zanzibar tourism show 2023

• About Zanzibar Island
• Zanzibar Commission for Tourism
• Zanzibar Museums
• Greener Zanzibar

Zanzibar tourism investment and travel exhibition (ztite)

Buyers lounge forums events, zanzibar, 2023, peace memorial museum.

guest of honor

H.E Dr Hussein A. Mwinyi

Join 500 others in Zanzibar, for a three-days event of inspiring keynotes and new connections at the premier conference for Tourism Investors and Exhibitionists in Zanzibar.

Sustainable

Declaration.

The Zanzibar Declaration on Sustainable Tourism i s an informal statement of intent and a rallying cry for the Zanzibar tourism industry to take real strides towards sustainability, in support of people, planet and prosperity. The Zanzibar Declaration recognises and contributes to global sustainable tourism actions adopted by international institutions and world leaders; this includes the One Planet Network Glasgow Declaration: Climate Action in Tourism  with which this declaration is aligned, and many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Visionary Speakers

Learn from Industry leaders, Government officials, and key stakeholders.

Worldwide buyers

Brining international buyers for B2B meetings, exchanging ideas and more.

Level-up Your Skills

Join workshop and gain various skills on sustainable tourism, and Zanzibar industry.

Find Your Tribe

Yes, meet your look-alike in business, investment and tourism in Zanzibar.

• Join the movement and pledge the Zanzibar Sustainable Tourism Declaration
• Become part of the change of the Greener Zanzibar Destination
• Connect with compatible travel & tourism operators, industry professionals and business owners from Zanzibar, the region and internationally.
• Take part in the B2B & B2G discussions
• Learn about the investment opportunities available in Zanzibar, particularly tourism, heritage & green invesments.
• Building a robust network with like – minded individuals.

Join 2000+ others in Zanzibar, for a three-days event of inspiring keynotes and new connections at the premier conference for Tourism Investors and Exhibitionists in Zanzibar.

Dr. Pontus Engstrom

Ms. hafsa h. mbamba, mr. rahim bhaloo, ms. fatma m khamis, hon. simai m said, dr. mwatima juma, benjamin taylor, zahor el kharousy, farhat nassor.

• Conservation
• Sustainable Tourism
• Tourism Investment

Day 1: Travel and Tourism

Day 2: tourism investment forum, arrival and registration.

Opening Ceremony: Sustainable Tourism Champions

Opening Ceremony: Welcoming Remarks & Launch of Greener Zanzibar Documentary

Remarks from the MTH & Welcome Hon. Minister of MTH

Welcome H.E Dr Hussein A. Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar & Chairman of the Revolutionary Council of Zanzibar

Keynote Speech By Guest of Honor

Signing of zanzibar sustainable tourism declaration, panel discussion: travel and tourism in zanzibar.

Welcoming Remarks

Opening Remarks

Keynote Speech By Guest of Honor: Hon. Mudrick R. Soraga

Overview of Zanzibar's Tourism Investment: Zanzibar Bankable Projects

Overview of zanzibar's tourism investment: tourism investment opportunities, panel discussion: how zanzibar can attract more sustainable investments.

Department of Museums and Antiquities (DoMA), which is the sole public entity responsible for supervising museums and conserving heritage assets, has been established in 1925. In this year, the Peace Memorial Museum, Beit – el – Amaan located at Mnazi Mmoja in Zanzibar Stone Town was the first to be opened along the coast of East Africa. The museum was designed as an ethnographic display to exhibit the works of art and culture. In 1930, an annex museum – Natural History Museum was opened. The museum embodies the display of birds, animals, insects, reptiles, trees and plants, and sea creatures. The construction of these buildings, Beit el Amaan in particular, was attributed to the donations made several people in Zanzibar to commemorate the peace after the end of the First World War.

Both museums will soon be reopened to exhibit the themes of the art, culture and nature after intensive restoration works being accomplished. The Department of Museums and Antiquities (DoMA) is proud to support ZTITE and offering both museum as venue for this an amazing, wonderful and potential event in Zanzibar.

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Tanzania: Summit 2023 - Investing in Zanzibar Tourism

Zanzibar, one of Africa's top tourist destination s will host a major tourism summit next year to exhibit available investment opportunities in the sector and to promote its tourism attractions.

The announcement was made recently by the Zanzibar Tourism Investment Association (ZATIA) which has partnered with Arusha-based event organizers, Kilifair.

Known as the 'Z - Summit 2023', the exhibition will be held early next year (February 23-24) next year. The summit is expected to attract investors from across the world along with key sector stakeholders.

• Zanzibar to host major tourist summit early 2023
• Zanzibar investing to earn place as Africa's top tourist destination
• Government eases work visa requirements to attract investors

In his press address, ZATIA Chairperson Rahim Mohamed Bhaloo was confident that the summit will achieve its objectives of promoting Zanzibar as Africa's top tourist destination.

"The festival also focuses on finding new markets to increase the number of tourists and strengthen the tourist markets from various countries around the world," explained Mr Bhaloo.

The summit is an important aspect in growing Zanzibar's economy because even though the island boasts of being one of Africa's top tourist destinations, tourism contributes 27 per cent to the island's GDP and authorities believe it can do better.

By attracting investors to the island for the development of the hospitality industry, then the island can earn the title of Africa's top tourist destination. The island authorities would like to see more modern hotels built and other tourist attractions come to life as a result of the summit.

Already some ten countries have applied to participate at the event that is scheduled to be hosted at the Golden Tulip hotel.

In his comments, Kilifair Senior Director Mr Dominic Shoo said Zanzibar deserves to be Africa's top tourist destination and that the summit will go a long way in promoting this fact.

"The festival is of its kind and will be held for the first time in the Zanzibar island, where businesspersons will be linked to various opportunities to build relationships with stakeholders inside and outside of Zanzibar," he said.

Zanzibar: Earning its place as Africa's top tourist destination

Government records show that tourist arrivals in Zanzibar slid down slightly to 42,443 visitors in January 2022 compared to a high of 49,868 visitors in January 2021 and 48,167 visitors in December 2021.

Notably, tourists from Europe continue to dominate the market as they account for 83.0 per cent of the total number of visitors who went to Zanzibar this past January 2022. Here are the percentages per country; Poland dominated the outcome, with a high of 15.4 per cent of all visitors that entered Zanzibar as of January 2022.

Despite the war back home, next in line to visit Zanzibar tourist attractions were tourists from Ukraine who accounted for 13.1 per cent of all tourists that went to Zanzibar as of January. Zanzibar tourist attractions are renowned in the world and attract thousands of tourists every year, however, there is need for increased investment in the sector and that is why events like the Z-Summit 2023 are very important.

Such events help to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions and also to attract investors. This means investors who come to invest directly in the tourism industry, say by building hotels or those who invest in complimentary services like transportation and tour operators.

In this recognition, the government has taken steps to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions and attract investors by creating a business-friendly environment. The President of Zanzibar and Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, recently announced several policy measures to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions including easing work visa requirements.

In this respect, speaking during the close of the 1st EAC Regional Tourism Expo last year in Arusha,, President Mwinyi emphasized partnerships to promote tourism across the East Africa Community (EAC).

"Partner States should continuously refine national policies and devise new programmes to deliver responsible, inclusive and sustainable tourism products that will attract more visitors from all over the world," he said.

"It is immensely gratifying to know that the EAC Regional Tourism EXPO will play a vital role in engaging all the governments of member states of our Community and the private sector in setting the vision and direction for tourism development in the region," noted President Mwinyi.

The president also pointed out that an East African Legislative Assembly Report on tourists' arrival in East Africa has urged concerted efforts by Partner States of the EAC if the regional trading bloc is to increase its global market share in the tourism industry.

"The report depicts that before the outbreak of COVID - 19, the EAC market share for tourist arrival In East Africa was only 8.6 per cent of the African Market share and 0.3 per cent of the global share," the president pointed out.

Such low figures are the reason why promotional events like the Z-Summit 2023 are vital to promoting Zanzibar tourist attractions.

Seconding the president, Tanzania's Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana said Zanzibar tourist attractions and Tanzania tourist attractions, in general, are unmatched the world over.

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The minister insists that even though the Tanzania tourist attractions are renowned, there is still a need to promote them by hosting and attending tourism and investment events around the world.

The minister also said if Tanzania's tourist attractions are to attract investors, then there is a need to market the sector and increase investment in its promotion. The minister also urged the private sector to take part in promoting Tanzania's tourist attractions, saying the task cannot be left to the government alone.

That EXPO attracted more than 100 Exhibitors from all around the world and another 41 international buyers hailing from some 19 countries, notably Israel, Poland, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, Kuwait, Finland, Ukraine, Qatar, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, Egypt, Ghana, Rwanda, Botswana, South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia and Uganda.

The Z-Summit organisers hope the event will go a long way in attracting investment for the tourism sector in Tanzania and promote both Zanzibar tourist attractions on the one hand and Tanzania tourist attractions in general.

The tourism sector is one of the country's major foreign exchange earners, and before it was overtaken by gold recently, tourism was Tanzania's major foreign exchange earner by far.

Read the original article on The Exchange .

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Join the Excitement The Zanzibar Summit 2023 is Now Officially Open

• February 23, 2023

Embark on a Journey of Innovation and Collaboration: The Z-Summit 2023 Officially Begins, Bringing Together Tourism Stakeholders from Around the World to the Island of Zanzibar

The Z-Summit kicked off on Thursday, 23rd February 2023, at the Golden Tulip Airport Hotel Zanzibar. The event started early, with exhibitors finalizing their setup and registration of visitors beginning at 7:00 am. The highlight of the morning was the official opening by the Chief Guest, H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council.

Upon his arrival at 10:30 am, the President was welcomed by the Z-Summit Chairman, Mr. Rahim Bhaloo. The entourage then visited many of the exhibition booth stands, introducing the diverse tourism products that Tanzania and especially Zanzibar had to offer to visitors.

The official opening ceremony began with the National Anthem by the brass band, followed by welcome notes by the CEO of Kilifair, Dominic Shoo, and Tom Kunkler on how and when the Z-Summit started. The Zanzibar Tourism Ambassador, Siti Amina, provided entertainment, and Hon. Minister for Tourism & Heritage, Hon. Simai M. Said, and Rahim Bhaloo, Chairman of Z-Summit, welcomed the guests with their remarks.

The keynote speech and official opening address by the Chief Guest, H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, expressed the government’s appreciation to the investors under ZATI and KILIFAIR for taking this initiative for having the much-needed Tourism Fair, The Z-Summit. The President assured the government’s full support to the Z-Summit, encouraging the organizers to continue promoting tourism in Zanzibar.

The official launch of the Travel Zanzibar / The Summit Magazine followed the President’s address, with a photo session and ribbon cutting. The event was attended by several dignitaries and diplomats.

The addresses and keynote speeches highlighted the importance of the tourism sector in Zanzibar, which directly contributes 29.2% to the GDP. The Blue Economy and Tourism Policies were emphasized to ensure that the sector continues to thrive. Sustainable tourism was a significant focus, along with the international ranking of Zanzibar as a preferred tourism destination. Other topics included increasing the number of visitors, private sector contributions to the economic growth of the sector, attracting more investors, and ease of doing business. Stone Town, considered by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage sites, was also discussed.

The event has already been a massive success, with over 100 exhibitors and 250 registered travel buyers from 23 countries. The day unfolded with meetings, seminars, networking, and an evening-sponsored cocktail at the famous Cape Town Fish Market.

Day 2 of the event promises to be just as exciting, with business and networking continuing, followed by a 2-day Fam trip for hosted buyers to see the sights and sounds of the Island, including activities and site visits to several hotels. We look forward to seeing the impact of the Z-Summit on the tourism industry in Zanzibar and beyond.

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The First KILIFAIR / ZATI Tourism Summit 2023

(Posted 15th September 2022)

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Z – Summit 2023: Investing in Zanzibar tourism

Zanzibar, one of Africa’s top tourist destination s will host a major tourism summit next year to exhibit available investment opportunities in the sector and to promote its tourism attractions.

The announcement was made recently by the Zanzibar Tourism Investment Association (ZATIA) which has partnered with Arusha-based event organizers, Kilifair.

Known as the ‘Z – Summit 2023’, the exhibition will be held early next year (February 23-24) next year. The summit is expected to attract investors from across the world along with key sector stakeholders.

• Zanzibar to host major tourist summit early 2023
• Zanzibar investing to earn place as Africa’s top tourist destination
• Government eases work visa requirements to attract investors

In his press address, ZATIA Chairperson Rahim Mohamed Bhaloo was confident that the summit will achieve its objectives of promoting Zanzibar as Africa’s top tourist destination.

“The festival also focuses on finding new markets to increase the number of tourists and strengthen the tourist markets from various countries around the world,” explained Mr Bhaloo.

The summit is an important aspect in growing Zanzibar’s economy because even though the island boasts of being one of Africa’s top tourist destinations, tourism contributes 27 per cent to the island’s GDP and authorities believe it can do better.

By attracting investors to the island for the development of the hospitality industry, then the island can earn the title of Africa’s top tourist destination. The island authorities would like to see more modern hotels built and other tourist attractions come to life as a result of the summit.

Already some ten countries have applied to participate at the event that is scheduled to be hosted at the Golden Tulip hotel.

In his comments, Kilifair Senior Director Mr Dominic Shoo said Zanzibar deserves to be Africa’s top tourist destination and that the summit will go a long way in promoting this fact.

“The festival is of its kind and will be held for the first time in the Zanzibar island, where businesspersons will be linked to various opportunities to build relationships with stakeholders inside and outside of Zanzibar,” he said.

Zanzibar: Earning its place as Africa’s top tourist destination

Government records show that tourist arrivals in Zanzibar slid down slightly to 42,443 visitors in January 2022 compared to a high of 49,868 visitors in January 2021 and 48,167 visitors in December 2021.

Notably, tourists from Europe continue to dominate the market as they account for 83.0 per cent of the total number of visitors who went to Zanzibar this past January 2022. Here are the percentages per country; Poland dominated the outcome, with a high of 15.4 per cent of all visitors that entered Zanzibar as of January 2022.

Despite the war back home, next in line to visit Zanzibar tourist attractions were tourists from Ukraine who accounted for 13.1 per cent of all tourists that went to Zanzibar as of January. Zanzibar tourist attractions are renowned in the world and attract thousands of tourists every year, however, there is need for increased investment in the sector and that is why events like the Z-Summit 2023 are very important.

Also Read: Tourist numbers grow as US visitors overtake UK – Kenya

Such events help to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions and also to attract investors. This means investors who come to invest directly in the tourism industry, say by building hotels or those who invest in complimentary services like transportation and tour operators.

In this recognition, the government has taken steps to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions and attract investors by creating a business-friendly environment. The President of Zanzibar and Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, recently announced several policy measures to promote Zanzibar tourist attractions including easing work visa requirements.

In this respect, speaking during the close of the 1 st EAC Regional Tourism Expo last year in Arusha,, President Mwinyi emphasized partnerships to promote tourism across the East Africa Community (EAC).

“Partner States should continuously refine national policies and devise new programmes to deliver responsible, inclusive and sustainable tourism products that will attract more visitors from all over the world,” he said.

“It is immensely gratifying to know that the EAC Regional Tourism EXPO will play a vital role in engaging all the governments of member states of our Community and the private sector in setting the vision and direction for tourism development in the region,” noted President Mwinyi.

The president also pointed out that an East African Legislative Assembly Report on tourists’ arrival in East Africa has urged concerted efforts by Partner States of the EAC if the regional trading bloc is to increase its global market share in the tourism industry.

“The report depicts that before the outbreak of COVID – 19, the EAC market share for tourist arrival In East Africa was only 8.6 per cent of the African Market share and 0.3 per cent of the global share,” the president pointed out.

Such low figures are the reason why promotional events like the Z-Summit 2023 are vital to promoting Zanzibar tourist attractions.

Seconding the president, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana said Zanzibar tourist attractions and Tanzania tourist attractions, in general, are unmatched the world over.

The minister insists that even though the Tanzania tourist attractions are renowned, there is still a need to promote them by hosting and attending tourism and investment events around the world.

The minister also said if Tanzania’s tourist attractions are to attract investors, then there is a need to market the sector and increase investment in its promotion. The minister also urged the private sector to take part in promoting Tanzania’s tourist attractions, saying the task cannot be left to the government alone.

That EXPO attracted more than 100 Exhibitors from all around the world and another 41 international buyers hailing from some 19 countries, notably Israel, Poland, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, Kuwait, Finland, Ukraine, Qatar, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, Egypt, Ghana, Rwanda, Botswana, South Africa, Nigeria, Zambia and Uganda.

The Z-Summit organisers hope the event will go a long way in attracting investment for the tourism sector in Tanzania and promote both Zanzibar tourist attractions on the one hand and Tanzania tourist attractions in general.

The tourism sector is one of the country’s major foreign exchange earners, and before it was overtaken by gold recently, tourism was Tanzania’s major foreign exchange earner by far.

Read: Tourism in East Africa: Unpicked ripe fruit

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Giza Mdoe is an experienced journalist with 10 plus years. He's been a Creative Director on various brand awareness campaigns and a former Copy Editor for some of Tanzania's leading newspapers. He's a graduate with a BA in Journalism from the University of San Jose. Contact me at [email protected]

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The Ultimate Zanzibar Travel Guide For First-Time Visitors(2023)

Are you planning your first trip to the beautiful island of Zanzibar? With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, rich history, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that Zanzibar is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers. After spending a little more than a week on the island, this comprehensive Zanzibar travel guide will help you plan a memorable and hassle-free trip to Zanzibar.

The guide will cover Stone Town, the east coast, and the south coast of Zanzibar. Yes, Nungwi or northern Zanzibar is not included because I felt it was very touristy and was packed with resorts. Read till the end to know all the top tips and places you should not miss when in Zanzibar.

Table of Contents

Where is Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is not an island, it’s an archipelago located off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region and is part of the United Republic of Tanzania. The archipelago mainly consists of two big islands, Unguja and Pemba. 

Unguja, the main island, is informally known as Zanzibar. Zanzibar is located 25 – 30 km away from the mainland of Tanzania. Zanzibar is also referred to as the spice island because of its rich cultural history and demography.

Whether visiting before or after your Tanzania safari, this tropical island is a great spot for all kinds of travelers: budget, luxury, or couples!

History of Zanzibar

Zanzibar was a strategic trading hub, attracting merchants from all over the world. Arabs, Persians, Indians, and Europeans all left their mark on the island, shaping its culture, economy, and society.

Zanzibar became an important center for the spice trade in the 19th century, particularly for cloves. It was also a major slave trading post during this time. In 1964, Zanzibar gained independence from British colonial rule and later merged with Tanganyika to form the modern-day country of Tanzania.

Is a Visa needed to visit Zanzibar?

As I mentioned earlier, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. Thus, having a Tanzania visa also permits you entry to Zanzibar. No separate visa is needed for Zanzibar.

You can apply for the Tanzanian eVisa at the official website here: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/ .

The visa grants you 90 days of entry to Tanzania and Zanzibar and costs $50. It usually takes a week for the visa to get processed.

Likewise, you can also get a Visa on arrival to Tanzania for which you need to make the payment in US Dollars, it’s the same as that of eVisa. You can check the list of countries that are granted visas on arrival here .

The best time to visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar has two main seasons one can visit. The first one is June-October , which is the dry season on the island and is also famous because of the tourists coming to Tanzania to experience the Migration safari ! At this time of the year, it’s generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for enjoying the beautiful white sand beaches. Late July is also a great season to visit Zanzibar because it’s also the migration season of the humpback whales, so who knows, you might get lucky spotting them.

The other popular tourist season to visit Zanzibar is from December to February . The weather is perfect, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 30℃ and a pleasant breeze. In the southern part of the island, specifically Kizimkazi, you’ll find a true paradise. The ocean is calm and serene, with hardly any breeze, creating a unique experience of walking on glass-like water.

To visit Zanzibar when it’s least crowded, go between March and May. This is when the island gets its share of rain, but it also means lower prices for accommodations and activities. It’s a great option to travel to Zanzibar on a budget.

How to reach Zanzibar

You can reach Zanzibar either by flying to the island or taking a fast ferry.

Fly to the island

If you’re coming from outside of Tanzania, the fastest option to reach Zanzibar is to fly to the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Many airlines have direct flights to Zanzibar, or you can also take a flight to Dar es Salaam and take another domestic flight from there.

Take a ferry from Dar es Salaam

You can also reach Zanzibar by taking a fast ferry from Dar es Salaam. This is the cheapest way to reach Zanzibar. The ferry is super comfortable and air-conditioned. The ferry takes 1hr 45 mins from Dar es Salaam to reach the port of Zanzibar. Ticket prices for the economy seats are as follows:

Economy seats 

 Residents                                                          

Adult – 30,000 TZS                                       

Child – 25,000 TZS                                       

Adult – 35 USD

Child – 25 USD

The economy seats are the cheapest tickets, and the price only goes upwards from there.

You can book your ferry tickets at no extra cost directly from the ferry website: https://azammarine.com/

Here are also the boarding and dropping points in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar:

Dar es Salaam : Azam Marines & Kilimanjaro Fast Ferries

Zanzibar : Zanzibar Port (walking distance from Stone town)

The best part is while on my way back from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam on the ferry, I saw the whales (at the end of July).

Note: You will find many people trying to help you with the bag once you have collected your tickets or on the way to the ferry. It’s better to say no to them because eventually they’ll ask you for money. 

What is the currency in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar, like Tanzania, uses the currency Tanzania Shilling (TZS). The majority of hotel and activity prices will be quoted in dollars. If you’re going to a restaurant or a coffee house, you might see prices in the local currency.

The majority of the places accept the cards for payment but they’ll also include a 3-5% surcharge. Another great alternative is to get your dollars converted to the local currency. Now, the bigger problem I faced when looking for money exchange while I was staying in Stone Town was that none of them were highly rated. I asked my host, who helped me by pointing to a local shop, which gave me the best rates for dollars.

The current currency conversion rate stands at 1 USD ~ 2500 TZS.

The location of the shop in Stone Town: Suma Store

 You need to ask for the Suma store once you reach the location, it’s a clothes shop, once you have reached there you need to get to the 3rd floor and ask for money exchange.

In the other parts of the island as well you might be able to find money exchanges but the exchange rate wouldn’t be that great, so it’s best to get it exchanged in Stone Town

You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs around the island but those too have high withdrawal fees.

KCB and DTB were the only bank ATMs that had no withdrawal charges

Which language is spoken in Zanzibar

Swahili is the national language of Tanzania and Kenya which is also spoken in Uganda, Rwanda, and a few other countries. It has a lot of similar words from Arabic, English, Portuguese, and German. Swahili is also said to be one of the easiest African languages for English to learn. I mean you already know ‘Hakuna Matata’ from The Lion King which is a Swahili phrase for no worries.

Here are a few other words that you should know to have an even more memorable trip and to interact with the locals!

• Jambo/Habari – Hello A reply for Jambo would be Jambo and a reply for Habari would be Nzuri which translates to Everything is fine
• Mambo/ Mambo Vipi – How are you?/ How are you, my dear? (Generally said by the youngsters or people of the same age) When someone says Mambo you can reply with Poa – Which means cool
• Asante/ Asante Sana – Thank you / Thank you so much
• Karibu/Karibu Sana – Welcome/ Very Welcome Using sana at the end of Asante or Karibu is a form of respect and how happy you are or when referred to many people
• Rafiki – Friend
• Sawa – OK (I got used to saying Sawa so much that the locals appreciated it)
• Pole pole – Slowly slowly, there’s also a famous proverb “Pole Pole, No hurry in Africa”
• Hakuna Matata – No Worries (Almost 90% of the tourists know this phrase because of the Lion King)
• Hii Ni Mboga/Kuna nyama kwa hii chakula – Is this vegetable?/Is there meat in this food?
• Pili Pili/ Yenye Viungo – Spicy
• Sitaki asante – I don’t want, Thank you
• Tutaonana Baadaye – See you later

Which sim card to get in Zanzibar

You can either opt for Tigo(previously Zantel) or Airtel Sim for having decent coverage throughout the island. The process is very simple. All you have to do is carry your passport to the center and they’ll do the remaining work for you. 

I chose Tigo, and the packages start at 2000 TSH for 1 GB of Data for a week. I chose a monthly package worth 25000 TSH [~10$] (20k for the data and the remaining 5k for the sim) which gave me 10 GB of data for a month! Airtel also costs similar to Tigo. Below is the price sheet for Tigo for reference. 

You will find a lot of smaller shops selling SIM cards but it’s always better to take them from the registered center.

Address: Tigo Registered Centre

How many days are enough for Zanzibar?

Zanzibar might seem like a small island but has an area of 2461km². It depends on a personal preference as to how many days one wants to spend. If you are coming to Zanzibar after your safari, 3-4 days is an ideal time to relax and explore some parts of the island.

If you want to experience all the 4 corners of Zanzibar 7- 10 days is an ideal time where you can spend 2-3 days in each part. It is also ideal if you want to get your scuba certification or want to learn kitesurfing! You can relax on the beaches and go for other activities like snorkeling, swimming in freshwater caves, looking for primates in the Jozani forest, learning about the spices on the farm tour, or heading to Prison Island to see the tortoise!

Where to visit in Zanzibar

As I mentioned earlier, Zanzibar is not a small Island, thus knowing exactly what lies in each part would be a great way to decide how much time you want to spend on the island and where you want to stay.

Stone Town (West of the island)

The Stone Town is the old town of Zanzibar City, which was also the hub of trading! It’s best to go around Stone Town on foot to see the old buildings and experience the local food. The Old Fort and the slave market are some of the most prominent sites to not be missed when in Stone Town. 

You should also visit the Zanzibar Coffee House or Swahili House, which are some of the tallest buildings and give you a 360° view of Stone Town. During the evening, you should head to the Sunset jump spot, where you’ll find a lot of locals doing acrobatics and jumping in the water. After which you should try the street food at Forodhani Market. I  highly recommend trying the Urojo and Zanzibar pizza at the night market.

For all the things to do in and around Stone Town, head to the section of Things to do in Stone Town

Paje & Jambiani (East of the island)

Paje and Jambiani are two villages that fall on the east coast of the island. Paje, the more popular among the two, is a famous hotspot for kitesurfing. If you are seeking to have a calm and relaxing vacation, you should stay in Jambiani. 

Both these places are known for long stretches of white sand beaches and blue turquoise waters!

Heading to Paje? Read the detailed Paje travel guide

Kizimkazi(South)

Kizimkazi, or what I like to call the offbeat gem of Zanzibar. This place is famous because the current president of Tanzania is from Kizimkazi. While there are not a lot of resorts in Kizimkazi, it’s the most peaceful place in all of Zanzibar, where you can just enjoy the views by relaxing on your sunbed or while reading a book.

Read more about the hidden gem of Zanzibar in this Kizimkazi guide

Nungwi(North)

While I didn’t go north of Zanzibar, Nungwi is one of the most touristy places in all of Zanzibar, famous for a lot of activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. Nungwi is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous beach bars and clubs. If you are in Nungwi, you should head to Kendwa Beach for a beautiful sunset.

How to get around Zanzibar

Getting around Zanzibar is relatively easy and can be done through various modes of transportation. The most common way is to rent a taxi or hire a private car, which gives you flexibility but is also hard on your pocket. 

If you are on budget you can take the local dala dala, which are small buses that run everywhere around the island. There is no fixed time for the dala dala, and they only start once they are full. But they are really cheap and super fun to travel with as you can interact with the locals.

There are also smaller dala dala, which run for shorter distances. You can also rent boda boda/ piki piki which are bike taxis, and the easiest mode of transport but not suitable for longer distances.

Here are the approximate prices for private taxis around the island

• Airport to Stone Town – US$ 20
• Airport / Stone Town to Nungwi – US$ 60
• Airport / Stone Town to Paje – US$ 50
• Airport / Stone Town to Kizimkazi – US$ 55
• Paje to Kizimkazi – US$ 40
• Paje to Nungwi – US$ 85

You can contact Amo Zanzibar Tours for your Taxi requirements!

Whatsapp: +255  774590020

Driving by yourself in Zanzibar

The international driving license is not valid in Zanzibar thus if you want to drive by yourself, you need to have the Zanzibar driving permit. This can be arranged by the company you are renting your car or scooter from.

To obtain the permit you need to provide these two documents

• Driving License

The Zanzibar driving permit costs 10$-$15 but you need to provide your documents in advance so that you can get the permit once you are renting the vehicle. It takes a day for any company to arrange the permit, so if you want to rent a vehicle the same day it wouldn’t be possible. Please make sure to ask the company a day in advance at least.

I rented the scooter in Paje and that was the best decision to see the places around, the scooter cost: $20/day

Scooter rental Paje: Kapengaro Scooter Rent

Address: Kapengaro Scooter Rent, Paje

Contact: +255 777816589(Whatsapp)

The cost of renting a car starts from $25/day by Zanzibar express car hire , since I didn’t rent a car myself I would suggest you check all the details before renting a car!

Where to stay in Zanzibar

The best part about Zanzibar is you can find accommodation for all budget types. Are you looking for a hostel or a top-notch all-inclusive resort you will find all of them here. Here are a few suggestions of the places to stay in different parts of Zanzibar:

Places to stay in Stone Town

• Shoki Shoki Hostel : Best for budget travelers and dorms starting from 10$
• Caravan Serai Amour : Right in the heart of Stone Town, Caravan Serai Amour is the perfect place to stay when in Stone Town. Noreen, the owner is very hospitable and the property has the best breakfast! They also provide tours all around Zanzibar, thus this is the perfect deal for mid-budge travelers. The price of the accommodation starts at $25/night. Currently, the property is available on Airbnb and you can find all the booking links below – Asmini Room – Tabasamu Room – Furaha Room – Upendo Room

Places to stay in Paje

• Mambo Leo Hostel : The best budget accommodation to stay in Paje with the best hospitality. The staff is really helpful
• Villa Kiota : A mid-budget property in the heart of Paje with the best services and very close to the beach as well. The rooms start at $50/night

Places to stay in Jambiani

• New Teddy’s On the Beach : This is a relatively new property but with an amazing beachfront view of Jambiani Beach. They have an amazing pool and very ambient property. The best thing is they also have a dorm option which starts at $20/night. If you are looking for a property that is away from the crowd on the East Coast then New Teddy’s is the best option

Places to stay in Kizimkazi

• Mama Root : I had the most amazing experience staying at Mama Root! Kizimkazi is the perfect place to unwind and do absolutely nothing. The property offers stunning beachfront views and serves delicious food. Oliwia, the owner, has done an incredible job of upcycling and recycling waste from the ocean to enhance the property’s sustainability. The rooms start at $60/night

Best things to do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a multitude of exciting activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From pristine white sandy beaches to vibrant coral reefs, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Things to do in & around Stone Town

• Take a walking tour or walk around by yourself in Stone Town : Stone Town itself is a UNESCO Heritage site, which has some prominent sites like the Slave market, Anglican Church, and Old Fort. A lot of other important buildings are under construction! You can also find the famous Freddie Mercury house, which has now been turned into a museum!
• Forodhani Market : You should visit the Forodhani market in the evening to try some of the best street food in Zanzibar.
• Prison Island Tour & Nakupenda Sandbank trip : Prison Island or Changuu Island is a 30-minute boat trip from Stone Town. Here, you can see the prison that was used for the slave trade. The island is habited by some of the oldest tortoises and thus is also called Tortoise Island. After this, you can also enjoy some sun on the Nakupenda sandbank which is only visible during low tide.
• SUP along the Stone Town : This is a very offbeat experience where you can Stand Up Paddle along the coast of Stone Town during sunset. It gives an amazing view of Stone Town and also the boats coming back to the dock after the day’s shopping!
• Spice plantation/farm tour : This tour gives you a lot of insights into the spice plantation of Zanzibar and also how Zanzibar was a spice trading hub!
• Visiting the Jozani forest : This forest, situated in the center of the island, is a great spot to spot the primates and wildlife of Zanzibar. If you are lucky, you will also be able to spot the red colobus monkey.

Things to do in and around Paje and Jambiani

• Kitesurfing : If you are in Paje, you should try kitesurfing. You will find several schools that also provide introductory classes, or if you already know kitesurfing, you can rent the equipment!
• Renting a scooter and driving along the East Coast : The best way to explore the East Coast is by renting a scooter. The roads are really beautiful and at times, you are driving right on the coast with amazing views
• Visiting the Rock Restaurant : What makes this restaurant unique is it’s right in the middle of the ocean and you need a boat to reach it, though during low tide you can also walk barefoot to the restaurant. The restaurant is a great spot for couples who want to enjoy their evening with the best views of the ocean!

• Beach hopping : While you might think it’s the same coast, how much can the beach vary? Trust me, each beach has its specialty, and these are some of the beaches you should head to: – Paje Beach for Kitesurfing – Jambiani Beach for long stretches of white sand beaches with little to no crowd – Makunduchi Beach – The beach is a little far from Paje and has the same amazing beachfront views – Mtende Beach – The most beautiful and offbeat beach in all of Zanzibar – Pingwe Beach – This is the beach where The Rock Restaurant is situated – Michamvi Kae Beach for beautiful sunsets
• Kuza Cave : Kuza Cave is an incredible limestone cave boasting crystal clear turquoise fresh water, making it a must-visit destination. Swimming in the cave is an incredibly therapeutic experience, and according to local belief, if you make a wish after your swim, it just might come true! So, go ahead and take a chance – who knows what magic awaits you?
• Scuba Diving : With its crystal clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Zanzibar is a great spot for diving lovers. Divers can witness a truly mesmerizing underwater ecosystem. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Zanzibar provides a wide range of dive sites suitable for all skill levels.

Things to do in and around Kizimkazi

• Safari Blue : This is a complete day tour where they first show you around the mangroves and then take you snorkeling. The water is very clear, and you can spot a lot of fish and reefs! After this, they take you to a sand bank and cook a special seafood lunch for you there. The whole tour is an amazing experience and, if you’re lucky you might also be able to spot either dolphins or whales on your way back. The tour was started by the company Safari Blue and hence they named it after their company. These days everyone has started to offer this tour
• Mtende Beach : Mtende Beach is under a reserve park thus, there is an entrance fee to the beach. It’s a low-tide beach, so make sure you check the tide timings. You can also go snorkel here during the low tide!

What to eat in Zanzibar

When it comes to food, Zanzibar offers an abundance of different food items influenced by Arab, Indian, and European cuisine. The street food is something you can not miss when in Zanzibar. Here is a list of local dishes which you must try when in Zanzibar

• Zanzibar Pizza – Not really an authentic pizza, made by filling a dough with veggies and minced meat with eggs and spices and then fried on the pan
• Urojo – A popular street food that originated in Zanzibar. It is a flavourful soup with potatoes, meat, and different spices garnished with manioca crumbs and coconut chutney
• Mandazi – Deep fried doughnut to be had as a snack or with tea
• Chips Mayai – Omelette made with chips (French fries)
• Zanzibar Pilau – Fusion of Swahili, Indian, and Arab influences resulting in a blend of spices mixed with rice.
• Wali Na Maharage – One of the staple dishes of Zanzibar, this dish is rice with beans and spinach with either meat or fish on the sides. Super healthy and fulfilling!

Places that you should not miss for trying out the best food in Zanzibar

• Lukmaan Restaurant – Stone Town
• Forodhani Night Market – Stone Town
• Seven Spice – Stone town
• Africana BBQ – Paje
• Panyopa Restaurant – Jambiani
• Mama Root – While they don’t have a full-time restaurant and only cater to the guests staying at the place, all the meals here are super delicious and with a hint of local touch.

Here is a complete guide to what local foods to try in Zanzibar . Where I have explained all the local street foods and some authentic dishes you should not miss when in Zanzibar

What not to do in Zanzibar

As much as you know what are the best things to do in Zanzibar, here is a list of a few things you should avoid!

• Do not dress inappropriately in Stone Town and near religious sites : Since Islam is the most prominent religion on the Island, around 99% of the islands are Muslim. While you are in Stone Town or near religious spots, it’s very important to wear appropriate clothes and cover yourselves!
• Go swimming with dolphins : Yes, I know this is one of the biggest attractions in all of Zanzibar. But because of such high demand, the boat drivers and the companies have stopped caring about the dolphins. Almost every company operates a swimming with dolphins tour, and in doing so, they end up harming or chasing the dolphins and in the end, also injuring the dolphins and cutting their fins! Thus, if you want to see the dolphins, see them from afar without harming them or swimming with them!
• Cheetah’s Rock : I was excited to discover Cheetah’s Rock in Zanzibar, a conservation center where they have been rescued from sad circumstances and are being rehabilitated. I wanted to visit this place and after reading their reviews on Google wanted to figure out more before I paid for the tour. When I spoke to their office, they didn’t provide me with any information about how many animals have been sent back to the wild, and they were more keen on me making the tour without providing all the information I was looking for. From the reviews, this seems more like a zoo where you can get photos taken with the animals.
• Don’t drink tap water : Tap water is not safe for drinking in Zanzibar, and it’s better to use bottled water, which is easily available in all places! 

Is Zanzibar expensive?

Zanzibar can be considered an expensive destination mainly because of the cost of reaching the island. It is very much possible to find budget-friendly accommodation and local food is inexpensive, while the prices in luxury resorts and restaurants can be higher. Activities too might be a little expensive when compared to Southeast Asia.

Is Zanzibar safe?

As much as the media portrays Africa as not a safe place to travel, I was shocked to see it was quite the opposite. People were very friendly and helpful, and at no point did I feel unsafe around them.

Stone Town in general is safe even at night and there are cameras around the town to keep you safe. You have to be a little more careful it is not advised to go alone at night in Paje or Jambiani or for that matter, any other part of the island!

Be careful of the beach boys who dress up as Maasai and might not even be real Maasai!

Overall, I would say Zanzibar is safe, but you also have to be cautious yourself.

Tanzania beyond Zanzibar

Tanzania has a very diverse landscape, and while Zanzibar has these stunning white-sand beaches, there are other things you should visit when planning your trip.

• Hiking the MT Kilimanjaro – Top of Africa
• Hiking the only active volcano in Tanzania – Ol DOinyo Lengai
• Planning a wildlife migration safari in Serengeti
• Seeing different wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire National Park
• Seeing the chimpanzees in Gombe National Park
• Diving in Mafia Island

Zanzibar travel tips to help plan a memorable trip!

• Ferry is an alternate cheap option to travel to Zanzibar.
• You will need a Type D or Type G travel adapter in Zanzibar.
• Don’t wear inappropriate clothes in Stone Town or near religious sites
• To see the baobab trees which are the thickest in the world and also try the Mabuyu seeds
• Do not take SIM cards from random strangers posing as staff outside your accommodation
•  Do walk on your own around StoneTown to see some of the old architecture and doors
• While renting a vehicle do know you will need a vehicle permit and it’s better to rent 2-3 days in advance
• While the majority of the properties have mosquito nets, don’t forget to carry your mosquito repellent spray/ cream
• Don’t drink water directly from the taps, it’s better to get bottled water

Hope this ultimate guide helps you in planning a memorable trip to Zanzibar. If you have any other questions you can directly reach me on Instagram – stories.of.raku

FAQs about Zanzibar travel

Q1. is zanzibar cheap or expensive.

Ans. Zanzibar is suitable for all budget travelers, and while the flights to reach Zanzibar might be expensive you can still find budget accommodation. Local food is again really inexpensive and delicious

Q2. What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

Ans. There are the best windows to visit Zanzibar, the first from Jun-Oct and the next from Dec-Feb, during both these periods there is less to no rain in Zanzibar which makes them the best seasons to visit this tropical paradise

Q3. Is 7 Days enough for Zanzibar?

Ans. 7 days are more than enough to explore some of the most prominent places on the island like Stone Town, Paje and Kizimkazi

Q4. What is the best side of Zanzibar to stay?

Ans. According to me, Kizimkazi is one of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar, if all you are looking for is relaxing around

Q4. Is malaria high risk in Zanzibar?

Ans. Malaria is at an all-time low currently in Zanzibar but this does not mean that we should not take precautions. It’s best to always carry a mosquito repellent spray with you also consult your doctor about pre-medication for malaria.

Q5. Is Zanzibar worth the hype?

Ans. Yes, without a doubt! Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches around the world and with amazing local cuisine, everyone should visit it at least once!

Q6. What are the disadvantages of tourism in Zanzibar?

Ans. Tourism has been growing a lot in Zanzibar in the last 10 years and due to this, resorts are being built in almost every corner of the island. Waste management is something that needs to be controlled before over-tourism starts destroying the place and habitat around it!

Read other similar blogs here:

•   How to get yellow fever vaccination in Bangalore
• Guide to Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai: Tanzania’s Active Volcano

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you  and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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Nitisha Chauhan

Very useful article. I have been planning a trip to Zanzibar since last 5 years when I was in India. Now as I have moved to Ireland, it is far but this blog made me crave for the bluest waters again. Surely will plan! Best guide.

storiesofraku

Thanks a lot Nitisha!

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Ten Days in Zanzibar: An Itinerary for First-Timers

Located just off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is an archipelago with a fascinating and colorful history. Today, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous zone within the nation of Tanzania, after having experienced several different periods of colonization by a number of different world powers. Throughout this time, however, Zanzibar was a major hub for slavery in the African Great Lakes region, as well as Stone Town being a busy port city. 

Today, this history is reflected in the extensive cultural diversity among Zanzibari people, an ethnic mixture of backgrounds ranging from Persian and Arab to African. The vast majority of the population is Muslim, although there are small factions of other religions present in the archipelago, and Swahili is the locals’ first language.

Visiting Zanzibar offers you the opportunity to enjoy two major sides of what the archipelago has to offer – an incredibly rich cultural and historical experience, as well as a gorgeous seaside holiday. Of course, there are many destinations around the world where you can experience vibrant cultures, fascinating history, and pristine beaches, but there aren’t many places where you can tick all these boxes within 565 square miles. That’s the dream, right? 

My trip to Zanzibar was quite unlike anything else I’ve experienced before. I’d read a lot about the plethora of things to see and do, ranging from visiting the old slave market in Stone Town to swimming with dolphins off the north-eastern coast of the main island. However, when I was finally able to do these things myself, I found myself in awe of how incredibly multifaceted Zanzibar is as a holiday destination. 

The hustle and bustle of the busiest parts of Stone Town make you feel like you’re in a North African riad, while the white sandy beaches of the east coast are comparable to the picture-perfect honeymoon locations of Mauritius and the Seychelles – just quieter and a little more authentic! 

But the best part of all is that Zanzibar is relatively cheap. Whether you’re looking for a budget holiday or a middle-of-the-road type of trip, Zanzibar is a holiday destination that’ll allow you to have an epic experience and do plenty of activities without having to break the bank. I wrote a detailed guide on how to visit Zanzibar on a budget , if you’re interested.

Zanzibar has so many things to do that it can be overwhelming at first, but the good news is that because the main island is small, it’s absolutely possible to experience a little bit of everything without feeling like you’re being run off your feet. It’s all about striking a balance between experiencing the history and culture while also making time to sit back, relax and enjoy your gorgeous surroundings, and in my opinion, this is the perfect place to do just that.

Today, I’m going to share with you some things that I wish I’d known when first visited Zanzibar, along with a comprehensive itinerary of where to go, what to do, and where to stay during your ten days in Zanzibar. 

My itinerary will take you all over the island – you’ll start in Stone Town and see the most important historical sites and do a traditional spice tour, among other things. After that, I’ll guide you through the best way to see the whole island – from doing a dhow cruise in Nungwi to hanging out on the beaches in Kiwengwa, to exploring the legendary Jozani Forest, to finally enjoying a little bit of paradise in Kizimkazi. I’m going to give you advice on where to go, what to do, and where to stay so that you can have an epic trip without any bumps in the road (metaphorically, of course). 

Whether you follow my guide from A to Z or just pick out a few fun places or useful tips, I hope that my experience can help you plan the perfect holiday to East Africa’s most underrated tropical paradise. Now, let’s dive right into our 10-day Zanzibar itinerary!

Day 1: Exploring Stone Town

Prepare to be greeted by Stone Town’s bustling atmosphere the minute you arrive – you’ll be surrounded by friendly locals, bustling storefronts, and remarkable architecture. To be in and amongst the action is the best way to properly experience Stone Town, so I’d suggest exploring on foot as much as possible! I found that it allowed me to really appreciate the complexities of my surroundings – from the colonial buildings to the exquisitely designed wooden doors. The best part of this is that Stone Town is pretty small, so you can absolutely walk it!

Take the plunge and start your adventure at the Darajani Bazaar, arguably the biggest and most popular market in Stone Town. There’s nothing quite like wandering around a traditional market – surrounded by local merchants and families doing their grocery shopping, this is one of my favorite things to do in Zanzibar. There really is no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture! But remember, you will, most likely, stick out like a sore thumb as a tourist, so don’t allow any vendors to take advantage of you and charge you the world for produce or products. 

Next, take a quick stroll down Market Street to the Old Slave Market, probably the most important stop of your Zanzibar itinerary. Be warned – this is, as you may have anticipated, a somber experience. But, having said that, it was truly enlightening and educational too. I’d advise doing a proper tour, during which your guide will show you around the site and explain the distressing history of slavery in Zanzibar. 

The site includes several statues and memorials for the people who died during this period, and the atmosphere is palpable. The former slave market serves as a harsh reminder of the shadows of darkness that are cast by the island’s colonial history of oppression, appearing in stark contrast to the beautiful old colonial buildings that line the streets of Stone Town – but it’s an important reminder, nonetheless.  

Next up, on a slightly different note, head on over to Freddy Mercury House. Yep, you heard me! If you didn’t already know this, you may be surprised to hear that Freddy Mercury grew up in Stone Town and you can visit his former home. You can’t go inside, but you’ll be able to admire the beautiful, traditional door and read all about his life on the plaques positioned outside the house. I found this to be quite a fun and unexpected pitstop, but then again, I’m a bit of a Queen fan girl – so it may not be as much fun if you’re impartial to them (the greatest rock band of all time, cough, cough). Each to their own!

Making a jump to a bit more local history, wander up to the Old Fort, otherwise known as the Arab Fort. The oldest building in Stone Town, the Old Fort was built in 1699 and has been used as a prison and a train terminal, among other things, over the years. Today, it’s well set up for tourists and it even has a visitors’ center and a restaurant.

Across the street from the Old Fort, you’ll find the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum, two of Zanzibar’s landmark museums. They’re both culturally significant, the former being the most modern building in the archipelago at one point in time, and their architecture combines European and Zanzibari styles, adding to their sublime uniqueness. Make sure you take a moment to have a look at these buildings when you leave the Old Fort. Viewing them from the outside should be sufficient, however, because they’re not as well kept as the fort, so don’t waste too much time here!

End your day with a cultural experience that is sure to be an absolute blast! By now, you’re bound to be absolutely dying to try some local Zanzibari street food, and where better to do this than at a local night market? As the sun sets, the Forodhani Gardens, located at the Palace Museum, transforms into a hustling and bustling food market. 

Here, you’ll be able to spend the evening wandering around, meeting locals, and trying out some of the most interesting and delicious food! My favorite things are Zanzibari pizza (which is nothing like a typical pizza), Chapatti, and Urojo! My mouth is watering just thinking about these delicious treats.

Where to stay in Stone Town: Stone Town boasts loads of accommodation options, but I personally think that since you’re going to be doing a lot of exploring and spending significant time outdoors, it’s nice to have a really nice and comfortable place to stay – that’s why I’d recommend Sharazad Wonders Boutique . Its location is super central – only 150 meters from the main beach and close to the Old Fort – and it offers handy extra services like the use of free bikes and air-conditioning in the rooms. 

Day 2: Traditional Spice Tour from Stone Town

No trip to Stone Town is complete without a traditional spice tour! Now, I was a little bit skeptical when I was first told that I had to do a spice tour while in Zanzibar – I’m not particularly interested in spices, nor am I much of a cook (or so I’ve been told). Luckily, however, my curiosity got the better of me and I did it anyway, and boy am I glad it did! 

A Zanzibari spice tour is about more than just spices, it’s a full-on cultural experience. Not only do you get to see and try a vast array of traditional spices, but you get to spend the day with locals away from the business of the town, cook with them, and even share a meal.

Your morning starts at 9:00 where you’ll meet your guide at the entrance of the Old Fort – yes, the one you visited yesterday. From there, you’ll be driven out to the spice farm by means of their arranged transport, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Best of all, the journey is fairly quick, 20 to 30 minutes maximum, and you’ll get to see Stone Town from a different vantage point along the way.

When you arrive, your guides will show you around the farm, telling you all about their different spices – you can even taste them fresh from the fields which I’d highly recommend. You’ll see things like vanilla, cardamom, and nutmeg that ought to be familiar to you, as well as a few more unusual things as well, it’s all part of the fun. 

After the tour, you’ll be invited to take part in a cassava leaf harvest, a coconut milk-making tour, and finally, you’ll have an intimate cooking lesson with the locals, using a collection of local ingredients and spices. As if the cooking lesson wasn’t fun enough, you get to eat the final product! 

But in all seriousness, I really believe that few traveling experiences come close to sharing a meal with locals, no matter where you are in the world. And here, you get to (literally) break bread with people from a completely different walk of life as they share with you their culture and traditions. It really is an epic experience!

However, from a practical perspective, be warned that you’ll be spending much of the day in the sweltering sun. So make sure you take a hat, sun cream, water, comfortable shoes to walk in, and cash to buy some spices of your own afterward!

You’ll get back to the Fort in the afternoon and will most likely be rather knackered, so I’d suggest that you spend the rest of the afternoon chilling. But if you do feel up to doing something more, consider checking out the Persian baths, the Malindi Mosque, St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, or just going for walk along the beach.

When you’re ready for dinner, I found that the best way to find the most delicious food was to simply take a stroll around town until you found something you like the look of. The streets are bustling in the evenings, and you’ll have no trouble finding a place for dinner – whether you grab something from a street vendor or sit down at a proper restaurant!

Day 3: Changuu Island Day Trip from Stone Town

Get ready for a proper island-style day out when you do a day trip to Changuu Island . Meet at the Old Fort in the morning (yeah, it’s a common meeting place for tours) and you’ll be taken down to the coastline where you’ll hop on a little boat and your guide will drive you out to the island. Although the boat itself is nothing special, it’s always fun to be out on the water. And don’t panic if you get seasick, it’s not a long ride and you won’t spend any time bobbing around!

Changuu Island, colloquially known as Prison Island, is incredibly significant in Zanzibar, naturally, culturally, and historically. The island was purchased by Lloyd Matthews, Zanzibar’s first-ever British Prime Minister back in 1893, and its initial purpose was, you guessed it, to be a prison. However, these plans didn’t materialize and the island was later used as a location for local yellow fever patients to quarantine – yikes!

When you arrive, you’ll be able to wander around and learn about the local history from your guide. But it’s not all about colonial history! Animal lovers will be pleased to hear that the island is inhabited by at least 50 tortoises. In fact, some will be older than you, as there are even a few who are older than 100 years old! You’ll be able to see the local animals and even feed them if you’re brave. Your guide will give you some background as to what these little guys (who aren’t always so little) are doing there. And keep an eye out for peacocks and antelope too!

Once you’ve seen and learned about the island, wander back down to the beach to cool off in the picturesque waters. Your guides will even bring along snorkeling gear, so if you’re keen to check out what’s below you, grab some goggles, flippers, and a snorkel and hit the water!

When you’re tired, lunch will be waiting for you, cooked for you by your guides. You’ll have the pleasure of enjoying a traditional Swahili feast including local fare, a seafood BBQ, fresh fruit, and delicious cheeses.

After your lunch has settled, you’ll jump back on the boat and enjoy a leisurely ride back to the main island. You’ll probably be full from lunch, so if you’re not too tired, wander around and find a spot on the beach for some sundowners – I’d suggest 6 Degrees South or Mercury’s – and get an early night. 

Day 4: Chill Out on the Coast at Nungwi

Start your day bright and early and head up north to Nungwi. There are four ways to get there – by bus, shuttle, taxi, or rental car. When I did the trip, I hired a car and drove myself because I wanted the freedom to stop as I liked. But if you’d rather let somebody else do the driving, my recommendation would be to pre-order a taxi. You can take a bus or shuttle, but you may be in for some delays, multiple stops, and just a generally full and uncomfortable journey. Of course, it’s all about preference! But if you are going to take a taxi, make sure you book it in advance and settle on a price beforehand – this goes for the rest of your trip too!

When you arrive (the drive is only about an hour and fifteen minutes if you go directly), check into your accommodation and spend the day exploring the village and relaxing on the beach.

If you’re an active person, however, and sitting still just isn’t your cup of tea (I get it, I always need to be busy), there are loads of things you can do without going too far. Head down to Nungwi Beach and you’ll find loads of space to lay down your towel and read a book, as well as several operators offering cool things to do. This may include things like hiring snorkeling or diving gear or going surfing. 

For dinner, I’d highly recommend, um, Sexy Fish Restaurant. They serve the most delicious African-European fusion seafood made with locally sourced ingredients – it’s to die for. 

Where to Stay in Nungwi: Nungwi is a fairly touristy part of the island – by Zanzibar’s standards – but Canary Nungwi Hotel and Spa is the perfect escape from the business you may experience elsewhere. It’s only a few hundred meters away from Nungwi Beach and a few kilometers from Royal Beach and Kendwa Beach (which, by the way, is divine). 

Canary Nungwi Hotel is one of my personal favorites, not only because of its location but it’s got a laid-back vibe while still offering you all the amenities you need. It even has its own restaurant, so if you’re needing a quick and easy meal, you don’t have to go far. And their food is delicious too!

Day 5: Visit the Turtles and Go for a Sunset Dhow Cruise

You’ve seen local tortoises, and now it’s time to hang out with their aquatic counterparts! Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond in Nungwi, a natural aquarium, and see these little local wonders with your very own eyes. 

At the conservation pond, you’ll be able to learn all about the local turtle population and the aquarium’s conservation efforts. If you’re keen, you’ll even be able to feed and swim with the turtles – a truly special experience! Entrance fee is $10 which goes towards their conservation efforts, which is pretty worth it if you ask me.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and in the sun before heading out on a sunset dhow cruise . In my humble opinion, this was one of the coolest things I got to do while in Zanzibar. Being out on the open ocean in a traditional Zanzibari dhow with a glass of wine – it doesn’t get better than that. Depending on the weather, you may even have the option of jumping in the water for a snorkel when you arrive at the reef, and you’ll be serenaded with local live music on the boat while you enjoy your sundowners. 

Day 6: Visit the Kiwengwa Caves on the Northeastern Coast 

It’s time to hit the road – you’re going to Kiwengwa! This is when it comes in handy to have hired a car, but don’t fret if you don’t – you can, once again, pre-order a taxi (for about $25) or catch a local bus. It’ll only take you about 45 minutes to get there.

Kiwengwa is a popular destination for tourists, and it’s no wonder why. It boasts a gorgeous beach and several cool attractions – also, the beaches in the North Eastern part of Zanzibar are known to be the best, and I can absolutely attest to that!

When you arrive, drop off your bags and enjoy a relaxing morning. Then put on some active clothes, comfy shoes, and get ready to do some exploring, because you’re going to the Kiwengwa Caves! 

There are actually two caves – one is 150 meters long and the other is 200 meters long – and they differ in shape and height. They’re a pretty awe-inspiring sight and when you get there, you’ll be surrounded by bats and exquisite birds, making this an epic excursion for animal lovers, especially ornithologists. The caves are full of massive trees and their roots, as well as stalactites hanging from the roof of the caves. 

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby little village of Pongwe. It’s a quaint local village with a beautiful beach boasting pristine, calm waters and a protected coral reef. Wander around the village and meet the locals, and spend some time lazing around on the beach and in the water.

Head back to Kiwengwa and have dinner at La Base Jungelkite, a local seafood and fish restaurant. Now, don’t be thrown off when you realize it’s also a kitesurfing school – their food is excellent and there’s always a cool atmosphere! 

Where to stay in Kiwengwa: When you’re visiting Kiwengwa, you absolutely have to stay at Ndoto Africa Bungalows . Here, you’ll be treated to all the comforts of home along with a typical East African touch. The rooms are separate little bungalows so you can enjoy your privacy and there’s a lovely pool that you’re sure to want to use to cool off after long, hot days in the sun.

Their breakfasts are also an absolute must – they serve a variety of options, including an a la carte menu, continental breakfast, as well as several Italian-style options if you’d like to try something different. 

Day 7: Kiwengwa

Today is all about relaxing. After all, Kiwengwa, along with the rest of the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, is renowned for its sublime beaches and epic swimming spots. And after a busy week, you’re most likely aching for a day in the sun and the sand doing whatever the heck you want. 

So, start your morning in the most relaxing way possible and down to the Yoga Bar. Enjoy a yoga class at the beach at this special family-run establishment and stick around for a coffee and a healthy breakfast afterward.

Spend the rest of the day hanging out on the beach and taking a walk out on the sand banks at low tide. Hit the water and do some snorkeling, or, if you really feel like being active, why not try out a kite surfing lesson? I’d recommend either making your way back to La Base Junglekite or try out One Love Kite Surfing – they’re both popular kite surfing schools and you’re bound to have a fun day out! 

In the late afternoon, head to the Beach Lounge for sundowners and enjoy a laid-back evening.

Day 8: Visit Jozani Forest from Jambiani

Hit the road and head from Kiwengwa to Jambiani – the drive should take you just over an hour (if you travel directly) and a taxi will cost you between $35 and $40. Jambiani is a quaint little village, slightly quieter and less touristy than some of the northeastern parts of Zanzibar. It’s known as a fishing and seaweed farming village and wandering around the streets and up the seven-kilometer-long beach is a beautiful and fascinating experience.

Spend the morning exploring the village, enjoying the beach, and frolicking in the water before getting ready to head out for a little afternoon adventure. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothes head on out to Jozani Forest – either drive or hop in a taxi. The forest is located inside Jozani Chwaka National Park – Zanzibar’s only national park. 

For the full experience, I would absolutely recommend doing a guided forest tour. That way, you’ll be shown around the forest by a local guide, and they’ll tell you all about the natural vegetation and the wild animals that call the forest home. One of the most unusual animals you’ll see are Red Colobus Monkeys – they’re only found in Zanzibar, so they’re a pretty special sight!

After your day in the forest, head back to Jambiani to enjoy an evening on the beach. If you’re into seafood, I’d highly recommend going to Casa Del Mar – they serve Sea Cigal which is a local breed of lobster, and it’s absolutely to die for! And if you’re into Instagrammable settings, take a taxi up to the Rock for dinner: the instafamous restaurant that’s located on a rock in the ocean!

Where to stay in Jambiani: Since you’re only staying one night, why not treat yourself to a full-on resort experience? And there’s no better place to do it than at Zen Boutique Resort .

The resort offers visitors everything you could possibly dream of – from a pool with crystal clear water to a top-notch restaurant and vibey bar. Ideally, it’s only about 30 kilometers from Jozani Forest and there’s even a shared lounge, which I’ve always found is a really fun way to meet other travelers!

Day 9: Enjoy the Beach at Kizimkazi

The time has come for you to head to your final destination of your trip to Zanzibar – Kizimkazi. It’ll only take you about half an hour to get there (once again, either by driving yourself or by taxi) so have a slow morning in Jambiani before you head down south. 

Kizimkazi is the ideal place to relax and just enjoy the tropical paradise that is Zanzibar during your second last day on the island. My favorite beach to visit when I was there was Aya Beach – it may not boast the white sandy beaches you see on postcards, but I actually think that in many ways, it’s better! It’s a beautiful piece of shoreline and you can walk along the beach no matter the tides. 

Spend the day enjoying the outdoors and hanging out on the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not go snorkeling? The water is warm and it’s crystal clear! 

For dinner, head down to Mnana Lodge. Here, you’ll find an awesome spot that serves Italian-Zanzibari fusion food – it’s exactly what you never realized you’ve been missing in your life! Honestly, the food is incredible and it’s super well-priced, you simply can’t go wrong with Mnana Lodge. 

Where to stay in Kizimkazi: Last but certainly not least is Kamelon Blue in Kizimkazi – my favorite place that I’ve stayed at on the island! Kamelon Blue just has such a cool atmosphere. It’s relaxed but professional, and you’ll have access to a gorgeous pool and cool bar on the property (make sure to try out a few of their signature cocktails, they’re amazing). 

The setting is absolutely gorgeous, with the private rooms situated in and amongst greenery all around the property, so walking back to your room tonight makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the forest!

Day 10: Enjoy a Blue Safari 

It’s your last day in Zanzibar, but don’t let that get you down! Spend your final morning going on what the locals call a blue safari – a day trip on a boat to marvel at some of the island’s most incredible scenery and wildlife! Best of all, you’ll even get to hop in the water and come face-to-face with some of them. 

Now, before you head out, it’s essential that you’re properly prepared – it gets pretty darn hot out there, so make sure you pack a hat, sun cream, and clothing that won’t make you too hot. Definitely wear a swimsuit and if you have a second skin, take it along! The last thing you want is to get a gnarly sunburn just before you have to travel home.

When you’re deciding which tour operator to pick, my advice is to look carefully at what the tours include and make a decision based on how long you want to be out on the water and which activities most suit your interests. Some of the activities they include are visiting Menai Bay which is Zanzibar’s largest marine protected area, going snorkeling in special locations, viewing dolphins, and even swimming with dolphins. Some will offer all, especially if it’s a private tour, while others tend to focus on either sightseeing at Menai Bay and learning about the conservation side of things or swimming with the dolphins. 

Honestly, all these options are epic. But since you have limited time, I’d say you should prioritize swimming with the dolphins. I mean, how often do you get that kind of opportunity?

After a special day out on the water, surrounded by phenomenal scenery and beautiful animals, you ought to feel pretty fulfilled! And while you may be sad to leave, the one upside is that your trip back out to Stone Town, from where you’ll depart (either by plane or ferry) will only take you about an hour by taxi. 

Final Thoughts on How to Spend 10 Days in Zanzibar

Well, there you have it! I’ve done a fair bit of traveling in different parts of the world, but there’s just something special about Zanzibar. It’s the locals, the food, the incredible scenery, and the fact that the archipelago has such a rich and deep history just waiting to be explored. The true essence of Zanzibar is tangible wherever you go and whatever you do, and in my opinion, it’s something that everybody should experience. 

So, now that you’ve heard my take on the best way to see Zanzibar in ten days, all there’s left to do is start booking and pack your bags!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Zanzibar Tourism Statistics Shows Increase in International Visitors

SUMMARY – ZANZIBAR TOURISM STATISTICS: ZANZIBAR’S TOURISM FLOURISHED IN JULY 2023, WITH A 1.0% RISE IN INTERNATIONAL VISITORS COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR, AS EUROPEAN TOURISTS, LED BY THE FRENCH, CONTINUED TO SHAPE THE ISLAND’S MARKET DOMINANCE.

Zanzibar’s serene beaches and enchanting culture continue to cast a spell on international tourists, as the island paradise experiences a substantial surge in visitors during July 2023. The latest Zanzibar tourism statistics unveil a remarkable 1.0 percent increase compared to the same period last year, welcoming a total of 58,711 visitors to its shores. This wave of tourism momentum also boasts a notable 23.4 percent escalation from June 2023’s visitor count of 47,595.

Read: Good Year for SA Tourism Despite Challenges in 2022

European Dominance Persists

Europe, with its diverse nations and cultures, maintains its prominence as the driving force behind Zanzibar’s tourism market . European visitors account for a noteworthy 65.9 percent of the total visitors in July 2023. Among these nations, the French take the lead, contributing 10.1 percent of the total visitors during the month, closely trailed by British tourists at 8.0 percent. In contrast, New Zealand’s presence remains modest, contributing less than one percent to the overall visitor count.

Gateways of Arrival

Data underscores the airport’s central role as the primary entry point, with 88.3 percent of visitors choosing to land on Zanzibar’s shores through this route. Among them, 49,275 arrived via international flights, while 2,559 opted for domestic connections. Seaports accounted for the remaining 6,877 visitors, with a minute number of 6 individuals arriving by cruise ship and a substantial 6,871 by sea ferries from Tanzania Mainland.

Read: The Neela Collection to Launch Luxurious Boutique Hotels in Zanzibar

Holiday Pursuits Dominate

July 2023 bears witness to a captivating trend, with 99.4 percent of visitors setting their sights on the island for a leisure-filled holiday. A mere 0.4 percent journeyed to visit friends and relatives, while a slender 0.2 percent had other purposes for their visit.

Diverse Demographics Unveiled

Demographics paint an intriguing picture, revealing a near-even distribution between male and female visitors. Out of the total visitor count, 47.4 percent comprised male travelers (27,807 visitors), and 52.6 percent embraced female visitors (30,904 visitors). A significant surge is noted in both categories, with male visitors experiencing a growth of 16.3 percent and female visitors surging by 30.4 percent compared to the preceding month of June 2023.

Age Categories Illuminate Diversity

Categorizing visitors by age groups illuminates the diversity of Zanzibar’s appeal. Among the visitors, 10.6 percent were children under the age of 15, 85.7 percent fell within the working-age bracket of 15 to 64 years, and 3.6 percent comprised retirees aged 65 and older.

Emerging Markets’ Enthusiastic Arrival

Zanzibar’s allure extends to emerging markets, evidenced by a remarkable 27.7 percent increase in visitors from Poland, India, Russia, Israel, China, and Ukraine when compared to July 2022’s figures.

Read: South African Hotels Lead Growth in Hospitality Sector in Q1 2023

Extended Escapades and Bed-Space Comfort

With a penchant for extended experiences, 21.9 percent of visitors opted for a seven-day sojourn in July 2023. The overall average intended length of stay settled at an inviting eight nights (8.2), underscoring the island’s ability to captivate and enthrall.

Bed-space availability remained robust, with 701,189 accommodations available in July 2023. A significant portion, approximately 68.4 percent, was occupied, with 479,742 bed sales recorded for the month.

Seven-Month Surge in Visitor Influx

Over the past seven months, Zanzibar’s tourism sector witnessed an impressive surge of 340,750 visitors from January to July 2023, marking a commendable 30.4 percent increase compared to the corresponding months in 2022. Among these visitors, 308,115 chose to enter through the airport, while the remaining 32,635 arrived via seaport. Within this remarkable influx, Europe’s contribution stands tall, accounting for a substantial 73.3 percent of the total visitors. Notably, the French emerge as the leading market, contributing 11.5 percent to the total count.

Read: Accor Hotels Expands Presence in Kenya with Six Luxurious Properties

This consolidated table provides an in-depth overview of Zanzibar’s tourism statistics for the specified periods, encompassing various metrics such as international visitors, mode of entry, purpose of visit, gender breakdown, age categories, average length of stay, bed occupancy rate, and a comprehensive performance overview for seven months.

Tanzania doubles investment registrations in Q1 2024

Tanzania Investment Centre executive director Gilead Teri. PHOTO | FILE

By  Louis Kolumbia

What you need to know:

• The Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) has recorded a 111 percent increase in the number of registered projects from 100 between January and March 2023 to 211 during this year’s corresponding period

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) has recorded a 111 percent increase in the number of registered projects from 100 between January and March 2023 to 211 during this year’s corresponding period.

The total project value also increased by $217.98 million (Sh566.75 billion) from $1.26 billion (Sh3.26 trillion) in the first quarter of 2023 to $1.48 billion (Sh3.85 trillion)  in the first three months of 2024.

The number of jobs created increased to 24,931 this year compared to 17,016 that were created last year, which is a 46.5 percent increase.

Tanzania to double investment by 2025, targeting local Investors

Investment looking up after years of ups and downs

These details are contained in the recently released TIC Quarterly Bulletin that covers the period of January to  March 2024.

TIC executive director Gilead Teri attributes the achievements to several measures taken by the centre since President Samia Suluhu Hassan came into office.

Mr Teri says in the report’s preamble that implemented measures aim to facilitate the government’s ambition to increase investment attraction through the execution of the new Investment Act and the new corporate strategic plan to enable Tanzanians to invest in collaboration with foreign investors.

Read : Tanzania investments jump 52.4 percent to reach Sh2.8 trillion in three months

“Others are the implementation of the National Investment Promotion Campaign Phase One. TIC, in collaboration with the regional authorities, traversed 18 regions to showcase well-researched investment opportunities and incentives and provided seminars to more than 400 local businesses.

“Efforts are also underway, including carrying out investment roadshows in various countries to promote investment,” Mr Teri says.

He adds that in commemorating International Women's Day 2024, TIC highlighted remarkable business initiatives by Tanzanian women, underscoring the centre's belief in investing in women.

According to him, the centre targeted to register 1,000 projects this year, emphasising that the target would be realised.

Mr Teri expresses his confidence the target realisation would be supported by the government’s commitment to ensure there is economic growth and empowerment of citizens through the creation of favourable business environments.

Furthermore, the bulletin says the number of projects registered in the manufacturing sector increased from 34 last year to 104 this year, attracting $454.23 million and anticipated to create 11,961 jobs.

The transportation sector follows after registering 46 projects as compared to 27 projects listed last year.

The projects registered this year are worth $578.93 million and are anticipated to create 7,049 jobs, up from 4,959 generated in a similar period last year.

The tourism, commercial buildings, and agriculture sectors follow in the list of segments that have registered many projects in the third quarter of the 2023/24 fiscal year.

Furthermore, the bulletin shows that the value of capital attracted by commercial buildings increased to $333.17 million from $250.19 million recorded last year.

The tourism and agriculture sectors come next by bringing in $162.88 million and $107.01 million, respectively.

Regarding job creation, the document says agriculture generated 4,510 jobs as compared to 2,756 recorded last year, followed by tourism, services, and commercial buildings.

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