Zanzibar

DESTINATIONS tanzania zanzibar

Zanzibar

Hakuna matata is Swahili for "no worries", and this is exactly the spirit that fills the atmosphere of Zanzibar —the Spice Island of Tanzania. A heavenly world sprinkled with charming colonial buildings, white sandy beaches, colourful markets, and flavours of exotic cuisines from all over the world.

Tanzania The Islands Beaches

Tanzania

Whether it's the mainland or the lesser-known islands of the archipelago, there is plenty of things in Tanzania to explore.

The Islands

The lush tropical forests and pristine beaches spread across what is officially called the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar, made up of Unguja and Pemba islands. Latham Island, also called Fungu Kizimkazi, is very small and uninhabited. Mafia Island is home to about 46 thousand people and countless species of wild animals. Each island is surrounded by many smaller islands, most of them unsettled. Like mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar is an important centre of Swahili culture, and at the same time the meeting point of several ethnic influences. Following the Portuguese who arrived here in 1498, the island was heavily shaped by the Arabs during the Omani rule until the 18th century. The British empire, another addition to this eclectic mix of cultures, was also an important turning point that brought relief with the abolition of slavery. Besides slave trade, the island's strategic position also gave way to the rise of relevant commercial activity, and while the new era has brought the end of colonial conflicts (the region was granted independence in 1963), Zanzibar remains an important market for cloves, seaweed, and spices, all sold around the coral stone landmarks of Stone Town. For this reason, the Zanzibar Archipelago is also known as the Spice Islands.

Beaches

Unwind as you bury your toes in the warm white sand, or go active and try snorkelling or kite-surfing at one of Zanzibar's pristine beaches.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Discover Zanzibar's eventful colonial past, and immerse yourself into the colourful marine world embracing the island.

House of Wonders (being restored)

One of the most important landmark buildings in Stone Town, the House of Wonders had been closed due to disrepair, with large sections collapsing in 2012, 2015 and 2020. The former palace and museum used to showcase European and Omani influence not only in appearance, but also through the various …

Darajani Market

If you are looking to get the most of local vibe on the island, head to Darajani Market: there's nothing you will not find here — intense flavours, fresh seafood, colourful souvenirs, and even electronic gadgets. The main structure of the market was built back in …

Old Fort

Built after the Portuguese defeat in 1698, this fort was a key structure for the Omani Arabs during the rule of the Sultanate. It served as a prison and garrison in that era, and today it functions as a visitor centre with an amphitheatre, holding various cultural events every …

Princess Salme Museum

This compact museum is dedicated to the eventful life of Princess Sayyida Salme. The Sultan's youngest daughter fled from Zanzibar in 1866, and later wrote the "Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar". Join a guided tour to learn some interesting details about her …

Old Dispensary

Originally built by Indian merchant Tharia Topan to be a hospital, the building eventually functioned as a dispensary during the 20th century. Today, it is one of the most prominent landmarks on the waterfront, housing a museum and an Ethiopian restaurant — the Abyssinian's Steakhouse. Feel free to explore the interior with a covered …

The Doors of Zanzibar

There are hundreds of doors in Stone Town, all unique and with a different story to guide you through the island's long colonial history. Arabic doors are ornamented with the symbols of the Quran, Swahili doors stand out in their elegant simplicity, while Indian doors are equipped with a brass knob, with the original …

Sultan's Palace — People's Palace Museum

This impressive waterfront building adjacent to the House of Wonders was the residence of the Sultan's family in the 19th century, and today it houses a museum about the sultanate showcased through the lives of prominent rulers such as Sultan Khalifa bin Harub, and princess Sayyida …

Spice Tour

Since the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, Zanzibar has been a leading exporter of spices such as clove, nutmeg and lemongrass. A visit to an original shamba (spice farm) will give you insight into Zanzibar's spice culture. Tours usually include fruit tasting, as well as the opportunity to stock up on …

Kitesurfing

Move off those well-stocked fish platters with some kitesurfing lessons: Zanzibar is a top-notch waveriders' …

Prison Island

Prison Island is a peaceful haven just 30 minutes away from the ever-bustling city centre. Once an important site of 19th-century slave trade — the island was used as a prison for rebellious slaves in 1860s. The island also functioned as a coral mine, but today it serves as home to adorable giant Aldabra …

Mercury House

A small museum with a photography collection paying homage to the most famous person ever born on this island, Farrokh Bulsara, better known as Freddie …

Christ Church Cathedral

Owing to its strategic position, Zanzibar was a long-dreaded slave market site throughout the 19th century. This Anglican cathedral, neighbouring the popular Darajani Market, was built in the late 19th century to mark the end of slavery on the …

Malindi Mosque

Islam is still the largest religion in Zanzibar, and there are over 50 mosques adorning the island's skyline. Located in the neighbourhood of the same name, this 15-century mosque is one of the oldest landmarks of the rich Arabic …

Hamamni Persian Baths

Although the public baths were in use until 1920 and are now open for a short visit only, it's worth stopping by to absorb some of the island's Middle Eastern …

Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond

An NGO rescue centre dedicated to protecting the local Hawksbill turtle population, which is heavily hunted for the attractive shells. They're a friendly local community who does not only give shelter to baby turtles in threat, but also holds educational classes for anyone …

Jozani Forest

Zanzibar's only national park represents the island's diverse indigenous flora and fauna, such as the emblematic red colobus. The 50-square km reserve also includes Chwaka Bay with its extensive sea grass beds, and neighbours on the Zala reptile park as well as the Butterfly Centre. Join a tour at the entrance, and learn …

Dining

Nothing represents Zanzibar's rich cultural heritage better than its cuisine: from mishkaki, the East African beef to the octopus curry and chapatis inspired by India — there are plenty of flavours to spoil you throughout your stay.

Lukmaan Restaurant

An award-winning restaurant conquering tourists and locals as well: there is hardly any better place on the island to get a taste of Zanzibari cuisine. Try the octopus curry, and freshen up with a delicious fruit …

The Passing Show

Another staple in the Zanzibari food scene, the Passing Show is most acclaimed for its biryani and rice pilau dishes, served around the clock. Their tamarind juice is a must …

Al-Jabry

This is one of those restaurants that don't need an intricate design concept to attract visitors —the rich local flavours will do the job. The best place to try boko-boko, a porridge soup made of meat, usually …

The Rock — Michamvi

A restaurant outstanding in every aspect: not only for its location on top of a rock, but for the great care fresh local ingredients are selected and prepared with, to serve guests with fine Tanzanian dishes. Tempura is popular as a starter, and you can't go wrong with the lobster special or the pasta …

Abyssinian Maritim

Try a stew platter served on injera (flatbread) and wash it down with a fresh smoothie, or join a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, all this in a charming Africa-inspired …

Secret Garden & Tea House

Both venues belong to Emerson Spice and offer an exclusive dining experience in the heart of Stone Town. At Tea House, demand is high for the five-course rooftop dinners and the "Sundowner" drinks, while Secret Garden is famed for its Zanzibar-inspired à la carte lunch, served in a hidden romantic ruin …

6 Degrees South Grill & Wine Bar

Whether it's the catch of the day, a beef barbecue (mishkaki), or something exotic like the coconut-dusted octopus, this restaurant has an extensive menu presenting you the rich flavours of Spice Island. Happy hour specials are from 7 pm to 9 pm daily. Enjoy the view from the rooftop …

Travellers Cafe

A seafront eatery serving hungered customers around the clock, from fresh morning coffee to hearty burgers and curry lunch meals, as well as dinners with a golden sunset …

Chef's Baking Shop — Nungwi

Don't expect regular fish or chicken at Chef's: meals are spiced up with curry sauce or coconut gravy, and vegetable sides are just as appetising as the main dish that caught your …

Cafes

The hidden cafes in Stone Town are perfect for people-watching spots or a friendly chat with locals, made complete with a steaming cup of Tanzanian Arabica. Coffee has been a customary drink in Zanzibar ever since the arrival of Arab traders. Many locals will receive guests on their doorstep and share a pot of coffee together. Since Zanzibar is also known as the spice island, the fragrant cup is frequently spiced with cinnamon and cardamom, and served with plenty of milk and sugar. If you prefer your coffee unspiced and unsweetened, you'll find that the flavour of Tanzanian Arabica is bright and vibrant, with refreshing winy acidity.

Stone Town Cafe

Part of a cosy B&B, this place will make you feel at home even if you only drop in for a quick coffee or meal. Their quesadillas and avocado toast never …

Zanzibar Coffee House

A quaint cafe with an extensive coffee list including everything from the classics to iced and bulletproof coffee, to be had with sandwiches, a light lunch, or freshly baked scones and brownies, in a setting reminiscent of colonial …

Jaw’s Corner

Jaw’s Corner is a unique square where men gather in the early morning to socialise and bond over cups of black Zanzibar coffee. There are certain things in life that don't need any sweetening: the Zanzibari coffee, or these few lines about Jaw's Corner. Just grab a cup, and listen to the stories of …

Cafe Africa Shops

An eclectic small cafe you'll probably accidentally come across after getting lost in the buzzing alleyways of Stone Town. Stop by for a coffee and browse the adorable handmade …

Zenji Cafe

A cosy place to have a cup of tea, milkshake, or try Tanzanian coffee and Zenji's famous chocolate brownie. Fancy something more? Breakfast is served all day long, and sandwiches, pasta and pizza are available for takeaway, …

Mr Kahawa

A vibrant beach-side lodge and cafe with fresh coffee and healthy munchies, daily three-course menu, a craft shop on site, and a laid-back atmosphere that will make you want to extend your stay in …

Puzzle Coffee Shop

A flagship cafe in Zanzibar offering premium Brazilian coffee and treats like the famous cheese bread, plus workshops for true lovers of …

Bars & Nightlife

Nungwi is known to have the most vibrant nightlife on the entire island, while in Stone Town you can enjoy cocktails with unforgettable sunsets. You can also party on the beach in Paje or Jambiani. The fun starts early in Zanzibar: as soon as the sun starts going down, the party lights and the music are turned on and the bars begin to fill up.

Tatu

"Tatu" is Swahili for three, referring the three floors this place has to entertain its visitors: a buzzing bar on the first, a pub with affordable food on the second, and a lounge on the third floor overlooking the …

Kendwa Rocks (Nungwi)

There's a lot more to Kendwa than an exclusive hotel-restaurant: it is rumoured to throw some of the best parties in entire Zanzibar. Their monthly Full Moon Parties with grills and acrobat shows are the most talked about events on the …

Sunset Bar at the Africa House

At every sunset, the rooftop bar of the Africa House Hotel fills up with the loud chatter tourists, taking in the golden view over a refreshing cocktail and some crispy …

Rooftops Bar at Z Hotel (Nungwi)

With its idyllic location, happy hours, and refreshing colourful cocktails, Rooftops is the number one place to watch the sunset in entire …

Mercury's Bar

Another tribute to the music legend born on this island, Mercury's bar plays live music every weekend, but also welcomes visitors with special cocktails and freshly caught fish throughout the whole …

B4 Beach Club (Paje)

A laid-back beach bar priding itself on being the first location dedicated to electronic music in East Africa. They most probably prepare the best burgers you'll ever have on the beaches of Zanzibar! Additionally, regular visitors are given a discount on a kite-surfing course. Events are organised …

Coccobello (Nungwi)

One of the hottest nightspots of Nungwi with live entertainment every night of the week. Food is also served. Wednesday and Sunday nights are the most happening, when the party doesn't stop until 5am. No haggling — just dancing, drinks and a great …

Shopping

Once you've soaked up the smells and colours of Zanzibar, don't forget to take them home with you. Stock up on some cinnamon and turmeric, and haggle a bit over the beloved tingatinga paintings.