Zanzibar has emerged as one of the Indian Ocean's fastest-growing travel destinations, offering a unique blend of stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and affordable luxury that rivals more expensive destinations like the Maldives and Mauritius .
Where Is Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Located around 35 kilometres from the mainland city of Dar es Salaam, it is made up of two main islands—Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba—along with several smaller islands .
How to Get There
You can fly directly to Zanzibar from several European destinations using airlines like Air France, KLM, Edelweiss Air, and TUI fly. For indirect flights, passengers can connect through major global hubs using Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates .
The biggest recent development for UK holidaymakers is TUI's announcement that it will launch the first-ever direct flights from London Gatwick to Zanzibar as part of its winter 2027 programme .
Best Time to Visit
According to zanzibar.com, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons between June and October and from December to February. Zanzibar has two rainy seasons: the "long rains" (Masika) in April and May, and the "short rains" (Vuli) from November to December .
Visa and Insurance Requirements
Most European travellers do need a visa to visit Zanzibar, as it is part of Tanzania. They can apply for a Tanzania eVisa online before departure or, for many nationalities, obtain a single-entry tourist visa on arrival at major airports and ports. The standard tourist visa costs US$50 .
Important: All international visitors (except residents) must also purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation before arrival or on arrival, regardless of any other travel insurance they already hold. You may be refused entry if you do not have the correct insurance .
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from boutique guesthouses in historic Stone Town to ultra-luxury beachfront resorts along the island's east and north coasts .
According to Tripadvisor's traveller rankings, favourites include the all-inclusive Meliá Zanzibar, the upscale The Mora Zanzibar, and TUI BLUE Bahari Zanzibar. Other popular stays include Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar, Zuri Zanzibar, and The Residence Zanzibar, all known for their beachfront settings, spacious villas, extensive dining options, and Indian Ocean views .
Budget travellers are equally well catered for, with affordable boutique hotels and beach lodges making Zanzibar considerably cheaper than many other Indian Ocean destinations .
Top Things to See and Do
Stone Town
Stone Town, a UNESCO-listed historic centre, is famous for its carved wooden doors, bustling markets, and maze of narrow streets. It reflects centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influence . The city's architecture is built from coralline ragstone and wood from the area's mangroves, with ornate carved timber doors being a characteristic feature .
The Old Fort and House of Wonders
The Old Fort overlooks the Indian Ocean, built on the site where a Portuguese church once stood. Next to it is the House of Wonders, housing the Beit El-Ajaib National Museum .
Spice Tours
The island is also known as the "Spice Island", with guided spice farm tours introducing visitors to cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg that helped shape Zanzibar's history .
Beaches and Marine Activities
Beach lovers can head to Nungwi and Kendwa for crystal-clear waters and spectacular sunsets, while the east coast offers excellent kitesurfing and quieter stretches of sand. The surrounding Indian Ocean is ideal for snorkelling, scuba diving, and dolphin-watching, with colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life .
Prison Island
A popular day trip includes visiting Prison Island (Changuu Island), where visitors can see giant tortoises and learn about the island's history .
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Zanzibar City is at its most pleasant during its two dry seasons. The first is in January and February, and the second usually starts in the middle of June and runs through October. The city can get crowded during this second dry season, as it's also when many travellers venture to mainland Tanzania to see the Great Migration .
Plan your Zanzibar adventure with Morishas Tours and Safaris and experience the magic of the Spice Island.