This guide highlights the key things to know before your Zanzibar holiday, from arrival and local customs to must-see sights and signature experiences, helping you arrive informed and ready to explore the island.
Zanzibar is an Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, renowned for its white-sand beaches, blue waters and rich Swahili heritage. The main island, Unguja, offers a distinctive blend of historic towns, spice plantations, forests and beautiful coastline, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Arrival & First Touchpoint
Most visitors arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on Zanzibar Island, where your pre-arranged transfer will take you to your chosen resort. Journey times vary depending on the location of your accommodation, and we’ll provide the relevant transfer instructions before you travel so you know what to expect on arrival.
Zanzibar can also be combined with a mainland Tanzania safari, creating a multi-centre holiday that brings together extraordinary wildlife encounters and a relaxing Indian Ocean escape.
Insider knowledge
Zanzibar’s international airport is small and easy to navigate. With your pre-arranged transfer ready and waiting, you can enjoy a smooth arrival and get straight on your way to your resort.
Getting Around Zanzibar
Road transfers are the main way to travel around Zanzibar Island, connecting Stone Town with the island’s beaches, spice farms and nature reserves. Organised excursions are a convenient way to explore several attractions, often combining cultural highlights with time in the island’s tropical interior.
Boat trips provide another way to experience Zanzibar, from visits to Prison Island to snorkelling excursions and traditional dhow sailing experiences.
Key Areas of Zanzibar – What They Are & Why They Matter
Stone Town: The island’s historic heart, known for its winding streets, carved wooden doors, bustling markets and distinctive Swahili architecture. It is the best place to discover Zanzibar’s cultural heritage.
The North Coast: Nungwi and Kendwa are popular for their beautiful beaches, sunset views and opportunities for swimming and boat excursions.
The East Coast: Paje and Jambiani offer long sandy beaches, a laid-back atmosphere and opportunities for kitesurfing. Tidal changes are more noticeable here, influencing when and where swimming is possible.
Signature Zanzibar Experiences Every Visitor Should Try
Insider Tip
Allow time beyond the beach to discover Zanzibar’s history, wildlife and local culture. Check tide conditions before planning coastal activities, and book excursions with reputable operators.
1. Explore Historic Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is a maze of narrow alleyways, historic buildings and intricately carved doors. Explore the Old Fort, browse local markets and discover the island’s fascinating blend of African, Arab and Indian Ocean influences.
2. Discover the Spice Island
A guided spice farm visit reveals why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island. Discover aromatic cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla, learn how they are cultivated and experience the flavours that have shaped the island’s culinary traditions.
3. Encounter Wildlife at Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest is one of Zanzibar’s most important natural attractions and is home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Guided walks introduce visitors to the island’s indigenous wildlife, tropical vegetation and mangrove habitats.
4. Visit Prison Island
A short boat trip from Stone Town takes you to Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island. Discover its history, encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy views across the surrounding Indian Ocean.
5. Enjoy Zanzibar’s Beaches and Turquoise Waters
From the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa to the wide sandy shores of Paje and Jambiani, Zanzibar offers a coastline for every pace. Snorkelling, diving and traditional dhow sailing provide further opportunities to experience the island’s marine environment, depending on location and conditions.
Zanzibari Culture & Way of Life
A rich Swahili heritage: Zanzibar’s culture reflects centuries of Indian Ocean trade, with African, Arab and Indian influences evident in its architecture, food and traditions.
Respect local customs: Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach and within resorts, but modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting Stone Town, villages and other public places.
Language and communication: Swahili is the principal local language, while English is widely used in tourist areas. Learning a few simple Swahili greetings can add a personal touch to your visit.
Essential travel requirements: British passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania, and non-resident visitors must also obtain the government-mandated inbound travel insurance for Zanzibar. Check the latest UK government travel advice before departure, alongside your usual travel insurance requirements.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar can be visited throughout the year, but June to October is generally considered one of the best periods for a beach holiday, with drier weather and comfortable temperatures. January and February are also typically hot and relatively dry, while March to May brings the main rainy season. Shorter rains usually occur around November and December.
Visas and Entry Requirements
British citizens travelling to Zanzibar require a Tanzanian tourist visa. Applying for an e-visa before departure is recommended, although a single-entry tourist visa may also be available on arrival at designated entry points. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival and have at least one blank page.
Zanzibar also currently requires non-resident visitors to obtain government-mandated inbound travel insurance. This is separate from comprehensive personal travel insurance. Check the latest UK government travel advice for Tanzania before departure.
In Conclusion: Zanzibar – Things to Know Before You Go
Zanzibar offers far more than a beautiful beach escape. Discover the island’s history in Stone Town, experience its spice-growing heritage, explore tropical forests and enjoy the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. With a little planning, you can combine relaxation and discovery to experience the many sides of this captivating destination.
This guide highlights the key things to know before your Zanzibar holiday, from arrival and local customs to must-see sights and signature experiences, helping you arrive informed and ready to explore the island.
Zanzibar is an Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, renowned for its white-sand beaches, blue waters and rich Swahili heritage. The main island, Unguja, offers a distinctive blend of historic towns, spice plantations, forests and beautiful coastline, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Arrival & First Touchpoint
Most visitors arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on Zanzibar Island, where your pre-arranged transfer will take you to your chosen resort. Journey times vary depending on the location of your accommodation, and we’ll provide the relevant transfer instructions before you travel so you know what to expect on arrival.
Zanzibar can also be combined with a mainland Tanzania safari, creating a multi-centre holiday that brings together extraordinary wildlife encounters and a relaxing Indian Ocean escape.
Insider knowledge
Zanzibar’s international airport is small and easy to navigate. With your pre-arranged transfer ready and waiting, you can enjoy a smooth arrival and get straight on your way to your resort.
Getting Around Zanzibar
Road transfers are the main way to travel around Zanzibar Island, connecting Stone Town with the island’s beaches, spice farms and nature reserves. Organised excursions are a convenient way to explore several attractions, often combining cultural highlights with time in the island’s tropical interior.
Boat trips provide another way to experience Zanzibar, from visits to Prison Island to snorkelling excursions and traditional dhow sailing experiences.
Key Areas of Zanzibar – What They Are & Why They Matter
Stone Town: The island’s historic heart, known for its winding streets, carved wooden doors, bustling markets and distinctive Swahili architecture. It is the best place to discover Zanzibar’s cultural heritage.
The North Coast: Nungwi and Kendwa are popular for their beautiful beaches, sunset views and opportunities for swimming and boat excursions.
The East Coast: Paje and Jambiani offer long sandy beaches, a laid-back atmosphere and opportunities for kitesurfing. Tidal changes are more noticeable here, influencing when and where swimming is possible.
Signature Zanzibar Experiences Every Visitor Should Try
Insider Tip
Allow time beyond the beach to discover Zanzibar’s history, wildlife and local culture. Check tide conditions before planning coastal activities, and book excursions with reputable operators.
1. Explore Historic Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is a maze of narrow alleyways, historic buildings and intricately carved doors. Explore the Old Fort, browse local markets and discover the island’s fascinating blend of African, Arab and Indian Ocean influences.
2. Discover the Spice Island
A guided spice farm visit reveals why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island. Discover aromatic cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla, learn how they are cultivated and experience the flavours that have shaped the island’s culinary traditions.
3. Encounter Wildlife at Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest is one of Zanzibar’s most important natural attractions and is home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Guided walks introduce visitors to the island’s indigenous wildlife, tropical vegetation and mangrove habitats.
4. Visit Prison Island
A short boat trip from Stone Town takes you to Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island. Discover its history, encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy views across the surrounding Indian Ocean.
5. Enjoy Zanzibar’s Beaches and Turquoise Waters
From the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa to the wide sandy shores of Paje and Jambiani, Zanzibar offers a coastline for every pace. Snorkelling, diving and traditional dhow sailing provide further opportunities to experience the island’s marine environment, depending on location and conditions.
Zanzibari Culture & Way of Life
A rich Swahili heritage: Zanzibar’s culture reflects centuries of Indian Ocean trade, with African, Arab and Indian influences evident in its architecture, food and traditions.
Respect local customs: Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach and within resorts, but modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting Stone Town, villages and other public places.
Language and communication: Swahili is the principal local language, while English is widely used in tourist areas. Learning a few simple Swahili greetings can add a personal touch to your visit.
Essential travel requirements: British passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania, and non-resident visitors must also obtain the government-mandated inbound travel insurance for Zanzibar. Check the latest UK government travel advice before departure, alongside your usual travel insurance requirements.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar can be visited throughout the year, but June to October is generally considered one of the best periods for a beach holiday, with drier weather and comfortable temperatures. January and February are also typically hot and relatively dry, while March to May brings the main rainy season. Shorter rains usually occur around November and December.
Visas and Entry Requirements
British citizens travelling to Zanzibar require a Tanzanian tourist visa. Applying for an e-visa before departure is recommended, although a single-entry tourist visa may also be available on arrival at designated entry points. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival and have at least one blank page.
Zanzibar also currently requires non-resident visitors to obtain government-mandated inbound travel insurance. This is separate from comprehensive personal travel insurance. Check the latest UK government travel advice for Tanzania before departure.
In Conclusion: Zanzibar – Things to Know Before You Go
Zanzibar offers far more than a beautiful beach escape. Discover the island’s history in Stone Town, experience its spice-growing heritage, explore tropical forests and enjoy the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. With a little planning, you can combine relaxation and discovery to experience the many sides of this captivating destination.
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Your Journey into the wild
We’re excited to introduce two new destinations: Zanzibar and Tanzania, offering a different kind of experience, up close with wildlife and the great migration. Our latest brochure is packed with inspiration to help you discover these incredible destinations.
