Beach Holiday to Zanzibar Island, Tanzania

Beach Holiday to Zanzibar Island, Tanzania

A Beach Holiday to Zanzibar Island is a must-do when visiting Tanzania. Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar offers a perfect blend of history, culture and stunning beaches. Located off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar’s beaches are some of the finest in the world, each with its unique charm. On the east coast, you’ll find waves crashing over coral reefs and sandbars, with tidal pools revealing starfish and anemones. The north coast offers smoother waters and pristine white sands, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic port city, is a cultural hub with fascinating architecture and rich history. Though the nearby beaches of Mangapwani and Bububu are just a short drive from Stone Town, it’s well worth taking the extra time to explore the quieter, more serene beaches on the east and north coasts. For a change of pace, you can take a refreshing day trip to Chole Island Marine Park or explore Prison Island, Grave Island and Snake Island near Stone Town.

Top Things to Do and See on Your Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Wildlife Encounters on Zanzibar

Zanzibar is not only about beautiful beaches – it also offers a diverse range of wildlife. The island is home to several endemic species, such as the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, one of Africa’s rarest primates, which can be seen at Jozani Forest. You might also spot Zanzibar leopards, monkeys, bush pigs, small antelopes and various species of mongoose and African civets. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of birdlife, as well as butterflies.

Rich Culture and History of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is rich in cultural events and historical landmarks. The Zanzibar International Film Festival (also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries) is the island’s premier cultural event. Held every July, the festival showcases the best of Swahili Coast art, music and cinema, attracting filmmakers and tourists from around the world.

The island is also home to stunning architectural treasures, especially in Stone Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Notable sites include the House of Wonders, Livingstone House, the Old Dispensary, Ngome Kongwe (Old Fort) and the Guliani Bridge.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar is a year-round destination but the best times to visit are from December to February and June to October, when the weather is drier. If you’re looking to experience the vibrant cultural scene, plan your visit around the Zanzibar International Film Festival in July, a great time for music, art and film lovers.

How to Get to Zanzibar Island

• By Road: If you’re traveling by bus from Arusha, the journey to Dar es Salaam is over 650 km and takes around 10 hours. From there, you can take a ferry to Zanzibar.
• By Air: For a quicker and more comfortable option, flights to Zanzibar are available daily from Arusha and other major cities in Tanzania.

Where to Stay on Zanzibar Island: Lodging Options

Zanzibar offers a variety of accommodations, from budget to luxury, allowing you to choose based on your interests and budget. Some popular lodging options include:

• Ananda Beach House
• White Paradise Zanzibar
• Rumaisa Hotel
• Zanbluu Beach Hotel
• Evergreen Bungalows
• Shanuo Beach Bungalows
• Simba Garden Lodge

Whether you’re looking for a simple beach retreat or a luxury stay with all the amenities, there’s something for every traveler.

Vehicle Hire Services on Zanzibar Island

Trek Africa Gorillas offers a range of transportation options to make your Zanzibar holiday comfortable and convenient. We provide customized 4×4 Land Cruisers and 4×4 safari vans for exploring the island. Prices start from USD 200-250 per day, including a driver/guide. We’ll help you estimate fuel costs based on your travel plans, ensuring a smooth journey around the island.

Popular Tanzania Safari Tours to Combine with Your Zanzibar Holiday

Combine your Zanzibar beach holiday with a wildlife safari across Tanzania. Here are some of our most popular safari tours:

• 4-Day Serengeti National Park Safari
• 4 Day Tanzania Safari
• 6-Day Complete Northern Circuit Safari in Tanzania
• 7-Day Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit
• 10 Day Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari

Tanzania Visa and Entry Requirements for Zanzibar Visitors

To visit Zanzibar Island, you will need a tourist visa. Most travelers obtain their visa before arrival but it is also available upon arrival at any entry point in Tanzania. The tourist visa costs USD 100 and is typically issued immediately. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need to show proof of yellow fever vaccination. Entry conditions such as customs and quarantine regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information with your local Tanzanian embassy.

Why Book Your Zanzibar Beach Holiday with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted, experienced tour operator specializing in unforgettable beach holidays and safaris in Tanzania and Zanzibar. We combine eco-friendly practices with high-end, memorable safari experiences, helping to preserve wildlife, support local communities and create unforgettable adventures. We offer personalized itineraries that include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee safaris, Big 5 game viewing, boat excursions and more.

Book your Beach Holiday to Zanzibar Island with us and enjoy expert service, a wide range of accommodation options and seamless transportation for the best beach getaway experience. Feel free to contact us for more information and to start planning your Zanzibar adventure!