Best for
Beach, honeymoons, culture and marine experiences
Best time
Jun – Oct and Dec – Feb (dry, sunny conditions)
Location
Indian Ocean archipelago off the Tanzanian coast
Languages
Swahili, English
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Zanzibar is where culture, coastline and slow living meet — coral waters, the alleys of Stone Town and the scent of spice in the air.
Zanzibar is more than a beach add-on. Wander the alleys of Stone Town, sail a dhow into the sunset, dive reefs alive with colour, and eat food that carries the island's whole trading history in it.
Whether you want romance, adventure, culture or stillness, the island is the natural slow ending to a safari — and it works just as well as a journey of its own.
UNESCO-listed and endlessly walkable — markets, architecture and Swahili history.
Swim with turtles, dive vibrant reefs or sail the Indian Ocean by traditional dhow.
Pair Tanzania's wild interior with island time for the ultimate dual journey.
“Zanzibar isn't one thing — it's how you want to feel. We help you choose the right coast, the right stay and the right experiences so the whole thing feels effortless.”
Our View
Out2Safari Safari Expert
Where to stay
UNESCO heritage, spice markets and Swahili culture come alive.
Vibrant beaches, sunset views and boutique luxury stays.
Kite surfing, powder-white sand and laid-back island energy.
Peaceful beaches, tidal pools and the art of doing nothing.
Exclusive islands, world-class diving and complete privacy.
Untouched, authentic and wonderfully undeveloped.
Dhow sundowner cruise
Sail into the sunset on a traditional dhow.
Snorkelling & Diving
Coral reefs, marine parks and warm, clear water.
Dolphin watching
Early mornings off the south coast.
Kite surfing
Steady trade winds and shallow lagoons on the east coast.
Deep-sea fishing
Blue water off the archipelago's channels.
Spa & Stillness
Treatments, yoga and doing very little at all.
Where to stay
A few of the properties we book here. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match the stay to the journey.
The private island off the north-east coast — ten bandas, a reef on the doorstep and nobody else on it.
Design-led cottages and villas in gardens above Kendwa beach, with a strong sustainability record.
Swahili-Arabic architecture and all-suite villas on the quieter south-east coast, with a full spa.
A restored seafront mansion on the edge of Stone Town, for travellers who want the town rather than a beach resort.
Zanzibar is a one-hour flight from Tanzania's northern circuit and works best as the last leg of a journey rather than the first.
Sunny, dry and breezy — the island at its best.
Brief afternoon showers, quieter beaches.
Hot, clear and ideal for diving.
The wettest stretch; many properties close or discount.
Before you go
Weather & Climate
Tropical and warm year-round, typically 25–32°C. Sea breezes take the edge off the heat, and humidity is highest through the long rains.
Visas
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so Tanzanian visa rules apply. Your travel concierge will guide you through the application process.
Vaccinations
Yellow fever and malaria precautions are recommended. Consult your provider well in advance, as some preventative treatments need to begin before you travel.
Family friendliness
Excellent for families — shallow lagoons, short transfers and resorts geared to children of all ages.
Dress & Customs
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Beachwear is fine at the resorts; covering shoulders and knees is appreciated in Stone Town and the villages.
Tell us what excites you
Every journey we design is built around the things you actually want to do. Tell us what those are and we'll shape the rest.