Zanzibar
White sand beaches, a UNESCO-listed old town, and the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar works as a standalone trip or as a beach extension after a Tanzania safari.
Stone Town. White sand. The Indian Ocean. A trip in its own right.
Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, dominated by Unguja island (referred to as Zanzibar island). Stone Town, the historic trading port at its heart, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a distinctive mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, and African architecture. The beaches on the north and east coasts are among the best on the African continent.
Most visitors combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari, spending 3 to 5 days on the island at the end of their trip. The road-accessible combo from Mikumi in the south is popular because it avoids an internal flight. You drive to Dar es Salaam and take the ferry or a short flight to the island. Northern circuit visitors typically fly from Arusha via Dar es Salaam.
What to do on Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is not a safari destination. It is a beach and culture destination that works well as a post-safari extension.
Zanzibar and Safari Combos
All packages include guide, vehicle, park fees, accommodation, and meals.
Packages for this circuit coming soon.
When to visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar has two rainy seasons. The long rains (April to May) can be heavy. The short rains (November) are usually brief.
Dry season
June to October and December to February
The dry seasons are the best time to visit. June to October is the cooler, drier period and aligns well with mainland safari season. December to February is hot and dry, popular with European visitors escaping winter. Seas are calm and visibility for snorkelling is excellent.
Green season
March to May (long rains) and November (short rains)
April and May bring heavy rainfall that can affect beach plans and sea conditions. November's short rains are usually brief and manageable. Prices drop significantly in the rainy season and the island is quieter.
Right for you if
- Stone Town is a genuinely interesting historic city, not just a transit point.
- The beaches on the north and east coasts are world-class.
- Zanzibar pairs naturally with the Southern circuit via road and ferry, avoiding internal flights.
- Spice tours, dhow cruises, and snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll are all worth doing.
- Accommodation quality across all price points is generally high.
Not right for you if
- Zanzibar is not a safari destination. There is no big game wildlife on the island.
- The north coast (Nungwi, Kendwa) is more developed and lively. If you want quiet, go to the east coast.
- April and May are genuinely rainy and are not suitable for a beach-focused trip.
- Combining Zanzibar with the Northern circuit requires a flight via Dar es Salaam, which adds time.