Destination: Zanzibar

the perfect end to your tanzania safari

Zanzibar, a Tanzanian archipelago, offers a captivating blend of historical charm and tropical paradise. Stone Town, a UNESCO site, transports you to a world of labyrinthine streets and ancient architecture, while pristine beaches fringed with swaying palms beckon relaxation. Divers and snorkelers marvel at vibrant coral reefs, while history buffs delve into Zanzibar's rich spice trade past. From tranquil escapes on the North Coast to cultural immersion in the South, Zanzibar promises an unforgettable experience.

About The Areas

click to explore

Stone town

east coast

north coast

south coast

mafia island

stone town

Stone Town, the beating heart of Zanzibar, is a labyrinthine masterpiece where history whispers from every coral-stone archway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living testament to Zanzibar's rich past, where Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and European influences blend seamlessly. Wander narrow alleyways lined with grand buildings boasting intricately carved wooden doors, their aged brass fittings glinting in the sun. Spice vendors fill the air with heady aromas of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, while bustling markets overflow with colorful textiles and handcrafted souvenirs. Stone Town is a place to get lost in time, a sensory overload of cultural intrigue waiting to be explored.


  • Stone Town Tour
  • Old Fort
  • People's Palace Museum
  • Anglican Cathedral (Former slave market)
  • Forodhani Gardens
  • Shopping!

things to do and see

EASt coast

The Zanzibar East Coast stretches like a postcard come to life, boasting some of the island's most breath-taking beaches. Powdery white sand melts into turquoise waters, creating a paradise for sun worshippers and beach bums. Palm trees sway gently in the breeze, offering shade for those seeking respite from the tropical sun. Crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life beckon snorkelers and divers to explore the wonders hidden beneath the surface. Dotted along this idyllic stretch are charming villages and a range of resorts, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you crave a luxurious beachfront stay or a laid-back guesthouse experience, the Zanzibar East Coast offers the perfect setting to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create unforgettable memories.

  • Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
  • Visit a Seaweed Farming Plantation
  • Beach, snorkeling and diving
  • Kife surfing & Dhow Cruises

things to do and see

north coast

Zanzibar's North Coast offers a tranquil escape from the island's hustle and bustle. Pristine beaches with soft, white sand and calm, turquoise waters beckon those seeking serenity. Unlike the East Coast, tides have minimal impact, allowing for consistent swimming and uninterrupted relaxation. Whether you crave luxurious pampering in a world-class resort or a rustic beachfront haven nestled amidst swaying palms, the North Coast caters to every desire. Mnemba Island, a jewel in the north, is a snorkeler's paradise teeming with vibrant marine life, including playful dolphins. The North Coast is the ideal sanctuary for those who want to unwind, explore vibrant coral reefs, and soak up the unparalleled beauty of Zanzibar's untouched northern shores.

  • Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium (Turtle conservation pond)
  • Nungwi Beach - best beaches in Zanzibar
  • Dhow sailing
  • Snorkeling and kayaking
  • Deep sea fishing
  • Mnemba Island

things to do and see

south coast

The Zanzibar South Coast offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Here, idyllic beaches with swaying palm trees and calm turquoise waters invite sunbathers and snorkelers. The South Coast boasts a more relaxed pace and a stronger connection to the island's vibrant local life. Explore charming villages and witness traditional ways of life, perhaps even joining a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar's aromatic heritage. The highlight of the South Coast is the opportunity to interact with friendly locals, experience their warm hospitality, and gain a deeper understanding of Zanzibar's authentic culture.

  • Explore charming villages like Kijazi and Pongwe
  • Dolphin Watching Trip
  • Menai Bay Conservation Area
  • Spice Tours

THINGS TO DO AND SEE

mafia island

If you're looking for a hideaway to escape the traditional hustle and bustle that accompanies a tourist town, Mafia Island may be the remote destination you're craving. A diver's paradise, Mafia Island is the epitome of tranquility. Rarely visited and boasting some of East Africa's richest coral reefs, this exclusive island is ideal for travelers who crave seclusion and pristine beauty. Beyond the underwater wonderland teeming with marine life, explore lush mangrove forests or kayak through hidden lagoons. Mafia Island offers a chance to truly disconnect and reconnect with nature, and perhaps even strike up conversations with the friendly locals.

things to seeand do

  • Snorkeling surrounded by colorful reef fish
  • Go diving in pristine water to explore coral, rays and turtles
  • Experience the whale shark migration up-close (seasonal)
  • Enjoy a peaceful retreat with an exotic beach vacation
  • Savor the laid-back island life with luxury lodging accommodations

Tanzania provides the perfect setting for the ultimate beach & bush adventure.
Roane Travel Design has you covered!

SHOW ME WHAT a beaCh & bush iN TANZANIA IS LIKE

Typical pricing

GOOD

STARTING FROM RATES PER PERSON SHARING PER DAY
BASED ON Seasonality and property rating 4*/5*

Tanzania

$800

better

$1000

best

$1200+

country

how we work

Zanzibar Frequently Asked Questions

What other vaccines do I need to get into Tanzania?

There are currently no required vaccinations for travel to Zanzibar specifically. 

With that being said, we recommend checking with your primary care physician to see what they recommend. The Yellow Fever vaccine may be required upon arrival into Tanzania if you spend 12+ hours in a Yellow Fever endemic region beforehand (Addis Ababa, Kenya, etc). For more info on vaccinations, visit the CDC website linked HERE. 

Malaria medication may be recommended by your doctor. We encourage people to do what makes them most comfortable while traveling!


do I need a VISA to get into Tanzania?

Yes! All foreigners need a Tanzanian Tourist visa to enter the county. 


What airport do I fly into & what time do I need to land?

You can fly into any of the following international airports located in mainland Tanzania.

  • JRO; Kilimanjaro International Airport -KIA
  • DAR; Julius Nyerere International Airport, Dar Es Salaam
  • ZNZ; Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Zanzibar

We recommend checking with your Travel Designer to see which is best based on your itinerary. You can land at any time -regardless of when you land, our team will be there to meet you! 

How long is the flight to Tanzania?

Most flights from the US/Canada are anywhere from 18 - 24 hours on average!

What is the average airfare cost from the US?

Pricing varies but we see economy tickets averaging around $1,000 - $1,900 per person.

How will I get around once I'm there?

From the time you land until the time you depart, Roane Travel Design will arrange all of your transfers. No need to worry about taxis, rental cars or public transportation.

Is there a weight requirement on the internal bush flights IF I AM COMBINING ZANZIBAR WITH A SAFARI?

Yes, the internal airlines require soft sided luggage. The maximum weight is 15kg (33lbs) of luggage per person TOTAL.

What is the weather like?

February is the hottest month in Zanzibar (82°F) and the coldest is July(75°F). The best month to swim in the sea is in March when the average sea temperature is 30°C (86°F)

  • Daily Average: 24ºC | 75ºF                                    Humidity: 65%
  • High: 28ºC | 83ºF                                                    Low: 24ºC | 75ºF

PACKING & laundry

  • Laundry services are available at all of the establishments you will be staying with (additional cost)
  • Light, breathable fabrics: Zanzibar is hot and humid year-round, so pack plenty of loose-fitting clothes in cotton, linen, or silk.
  • Swimsuit and cover-up: For those relaxing beach days.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses: A must-have for sun protection.
  • Light rain jacket: Zanzibar has rainy seasons, so a packable rain jacket is a good idea.
  • Comfortable walking shoes: You'll do a lot of exploring, so pack sturdy shoes for walking the streets and uneven terrain.
  • Sandals or flip-flops: Perfect for the beach and casual wear.
  • Light sweater (optional): Evenings can be slightly cooler, so a light sweater might be useful, especially if you visit during the rainy season.
  • Sunscreen (high SPF): The sun is strong in Zanzibar, so pack plenty of high-factor sunscreen and reapply frequently.
  • Insect repellent: Especially for evenings and exploring Stone Town.
  • First-aid kit: Pack basic supplies for minor cuts, scrapes, or insect bites.
  • Medications: Pack any medications you regularly take.

What types of outlets do they have in Tanzania?

Type G (and sometimes Type D) is the most popular outlets in Tanzania. We recommend buying your own international converters!

Can I bring my camera?

YES! We recommend bringing a camera, to capture your trip of a lifetime in this magical place!
With your permission, Roane Travel Design would love to share your photos on our social media platforms.
Please note the ground lodges do NOT have camera gear available to rent, so we recommend bringing your own.


Can I bring my drone?

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, and drone use in Tanzania requires permits from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA). You can find the application form on their website