salt, sand and spice
Swahili history, spice farms and warm Indian Ocean water, on its own or as the perfect finish to a safari.
the spice island
Zanzibar lies in the Indian Ocean off the coast of mainland Tanzania. The archipelago is made up of two large islands, Unguja, usually just called Zanzibar, and Pemba, plus many smaller ones. Its old trading history shows in Stone Town, its spice farms and its Swahili food.
We arrange Zanzibar stays on their own or as an add-on to a safari or Kilimanjaro climb, including the domestic flight from Arusha or Kilimanjaro, transfers, a hotel to suit your budget and the excursions you want.
choose a starting point
Every trip below can be changed to suit you.
8 days · 7 nights
Nyerere National Park · Zanzibar
Price on request
8 days · 7 nights
Mikumi National Park · Zanzibar
Price on request
on the islands
Zanzibar's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of narrow lanes, carved wooden doors, markets and mosques. A guided walk explains its history as a trading port, including the story of the former slave market. Evenings bring street food in the Forodhani Gardens.
Walk through a working spice farm and see, smell and taste cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, black pepper and lemongrass as they grow. Farmers explain how each spice is harvested and used. Tours usually end with fresh tropical fruit.
The north and east coasts have long white beaches, palm trees and warm, clear water. Tides are strong on the east coast, so the sea can retreat a long way at low tide. We will suggest the part of the island that suits the way you like to relax.
Coral reefs lie just offshore, with bright reef fish and, in places, turtles. Boat trips take you snorkelling or diving, and some areas are known for pods of dolphins. Ask us which trips suit beginners and families.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park protects the Zanzibar red colobus, a monkey found only on the island. A short guided walk through the forest and along a mangrove boardwalk makes a good half day away from the beach.
For something quieter, Tanzania's other islands are worth asking about. Mafia is known for its marine park and seasonal whale sharks, while Pemba is greener, hillier and far less visited, with traditional dhow sailing. Tell us if either interests you.
good to know
Short domestic flights link Arusha and Kilimanjaro with Zanzibar, so you can go from the Serengeti to the beach in an afternoon. We time your flights and transfers so the connection is simple.
From small guesthouses in Stone Town to comfortable beach resorts and quiet boutique hotels, we suggest places that fit your budget and the kind of holiday you want.
Zanzibar is warm year round. The driest spells usually run from June to October and from December to February, and the heaviest rain tends to fall in April and May.
before you ask
Three or four nights gives you time for Stone Town and a couple of beach days. A week lets you add diving, a spice tour and some real rest. Splitting your stay between Stone Town and the coast works well.
Most guests take a short scheduled flight from Arusha or Kilimanjaro airport to Zanzibar. We book the flight and your transfers on both ends.
Yes. Many beaches are calm and shallow, and there are family-friendly hotels. Tell us your children's ages and we will suggest a beach with gentle swimming and a hotel that welcomes children.
Zanzibar is a mostly Muslim island. Swimwear is fine at the beach and hotel pool, but in Stone Town and villages cover your shoulders and knees. Light, loose cotton clothes are the most comfortable.
start your own journey
Tell us what you have in mind. Our team in Arusha will reply with ideas and a price, with no obligation.
Plan your trip
Asante sana
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