Zanzibar travel guide
Beaches, Stone Town history, and Indian Ocean sunsets—everything you need to plan your trip, plus live prices for flights, stays, and car hire.
Overview
Zanzibar sits just off the Tanzanian coast, a short flight from Nairobi. Expect white-sand beaches on the east and north coasts, the historic streets of Stone Town, spice farm tours, and some of the best snorkeling and diving in East Africa. December is peak season; book flights and stays early for the festive window.
Best time to visit
June–Oct, Dec–Feb
Flight time from Nairobi
~1h 15m direct
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling
Visa
On arrival for most nationalities
Related guides
Nairobi to Zanzibar flight guide
Best time to visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar on a budget
Where to go
Stone Town
UNESCO-listed old town, narrow alleys, spice markets, and sunset dhow cruises.
Nungwi & Kendwa
North-coast beaches with calm, swimmable water year-round.
Paje
East Coast beach town known for kite-surfing and a quieter pace.
Jozani Forest
Home to the red colobus monkey, found only in Zanzibar.
Getting around
Most visitors hire a car or use pre-booked transfers; roads between Stone Town and the beach areas are straightforward. An SUV is recommended if you're planning to explore beyond the main resorts.