ZANZIBAR
Zanzibar, the Spice Island, is an exotic blend of stunning turquoise waters, rich history, and vibrant culture. It offers a captivating journey from the UNESCO-listed Stone Town to idyllic white-sand beaches.
This jewel of the Indian Ocean is a melting pot of African, Arab, European, and Indian influences. It is a land of sensory delights, famous for its spice farms, ancient architecture, and unparalleled coastal beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Stone Town Core & Heritage Sites:
Stone Town (Mji Mkongwe): The historic heart of Zanzibar City, a UNESCO World Heritage site with winding alleys and ancient architecture.
House of Wonders (Beit al Ajaib): The largest and tallest building in Stone Town, a former palace of the Sultan, currently undergoing restoration.
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe): A 17th-century fort built by the Omani Arabs, now used as a cultural center and venue for events.
The Palace Museum (Sultan’s Palace): A former palace of the Sultan, detailing the daily life of the Zanzibari Royal Family.
Forodhani Gardens: A lively waterfront park that transforms into a popular evening food market.
Christ Church Cathedral: A historic Anglican cathedral built on the site of the former slave market.
Hamamni Persian Baths: Public baths built by Sultan Barghash in the late 19th century.
Darajani Market: The main city market, a bustling and sensory experience for local produce, meat, and spices.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral: A Roman Catholic cathedral with distinctive twin spires.
Tippu Tip’s House: The former residence of the infamous slave trader, located in Stone Town.
Slave Market Memorial: A powerful and somber monument commemorating the victims of the East African slave trade.
North Coast Beaches & Activities:
Nungwi Beach: Famous for its stunning sunsets, dhow building workshops, and lively atmosphere.
Kendwa Beach: Known for its wide, white-sand beach, calm waters, and Full Moon Parties.
Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond: A local initiative in Nungwi to protect and rehabilitate sea turtles.
East Coast Beaches & Relaxation:
Paje Beach: A prime spot globally for kite surfing due to its consistent cross-shore winds and shallow lagoon.
Jambiani Beach: A quiet, picturesque village known for its seaweed farming and local atmosphere.
Matemwe Beach: A long, tranquil stretch of sand, ideal for relaxing and accessing Mnemba Atoll.
Nature, Adventure, & Offshore:
Spice Tours: Guided tours through plantations to learn about and taste cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices.
Prison Island (Changuu Island): Home to giant Aldabra tortoises and historic remnants of a former prison and quarantine station.
Jozani Forest (Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park): The island’s only national park, famous for the endemic red colobus monkeys.
Mnemba Atoll: A private island reserve known as one of the best dive and snorkel spots in East Africa, famous for its coral reefs and dolphins.
The Rock Restaurant: A unique restaurant perched on a rock in the middle of the ocean off Michamvi Pingwe beach, accessible by foot at low tide.
Blue Lagoon: A popular snorkeling spot off the coast of Pingwe, known for its clear, calm waters.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Stone Town’s Labyrinthine Alleys: Wander the UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring the unique, intricately carved wooden doors and the blend of Omani, Indian, and European architecture.
Go on a Spice Tour: Visit a local farm to see, smell, and taste cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon, learning about their cultivation and historic importance to the island.
Take a Dhow Cruise to Mnemba Atoll: Go snorkeling or diving in this marine conservation area, known for its vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and frequent sightings of dolphins and sea turtles.
Experience a Safari Blue Adventure: Embark on a full-day traditional dhow boat excursion that includes snorkeling, swimming in a hidden lagoon, and a fresh seafood barbecue on a secluded sandbank.
Visit the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: Trek through the mangrove forests and dry-land habitat to spot the rare and endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey.
Swim with Turtles at a Conservation Pond: Visit a community-run project like the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond in Nungwi to observe and sometimes swim with rescued sea turtles.
Lounge or Kite-surf on the East Coast Beaches: Relax on the famous white sands of beaches like Paje or Jambiani, which are also meccas for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to the consistent trade winds.
Go on a Prison Island (Changuu) Day Trip: Take a short boat ride to see the historic prison ruins and interact with the island’s famous residents: a colony of giant tortoises, some over a hundred years old.
Savor Street Food at Forodhani Gardens Night Market: As the sun sets, visit this lively Stone Town park where local vendors sell freshly grilled seafood skewers, sugarcane juice, and the unique Zanzibar Pizza.
Dolphin Watching at Kizimkazi: Take an early morning boat trip from this southern village for a chance to spot (and sometimes swim near) bottlenose and humpback dolphins in the warm waters.
Have Dinner at The Rock Restaurant: Visit the famous restaurant perched on a rock in the ocean off Michamvi Pingwe beach, accessible by foot at low tide or by boat at high tide.
Local Tips & Transport
Stone Town is for Walking: The narrow, winding alleys of Stone Town are strictly pedestrian. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to get lost—it’s part of the fun!
Dala-Dalas (Local Mini-Buses): This is the cheapest and most authentic way to travel. These open-sided buses run fixed routes across the island (e.g., from Stone Town’s Darajani Market). They are often crowded and slow, but offer a true glimpse of local life. Fares are very low.
Taxis & Private Transfers: The most convenient and comfortable option for traveling between Stone Town and the beach resorts (e.g., Nungwi, Paje). Always negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in, as taxis do not use meters.
Car/Scooter Rental: Provides maximum flexibility for exploring. If renting, you will need to obtain a temporary local Zanzibar driving permit (usually arranged by the rental company for a small fee, e.g., ~$10 USD). Drive cautiously, as conditions vary, and vehicles drive on the left side of the road.
From the Airport (ZNZ): Taxis and private transfers are the easiest way to reach your destination. Agree on the price in advance with your hotel or driver.
Dress Code & Modesty: Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. While swimwear is perfectly acceptable on the beaches and at resorts, it’s respectful to dress modestly when walking in Stone Town and local villages—covering shoulders and knees is recommended, especially for women.
“Pole Pole” Culture: The Swahili phrase “Pole Pole” (pronounced Po-lay Po-lay) means “slowly, slowly.” Life moves at a relaxed pace here, and service in restaurants can be slower than you might be used to. Embrace the laid-back island rhythm.
Bargaining: It is expected and necessary when shopping in markets, for souvenirs, and for taxi fares. Do it with a smile and good humor. However, prices in larger shops and established restaurants are generally fixed.
Tidal Changes on the East Coast: Be aware that the beaches on the east and south coasts (like Paje and Jambiani) experience significant tidal swings. At low tide, the ocean recedes far out, making swimming impossible, but offering a unique chance to see local seaweed farming. Beaches in the North (like Nungwi and Kendwa) are less affected.
Language: The official languages are Swahili and English. Learning a few Swahili phrases will be greatly appreciated: “Jambo” (Hello), “Asante” (Thank you), and “Hakuna Matata” (No worries).
Hidden Gems
- Kuza Cave: A natural limestone cave near Jambiani with crystal-clear fresh water where you can swim. It is run by the local community.
- Darajani Market: The main market in Stone Town, less touristy than Forodhani, offering a vibrant look at local life, from fresh produce and meat to textiles and household goods.
- The Old Slave Market/Anglican Cathedral: A somber but essential visit to learn about the island’s painful history as a major hub for the East African slave trade.
Top Restaurants
Lukmaan Restaurant [$10-$20] – The ultimate local canteen experience in Stone Town, serving hearty, authentic Swahili and Indian dishes like seafood biryani, grilled fish, and coconut bean curry from a cafeteria-style setup.
Abyssinian Maritim [$15-$25] – A cozy spot in Stone Town for an authentic Ethiopian feast, featuring staples like injera bread, doro wat, and kitfo, perfect for sharing.
Zahir Restaurant [$10-$20] – A budget-friendly local gem on Mosque Street in Stone Town offering decent quality, traditional local food popular with residents.
Passing Show Hotel Restaurant [$10-$20] – One of the legendary local establishments in Stone Town, renowned for its inexpensive, large portions of Zanzibari classics.
Mamas of Zanzibar Kitchen [$15-$25] – A great choice for an authentic Swahili home-cooking experience, often featuring traditional stews, coconut curries, and chapati.
Warere Beach Hotel Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Nungwi, this hotel restaurant is often noted for its excellent, unpretentious local Swahili seafood dishes right on the beachfront.
Ujamaa Commercial [$10-$15] – A very local, no-frills Stone Town spot known for serving up a powerful, flavorful Zanzibar mix soup.
Tamu Swahili Cuisine [$15-$25] – Offers a dedicated focus on traditional Swahili flavors, often recommended for its rich sauces and spiced rice dishes outside of the main tourist hustle.
Forodhani Night Market (Stall Dining) [$5-$15] – While popular, it is essential for the authentic Stone Town experience; seek out the vendors for fresh grilled seafood skewers (mishkaki), Zanzibar pizzas, and sugarcane juice. Choose reputable, busy stalls.
Bilaal Snack Bar [$10-$20] – A Stone Town staple for quick, tasty, and affordable local bites, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Mapacha Food Court (Paje) [$10-$20] – A great collection of local and international food stalls offering variety, a lively atmosphere, and a taste of the diverse Paje dining scene without being too upscale.
Bento-Paje Food Court (Paje) [$10-$20] – Another popular spot in Paje for casual, mixed cuisine, favored by both locals and longer-term visitors for good value.
Kibanda at the Market (Various) [$5-$10] – Seek out any good “kibanda” (small roadside or market stall) for a true taste of local rice and beans, fish, or beef stew for a very authentic, low-cost meal.
Pili Pili [$15-$30] – A casual, popular beach bar/restaurant in Jambiani known for its fresh catch of the day and relaxed atmosphere with a loyal local following.
Blue Door Restaurant [$15-$25] – A simple, charming Stone Town eatery often tucked away, specializing in traditional Zanzibari meals.
Silk Route [$20-$40] – A multi-level restaurant in Stone Town offering traditional, high-quality Indian cuisine (curries, biryanis, tandoori) in a setting that reflects Zanzibar’s Indian heritage.
House of Spices [$25-$45] – Located in an old merchant house in Stone Town, this restaurant blends traditional Zanzibari spices with international techniques for a refined, flavorful menu.
La Taverna [$25-$40] – A highly-regarded spot for authentic, well-prepared Italian food, serving fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza in a relaxed Stone Town setting.
Badolina Secret Garden Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in Paje, this enchanting garden-set restaurant is known for its farm-to-table approach, offering a mix of Italian and Zanzibari dishes with high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Zanzibar Coffee House Café [$15-$30] – Known for more than just coffee, this Stone Town café offers excellent light meals, sandwiches, and desserts with a peaceful atmosphere.
Mr. Kahawa (Paje) [$20-$35] – A popular, modern beachside café and restaurant in Paje with great coffee, vegetarian options, and an international menu with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Cape Town Fish Market [$30-$50] – Offers a contemporary take on seafood and sushi with South African and international influences, providing great views from its Stone Town location.
ZanziBarista [$15-$30] – Known for its excellent coffee and a menu that caters well to vegetarians and health-conscious eaters in Stone Town.
Dhow Inn Restaurant (Paje) [$20-$40] – Offers a well-executed international menu, often praised for its consistency and quality in a stylish yet unpretentious environment.
Izzu’s Restaurant (Nungwi) [$20-$35] – A well-liked local place in Nungwi known for fresh, flavorful seafood and good portions, offering a break from resort dining.
Beach House Restaurant & Bar [$35-$55] – A stylish Stone Town waterfront location offering a blend of ocean-inspired and East African cuisine, like piri-piri chicken and Zanzibari prawns.
Fisherman’s Grill (Nungwi) [$30-$50] – Located within a resort but highly rated for its authentic Zanzibari seafood dishes and meat steaks, often considered more upscale than other Nungwi beach spots.
La Luna (Nungwi) [$25-$45] – A good option in Nungwi with a strong reputation for Mediterranean and seafood dishes, often featuring daily specials based on the catch.
The Island (Pongwe) [$40-$70] – A unique boutique lodge restaurant on a tiny coral islet in Pongwe Bay, serving Italian-inspired seafood and homemade pasta in an exclusive, beautiful setting.
The Secret Garden (Emerson Spice) [$35-$60] – A magical, hidden haven in a lush walled garden in Stone Town, serving an à la carte Zanzibari-inspired menu with live music on select nights.
The Rock Restaurant [$40-$70] – Worthy Tourist Spot. Though famous, its unique location on a rock in the ocean off Pingwe Beach is an unforgettable experience. The menu blends local seafood with Italian influence. Reservations are essential.
Aya Beach Bungalows Restaurant (Kizimkazi) [$25-$45] – A charming and less-touristy option in Kizimkazi serving delicious seafood dishes and noted for its excellent homemade desserts.
The Baobab Cafe Restaurant (Kizimkazi) [$20-$35] – A community-focused restaurant opened around an ancient baobab tree, offering a genuine local experience and good Swahili food.
Saba Saba [$20-$40] – A highly-regarded spot in Jambiani, known for its excellent blend of Swahili and international dishes and a fantastic beach view.
Kendwa Rocks Restaurant [$25-$45] – Known for its fresh seafood and beachfront BBQ, providing a lively atmosphere, especially around sunset.
B4 Beach Club Restaurant (Paje) [$20-$40] – Offers a great mix of international and local dishes right on the beach, popular for its relaxed vibe and good music.
Zanzibar Retreat Hotel Restaurant (Matemwe) [$30-$50] – A quiet, less-crowded option in Matemwe, noted for its fresh, high-quality food, especially the seafood platter.
The Local Beach Bar & Restaurant (Nungwi) [$15-$30] – A classic, simple beach bar in Nungwi for grilled fish and a cold drink, popular with the local crowd.
Fisherman Local Restaurant (Kendwa) [$20-$40] – True to its name, this laid-back, open-sided spot focuses on simple, freshly grilled fish and seafood, allowing customers to bring their own alcohol.
Clove Island Hotel Restaurant (Various) [$25-$45] – Offers a beautiful setting and is praised for its quality cuisine, combining local flavors with international standards.
Jambiani Beach Hotel Restaurant [$20-$40] – A reliable option in Jambiani with consistent quality, serving a mix of local and continental food.
The Secret Garden (Paje) [$20-$35] – A tranquil dining spot in Paje, distinct from the Emerson Spice one, known for its pleasant setting and fresh menu.
Emerson on Hurumzi Rooftop Tea House [$45-$70] – A signature fine dining experience in Stone Town with a set three-course menu of Zanzibari and Oriental fusion cuisine, best enjoyed at sunset with stunning views. Reservations and fixed seating times.
Emerson Spice Tea House (Rooftop) [$70-$100] – A more intimate Stone Town experience, offering a set five-course seafood-based tasting menu with creative use of spices. Reservations essential.
Taarab Restaurant (Park Hyatt) [$50-$80] – Located in a high-end Stone Town hotel, this offers an elegant dining experience with a menu of contemporary international and African cuisine and beautiful waterfront views.
6 Degrees South Grill and Bar [$40-$70] – A chic waterfront spot in Stone Town with a fantastic view of the Indian Ocean, known for its grilled steaks, seafood, and sophisticated bar.
Tradewinds Restaurant (Serena Hotel) [$50-$80] – Offers elegant décor and a combination of local and international cuisine right on the water in Stone Town, perfect for a memorable dining experience.
Z Hotel Restaurant (Nungwi) [$45-$75] – A stylish, upscale dining option in Nungwi known for its modern menu and beautiful evening ambiance overlooking the ocean.
Upendo (Pingwe) [$40-$70] – Located near The Rock, this spot offers a more relaxed yet stylish dining experience with great food and often hosts events.
The Tides (Breezes Beach Club) [$60-$90] – An exclusive fine dining experience on the beach in Bwejuu, offering a romantic, private setting for a luxurious meal.
The Jetty at Nungwi Inn [$30-$50] – A unique dining setting on a jetty extending over the water, offering great seafood and sunset views in a less formal setting than the high-end resorts.
Gold Restaurant (Stone Town) [$35-$60] – A popular Stone Town spot known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, often considered a high-quality middle ground for visitors.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar Restaurant (Nungwi) [$50-$80] – Offers multiple dining options, all with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients in a luxurious setting, providing a refined meal experience.
Ocean Terrace Restaurant (Diamonds Bijoux) [$40-$65] – Located in a resort, but noted for its excellent, diverse international buffet and live cooking stations with stunning ocean views.
The Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill (Zanzibar White Sand) [$60-$90] – A highly-rated, upscale seafood and grill restaurant in Paje, offering a refined dining experience right on the beach.
Dinner at Nakupenda Sandbank [$50-$80] – A unique experience organized by tour operators, offering a fresh seafood dinner on a secluded sandbank at sunset.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Emerson Spice Tea House Restaurant & Bar: Found on the rooftop of a historic building in Stone Town, this bar offers a magical 360-degree view of the city and the ocean, perfect for sunset cocktails and high-end dining.
The Silk Route: Located on the main road in Nungwi, this stylish spot offers a great selection of classic and custom cocktails in a modern, yet comfortable setting, often featuring a lively atmosphere.
6 Degrees South Grill and Wine Bar: Overlooking the harbor in Stone Town, this popular multi-level venue offers an excellent rooftop bar with creative cocktails and a fantastic vantage point for watching the dhows sail in.
Secret Garden: Tucked away in Stone Town‘s labyrinthine alleys, this bar offers a tranquil, intimate, and beautifully decorated outdoor space within the Tausi Palace Hotel, ideal for a quiet, sophisticated drink.
Kendwa Rocks Sunset Bar: Situated right on the beach in Kendwa, this iconic bar is famous for its lively atmosphere, fantastic beach views, and serving up tropical cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon.
Red Monkey Lodge Beach Bar: Located on the quiet Jambiani beach, this bar offers a very relaxed, bohemian vibe, known for its friendly service and great selection of drinks with live acoustic music on certain nights.
Upendo Beach Bar & Restaurant: Found in Michamvi, this trendy spot has a chic, laid-back atmosphere with stunning views, often offering signature cocktails and a famous swing in the ocean.
Jahazi Restaurant & Cocktail Bar: A chilled-out beachfront spot in Nungwi, known for its strong cocktails, friendly service, and excellent view of the Indian Ocean, perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
Mocco Beach Bar & Restaurant: Located in Paje, this popular hangout offers a relaxed setting right on the sand, serving refreshing drinks and tropical cocktails to kite surfers and beach-goers.
Z Hotel Rooftop Bar (View Bar): Located at the tip of Nungwi, this upscale bar offers a contemporary setting with panoramic ocean views, making it a prime location for classic cocktails and a bit more privacy.
Sunset Kendwa: Another favorite in Kendwa, situated on the northern end of the beach, offering a spacious bar area with a wide selection of drinks and a perfect view of the water.
Dolphin Restaurant and Bar: A simple, friendly beachside spot in Paje that serves satisfying cocktails and cold beers with your feet in the sand.
The Rock Restaurant’s Bar: While known for its unique location on a rock in the ocean off Michamvi Pingwe, their small bar on the main beach landing offers cocktails while you wait for the boat or low tide.
Africa House Hotel Sunset Bar: A historic and atmospheric location in Stone Town where you can enjoy classic cocktails while watching the sunset from a terrace steeped in colonial history.
Mr. Kahawa: A hip cafe/bar in Stone Town that offers a great selection of drinks, including cocktails, in a cool, contemporary setting popular with digital nomads and locals.
Red Carpet (formerly known as Garage): A major, high-energy nightclub located slightly inland near Stone Town that is popular with locals and tourists alike, featuring different DJs and a mix of African and international music.
Sautisol: A well-known venue in Stone Town that functions as both a bar and a club, often hosting themed nights and playing a mix of local Bongo Flava and mainstream hits.
Cholo’s Beach Bar & Grill (or a similar beachfront venue in Kendwa): While primarily a beach bar in Kendwa, this spot is famous for hosting massive, full-moon or weekly beach parties that effectively turn the area into a large, open-air club.
Nungwi Inn Beach Bar & Club: Located right on the beach in Nungwi, this establishment often transforms into a lively club with DJs playing late into the night, particularly on weekends.
Tatu Pub & Club: A popular local spot for dancing and loud music, often frequented by the island’s younger crowd and located near the outskirts of Stone Town.
Kuza Cave Bar: While technically a bar, the unique atmosphere and occasional themed music events inside a natural cave near Jambiani give it a distinct, club-like experience, focusing on deep house and electronic music.
Kobe Club: A lively venue in the Stone Town area that caters to an international crowd, offering a mix of music and a vibrant dance floor atmosphere.
The Dhow Club: Located within the Maru Maru Hotel in Stone Town, this rooftop spot often hosts late-night DJ sets and parties with a stunning backdrop of the harbor.
New Teddy’s on the Beach Club (or similar venue in Jambiani/Paje): Beach hostels in the Jambiani and Paje area frequently organize large, themed parties that operate as vibrant, open-air beach clubs.
Paje By Night: A resort in Paje known for organizing beach parties and events, drawing a crowd of kite surfers and travelers looking for a late-night dance.
Maisha Club: A modern and upscale club near the Stone Town area, offering a more exclusive experience with dedicated VIP sections and professional DJs.