Zanzibar Holidays
A paradise in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar captivates visitors with its white-sand beaches, spice-scented air, and the enchanting atmosphere of historic Stone Town.
Holidays in Zanzibar
Welcome to Zanzibar – the shimmering jewel of the Indian Ocean and the legendary "Spice Island," where every breeze carries the scent of adventure. Here, swaying palms fringe sun-drenched beaches, and the echoes of centuries past weave through the winding alleys of Stone Town. From sipping spiced tea in a bustling market to diving beneath coral-kissed waves, Zanzibar is an escape into paradise. It’s a living tapestry of colour and culture: the rhythmic beat of taarab music, intricately carved doors steeped in history, and spice-laden farms bursting with cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar? Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but if you’re chasing golden days and balmy breezes, the best times to visit are from June to October and December to February. These dry seasons serve up plenty of sunshine, perfect for lazy beach days, snorkelling adventures, and exploring Stone Town’s cobbled streets. The mid-year window is popular for travellers pairing a Zanzibar getaway with a mainland Tanzania safari. November brings short, refreshing showers, while March to May sees the island soaked in its greenest glory under heavier tropical rains.
Where is the best place to stay in Zanzibar? Whether you're chasing sunsets, serenity, or spice-scented streets, Zanzibar has a place for you. Head north to Nungwi or Kendwa for lively beach bars, sweeping ocean views, and golden-hour dhow cruises that feel straight out of a postcard. Over on the east coast, the villages of Paje and Jambiani offer a laid-back, surf-ready vibe that’s a magnet for kitesurfers and free spirits. Want to wake up to the call of history? Stay in Stone Town, where boutique hotels are tucked inside storied buildings with carved balconies and secret courtyards. For pure indulgence, book a stay in one of Zanzibar’s exclusive resorts or private island hideaways, where luxury meets nature in perfect harmony.
Travel guide
Zanzibar is ideal for travellers seeking pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and a touch of tropical adventure.
- Best time to visit: Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb
- Average flight time: 4 Hours
- Most suited for: Beach holidays, honeymooners, cultural explorers
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
- Time Difference: +3 hours
Explore the Magic of Stone Town
Step into Stone Town and step back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of mystery and charm, where narrow lanes wind past crumbling coral-stone buildings, ornate balconies, and richly carved doors that whisper stories of sultans, sailors, and spice traders. Browse vibrant markets, inhale the heady aroma of fresh cardamom and clove, and uncover hidden gems like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. With every turn, Stone Town wraps you in its history, rhythm, and soul.
Relax on Nungwi Beach
Tucked on Zanzibar’s northern tip, Nungwi Beach is the definition of tropical perfection. Think powder-soft sand underfoot, turquoise tides lapping at your ankles, and palm trees swaying like they’re dancing to the island’s beat. By day, dive into dazzling coral gardens, take a sailing trip aboard a traditional dhow, or just sink into a hammock with a coconut in hand. Come evening, the beach transforms—fishermen bring in their catch, the sky bursts into colour, and beach bonfires glow under the stars.
Visit a Spice Farm
No visit to Zanzibar is complete without stepping into the island’s aromatic heart. Join a guided tour of a local spice farm, where nature’s flavours come alive in a heady symphony of scent and colour. Crush fresh cloves between your fingers, sip on cinnamon-infused tea, and see how vanilla vines curl through the greenery. It's a feast for the senses—and a fascinating glimpse into the island’s centuries-old connection to the global spice trade.
Food & Drink
Zanzibar’s culinary scene is a delicious blend of Swahili soul and Indian Ocean influences. Freshly grilled seafood, fragrant coconut curries, and dishes like octopus stew or pilau rice are local staples. Don’t miss a night at Forodhani Gardens, where sizzling street food stalls serve everything from Zanzibar pizza to sugarcane juice under the stars. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, sample sticky date desserts, tropical fruit platters, and cardamom-scented tea served with a smile. Eating in Zanzibar isn’t just about fuelling up—it’s a celebration of culture on a plate.
Zanzibar Weather
Average monthly temperature in Zanzibar (°C)
- Jan 28°C
- Feb 28°C
- Mar 28°C
- Apr 27°C
- May 26°C
- Jun 25°C
- Jul 25°C
- Aug 25°C
- Sep 26°C
- Oct 27°C
- Nov 27°C
- Dec 28°C
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