Salt-white beaches, impossibly blue skies and gin-clear waters combine to make Zanzibar holidays the ultimate castaway paradise. Located in the Indian Ocean 50 miles off the coast of Tanzania and inhabited for centuries by seemingly every nation under the sun from Egyptians and Indians to Persians and Omanis, Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures. To get a feel for the rich tapestry of influences, take the time to stroll through the maze of the medina (old town) in Stone Town and admire the crumbling facades of the old Arab palaces and the heavy Indian studded copper doors. Visit Beit al Ajaib (House of Wonders) and learn about the history and culture of Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast. Next, head to the east coast where you’ll find the most stunning island beaches, perfect for a slow, sleepy afternoon on the powdery sand watching dhows drift by. The more actively inclined can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, kitesurfing, snorkelling and diving on the well-preserved reefs around the Zanzibar Archipelago and other Spice Islands. Combine your Zanzibar holiday with a safari in Tanzania to experience a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure in this unforgettable corner of the world.

Zanzibar holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Zanzibar Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Tanzania Testimonials

12 reviews
4.7 / 5
"We had a wonderful time! Our guide was amazing - he really did make sure we had the best experience and animal sightings. The Tarangire Park was especially brilliant, but we loved them all as they were all so different. We all thoroughly enjoyed the night safari - we saw lots and it was a great experience. The accommodation was great and the welcome we had at each camp was fabulous. We have had a really wonderful holiday. Thank you so much for another great trip. "
Helen - London
Published on 20th August 2024
"Excellent balancing of days spent on the right locations, matching our expectations in terms of quality and strategic location. Bakari the Concierge was very responsive and helped us organise a last minute day activity in Stone Town. Our safari driver/guides were simply outstanding and made a difference when spotting animals in the national parks. We loved our complimentary honeymoon dinner on the beach organised by you, thanks again!"
Valerio - London
Published on 18th April 2024
"We had the most amazing time in Tanzania, it really was so special, thank you so much for organising such an amazing trip. Jabali ridge was incredibly special. They went above and beyond to look after us and it definitely will remain one of my favourite places I’ve been. I really can’t say better things about the hotel and the staff. The chef was truly incredible and so considerate about all of our requests. Zanzibar was also beautiful, and the staff again were just impeccable. Hotel was stunning and it was all round an amazing week. Thank you so much for organising our sunset dhow, it was such a treat and was a highlight of the trip. Really appreciate all your help and thanks again for the best holiday. "
Cecilia - London
Published on 8th January 2024

Who are Zanzibar holidays best for?

When your days are spent cocooned in a hammock on the edge of one of Zanzibar’s soft sand beaches, it’s hard to imagine that anyone wouldn’t fall in love with this island paradise. Spend plenty of time relaxing and cool off with an underwater diving adventure into the Indian Ocean to see wrecks, reefs and sharks. Inject some culture into your trip with a walking tour of the Old Town. Admire the Swahili palaces that once belonged to princes, princesses and wealthy merchants and browse fragrant spice markets of Stone Town where you can try your hand at haggling for the best price.


Which experiences is Zanzibar best for?

Cradle of Swahili culture, the Zanzibar Archipelago offers a perfect blend of African and Eastern influences. Browse the fragrant markets to see the variety of colourful spices available and make sure to sample some of the culinary specialities to see how these flavours are used from spice cake flavoured with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and chocolate, to boko-boko (spiced skewered meat). Acquaint yourself with some of the island’s exotic wildlife with a trip to Jozani forest to see red colobus monkeys and aders' duikers, and an underwater adventure swimming with dolphins at high tide off the southern coast of Zanzibar. In fact, the waters around the Zanzibar Archipelago host a wealth of marine life, from colourful reef fish to turtles and whale sharks, and offer some fantastic snorkelling and diving.


The best ways to discover Zanzibar

On a trip to Zanzibar, make sure to combine the old city with the east coast. Don’t miss a chance to explore the ancient Stone Town on a guided tour and take the time to delve into the narrow back streets and dine in hidden out-of-the-way local spots. For a different view of the island, avoid the large hotels and opt for a more authentic and intimate place to stay in the north or south of the island.


Unique experiences on a trip to Zanzibar

After watching a stunning watercolour sunset, head to the old town and experience the wonderful bustle of a night market which is set up each evening. Wander along the stalls that stretch out in all directions and dine on grilled fish flavoured with a few key aromatic spices. Simple and affordable, the experience is a favourite among the local people who live on the island and it will give you the chance to experience Zanzibar like the residents do.

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