The most practical travel guide to Zanzibar

The most practical travel guide to Zanzibar

Do you want to relax and just sunbathe on some of the best beaches in the world? In this travel guide to Zanzibar you will find some of the most stunning places to visit in Zanzibar and some of the most beautiful beaches.

We've rounded up our best travel tips in Tanzania, to make sure you experience this adventure at its best. In this guide, you'll find the best places to visit, some great places to eat, sleep, and more. You will see some truly amazing places on this beautiful island that you will never want to leave.

What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The perfect time to visit the best beaches in Zanzibar, Tanzania is during the months of June to October as they are the cool dry months. Also, another time period when people visit Zanzibar is when it is hot and dry from December to February. The good thing about Zanzibar beaches is that even if you go out of season, you can still enjoy yourself.

Is Zanzibar safe?

The short answer is yes. And while most visits to Tanzania are uneventful, violence and armed crime are on the rise.

Pay particular attention to places frequented by tourists and expats. There is a high crime rate in Dar es Salaam; at Ubungo Bus Station, Masaki Peninsula / Oysterbay area, especially at Coco Beach and along Toure Drive.

How much do I need per day in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is not a cheap destination. Although you can have a nice time in very good hotels for BGN 110 per day with all expenses included.

Can you drink the water in Zanzibar?

No. Avoid drinking tap water and eating any fruits or vegetables that may have been washed with water. You should always drink bottled water or buy a water filter bottle for your own safety.

Quick tips for traveling in Zanzibar

• Take time to explore the food and culture of Stone Town.
• Get a snorkel mask. You'll want to eat it almost anywhere.
• Do not touch coral or fish when snorkeling.
• Spices and coffee are a big deal. Take a tour to learn more.
• Zanzibar is a Muslim island, so dress appropriately.
• Beware of tour scams and only go to major locations.
• Zanzibar Island is generally safe, but with extra precautions and common sense it will be much safer.
• Getting around the island by taxi is the easiest, but most expensive. Don't be afraid to negotiate hard on prices.
• When you are at the beach, never leave your belongings unattended.
• Take a dhow tour. Amazing experience.

Where is Zanzibar?: This small island may not be easy to find on the map. Zanzibar is one of the islands in the Indian Ocean. It is located on the Swahili coast, adjacent to Tanzania, which is the country.

Visa: You can get a visa on arrival in Tanzania, which means you don't need to apply for it in advance. Although you can if you want. Once you arrive at the airport, simply head to the immigration office with 50$ and 2 photo IDs.

Language: The main language in Zanzibar is Swahili, but English is their second language, so most people can speak English there.

Currency: The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling. There are ATMs in Stone Town, so we would recommend that you withdraw enough cash for your entire stay on Zanzibar Island, otherwise you may run out of cash.

Safety: Residential burglaries are on the rise in Zanzibar and Arusha in 2018. In any case, check with your travel company about current safety in Tanzania.

Also, there is malaria in Zanzibar and some other diseases that you should check in advance. Regarding vaccinations, you must have the yellow fever vaccine to enter the country and have your vaccination log with you.

Since this is a dengue area, we recommend you have a mosquito repellent with a high concentration of DEET. It is important to have good travel insurance when traveling to these countries so that all travel essentials are covered.

What to pack: Zanzibar is a very hot and humid place. The average temperature is around 29 degrees and gets a little colder at night. Try to pack light and breathable clothes.

How to get around: There are two different ways to get around Zanzibar, one is by taxi and the other option is public transport

Taxis: Most taxis don't have a meter, so you'll have to negotiate the price with the driver (try it. For safety reasons, make sure the taxi you're traveling in has a license and that the license belongs to the driver.

Public transport: They are like small buses that are crowded during peak hours and do not have air conditioning. They are much cheaper than taxis, but probably less comfortable and don't have much room even for a backpack

You can also fly from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. Check your options on Skyscanner as they have some pretty good deals.

How much does a trip to Zanzibar cost?

In Zanzibar you will spend an average of $59 per day. Take into account that moving from one point to another in a taxi is not really cheap. This will also depend on your negotiation skills, but it won't be as cheap as a bus.

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How is the average price calculated?

This is the total amount of all expenses in Zanzibar divided by 14 days. Includes:

What type of accommodation? Mainly in budget hotels and some hostels

How do you get around? Most of the time by taxis.

What food is there? Local food. Do not eat raw vegetables.

What do you consider fun? Many tours like safari or swimming with dolphins.

Where to go in Zanzibar

The Stone City.

Stone Town is the first stop on the island of Zanzibar. Its shape resembles a labyrinth of narrow alleys with numerous small local shops, bazaars, small houses and mosques. A place rich in history and culture that has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is so much about Stone Town to explore, so immerse yourself in the culture and rich heritage of Zanzibar.

Pie.

Located on the east coast of Zanzibar and only an hour away from Stone Town, it has become a mecca for tourists. The long stretch of sand and turquoise waters are the perfect combination for anyone looking for water sports. It is an excellent spot for those who enjoy kitesurfing and is one of the largest beaches in Zanzibar.

Nungwi.

This is the cleanest place in Zanzibar. A small charming village in the north of Zanzibar only 3 km from Kendwa. The perfect place to relax and wander around the beach and local village.

Kendwa.

Is one of the largest beaches in Zanzibar. Kendwa is a popular destination for tourists because of its beauty and also because of its full moon parties. It has a rich offer of resorts and restaurants on the beach.

Zanzibar itinerary

Taking into account the arrival time from and to Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar, we would recommend spending at least 7 days in Zanzibar.

It's not a big island, so getting around by taxi is the best option and doesn't take long, although the roads there aren't in the best condition.

Our Zanzibar itinerary proposal will start in Stone Town. From here you can easily get around.

We would recommend a short trip to Prison Island. Not only is the island gorgeous, but you'll also have the chance to see giant tortoises.

Payet would then make a great second stop for water sports or some sightseeing in a slightly more relaxed setting.

From here you can take a taxi all the way north to Nungwi. This is true paradise, so enjoy here some of the most amazing and clean beaches of Zanzibar.

Finally, any trip to Zanzibar must pass by Kendwa. The beaches are extensive and idyllic, although there are more resorts and it is one of the most touristic areas.

This is a great 7-day Zanzibar travel itinerary to cover the highlights.

Things to do in Zanzibar

Lose yourself in Stone Town: If visiting the best beaches in Zanzibar isn't enough, Stone Town has a lot to offer. Put away your map and enjoy the ride. Stone Town is full of little fascinating details that will give you a hint of what has been going on over the years. Walk through the small streets and immerse yourself in the smell of spices. Talk to the locals and let them tell you some secrets about the place that only the locals know.

Stone Town and Prison Island Tour: See the most fascinating historical sites in Stone Town and Prison Island. Take a traditional Dhow boat under the name 'Mr. Bean' or another fun name to visit Prison Island. There, your guide will introduce you to the giant Agabra tortoises and, interesting fact, the largest tortoise is 192 years old! After visiting the prison, you will have time to relax by snorkeling. If you want to avoid the crowds, book your tour early in the morning.

Visit Jozani Forest: Head to Jozani Forest, a 3-hour expedition that will take you right into the heart of nature. Follow your guide who will show you the delicate ecosystem, its animals, the medicinal properties of its plants and explore the stunning scenery.

Cool off at Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches: Without a doubt, these are the top spots for lazy days. Nangwi is less crowded and more authentic in our opinion, although the beaches of Kendwa are like the paradise you've always dreamed of.

Kendwa - Go diving in Mnemba: This program is not for certified divers, but it will give you the thrilling underwater experience and give you the opportunity to explore the amazing underwater world.

Avoid swimming with dolphins. Locals chase them and stress them. So it's not really an activity we should support. It's also not safe.