tanzania

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Quick Facts

Best Time to Visit: June–October and December–February (dry, sunny beach weather)
Country: tanzania

Highlights

White-sand beaches and turquoise Indian Ocean water
Historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Spice farm tours that give the islands their nickname
Snorkelling and diving around coral reefs and Mnemba Atoll
The classic beach extension after a mainland safari

Wildlife

Dolphins off the south coastEndangered Zanzibar red colobus in Jozani ForestReef fish, turtles, and coralMigratory seabirds

Zanzibar is a tropical archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, famous for its powder-white beaches, turquoise water, and rich Swahili culture. It is the classic way to unwind after a mainland safari.

Stone Town and the spice trade

At the heart of the main island is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of narrow alleys, carved doors, and bustling markets that reflect centuries of Arab, Indian, Persian, and European influence. Spice farm tours showcase the cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon that made the islands wealthy.

Beaches and the ocean

The north and east coasts offer long stretches of white sand, while the surrounding reefs and Mnemba Atoll provide excellent snorkelling and diving. Dolphin tours, sunset dhow cruises, and the Jozani Forest, home to the endangered red colobus monkey, round out the experience.