Zanzibar Island Holidays

Why go to Zanzibar? The name alone is likely to conjure up images of spice markets, palm-fringed beaches and white-sailed dhows on a turquoise sea – and happily the reality doesn't disappoint. Lying only a short distance off the Tanzania coast but at the crossroads of Africa, the Middle East and Asia, Zanzibar has long been at the centre of the Indian Ocean experience in East Africa and a Zanzibar holiday is a sensory experience par excellence.

From spice tours and cobbled streets to the best luxury resorts in Zanzibar, here are some of the best reasons to add this destination to your bucket-list:

1. Explore Historic Stone Town

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living tapestry of history and culture. Its winding alleyways and vibrant markets pulse with life, offering an immersive journey through centuries of Arabic, Persian, and African influences. Every corner tells a story, from the grand palaces and ancient mosques to the intricate wooden doorways that hint at its past as a thriving trading hub.

Wandering through Stone Town’s bustling streets is a feast for the senses. The air is filled with the aromas of exotic spices, the chatter of market vendors, and the soft hum of Swahili music.

• Wander through the spice markets and sample local delicacies.
• Visit key landmarks such as the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and the Sultan's Palace.
• Experience the rich cultural blend in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Zanzibar travel tips: Join a guided walking tour for the best insights into the historical and cultural significance of this ancient city.

2. Powder-white Shores for the Ultimate Beachside Bliss

Zanzibar's beaches are among the most exquisite in East Africa, offering pristine, palm-fringed shores that invite endless relaxation. Stretching along the island's coastline, these white sand beaches are lapped by warm, azure waters, creating the perfect backdrop for sun-soaked days and serene escapes.

Whether you're looking to lounge beneath swaying palms or enjoy a romantic sunset stroll, Zanzibar's idyllic shores promise a tranquil paradise and is one of the many reasons why you should visit Zanzibar. For those seeking adventure, its crystal-clear waters offer a world of vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkelling, diving, or kitesurfing.

• Nungwi and Kendwa are among the most popular beaches for sunbathing and nightlife.
• Dive into crystal-clear waters at top diving sites like Mnemba Atoll.
• Relax on Paje Beach, a favourite for kitesurfing and beachfront dining.

Insider Tip: Zanzibar's beaches cater to everyone – from romantic honeymooners to families seeking kid-friendly resorts and safe-swimming shores. The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season from June to October.

3. Experience Some of the Finest Luxury Hotels & Resorts

Zanzibar is truly the epitome of luxury, showcasing world-class beachfront resorts and secluded boutique hotels that cater to both romantic escapes and unforgettable family holidays. Whether you’re seeking an intimate honeymoon hideaway or an indulgent family retreat, Zanzibar accommodation promises an unparalleled experience of opulence and relaxation.

For couples, private villas on Mnemba Island and lavish spa treatments offer the perfect setting for romance and tranquillity. Families can enjoy luxurious resorts with child-friendly amenities, safe-swimming beaches, and cultural excursions that engage all ages. We know the best parts of Zanzibar to stay in.

• Exclusive seclusion at Zanzibar's top private islands and boutique resorts.
• Luxurious family accommodations with all-inclusive packages, kids' clubs, and guided island tours.
• Ultimate beach-and-bush combination with easy access to Tanzania's top safari destinations.

4. Dive into an Underwater Wonderland

Zanzibar is a diver's paradise, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters teeming with diverse marine life. From colourful schools of tropical fish to graceful sea turtles and reef sharks, the underwater world here is a dream come true for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Popular dive sites like Mnemba Atoll and Leven Bank offer spectacular visibility and unique opportunities to explore coral gardens, wall dives, and shipwrecks.

The island's warm waters create ideal conditions year-round, making it an inviting destination for both beginners and seasoned divers. Many dive operators provide certified courses for beginners, while experienced divers can enjoy more challenging sites with deeper depths and thrilling currents. Whether you’re floating above shallow reefs or exploring the depths, Zanzibar's marine world is guaranteed to impress.

• Mnemba Atoll is renowned for its colourful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish.
• Pemba Island is one of the world's top diving locations with exceptional visibility.
• Mafia Island offers a rare opportunity to swim with whale sharks from October to April.

Know When to Go: Zanzibar's diving season is year-round, but the best conditions are between June and October.

5. Combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania Safari

Easily accessible via a short flight from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar is the ideal complement to Tanzania's top safari destinations. After an exhilarating adventure in the Serengeti or a visit to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, a Zanzibar vacation offers a serene escape where you can unwind on pristine beaches and soak in the island's tranquil atmosphere. Its proximity and direct connections make the transition from the wild savannah to the peaceful coastline seamless and hassle-free.

• Fly from a safari camp to Zanzibar in under two hours.
• Transition from game drives to beach cocktails on the same day.
• Enjoy both thrilling wildlife experiences and serene coastal escapes.

Ready to Plan Your Zanzibar Vacation?

Our Africa Safari Experts are ready to help you design the perfect holiday in Zanzibar, combining the island's rich history, stunning beaches, and unique experiences with a tailor-made itinerary: