Zanzibar, Tanzania

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Introduction

Zanzibar, an archipelago located off the coast of Tanzania, is a tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and rich history. This guide will take you on a journey through the best places to visit, activities to do, where to eat, where to stay, things to know, transportation options, tips, and other interesting facts about this enchanting destination.

Places to Visit

Stone Town

  • A historic town with a mix of Arabic, Persian, and European influences
  • Explore the narrow alleys and visit the famous House of Wonders, the oldest building in Zanzibar
  • Check out the bustling Darajani Market for local souvenirs and spices

Prison Island (Changuu)

  • A former prison turned into a beautiful tourist attraction
  • Take a short boat ride from Stone Town to reach this island
  • Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach

Nungwi

  • A charming fishing village on the north coast of Zanzibar
  • Visit the Nungwi Fish Market for a glimpse into local life
  • Relax on the beautiful Nungwi Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand

Kendwa Rocks

  • A picturesque beach with a stunning rock formation
  • Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun
  • Take a sunset cruise to witness the breathtaking views of the rocks

Jozani Forest

  • The only national forest in Zanzibar, home to the rare Kirk’s Red Colobus Monkey
  • Explore the forest with a guided tour and spot other wildlife like bush pigs and birds
  • Visit the Jozani Chwaka Bay for a relaxing afternoon on the beach

Mnemba Atoll

  • A beautiful coral reef atoll, perfect for snorkeling or diving
  • Take a day trip from Nungwi to explore the atoll’s stunning marine life
  • Spot dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish in their natural habitat

Activities

Snorkeling and Diving

  • Explore Zanzibar’s incredible marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and colorful fish
  • Take a guided tour or rent equipment to discover the underwater world

Water Sports

  • Enjoy kite surfing, paddle boarding, or kayaking in the calm waters of Nungwi or Kendwa
  • Rent equipment or take lessons from experienced instructors

Spice Tours

  • Visit local spice farms to learn about the production of cloves, cinnamon, and other spices
  • Take a guided tour to discover the history and significance of spices in Zanzibar’s economy

Sunset Cruises

  • Relax on a luxurious boat while watching the stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean
  • Enjoy refreshments and snacks while taking in the breathtaking views

Where to Eat

The Africa House Restaurant (Stone Town)

  • Savor local dishes like urojo soup, madafu rice, and grilled fish
  • Enjoy the restaurant’s historic atmosphere and beautiful views of the ocean

The Tea House Restaurant (Stone Town)

  • Treat yourself to a variety of teas and delicious cakes and pastries
  • Relax in the peaceful courtyard surrounded by lush greenery

The Fisherman’s Village Restaurant (Nungwi)

  • Feast on fresh seafood dishes like lobster, prawns, and fish skewers
  • Enjoy the restaurant’s beachfront location and stunning sunset views

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Paprika Place in Stone Town: a cozy guesthouse with dorms and private rooms
  • Nungwi Village Beach Resort: a simple but comfortable resort with bungalows and apartments

Mid-Range Options

  • 236 Harbour View Hotel in Stone Town: a stylish hotel with harbor views and modern amenities
  • Essque Zalu Zanzibar in Nungwi: a luxurious resort with villas, pools, and stunning ocean views

Luxury Options

  • The Africa House Hotel in Stone Town: a historic hotel with elegant rooms and suites
  • Matemwe Lodge: a secluded lodge with luxury bungalows and breathtaking ocean views

Things to Know

Culture and Etiquette

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or interacting with locals
  • Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering homes or religious buildings

Health and Safety

  • Take necessary precautions against malaria and sunburn
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets and ports

Currency and Language

  • The Tanzanian shilling is the local currency, although USD are widely accepted
  • Swahili (Kiswahili) is the official language, but English is widely spoken

Transportation

By Air

  • Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) receives flights from Dar es Salaam and other international destinations
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your accommodation

By Ferry

  • Take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar, with options ranging from economy to luxury classes
  • The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the type of ferry and sea conditions

On Island

  • Hire a car or motorbike to explore the island at your own pace
  • Use taxi services or walk/bike for shorter distances

Tips

Packing Essentials

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats
  • Insect repellent, light clothing, and comfortable shoes
  • Power adapter for charging electronic devices

Responsible Traveling

  • Respect local environments and wildlife
  • Support local communities by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators

Staying Safe

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • Keep valuables secure and make copies of important documents

Other Interesting Facts

History

  • Zanzibar has a rich history as a major trading center and slave hub
  • The island was a British protectorate from 1890 to 1963, gaining independence in 1964

Cuisine

  • Zanzibari cuisine is a fusion of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and African flavors
  • Try local dishes like urojo soup, madafu rice, and grilled fish with coconut milk

Music and Dance

  • Zanzibar is known for its vibrant music and dance scene, including traditional taarab and ngoma styles
  • Attend a live performance or take a dance class to experience the island’s rhythmic energy

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Zanzibar, Tanzania. From exploring historic Stone Town to relaxing on pristine beaches, this enchanting archipelago has something for every kind of traveler.