters are teeming with marine life, making every underwater adventure a memorable one. Whether you're a seasoned pro or trying something new, the island's water sports centers have you covered.

So, there you have it-Zanzibar Town is a veritable playground for sports enthusiasts and those looking to stay active or simply soak up the local culture through sports. Whether you're diving into the deep blue, cycling through scenic routes, or cheering on a local match, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. Who knew staying active could be so much fun?