DestinationsBeach destination
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a spice island off Tanzania's coast, a natural beach extension after a safari.
- Recommended nights
- 2 nights
- Best months
- Jan, Feb, Jun +5
- Airstrip
- Fly-in possible
About
About Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is a spice island off Tanzania's coast, a natural beach extension after a safari. Stays at the lodges include the Zanzibar Infrastructure Tax in the room rate, so the only on-island spend is what guests choose: snorkelling, dhow trips, Stone Town walks, and rest by the ocean.
When to go
Best time to visit Zanzibar.
- January: best
- February: best
- March: not a best month
- April: not a best month
- May: not a best month
- June: best
- July: best
- August: best
- September: best
- October: best
- November: not a best month
- December: best
Zanzibar is a year round beach destination with two main dry windows. June to October is cooler and dry, the classic time to pair the island with a Northern Circuit safari. December to February is hot, sunny and popular over the festive period.
The long rains of April and May are the quietest and greenest months, with the lowest rates and occasional heavy downpours, while November brings shorter, lighter rains. Whichever coast you choose, the island works as a natural, restful close to a safari.
Gallery
A closer look.
On the map
Zanzibar and its neighbours.
6.163° S, 39.190° E
Government fees
Fees at Zanzibar.
Pass-through to the Tanzanian government, paid directly to the authority on top of accommodation. We always itemise every line on our quotes.
| Fee | Amount | Peak | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zanzibar Infrastructure Tax | $5.00 | No peak rate | Per person / night |
What to do here
Experiences in Zanzibar.
The journeys we plan around this destination. Each one covers the best months, what it costs, and how to build it into a trip.
Luxury Honeymoon
A private-vehicle safari on the northern circuit followed by a quiet stretch of Zanzibar coast, paced for two.
Explore : Luxury HoneymoonFamily Adventure
A safari paced for children: shorter drives, family tents, guides who love questions, and a Zanzibar beach to finish.
Explore : Family Adventure
Common questions
Questions, answered.
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
June to October is cool and dry and pairs perfectly with a dry season safari, while December to February is hot and sunny. April and May bring the long rains and the lowest rates. There is good beach weather in most months.
How do I combine Zanzibar with a safari?
A short domestic flight connects the Serengeti and Arusha directly to Zanzibar, so the island makes a natural end to a safari. Our trip builder handles the routing, timing and lodges across both in one journey.
How many days should I spend in Zanzibar?
Three to four nights is the usual choice after a safari, enough to unwind, explore Stone Town and enjoy the beach. Divers and honeymooners often stay longer.
Which part of Zanzibar should I choose?
The north around Nungwi and Kendwa has the least tidal variation and lively beaches; the east coast at Paje and Jambiani is calmer and better for kitesurfing; Stone Town is the historic, cultural heart. We match the area to how you want the days to feel.
Is there anything to know about dress and customs in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a Muslim island, so away from the beach and resorts it is respectful to cover shoulders and knees, especially in Stone Town and villages. Beachwear is fine on the resort beaches.
Make it part of your trip
Plan a safari that includes Zanzibar.
Tell us how long you have and what you most want to see. We'll build a custom itinerary around Zanzibar with transparent pricing throughout.
Build & price your trip