Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Tanzania
|Pop. 710K
|4 neighborhoods covered
Zanzibar at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Zanzibar
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Learn a few basic Swahili phrases like 'Jambo' (Hello) and 'Asante sana' (Thank you very much) – locals appreciate the effort, and it can enhance interactions.
Getting Around
Always agree on the taxi fare BEFORE you get in the car. For longer distances, consider hiring a driver for the day.
Watch Out For
Overpriced souvenirs and tours from aggressive touts.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, particularly in Stone Town and rural areas. Trust your instincts.
Hidden Gems in Zanzibar
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Forodhani Gardens Night Market
FREEAs the sun sets, this waterfront park transforms into a vibrant night market. Locals and adventurous travelers gather to savor delicious Zanzibari street food, from fresh seafood skewers to Zanzibar pizza.
Chechele Beach
FREEEscape the crowds at this tranquil, less-developed beach on the northern coast. It's perfect for a peaceful day of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the pristine, natural beauty of Zanzibar.
Old Slave Market Museum
This poignant museum is built on the site of the former slave market, offering a powerful and essential look into Zanzibar's history. It provides a somber but important understanding of the island's past.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
While known, it's often overlooked by those rushing to beaches. This park is the last remaining natural habitat of the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, a unique primate found nowhere else on Earth.
The House of Wonders
This grand palace, once the Sultan's ceremonial palace, showcases Zanzibari history and culture with a collection of artifacts. Though undergoing restoration, its exterior and historical significance are still impressive.
Nakupenda Beach
Often visited on boat tours, Nakupenda means 'I love you' in Swahili. It's a stunning sandbank that emerges at low tide, offering incredible snorkeling and a chance to enjoy a secluded picnic lunch.
What It Costs in Zanzibar
Daily budget per person in TZS
💡Premium destination pricing
TZS 60000/day
TZS 150000/day
TZS 400000/day
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Old Fort5 min
- Forodhani Gardens10 min
- House of Wonders7 min
Pros
- +Rich historical and cultural immersion
- +Abundance of unique shops and restaurants
- +Excellent base for day trips
Cons
- -Can be crowded and overwhelming
- -Limited beach access directly within the neighborhood
Top stays in Stone Town
Emerson Spice Hotel
$$$A beautifully restored historic building with a renowned rooftop restaurant.
Tembo House Hotel
$$Prime location on the waterfront with a pool and historical charm.
Jafferji House & Spa
$$Elegant rooms in a converted 19th-century mansion.
Kivulini Lodge
$Offers simple, clean rooms in a central Stone Town location.
Best for
Walk to
- Nungwi Beach5 min
- Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond15 min
Pros
- +World-class white sand beaches
- +Excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities
- +Variety of restaurants and bars
Cons
- -Can be very touristy and busy
- -More expensive than other parts of the island
Top stays in Nungwi
Z Hotel Zanzibar
$$$Chic beachfront hotel with infinity pools and direct beach access.
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Zanzibar-Nungwi
$$$All-inclusive option with multiple pools and family-friendly amenities.
My Blue Hotel Zanzibar
$$Stylish boutique hotel with a relaxed atmosphere and good dining options.
Nungwi Dreams by Mantis
$$$Modern resort offering stunning ocean views and excellent service.
Best for
Walk to
- Paje Beach5 min
- Jozani Forest (short taxi)30 min
Pros
- +Ideal conditions for kite surfing and windsurfing
- +Relaxed and friendly atmosphere
- +Beautiful turquoise waters and white sand
Cons
- -Can be windy, which might not suit everyone
- -Limited nightlife compared to Nungwi
Top stays in Paje
Paje by Night
$$Boutique hotel with a focus on kite surfing, offering direct beach access.
Dorado Beach Cottages
$$Charming beachfront cottages with a relaxed vibe and good restaurant.
Jungle Paradise Beach Resort
$$Offers a peaceful escape with spacious rooms and lush gardens.
Salty Squid Beach House
$Popular backpacker spot with a social atmosphere and beachfront location.
Best for
Walk to
- Kendwa Beach5 min
- Nungwi Village (walkable)30 min
Pros
- +Calm, swimmable waters year-round
- +Beautiful expansive beach
- +Less crowded than Nungwi
Cons
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options than Nungwi
- -Can be pricier than other beach areas
Top stays in Kendwa
Kendwa Rocks Hotel
$$Iconic hotel known for its lively beach parties and stunning sunset views.
Royal Kendwa
$$$Upscale option with luxurious rooms, infinity pools, and excellent service.
Sunset Kendwa
$$Offers comfortable bungalows and a direct beach location.
Areas to be cautious
- Remote jungle areas without a guide: Can be disorienting, and local wildlife (though generally not dangerous) can be surprising.
- Unlit alleys in Stone Town at night: Poor lighting increases the risk of petty crime and disorientation.
Insider tip: Learn a few basic Swahili phrases like 'Jambo' (Hello) and 'Asante sana' (Thank you very much) – locals appreciate the effort, and it can enhance interactions.
Safety in Zanzibar
SafeSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, particularly in Stone Town and rural areas. Trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in deserted streets or beaches after dark. Use reputable taxis or hotel transport.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs and tours from aggressive touts.
- 2Taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes.
- 3Being approached by 'guides' who expect payment after showing you around briefly.
Getting Around Zanzibar
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. 40,000-50,000 TZS, 30-45 minutes. Pre-paid taxis are recommended. Dala-dala (local minibusses) are cheaper but slower and more complex for tourists.
🎫
Day Pass
Not applicable for Dala-dala. Taxi day hire can be negotiated, around 100,000-150,000 TZS.
Single: Dala-dala: 500-2,000 TZS depending on distance. Taxi: starting from 10,000 TZS.
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Bolt
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps in cafes/hotels
Public Transport
Dala-dala (local minibusses) are the primary public transport. Taxis are readily available. Car and scooter rentals are popular for exploring.
Ride-share
No major rideshare apps like Uber/Bolt operate reliably. Negotiate taxi fares beforehand.
Transport Tip
Always agree on the taxi fare BEFORE you get in the car. For longer distances, consider hiring a driver for the day.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Most hotels and many cafes offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; many digital nomads work from cafes or co-living arrangements.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jun, Jul, Aug
Hotels & Accommodation in Zanzibar
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Who Is Zanzibar Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors to Zanzibar
Offers the most concentrated dose of history, culture, and unique architecture.
Beach Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
Provides calm, swimmable waters and a beautiful, expansive beach with fewer crowds.
Kite Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Known for its consistent winds and ideal conditions for kite and windsurfing.
Budget Backpackers
Offers a good range of affordable guesthouses and hostels with a social vibe.
Couples Seeking Romance and Sunsets
Famous for its spectacular sunsets and lively beachfront atmosphere with plenty of dining options.
Culture Enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in the rich Swahili, Arab, and colonial history evident in the architecture and markets.
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a Tanzanian archipelago off the coast of East Africa. It is located in the Indian Ocean, and consists of many small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, referred to informally as Zanzibar) and Pemba Island. The capital is Zanzibar City, located on the island of Unguja.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar
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Zanzibar Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel