Zanzibar Town holidays

Best time to go to Zanzibar

Zanzibar archipelago boasts a steady temperature of around 30 degrees year-round, so it’s a warm destination in any season. Generally, dry season – from mid-June to the end of October – is a great time to go to really appreciate the most balmy weather, but there’s also fairly low rainfall in January/February. This peak dry season, from June to October, also coincides with the high season for safari on Tanzania’s mainland, so expect Zanzibar to be busy as tourists add the archipelago onto the end of their safari holidays. January to mid-March is considered the best time of year for scuba diving. Shortly after this, mid-March–May is when the ‘long rains’ begin, and it’s not the perfect time to experience the destination. From August through to October, it isn’t too hot or humid, and then October hails pleasantly cool winds, calm seas and clear skies with warming ocean temperatures and balmy evenings – just before the rains of November arrive. However, if you do want to visit during winter, these are only the ‘short rains’ occupying only an hour or two of each day before clearing.

How to get to Zanzibar

There are no direct flights to Zanzibar city airports from the UK, but most routes only involve one stop. You can fly from London Heathrow via Istanbul or Nairobi in Kenya, taking around 14 hours. One-stop routes from Manchester take around 13 hours via Istanbul or Paris, while from Birmingham, it’s the same travel time via Paris or Dubai. From Edinburgh, you can do a short hop to Heathrow and then onwards, or a one-stop flight via Istanbul or Doha, all of which take between 14 and 15 hours.

Another great option for visiting the archipelago is to get to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, first. From here, you can catch a ferry for $40–50, taking anywhere from one and a half to three hours, depending on the ferry you pick. This is a simple, convenient and much-used route for tourists and a great option if you’re adding Zanzibar to the end of your longer Tanzania trip. You can also, of course, take a short-hop domestic flight between Tanzania's mainland and the islands.

Getting around Zanzibar

Once you arrive at your hotel in Zanzibar, you may decide that your beautiful beach resort has everything you need for your holiday – a pristine beach, gorgeous water, pools and delicious food. The hotel might organise excursions and day trips too. However, if you do want to head out to other parts of the island, a taxi or private-hire driver is often the best way. These are efficient, direct and not too expensive, and the hotel can help you book one. However, you can opt for the more budget and more adventurous option of the local minibus or Dala-Dala. They can be crowded, and you may not know 100% when you arrive at your destination, but it is a unique and authentic experience.

With a valid international driving licence, you can also rent a car or even a scooter to explore the island on your own schedule. The road systems are not too busy or overwhelming, as in some busier cities, so many tourists like the freedom of this option. Of course, to visit any of the smaller islands around Zanzibar's main island, you’ll need to book a boat tour with a tour company or via your hotel.

Most popular beaches in Zanzibar

You’d probably be lying if you said you weren’t going to this paradisiacal island mostly for the beaches. The general rule here is that the sand is sugar-white, the sea is exceptionally clear and the beaches can be very tidal – it’s what makes the conditions so good for seaweed-growing here. Many hotels have direct access to wonderful beaches, or even a private stretch of beach, but there are also myriad fantastic public beaches to explore.

• **Nungwi – **This is one of Zanzibar’s most popular and top-rated beaches, famous for its nightlife, its pristine sands and sea, and its watersports. It’s surrounded by lots of luxury hotels and good, beach-front restaurants.

• **Kendwa – **Close to Nungwi, but not as busy, Kendwa is a wide, sandy and non-tidal beach that has clear, aquamarine sea at a great depth all day. It’s renowned for its long, peachy sunsets.

• **Kiwengwa – **Kiwengwa is a heavily tidal, white sand beach with a landscape that’s ever changing and beautiful. It’s popular for relaxing, swimming and walking but also has a kitesurfing school on its shore.

• **Nakupenda sandbar – **This ‘beach’ – or rather sandbar in the Indian ocean – requires an organised boat trip, but it’s well worth the ride for the once in a lifetime experience. Just off the coast of Stone Town, this magical stretch of snow-white sand is like an apparition in the azure waters. Boat trips run multiple times a day for tourists to experience the magic, snorkel and swim.

• **Kizimkazi Beach – **In the island’s south, Kizimkazi is one of the somewhat quieter beaches, since there are no big beach parties or tourist-focussed restaurants. It has a more authentic feel, with the cream-coloured shore backed by palms. It’s best known for boat tours and dolphin spotting.

• **Paje beach – **Like many Zanzibar beaches, Paje beach changes dramatically from high tide –when it’s dreamy for swimming and watersports – to low tide – when the sea vanishes into the distance, leaving a landscape of rockpools to explore on foot. At high tide, the bay is a kitesurfing paradise.

Secret beaches in Zanzibar

While these beaches can hardly be described as a well-kept secret, they're a great option if you’re looking for quieter, uncrowded shores with no hassle and a laid-back atmosphere.

• **Jambiani Beach – **You’ll find Jambiani beach on the same coast as Paje, but with a slightly quieter, more authentic vibe. You’ll still find the white sands, azure sea and a palm-fringed shore, as well as sandbars, tidal pools and local seaweed farms during low tide. You can windsurf and kitesurf here too, but mostly it’s a peaceful place for a day on the beach.

• **Pingwe – **Pingwe is probably best known for its iconic restaurant, The Rock, perched on its rocky outcrop in the ocean. With shimmering sands and gentle waves, it’s better for snorkelling than some of its nearby neighbours and is surprisingly peaceful, despite the restaurant’s fame.

• **Pongwe – **Pongwe is noticeably quieter than Nungwi and Kendwa and it’s not surprising it doesn’t feel crowded – the shore is vast. It has a very sheltered sea for swimming, unaffected by the pull of the tides. The white sand is backed by jungly palm forest and there’s a very calm air about the beach; the only watersports here are occasionally snorkelling or kayaking.

• **Matemwe Beach – **Matemwe beach is another long, palm-lined stretch of dreamy sand boasting magnificent sea and coral reefs teeming with life. Because of its length, you can walk the sand for miles and find a secluded or lively spot to suit you, or wander to nearby fishing villages that touch the shoreline. It’s pristine and generally on the quieter side.

What to eat in Zanzibar

In Zanzibar you’ll find a whole range of foods, from upmarket restaurants in hotels serving global cuisine, to laid-back local restaurants and romantic beach-front spots. Street food is also a big deal, with plenty of markets and night markets worth sampling in Stone Town. It goes without saying that this cluster of islands serves up fabulous seafood and shellfish too – so both of these are a must while you’re here. Octopus is one of the island's specialties. Spice Tours are a great activity for foodies, since these usually include a traditional lunch, bursting with flavour. Besides that, here are a few unique dishes you won’t find on any other holiday:

• Zanzibar pizza: Not like a traditional Italian pizza, this one is a ball of dough, stuffed with fillings (instead of topped with toppings) and cooked a bit like a crepe, so the dough goes crispy on both sides.

• Chips Mayai: This is a sort of omelette, stuffed with french fries and often served with hot sauce on the side.

• Biryani and pilau: Because Zanzibar has both Middle Eastern and Indian influences, biryani has become a staple of Zanzibar cuisine and is one of the most popular dishes here.

• Urojo: This very spicy soup is a staple street food in Stone Town particularly. It’s full of crispy bhajias, fried mashed potatoes and topped with a spoonful of coconut chutney, chilli, and a cassava shavings.

• Mishkaki: This is a Zanzibar beef (usually steak) kebab, often grilled by street vendors or in restaurants close to the beach.

• Vitumbua: A deep-fried sweet doughnut infused with local spices like cardamom. Another great doughnut-like sweet treat here is Mandazi.

• Coconut bean maharage: This authentic local bean stew is vegan, hearty and deliciously flavoursome.

Sports in Zanzibar Town: Your Guide to Staying Active and Entertained

Local Sports Events: Join the Fun!

Zanzibar Town isn't just about stunning beaches and historical sites; it's a hub for thrilling local sports events too. Fancy watching a lively football match? Or how about a traditional ngoma drumming and dance event that turns into a community sports fest? Keep your eyes peeled for posters and local announcements - it's the best way to experience Zanzibar's vibrant culture and perhaps even join in a game or two. After all, nothing screams 'living like a local' more than cheering on a team surrounded by passionate fans!

Stadiums or Arenas: Where Passion Meets Play

While Zanzibar Town might not boast mega-stadiums, the Amaan Stadium stands proud as the heart of local sports. Whether it's a high-stakes football match or a community gathering for a sports day, this is where you'll feel the island's pulse. Don't miss the chance to witness a match here; the atmosphere is electrifying, with fans' enthusiasm as warm as the Zanzibar sun.

Where to Watch a Match: Feel the Buzz

Looking for the perfect spot to catch a game? Head to one of the local cafes or bars in Zanzibar Town. These venues often broadcast live sports events, from football to cricket, and you'll find yourself in good company. Imagine sipping on a cold drink, snacking on some local delicacies, and soaking up the exciting atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to meet locals and fellow travellers alike.

Sports Facilities for Travellers: Stay Active in Paradise

Zanzibar Town offers a plethora of sports facilities for those looking to stay active. From swimming pools nestled in beautiful hotel grounds to yoga classes with views of the Indian Ocean, there's something for everyone. If tennis is your game, you'll find courts available for a friendly match or a competitive game. And for those into fitness or dancing, join a local class and move to the island's rhythm.

Dive into Fun: Swimming Pools and Water Sports

With Zanzibar's crystal-clear waters, it's no surprise that swimming and water sports are a big hit. Whether you're staying at a resort or exploring local beaches, you'll find plenty of opportunities to dive in. Snorkelling, diving, and kite surfing are just a taste of the aquatic adventures awaiting you. And for those who prefer the calmness of a pool, many hotels and resorts offer stunning swimming pools for a refreshing dip.

Yoga, Fitness, Dancing, Tennis: Balance and Energy

Embrace the island's laid-back vibe with a yoga session on the beach, or get your heart racing with a fitness class. Dance classes, offering everything from traditional Swahili moves to modern beats, provide a unique way to experience the local culture while staying active. Tennis enthusiasts won't be disappointed either, with facilities available for a game under the tropical sun.

Cycling in Zanzibar Town: Explore on Two Wheels

Bike rental shops are your gateway to discovering Zanzibar Town and its surroundings at your own pace. Grab a map and follow popular cycling routes through historic streets, lush spice farms, and along stunning coastlines. It's an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to see the sights, with the added bonus of a gentle workout.

Hiking: Trails with a View

For those who love to explore on foot, Zanzibar offers some picturesque hiking trails. Venture into the Jozani Forest for a chance to spot rare wildlife, or follow coastal paths for breathtaking ocean views. It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and discover the island's hidden gems.

Making a Splash: Water Sports Galore

Water sports enthusiasts, rejoice! Zanzibar's beaches are a paradise for kite surfing, snorkelling, and diving. The island's waters are teeming with marine life, making every underwater adventure a memorable one. Whether you're a seasoned pro or trying something new, the island's water sports centres have you covered.

So, there you have it - Zanzibar Town is a veritable playground for sports enthusiasts and those looking to stay active or simply soak up the local culture through sports. Whether you're diving into the deep blue, cycling through scenic routes, or cheering on a local match, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. Who knew staying active could be so much fun?

Top things to do in Zanzibar

• Explore historic Stone Town, the old centre of what is today Zanzibar City. One of the best ways to get to know its legacy and history is on a guided walking tour, exploring winding alleys, past intricately carved doorways, delicate minarets and pretty, colourful shops.

• Visit a spice farm. This archipelago is famous for its spice exports and a spice tour is a staple of any visit here. You’ll see the colourful spices as they grow and learn about cultivation, harvesting and traditional cooking. Better yet – combine a spice tour with a cooking class or food tour.

• Visit one of the many fabulous beaches – more on that below.

• Try watersports. Kitesurfing, surfing and kayaking are all popular here, as are scuba diving and snorkelling. In calmer lagoons, paddleboarding is also very popular.

• **Visit an island. **There’s more to Zanzibar than just the main isle of Unguja. There’s actually a second, lesser-visited island – Pemba – and dozens of miniature islands nestled close to Unguja’s coastline. ‘Prison Island’ or Changuu Island and Nakupenda Beach are two of the most popular, along with the little islets in Menai bay conservation area. You can also visit various sandbars to swim, snorkel and experience the magical atmosphere of being (almost) ‘stranded’ on a desert island.

• Get into nature. Zanzibar may not boast the big-ticket safari animals that the mainland does, but it’s home to a plethora of colourful flora and fauna. Jozani Forest is the perfect place to really get into the heart of nature, either with or without a guide, and nearby you’ll also find the butterfly centre and Zala Park.

• **Eat at The Rock. **It’s not in everyone’s budget, but the iconic restaurant The Rock is definitely on some people’s bucket list. This small, thatched restaurant perched atop a rock rising from the sea is an icon, seen on countless travel magazine covers and Instagram posts. It’s a unique and fairytale-esque place that feels very magical to visit – the food is exquisite too.