Zanzibar Entry Requirements

Zanzibar Holidays

Steeped in history and culture, you’ll soon discover there is so much more to Zanzibar than its spectacular beaches. The historic centre of Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – can be reached via a short ferry ride or flight from Dar Es Salam in mainland Tanzania and is filled with winding alleyways, rooftop bars and restaurants and authentic markets that delight the senses. After all, Zanzibar is nicknamed the ‘Spice Island’ for a reason! And while Stone Town is worth exploring for a day or two, your holiday to Zanzibar would not be complete without quality time soaking up the sun on one of the many white sand beaches.

Although an excellent choice for a stand-alone beach escape, we recommend pairing your Zanzibar holiday with a safari – it’s the perfect antidote to an exhilarating few days of game drives and sundowners in Tanzania, Kenya or South Africa. Our selection of accommodation in Zanzibar, all handpicked by our travel experts, ranges from boutique hotels like Breezes Beach Club & Spa Zanzibar to 5* beachfront hotels like The Residence Zanzibar located close to Stone Town. You’ll find our selection of hotels and latest holiday offers below, with something for every type of traveller. All our holidays are ATOL protected for your peace of mind.

Please be advised that the Zanzibar Government has imposed a mandatory Infrastructure Fee of approx USD 5 Per Person Per Night,payable by guests upon departure from their hotel.

For more detailed information, please refer to the attached letter.

Please note: the government of Tanzania has imposed a ban on plastic carrier bags. Visitors to Tanzania and Zanzibar are advised not to bring plastic carrier bags in their suitcase or hand luggage.

Speak To One Of Our Zanzibar Travel Experts Now On 0203 131 8384

Zanzibar Holidays Travel Information

Flights to Zanzibar from the UK will take you via Nairobi and South Africa.

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
Time difference: GMT +3
Flight time from the UK: 11 hours
Visa: Required in advance , available via e-visa
Language: English, Swahali
Must-Try Drink: Local beer
Must-Try Food: Biryani

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What To See & Do In Tanzania

Zanzibar Activities

Surrounded by miles of crystal-clear ocean, it should come as no surprise that the main activities in Zanzibar are water-based. Snorkelling, diving, glass boat rides - the choice is yours! Mnemba Atoll is a popular snorkelling spot with the chance to spot clownfish, green turtles and more. After spending the morning searching the waves for vibrant sea life, head back to one of the many beaches for a day of pure relaxation. We also recommend that you plan a trip out to Prison Island where you can see the incredible giant tortoises that live there. A guided tour lasts around 3 hours during which you’ll be taken across by boat to see the wildlife, as well as the opportunity to visit the old hospital and quarantine space built on the island in 1893.

Zanzibar Food & Drink

Tuck into fresh, flavoursome dishes using ingredients plucked straight from one of the islands itself. Coconut is a key component of many dishes including widely popular curries, as well as being available to drink straight from the shell. Biryani is a particularly popular choice thanks to its tangy, fragrant flavours and succulent chicken. Boku Boku is another must-try. This beef dish is full of ginger, pepper, cumin and onions, making it a hearty dish that’s perfect for dinner. To really get a flavour for the food in Zanzibar head to Forodhani Gardens night food market one evening in Stone Town where you can eat your fill of Zanzibar pizza, skewers of meat and seafood and samosas.

Zanzibar Attractions

Set within Zanzibar City, historic Stone Town is the cultural heart of the island. Hosting a myriad of authentic markets, intricately carved doorways and colonial era architecture, this area is a delight to the senses. Stop by the Old Fort to see the impressive colonial-era ruins or head to Zanzibar Coffee House to see the coffee being roasted and sample a cup. Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar, is another popular spot for a fun-filled day out. Leave your resort and trek through stunning wild scenery and catch a glimpse of the local wildlife including colobus monkeys. We recommend signing up for a guided tour to make the most of this incredible location.

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