Overview
Zanzibar stands out as a premier global destination for beach honeymooning — pristine white sand, coral reefs, and crystalline turquoise waters. The island sits just 15 miles off the Tanzanian coast, making it easy to pair with a mainland safari for a dual wildlife-and-beach trip. Beyond the shoreline, Zanzibar's Arabian, Persian, and Swahili history comes alive in Stone Town's coral-stone alleys and spice markets, and the wider archipelago extends to Pemba and Mafia Island for those wanting to go further off the beaten path.
Whether you're looking for abundant wildlife, rich cultural heritage, or simply a place to disconnect from the modern world, Zanzibar offers an unparalleled experience. It remains one of the few places on Earth where nature dictates the rhythm of life.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
June to October, December to February (peak dry season) — a year-round beach destination
Things to Do
Not to Miss
Tap any of these to see what it is and which trips go there.
A UNESCO World Heritage site and the old heart of the island — a maze of coral-stone alleys, carved doors, and the layered inheritance of Swahili, Arab, Indian and European trade. It is small enough to walk, and best done slowly, ending at the Forodhani night market.
When to go
Year-round. Mornings and late afternoons are coolest for walking.
The north-west corner of the island, and the one stretch of coast where the tide barely retreats — so you can swim at any hour, which is not true of most Zanzibar beaches. Kendwa is the quieter of the two; Nungwi has the dhow builders and the sunsets.
When to go
June to October and December to February.
Not on a set itinerary yet. Ask us to build it into your trip.
The south-east coast, where the tide goes a long way out and the lagoon turns into a shallow turquoise flat crossed by seaweed farmers. Paje is the kitesurfing center of the island; Jambiani just south of it is quieter and more village than resort.
When to go
June to September and December to February for the most reliable wind at Paje.
Not on a set itinerary yet. Ask us to build it into your trip.
A private island ringed by the best-protected reef in Zanzibar. You cannot land on the island itself without staying there, but the surrounding marine conservation area is open for snorkeling and diving, with green turtles and dolphins regularly seen.
When to go
Best visibility October to March.
Not on a set itinerary yet. Ask us to build it into your trip.
The last significant stand of indigenous forest on the island, and the only place in the world to see the Zanzibar red colobus — a monkey found nowhere else, and habituated enough here that you will get close. A raised boardwalk carries you through the mangrove section.
When to go
Year-round. Early morning is the most active for primates.
Twenty minutes by boat from Stone Town. Built as a prison that never held prisoners, used instead as a quarantine station, and now home to a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises — some of them well over a century old. Good snorkeling straight off the beach.
When to go
Year-round.
Not on a set itinerary yet. Ask us to build it into your trip.
Region Map & Logistics
All our Zanzibar itineraries start with an airport transfer from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) or ferry terminal transfers. We handle all local guides and boat hire.
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