Tanzania · Africa
Guide to Zanzibar
Stone Town, spice farms, and turquoise beaches
Overview
Zanzibar blends historic Stone Town, spice farms, and turquoise beaches. Slow-paced, ideal after a mainland safari.
Highlights
Stone Town UNESCO
Alleyways, door carvings, optional Freddie Mercury museum.
Spice tour
Classic half-day experience with tastings.
Nungwi / Kendwa beaches
Sand and sunsets in the north.
Jozani forest
Red colobus monkeys — a short visit.
Prison Island
Day boat trip + giant tortoises.
Food
Seafood grill on the beach
Negotiate the price per portion.
Zanzibar pizza
Evening street snacks at Forodhani Gardens.
Spiced coffee & tea
After the spice tour.
Getting around
Ferry from Dar
Check sea conditions.
Private beach transfer
Roads aren’t always smooth.
Daladala
Cheap but crowded—adventure mode.
Frequently asked questions
Is Zanzibar a malaria area and do I need preventive medication?
Yes, Zanzibar is a malaria-risk area, though cases are far lower than on the mainland. Visit a travel clinic in Indonesia four to six weeks before departure for prophylaxis such as atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline. Still use DEET-based repellent, sleep under a mosquito net, and wear long sleeves from dusk to dawn.
What are the dress codes in Stone Town and at the beach?
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so in Stone Town and surrounding villages, cover your shoulders and knees—men and women alike. Bikinis and sleeveless tops are only appropriate at resort beach areas or pools. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking while walking in public. This respectful approach makes interactions with locals far friendlier.
How long should I spend in Stone Town versus the north beaches?
Two nights in Stone Town is enough for the UNESCO alleys, Darajani Market, a spice tour, and dinner at Forodhani. Spend the remaining four to five nights in Nungwi or Kendwa for white-sand beaches and sunsets. Paje and Jambiani in the east are quieter, the kitesurfing hub, and offer more budget-friendly stays.
Does the sea really recede extremely on the east coast beaches?
True—the east-coast beaches like Paje, Jambiani, and Michamvi have extreme tides, so at certain times the water recedes hundreds of meters, leaving seaweed flats. If swimming anytime is your priority, head to Nungwi or Kendwa in the north. Always check the daily tide chart before planning snorkeling or a boat trip.
How do I get to Zanzibar from Indonesia?
The usual route is via Doha, Dubai, or Addis Ababa to Dar es Salaam, or direct to Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ). From Dar es Salaam, it’s a 20-minute flight or a fast ferry in about two hours. Total travel time from Jakarta is typically 18 to 24 hours.
Is the food in Zanzibar halal, and how safe is street food?
With a majority-Muslim population, almost all local eateries and restaurants serve halal food, including seafood grills and pilau. Alcohol and pork are generally only found in tourist resorts. For digestive safety, drink bottled water, avoid ice from unknown sources, and choose Forodhani stalls that cook in front of you.