Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, made up mainly of two islands: Unguja (often called Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, along with several smaller islets. It’s located in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa. The islands have a long history as a trading hub, especially for spices, ivory, and slaves, which gave Zanzibar the nickname “Spice Islands.”
Culturally, Zanzibar reflects a mix of African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Stone Town, the historic centre of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its narrow streets, carved wooden doors, and vibrant markets.
Today, Zanzibar is famous for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, making it a popular tourist destination while also maintaining its role in fishing and agriculture. I don’t like visiting touristy places which don’t have much more to offer than the beach, but after travelling for nearly 3 months in mainland Tanzania, I decided to give Zanzibar a chance.
The history of Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s history stretches back thousands of years, shaped by its strategic position in the Indian Ocean. Long before modern states existed, sailors and merchants from Arabia, Persia, India, and the African mainland used the islands as a stopover for trade. Over time, Zanzibar became a melting pot where cultures blended through commerce, migration, and settlement.
By the Middle Ages, Arab traders had established settlements, and Islam became deeply rooted in local society. Persian influences also appeared, particularly through the Shirazi people, who are said to have migrated and integrated with the Swahili-speaking communities. Zanzibar’s language, Swahili, grew out of this fusion of African Bantu roots and Arabic influences.
In the 17th century, Zanzibar came under the control of Oman. This period marked the height of the islands’ role in the global spice and slave trade. Clove plantations were introduced, worked largely by enslaved labourers, and Zanzibar became one of the main hubs for the trafficking of people from East Africa to the Middle East and beyond.
By the 19th century, Zanzibar was powerful enough to be the seat of the Omani Sultanate. In fact, the sultan moved his court from Muscat to Zanzibar in 1840, solidifying its importance. This made Stone Town flourish as a cosmopolitan centre of wealth and diplomacy, though it also meant the slave trade expanded drastically.
European colonial powers soon turned their eyes to Zanzibar. The British, in particular, exerted increasing influence, pressuring the sultanate to abolish slavery and eventually establishing the islands as a protectorate in the late 19th century. Zanzibar briefly became infamous in 1896 when it was the site of the world’s shortest war, lasting less than an hour, after the British bombarded the palace to enforce their authority.
After decades under colonial control, Zanzibar gained independence in 1963, only to undergo a revolution the following year. The uprising overthrew the sultanate, leading to major social upheaval. Soon after, Zanzibar merged with mainland Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964, though it retained a semi-autonomous government with its own president and legislature.
How to get there?
By Air
International flights: Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) receives direct flights from some major cities in Europe, the Middle East (like Doha, Dubai, Muscat), and East Africa. Many travelers also connect through Nairobi (Kenya), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), or Doha (Qatar).
From mainland Tanzania: Frequent domestic flights connect Zanzibar with Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro. The flight from Dar es Salaam is only about 20–30 minutes.
By Ferry
From Dar es Salaam: High-speed ferries run daily between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City (Stone Town). The trip usually takes around 2–2.5 hours. Ferries are operated by companies like Azam Marine. Cars can also be transported on cargo ferries, though most visitors leave vehicles on the mainland.
The best time to visit
Peak Season (June – October)
Clear skies, low humidity, and warm temperatures make this the ideal time for beach holidays and outdoor activities. It also lines up well with safari season in mainland Tanzania, so many travelers combine the two.
Prices for hotels and tours are higher, and popular spots can feel busier.
Shoulder Season (November and March)
Fewer crowds, lower rates, and still plenty of sunshine, though you might get the occasional shower. November is especially good for diving since visibility is strong.
Short rains can happen, but they’re usually quick and not disruptive.
Rainy Seasons (April–May and November)
Lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Accommodation prices are at their lowest.
Heavy rainfall in April and May can make beach time and travel tricky. Some hotels close for maintenance during this period.
Stone Town and the Islands
Old Dispensary
A striking four-story building on the waterfront, decorated with carved balconies and stained glass. It was originally intended as a charitable medical facility and it still acts as a hospital. The staff is very nice and they let you have a look inside and check out old photographies.
Old Customs House
Once the hub of Zanzibar’s bustling trade, especially during the clove and spice boom. Its central location near the harbour makes it a key landmark in Stone Town’s commercial past.
House of Wonders
Built by Sultan Barghash in 1883, it was the first building on the island with electricity and an elevator. As of March 2025, it was undergoing restoration, but it remains one of the most iconic landmarks of Zanzibar.
Old Fort
Constructed in the 17th century by the Omanis to defend against the Portuguese, it now serves as a cultural centre, with an amphitheatre, craft shops, and festival events.
Princess Salme Museum
Dedicated to Princess Salme, who fled Zanzibar in the 19th century to marry a German merchant. The museum focuses on her writings and the clash of cultures in her life story.
Freddie Mercury Museum
Located in his childhood home, this small but popular museum celebrates the early life of Queen’s legendary frontman. The ticket is way too expensive, taking in the considering the value that you can find inside (mostly pictures).
Museum of Natural History
Once a school, it became a museum highlighting the island’s wildlife and natural environment.
Peace Memorial Museum
Built during the British Protectorate in a striking domed style, it was once the main national museum of Zanzibar, with exhibits on history, archaeology, and ethnography.
Forster Gallery
A smaller cultural venue showcasing art and local heritage, often featuring exhibitions related to Zanzibar’s diverse communities.
Saint Joseph’s Cathedral
A late 19th-century Catholic church with twin spires, built by French missionaries. It remains one of the tallest and most photographed landmarks in Stone Town.
Christ Church Cathedral
It was built on the site of Zanzibar’s former slave market. The church itself is a major symbol of abolition, and the adjacent East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition gives a powerful account of this dark chapter.
East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition
Located within the old slave chambers, it documents the history of slavery in Zanzibar and the wider region. At first, you are joined by the guide and at the end of the tour, you get the time to read and explore information boards independently. Very interesting!
Hamamni Persian Baths
It was built in the late 19th century by Sultan Barghash for public bathing. Though no longer functioning, the vaulted rooms and underground passages are still impressive. In March 2025, it was closed for renovation, but workers let me in to have a look for a small fee.
Jaw’s Corner
A lively square in the heart of Stone Town where locals gather for coffee, discussions, and news.
Darajani Bazaar
Stone Town’s main market, bustling with stalls selling spices, seafood, meat, and fresh produce. It’s both a shopping destination and a cultural experience.
The Forodhani of Zanzibar
A waterfront park that transforms in the evenings into a famous open-air food market, known for seafood grills, Zanzibari pizzas, and sugarcane juice. It’s nice to walk around, but I don’t recommend eating there as it is a typical tourist trap with low-quality food but high prices.
Shangani Public Beach
A small but central beach near the Old Fort and House of Wonders, often busy with locals and children swimming at sunset.
Old Portuguese Arch
A remnant of the island’s Portuguese era, serving as a small but symbolic piece of Stone Town’s layered history.
High Court
A colonial-era structure still in use as part of Zanzibar’s judiciary.
Maruhubi Historical Sites
These ruins belonged to Sultan Barghash and were originally built as a palace and harem. Although damaged by fire, the gardens, aqueducts, and stone remnants still suggest its former splendour. There should be a guardian on site who can open it for you. Needless to say, you need to negotiate the entrance ticket price to avoid being ripped off. You don’t need more than 15 minutes to see everything.
Mtoni Palace Ruins
The remains of a grand 19th-century palace built for Sultan Said. Princess Salme, one of Zanzibar’s most famous historical figures, lived here in her youth. The site is mostly ruins now, and you can be shown around by a local guide hanging out there.
Kibweni Palace Museum
Located just outside Stone Town, this palace was once tied to the Omani sultans. Today, it functions as a small museum that gives insight into royal life and Zanzibar’s Omani heritage.
Kidichi Spice Farm
Zanzibar is famous as the “Spice Island,” and Kidichi is one of the best places to experience that legacy. Located inland, it is a traditional spice plantation where visitors can see, smell, and taste spices like cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Guided tours usually involve walking through the plantation while learning about the cultivation and uses of each plant.
Changu Island
Often nicknamed Prison Island, Changu lies just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Despite the name, it was never really used as a prison for locals. It was intended as a detention site for rebellious slaves and later became a quarantine station for yellow fever. Today, its main draw is the population of giant Aldabra tortoises, some over a century old. Other than that, there is nothing much to see or do.
Bawe Island
This small coral island sits west of Stone Town and is less crowded than other destinations. Bawe is popular with snorkelers and divers. There is a high-end resort in case you want to stay overnight in a luxurious place.
Nakupenda Sandbank
“Nakupenda” means I love you in Swahili, and this sandbank certainly lives up to the name. It’s a stretch of white sand that appears at low tide just off the coast of Stone Town. There are no permanent structures, just a strip of sand surrounded by turquoise water. Day trips usually combine snorkelling, sunbathing, and fresh seafood picnics prepared by guides.
Chumbe Island
Chumbe is a protected marine reserve and eco-lodge, about 12 kilometres from Stone Town. The island is best known for its coral reef sanctuary, which is considered one of the most pristine in the region. However, the high costs of visiting, even for a day trip, make it rather unworthy.
Chapwani Island
This private island is smaller and more low-key. Chapwani has mangroves, small beaches, and shallow reefs. It is also historically significant as it houses a small cemetery for British naval officers from the 19th century. The island is home to a boutique lodge, so you will have to stay there to explore the surroundings.
The North
Nungwi Beach
Nungwi Beach is one of Zanzibar’s most famous stretches of coastline. The sand is bright white and very fine, and the turquoise waters are calm, especially at low tide. Unlike many beaches on the east coast of Zanzibar, Nungwi is less affected by tidal changes, so you can swim almost any time of day. It’s also a lively area with beach bars, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for activities like snorkelling, diving, or sunset cruises in traditional dhow boats.
Zanzibar Aquarium
This small but unique aquarium isn’t the typical glass-tank kind. Instead, it’s a natural lagoon that serves as a conservation project for injured or endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about local marine life and even help release rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean at certain times of the year. I had mixed feelings while feeding the turtles, which seemed to be a tourist attraction. I hope they are really released back into the ocean, but the reality may not be that positive.
Royal Beach
Royal Beach is a quieter spot near Nungwi, often associated with the upscale resorts in the area. It has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the main beach and is great if you’re looking for less crowded sunbathing and a more polished, resort-style vibe. The waters here are also ideal for swimming, and the sunsets are spectacular.
Kendwa Beach
Located just a short drive or walk south of Nungwi. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar. It has the same white sands and clear water, but with an even more laid-back feel. Kendwa is especially famous for its full moon parties, which bring together travellers and locals for music and dancing under the stars. Outside of those nights, it’s calm and perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply lounging.
Dolphin Boat Trip
From Nungwi, you can join boat trips that take you offshore to spot dolphins, particularly near Mnemba Atoll or other parts of the northern coast. These trips often include snorkelling in coral-rich waters, where you can see colourful fish and maybe even sea turtles. While it’s thrilling to see dolphins in the wild, it’s good to choose operators that follow responsible practices and avoid chasing or stressing the animals. That is the difficult part. Tourists jump into the water while the boat driver sees the dolphins passing by.
Fukuchani Ruins & Cave
The ruins are remnants of a 16th-century Swahili settlement. Walking among the stone structures, you can see traces of old houses and walls, which give you a glimpse of how people lived centuries ago on Zanzibar’s northern coast.
The cave nearby is a natural limestone formation with a pool of clear water inside. Local communities have traditionally used it as a freshwater source, and today it remains a quiet spot for exploration. Unfortunately, the experience is ruined by the scammers who sell the way overpriced ‘tickets’ and try to rip off the tourists. Don’t let them fool you and either negotiate the price or just skip this place.
Muyuni Beach
Muyuni is a quiet, untouched stretch of beach facing Mnemba Island. It has some of the softest white sand and shallow, clear waters, making it excellent for swimming and snorkelling. Because it’s less developed than Nungwi or Kendwa, you won’t find as many crowds. Local fishermen still use the area, so you get a glimpse of everyday coastal life.
Mnemba Island
Just offshore, Mnemba is a small private island known for its marine reserve. While staying on the island itself is limited to luxury guests, day trips from nearby beaches let you enjoy the waters around it. Snorkelling and diving here are great, with colourful fish, and sometimes dolphins or turtles. The island is often used as a picture-perfect backdrop for boat excursions.
Matemwe
Matemwe village and beach are located opposite Mnemba. The village has a strong fishing culture, and you’ll often see locals mending nets or heading out to sea.
Kiwengwa Beach
Kiwengwa is sometimes called the “Little Italy” of Zanzibar because of its popularity with Italian visitors and resorts. The beach itself is long and wide, great for long walks, water sports, or just lounging. The tidal changes here are dramatic: at low tide, you can walk far out into the reef, while at high tide, the water comes right up to the beach.
Kiwengwa Caves
These caves are part of Zanzibar’s limestone landscape and have a history of being used by local communities for shelter and rituals. Today, they’re managed as a small heritage and eco-site. Inside, you’ll find impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a sense of mystery. Visiting requires going through the community-managed entrance and getting a guide.
Pongwe Beach
The bay is naturally protected by a reef, creating a lagoon-like setting with gentle waters. Unlike busier beaches, Pongwe has fewer resorts, so it keeps a quiet, intimate feel. Hammocks strung between palm trees and views of the turquoise sea make it one of Zanzibar’s best spots for pure relaxation.
Mangapwani Slave Chamber
This is a historical cave chamber linked to Zanzibar’s slave trade past. It was used in the 19th century to hold enslaved people before they were secretly shipped out after the trade was officially abolished. The guide there can explain the history, and you walk down into the cool, dim stone chamber. The surrounding area also has scenic coastal views.
Second World War Bunker
Nearby, you can also find a remnant from the Second World War, a bunker built during the conflict. Though simple in appearance, it’s an unusual sight in Zanzibar and a reminder of the island’s strategic importance in the Indian Ocean during that time. Unfortunately, it was inaccessible during my visit there in March 2025.
The South
Michamvi Sunset Beach
This spot on the southeastern peninsula is famous for its golden sunsets over Chwaka Bay. Unlike most of Zanzibar’s east coast, which faces sunrise, Michamvi gives you the rare chance to watch the sun sink directly into the ocean. The beach itself is calm and not too crowded, but as of March 2025, there was a lot of construction going on.
Pingwe Beach
Pingwe is best known as the home of “The Rock” restaurant, perched dramatically on a coral outcrop just offshore. The beach around it is quiet and picturesque, with shallow turquoise water at low tide and deeper blues at high tide. It’s a great stop for photos and for enjoying a long meal with a view.
Mwani Zanzibar
This is a seaweed farm and women’s cooperative near Paje. Visitors can learn how seaweed is harvested, dried, and turned into products like soaps, lotions, and natural cosmetics. It’s both an educational experience and a way to support local women-led businesses. Walking among the seaweed plots during low tide gives a unique glimpse of coastal livelihoods.
Paje Beach
Paje is one of Zanzibar’s liveliest beaches and a hub for kitesurfing. The steady winds and shallow lagoon make it a world-class spot for the sport. Beyond that, it’s a social place with beach bars, hostels, and guesthouses, drawing backpackers and younger travellers.
Kuza Cave
A hidden natural limestone cave near Jambiani with a pool of crystal-clear water inside. The cave is considered sacred by some local communities, and the cool water makes it a refreshing place to swim.
Maalum Cave
The cave itself is a limestone sinkhole filled with clear, turquoise water that has filtered naturally through the surrounding rock. It’s sheltered and shaded, so the water stays cool even on hot days. The cave is deep enough for swimming, not just wading, and the light filtering through the opening makes the water glow beautifully.
There is a restaurant and other infrastructure on site, and they also provide you with a towel, water shoes, swimming mask and snorkel. However, all of that comes ata price of 20 USD per person.
Jambiani Beach
This beach south of Paje has a quieter, more traditional feel. The fishing village atmosphere is strong here: you’ll see locals pushing their canoes or women collecting seaweed. The beach is long and beautiful, with fewer crowds.
Jambiani Sandbank
Just offshore, there’s a sandbank that appears at low tide. Boats can take you there, and it becomes a dreamy little island of white sand surrounded by turquoise sea.
Makunduchi Beach & Lighthouse
Further south, Makunduchi is a wide, tranquil beach with almost no development compared to the more touristy areas. The lighthouse stands at the tip of the southern coast and provides panoramic views but as of March 2025, there was no one site to let us climb to the top.
Mtende Beach
Mtende is one of Zanzibar’s most dramatic coastal landscapes. Huge cliffs frame a small beach, with Mtende Rock rising like a giant sculpture in the water. At low tide you can walk around and explore tidal pools, while at high tide, the beach disappears almost completely.
Kizimkazi Mkunguni
This fishing village on the southwest coast is famous for dolphin tours, though it also has historical significance. There’s an ancient mosque here, one of the oldest in East Africa, dating back many centuries.
Jozani Forest National Park
Located in central Zanzibar, this is the island’s only national park and home to the rare red colobus monkey, found only here. Walking trails lead you through mangrove boardwalks, mahogany trees, and forest. For me, it was the most overpriced and disappointing experience in Zanzibar. Yes, we saw red colobus, but it had nothing to do with a hike in the forest, as we were very close to the tarmac road and there were lots of farmlands.
Historic House of Bi Khole
This restored 19th-century house belonged to Princess Sayyida Bi Khole, a daughter of Sultan Said. Today, it’s a museum showcasing Zanzibari history, architecture, and Arab influences of that era. The house retains many original features and gives insight into how elite families lived at the time. As always, try to negotiate the price as the first ‘offer’ is way too optimistic.
Safari Blue
One of Zanzibar’s most popular day excursions, based around sailing on a traditional dhow boat along the Menai Bay Conservation Area on the south-west coast. The trip usually combines several highlights: snorkelling over coral reefs, spotting dolphins, swimming in a natural lagoon,and relaxing on a sandbank that appears with the tide. The day also includes a seafood barbecue served under the shade of mangroves or palm trees on Kwale Island. I went with the Original Safari Blue Company, and everything was excellent.
Kwale Island
Kwale is one of the central islands visited on Safari Blue. It’s larger and more lively than Niamembe, with shady baobab trees and sheltered spots for setting up lunch. Many tours use Kwale as the main base, where seafood feasts are prepared and served. The beach is wide and sandy, and at low tide, you can explore tidal pools. The island’s giant ancient baobab tree is a favourite stop for photos and climbing.
Niamembe Island
Niamembe is a small, private-feeling island near the Safari Blue route. It has the kind of unspoiled, soft white sand and calm water that look straight out of a postcard. Few people visit, so it feels like a deserted island when you land. Because of its isolation, the snorkelling around its reefs is excellent, with colourful fish and corals thriving in the clear shallows. Getting there is more expensive as it usually requires a customised dhow trip.
