Zanzibar Archipelago Travel & Vacation Guide

Owing to its strategic position, Zanzibar was a long-dreaded slave market site throughout the 19th century. This Anglican cathedral, neighbouring the popular Darajani Market, was built in the late 19th century to mark the end of slavery on the island.

If you are looking to get the most of local vibe on the island, head to Darajani Market: there's nothing you will not find here — intense flavours, fresh seafood, colourful souvenirs, and even electronic gadgets. The main structure of the market was built back in 1904.

Although the public baths were in use until 1920 and are now open for a short visit only, it's worth stopping by to absorb some of the island's Middle Eastern heritage.

One of the most important landmark buildings in Stone Town, the House of Wonders had been closed due to disrepair, with large sections collapsing in 2012, 2015 and 2020. The former palace and museum used to showcase European and Omani influence not only in appearance, but also through the various exhibitions.

Zanzibar's only national park represents the island's diverse indigenous flora and fauna, such as the emblematic red colobus. The 50-square km reserve also includes Chwaka Bay, with its extensive seagrass beds and neighbours on the Zala reptile park as well as the Butterfly Centre. Join a tour at the entrance and learn about the mythical Zanzibar leopard.

Move off those well-stocked fish platters with some kitesurfing lessons: Zanzibar is a top-notch waveriders' paradise.

Islam is still the largest religion in Zanzibar, and there are over 50 mosques adorning the island's skyline. Located in the neighbourhood of the same name, this 15-century mosque is one of the oldest landmarks of the rich Arabic heritage.

A small museum with a photography collection paying homage to the most famous person ever born on this island, Farrokh Bulsara, better known as Freddie Mercury.

A laid-back beach bar priding itself on being the first location dedicated to electronic music in East Africa. They most probably prepare the best burgers you'll ever have on the beaches of Zanzibar! Additionally, regular visitors are given a discount on a kite-surfing course. Events are organised weekly.

One of the hottest nightspots of Nungwi with live entertainment every night of the week. Food is also served. Wednesday and Sunday nights are the most happening, when the party doesn't stop until 5am. No haggling — just dancing, drinks and a great time.

There's a lot more to Kendwa than an exclusive hotel-restaurant: it is rumoured to throw some of the best parties in entire Zanzibar. Their monthly Full Moon Parties with grills and acrobat shows are the most talked about events on the island!

Another tribute to the music legend born on this island, Mercury's bar plays live music every weekend, but also welcomes visitors with special cocktails and freshly caught fish throughout the whole week.

With its idyllic location, happy hours, and refreshing colourful cocktails, Rooftops is the number one place to watch the sunset in entire Nungwi.

At every sunset, the rooftop bar of the Africa House Hotel fills up with the loud chatter tourists, taking in the golden view over a refreshing cocktail and some crispy samosas.

"Tatu" is Swahili for three, referring the three floors this place has to entertain its visitors: a buzzing bar on the first, a pub with affordable food on the second, and a lounge on the third floor overlooking the sea.

Unique souvenirs made with great local care, from recycled materials and with a sense of social responsibility.

If you are looking to get the most of local vibe on the island, head to Darajani Market: there's nothing you will not find here — intense flavours, fresh seafood, colourful souvenirs, and even electronic gadgets. The main structure of the market was built back in 1904.

An internationally acclaimed company with a wide range of fabrics showcasing Zanzibar's rich Indian and African cultural heritage, made with the use of unique materials like oyster shells and palm leaves.

The largest souvenir shop in Zanzibar, this is where you can do all the souvenir shopping under one roof, across two floors.

This tiny shop has been providing locals and visitors with premium quality leather products like sandals and bags for several decades now.

A local craftsman company selling uniquely designed coin jewellery. Find the medal that best fits you, or show them the drawing of your favourite symbol! They also ship worldwide.

Souvenir stalls are found easily everywhere in Stone Town, but visit the Curio Shop if you are on the lookout for some really exciting finds. It's a huge shop with every souvenir and gift item imaginable: clothing, keychains, bags from local artists reflecting the artworks of Zanzibar, new and antique treasures.

The most popular time to travel to Zanzibar is during the dry season, from July to September. The archipelago's tropical climate is characterised by stable temperatures throughout the year, but the amount of rainfall varies considerably. The most precipitation is recorded between March and May, and to a lesser extent around November and December. Similar weather patterns prevail in mainland Tanzania. The temperatures usually stay between 21°C (70°F) and 33°C (91°F). It can be somewhat warmer under the influence of the seasonal northeast monsoon winds that blow day and night during the Zanzibar summer (November to March). The southwest monsoon winds blow in the Zanzibar winter (June to mid October) and bring slightly cooler temperatures.

Visitors from any country not listed below may enter Tanzania visa-free or get a visa on arrival (USD 50–100) for 90 days, provided they have a passport with at least six months of validity upon arrival. A pre-arranged visa is necessary for citizens of the following countries: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Chad, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iran, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Yemen. To find out what applies for your country, contact your embassy or visit the website below.

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is located 7 km south of Zanzibar City, and serves several international airlines including Qatar, Oman Air and Ethiopian Airlines. However, most visitors fly into Dar es Salaam Airport (DAR), and take the ferry to Zanzibar, which takes ca. 1 hour 40 minutes (Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries, link below). Domestic flights between DAR and ZNZ are also available, and take 15 minutes.

Dala dalas — the minibus share taxis used for public transportation — are a cheap but not the fastest way to travel on the island, and you may not be allowed to board if you have bulky luggage with you. Darajani Bus Station is found on Creek Road.

Eddie is a reliable taxi driver and tourist guide who works inn Paje area. He can pick you up from the airport and organised excursions in the whole island. Cars are comfortable, with AC and wifi.

Ibra is one of the leading taxi and tourism chauffeurs in Zanzibar. He's always on time, speaks great English and doesn't overcharge.

Contact any of the providers below for a lift from/to the airport, or within the island. It is recommended to agree on the price beforehand.

It is recommended to agree on the price beforehand.