BEACH
Zanzibar
About Zanzibar
Pristine white sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters. Relax under swaying palm trees, then explore historic Stone Town and its spice markets.
Most travellers add three to seven nights here after a safari or a climb — the flight from Arusha takes about ninety minutes. The north coast has the best swimming at all tides; the east is quieter and better value.
Highlights
Stone Town heritage walk
Spice farm tour
Mnemba atoll snorkelling
Dhow sunset cruise
Wildlife & landscape
Red colobus (Jozani)Dolphins (Kizimkazi)Green turtlesReef fish at MnembaWhale sharks (Oct–Feb)Spice plantations
Season by season
Jun – Oct
Dry, breezy and reliable — the best months for diving and kitesurfing on the east coast.
Dec – Feb
Hot and calm, the classic beach window. Book festive weeks far ahead.
Mar – May
Long rains and high humidity; many hotels close or discount heavily.
Nov
Short rains in bursts, otherwise good value and quiet beaches.
Practical notes
- •The north coast (Nungwi, Kendwa) swims at all tides; the east coast has huge tidal shifts.
- •Flights from Arusha take about 90 minutes and connect straight from a safari.
- •Stone Town deserves one night at the start or end, not a day trip.
- •Dress modestly away from the beach — Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island.
