About Place
- "The Spice Island" for its rich history in spice trade.
- "Pristine beaches with turquoise waters."
- "A cultural melting pot blending African, Arab, Indian, and European influences."
Reasons to Visit
- Stunning Beaches and Marine Life : Zanzibar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Nungwi and Kendwa, with white sands and clear turquoise waters. The surrounding coral reefs make it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, offering a chance to see a diverse array of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
- Rich Cultural Heritage : The archipelago’s main island, Unguja, commonly referred to as Zanzibar, is home to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its winding alleys, bustling bazaars, and grand Arab houses, Stone Town reflects Zanzibar's unique history influenced by Arab, Persian, Indian, and European cultures. The blend of these cultures is evident in the island's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
- Spice Tours and Historical Significance : Zanzibar is famously known as the "Spice Island" due to its history as a major producer of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Visitors can tour spice plantations and learn about their cultivation. Zanzibar also holds a significant place in history as a former center for the East African slave trade, with landmarks like the Slave Market in Stone Town serving as poignant reminders of this dark chapter.
Visa
- United States/Canada/Europe : Visa required. Visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online for an e-visa.
- UK : Visa required. Available on arrival or via e-visa.
- Australia/New Zealand : Visa required. Obtainable on arrival or via e-visa.
- Asian Countries : Visa policies vary; many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or online.
- African Countries : Many African nationals, especially those from East Africa, can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Zanzibar :
- Round-trip flights from a major metro city (e.g., New York to Zanzibar): Approx. $800–$1,200 per person.
- Total cost for two: $1,600–$2,400.
- Hotel Costs :
- Average hotel cost: $100–$250 per night.
- 4 nights: $400–$1,000 for two people.
- Food Costs :
- Average meal cost: $10–$25 per person per meal.
- Total for 5 days: $150–$375 for two people.
- Activity Costs :
- Spice tour: $20 per person.
- Prison Island: $30 per person.
- Dhow cruise: $50 per person.
- Jozani Forest: $15 per person.
- Dolphin tour: $40 per person.
- Total: $310 for two people.
- Near Destination Travel Costs :
- Car rental for 5 days: Approx. $50–$70 per day.
- Total: $250–$350.
Estimated Total Cost : $2,710–$4,515 for two people.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Zanzibar Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Stone Town. After settling in, explore Stone Town’s winding alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets. Start with a visit to the House of Wonders and the Sultan's Palace Museum, followed by a stroll through Forodhani Gardens. Enjoy a seafood lunch at Lukmaan Restaurant. In the evening, take a sunset Dhow cruise to experience the breathtaking Zanzibari sunset. Dine at The Silk Route, known for its Indian Ocean cuisine, before spending a relaxed night at the hotel.
Day 2 : Spice Tour and Prison Island Begin with a morning spice tour, where you'll visit a local plantation to see, smell, and taste a variety of spices. Learn about the island's spice trade history and enjoy a fresh spice-infused meal for lunch at The Rock Restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, home to giant tortoises and a former prison site. Return to Stone Town and dine at Emerson on Hurumzi for an unforgettable rooftop dining experience with live Taarab music.
Day 3 : Beach Day at Nungwi Travel to the northern tip of Zanzibar to the village of Nungwi, famous for its stunning beaches. Spend the day relaxing on the white sands, swimming in the turquoise waters, and engaging in activities like snorkeling or diving. Have lunch at the beachfront Baraka Beach Bungalows. In the evening, take a stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunset, and savor a seafood dinner at The Jetty Restaurant. Overnight in a beach resort in Nungwi.
Day 4 : Jozani Forest and South Coast Exploration Head to Jozani Forest, home to the endemic red colobus monkeys and a unique mangrove ecosystem. Take a guided nature walk through the forest and mangroves. Afterward, continue to the southern coast for a visit to Kizimkazi village, where you can embark on a dolphin-watching tour. Enjoy a Swahili seafood lunch at Karamba Restaurant. In the evening, return to Stone Town and dine at the Zanzibar Serena Hotel, enjoying the views over the Indian Ocean.
Day 5 : Cultural Exploration and Departure Spend your final morning exploring more of Stone Town’s cultural sites, including the Anglican Cathedral and the Old Fort. Visit the bustling Darajani Market for some last-minute shopping and enjoy a light lunch at Zanzibar Coffee House. Transfer to the airport in the afternoon for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of Zanzibar.
Safety Tips
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Keep your belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded places.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in Stone Town.
- Use reputable tour operators for activities.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water.
- Be cautious when swimming; some beaches have strong currents.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
- Keep a copy of your passport and important documents.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies.
Flights
- Ethiopian Airlines : NYC to Zanzibar, 17 hours, approx. $900.
- Qatar Airways : London to Zanzibar, 13 hours, approx. $850.
- Turkish Airlines : Istanbul to Zanzibar, 10 hours, approx. $750.
Hotels
- Emerson on Hurumzi (Stone Town)
- Zanzibar Serena Hotel (Stone Town)
- Baraza Resort & Spa (South Coast)
- Zanzibar Beach Resort (Stone Town)
- The Z Hotel (Nungwi)
Contacts
- Indian Embassy, Dar es Salaam : +255 22 266 9047
- Police : 112
- Ambulance : 115
- Firefighters : 114
Country
Closet Airport
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Nearest City
- Dar es Salaam
- Tanzania
Heritage Sites
- Stone Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Airlines
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Kenya Airways
- Oman Air
Currency
- Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- US Dollar (widely accepted)
Languages Spoken
- Swahili
- English
Real Story
One of the most significant historical events in Zanzibar’s history is the abolition of the slave trade. Zanzibar was a major hub for the East African slave trade in the 19th century, with slaves being captured on the mainland and then transported to the island for sale to Arab traders. The Anglican Cathedral in Stone Town is built on the site of the former slave market, and the altar is said to be placed on the exact location of the whipping post where slaves were punished.
The trade was finally abolished in Zanzibar in 1873, following pressure from British missionaries and the British government. The British Consul, Sir John Kirk, played a pivotal role in negotiating the abolition with the Sultan of Zanzibar, Barghash bin Said. The abolition of the slave trade was a significant turning point in Zanzibar's history, marking the beginning of the end of the island's role as a major trading hub in the Indian Ocean.
Cuisine
Zanzibar’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of influences from Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe, making it unique in East Africa. One of the island's most famous dishes is Zanzibar Pilau, a spiced rice dish often served with meat or fish. Urojo soup, also known as Zanzibar Mix, is another popular dish, featuring a tangy broth with fritters, boiled potatoes, and chickpeas. Seafood is abundant, with grilled octopus and coconut fish curry being local favorites. The use of spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which are grown locally, gives Zanzibari cuisine its distinctive taste.
Culture and History
Zanzibar's culture is a rich tapestry woven from its unique history as a trading hub between Africa, the Middle East, India, and Europe. The island is predominantly Muslim, and its culture reflects a blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Traditional Swahili culture is evident in the language, food, music, and festivals of the island. One of the most distinctive aspects of Zanzibari culture is its music, especially Taarab, a genre that combines elements of Arab, Indian, and African music. Zanzibar is also known for its art, with the ornate carved wooden doors of Stone Town being a particularly famous example.
The island's history is marked by its role in the spice trade and as a major center for the East African slave trade. Stone Town's architecture, with its narrow streets, old mosques, and coral stone buildings, reflects the various cultural influences that have shaped the island over the centuries. The cuisine of Zanzibar is a reflection of its cultural melting pot, featuring a mix of spices, coconut, and seafood, along with influences from Indian, Persian, and Arab cuisines.