Zanzibar

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice

What to do on Zanzibar.

We find that question very easy to answer: “A lot!” Zanzibar is a super versatile island where you can spend days getting lost in culture, nature and tropical relaxation. Think snorkeling in clear blue water, walking through ancient cities or spotting monkeys in the rainforest, it’s all possible here. In this blog we give you tips for the most beautiful sights and activities on Zanzibar and tell you how Paradise & Wilderness helps you get the most out of your safari.

Zanzibar in facts & figures

  • Population: About 1.3 million people live on Zanzibar.
  • Language: The official language on Zanzibar is Swahili, but English is also widely spoken.
  • Climate: The weather on Zanzibar is wonderful. There is a tropical climate with an average temperature between 25°C and 33°C. The sun shines here all year with the exception of the rainy season from March to early May.
  • Coastline: Zanzibar has more than 25 beaches, with powder-white sand and turquoise waters. The east and north are especially popular with travelers.
  • UNESCO World Heritage: Stone Town, the old town of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its unique blend of Arab, African and European influences.
  • Spices: Zanzibar is also called the “Spice Island” because of its production of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and pepper, among others.
  • Wildlife: Zanzibar is home to the rare red colobus monkey (Red Colobus monkey), an endemic species.
  • Distance from Tanzania (mainland): Only 25 to 50 km from the coast, reached by ferry (about 2 hours) or domestic flight (about 30 minutes to an hour and a half).
  • Safety: Zanzibar is a safe destination for tourists.

Want to learn more about Zanzibar? Discover everything you need to know about the island’s beaches, culture, activities, and best time to visit on our about Zanzibar page.

Practical information

Location: Zanzibar is officially an archipelago in the Indian Ocean and is part of Tanzania. The main island is Unguja, where most tourist activities take place. This island is usually referred to as Zanzibar.

Visa: You need a visa to enter Tanzania and Zanzibar. Read more about the visa application.

Best time to visit: This island is good to visit all year round. The green time is in November and from late March to early May, but even then you can still enjoy a wonderful stay.

Climate: Zanzibar has a tropical climate, so it is warm all year round.

Money matters: The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS), but U.S. dollars are often accepted. ATMs are available in Stone Town and other towns on the island.

Round trips

Browse our inspirational trips to Tanzania and/or Zanzibar, each tailorable to your wishes.

15 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

15 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

This 15-day complete tour is for you, if you want to combine all the highlights of Tanzania ...

11 Days | Wildlife & White Beaches

11 Days | Wildlife & White Beaches

A vacation that combines the national parks of Northern Tanzania with the vast white beaches...

11 Days | Wilderness & Paradise

11 Days | Wilderness & Paradise

Discover what Tanzania is known for: Wilderness and Paradise. Step off the plane and feel ho...

8 Days | Zanzibar & Lake Manyara

8 Days | Zanzibar & Lake Manyara

Join us on this fascinating 8-day tour that begins in the historic town of Stone Town, where...

8 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

8 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

Embark on an extraordinary 8-day tour that captures the essence of Tanzania’s diversit...

8 Days | Zanzibar & Serengeti NP

8 Days | Zanzibar & Serengeti NP

An 8-day tour to Zanzibar and the Serengeti National Park promises an unforgettable mix of c...

13 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

13 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

Are you ready to go on this impressive 13-day tour of Tanzania and Zanzibar. This is our fav...

10 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

10 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

During this 10-day dream vacation in Tanzania and Zanzibar, you’ll have unforgettable ...

7 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

7 Days | Zanzibar & Selous Game Reserve

Embark on an unforgettable tour that starts in Stone Town, continues in Selous Game Reserve ...

14 Days | The Best of the Northern Circuit & Zanzibar

14 Days | The Best of the Northern Circuit & Zanzibar

Northern Tanzania offers a unique safari experience in some of Africa’s finest game pa...