Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island Information
Zanzibar, officially known as Unguja, is a tropical island off the coast of Tanzania famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, spice history, and vibrant Swahili culture. It’s a top holiday destination for travelers looking to unwind after a safari or dive into rich cultural experiences.

Location
The island lies in the Indian Ocean about 40 km from mainland Tanzania. It’s easily reached via ferry from Dar es Salaam or through flights to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Stone Town.

What Zanzibar Is Known For
• Powdery beaches and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, diving, snorkeling
• Historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Spice farms and plantations
• Luxury beach resorts and boutique hotels
• Warm Swahili hospitality and fresh seafood

Top Places to Visit
• Stone Town for history, narrow alleys and old Arabic architecture
• Nungwi and Kendwa for relaxed, sunset-heavy beach life
• Paje and Jambiani for kitesurfing and beach adventures
• Prison Island for giant tortoises
• Spice plantations for tours and tastings
• Mnemba Atoll for world-class snorkeling and diving

Activities
• Snorkeling, diving, dolphin tours
• Sandbank picnics
• Spice tours
• Cultural tours in Stone Town
• Kitesurfing on the East Coast
• Sunset dhow cruises

Climate
Zanzibar enjoys warm tropical weather year-round, with temperatures typically between 25°C and 32°C. The best time to visit is during the dry months: June to October and December to February.

Accommodation
The island offers everything from luxury beach resorts to mid-range hotels and charming guesthouses. Popular beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe, Paje and Jambiani.