How To Plan The Perfect Zanzibar Trip

With stunning beaches and rich history, Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination and is often considered one of the most visited islands in the world. A tour of the island provides an exceptional opportunity to explore different cultures, learn about the island’s history, and engage in a variety of activities. Whether you want to spend your time chilling on the beaches or get into activities like diving and snorkeling, Zanzibar has the best to offer. 

Overview of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is not simply an island, but an archipelago made of over 50 islands, the largest one being Unguja, where the capital city of Stone Town is located. The second largest island, Pemba, is found a bit further to the North and also receives many visitors every year. 

Historically, Zanzibar was a popular destination, due to its location in the trade route through the Indian Ocean. As traders from different parts of the world reached the island, they would exchange goods, which saw the island earning the nickname “Spice Island.” Over the years, traders exported and traded exotic spices that eventually became synonymous with Zanzibar. 

As the island became a key pillar in trade, it gained interest from several colonial powers. Oman, Portugal, and Great Britain fought over this little island for decades. However, Oman seems to have the longest-standing and largest influence in culture and religion. They initially used the island for the slave trade, with remains of the trade still showcased on the island. Off the coast of Stone Town, for instance, you will see Prison Island. The island was used as a jail for Africans who rebelled slavery as the rest were sent to Americas to work on plantations.

The slave trade would eventually come to an end following a revolution among the African locals in the 1960s, which overthrew the apartheid Omani rule. This would be followed by a union between Zanzibar and the neighboring Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Today, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. 

Getting a Visa to Visit Zanzibar

Getting a visa to visit Zanzibar is relatively easy. Most countries require a visa with the cost being $50. Although you get a Zanzibar visa online before your trip, it is often recommended to complete it at the airport. However, be sure to bring enough cash as there are no ATMs at the airport and you are only allowed to pay for your visa with cash. 

What to Do in Zanzibar

Your Zanzibar excursion can be activity-packed depending on what you want to do. Some of the activities you do not want to miss include:

Explore the Ancient Stone House 

Experience numerous civilizations that made the town, including cultural sites like the Sultan’s House, House of Wonders, and the Forodhani or Darajani markets. 

Spice Farm Tour 

Discover the amazing coral reefs as you take a tour of the spice plantation and explore a range of exotic spices. 

Water Activities

From swimming with tropical reef fish to snorkeling and kayaking, Zanzibar offers a wide selection of water activities.

Explore Nakupenda Beach

A boat journey to Nakupenda Beach gives you a unique experience with lush tropical surroundings, white sand, dolphin spotting, delicious seafood, and sparkling water. 

Paddleboard to Mangrove Forests

Found only in tropical areas, mangrove forests are a sight to behold with dense bundles of roots that make trees appear as if they are floating over the sea. 

Feed Giant Tortoise

In the uninhabited Prison Island, you will find some of the largest turtles in the world, roaming free in nature.

Visit Cheetah’s Rock

Dedicated to rescuing wild animals, Cheetah’s Rock is a sanctuary where you can learn about animals and interact with them in their natural habitat. 

Sight Humpback Whales

Beginning late July to November, you can watch humpback whales with their long flippers and nodules in the waters of Zanzibar. 

Weather in Zanzibar

While you could visit Zanzibar for various activities, the most popular ones are beach vacations. Luckily, the weather is warm (25°-35° C/75°-95° F) throughout the year, but there are three months that are not ideal for beach holidays. The wet/rainy season in Zanzibar is between March and May.  Although the weather is still warm, it rains on most of the afternoons. This would mean that you will probably stay indoors for the most part of our trip. 

The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to October, which marks the dry season. The weather is reliably warm and sunny during these months, and you will have a lot of fun spending time outdoors. November to February also offers decent weather for vacation, although you may experience light rains. 

How to Get Around in Zanzibar

Although Zanzibar remains largely untouched, there are several means of transport that you can use. Most of the roads are still made of dirt and you will unlikely see any traffic lights. While this gives you an authentic connection with the island’s history, it can make getting around on your own quite a challenge. Nonetheless, the following means of transport are readily available:

• Taxi: The easiest and best way to get around Zanzibar is to take a taxi. You can find registered taxis in almost any part of the island. These are usually van-like vehicles with two rows of seating. With the cost being around $2o for an hour’s drive around the island, they are both affordable and convenient. 
• Car Rental: Another option that you may use is renting a car. However, you will need to have a local tour guide or someone familiar with the island since the roads rarely have road signs and some are difficult to maneuver. A guide will help you not to get lost and also guide you on the best routes to follow.
• Public Transport: Public transportation like buses is readily available in Zanzibar, offering a cheaper option than taxis. You may need to ask a local for directions when you arrive as there is no official system as the buses stop in place. 

What to Wear in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, with 99% of the population practicing Islam and the remaining minority being Christians. Although you are not required to dress conservatively, the general expectation is that you do depending on the areas you are visiting. For instance, people on the Beach are mostly secular Muslims who are used to seeing tourists. You can comfortably wear shorts, sundress, short skirts, or bare shoulders while in town and even bikinis on the beach. However, in the smaller and less touristic towns away from the beach, you will want to be more conservative. If you are visiting a mosque, make sure you cover your knees and shoulders. 

Cost of Traveling to Zanzibar

The cost of traveling to Zanzibar can be cheap or expensive depending on the kind of traveler you are. For low-budget traveling, you can stay in small bungalows or hostels and eat at small, local restaurants. This can cost you around $50-1000 a day per person. However, if you want a better experience, you can stay at hotels on the Northern coast at Kendwa and Nungwi. The cost in these regions can range anywhere between $150 and $200 per day per person for a luxury hotel experience. 

Language Spoken in Zanzibar

The official language of Zanzibar is Swahili. However, many of the locals, especially in hotels and tourist locations also speak English and Arabic, making it easier for communication and interactions. Most of the locals also understand a bit of Russian and Italian as the island is often visited by a large number of tourists from Russia and Italy. Even so, it helps to learn basic Swahili as it shows you respect the locals. You will also notice that the locals enjoy seeing guests talk in their native dialect. 

Additional Travel Tips: Getting Around in Zanzibar

• Use of Cash: The official currency used in the island is the Tanzanian shilling (1 USD is about 2,300 TZSh). However, most locations accept and often prefer USD. Most hotels and resorts accept credit cards, but you will need to convert some of your cash into Tanzanian shillings while still at the airport. You will be making tiny bills of cash for tipping locals or making quick purchases in the local currency. 
• Quality of Food: The food is generally safe and tastes found in most places in Zanzibar. However, just like traveling to any other new location, be cautious of food poisoning. 
• Drinking Water Safety: Always use bottled water during your trip to make sure it is safe. Also, ask for beverages without ice at neighborhood bars because they are more likely to use regular tap water to make ice. 
• Alcohol Consumption: While the island is majorly a Muslim country, the consumption of alcohol is permitted in Zanzibar. Most places serve alcohol although you should avoid being blatantly drunk, especially when walking around towns. If you smoke, only do so in designated places. 
• Wi-Fi Connection: Wi-Fi can be a challenge while in Zanzibar even in some of the nicest hotels. While most of the restaurants will have decent service, it is best to get a local SIM if you are planning to go online or work remotely.
• Health Concerns: While there are no major health risks in Zanzibar, Malaria is a bit more common. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites as much as you can and your trip will be just fine. In addition to your malaria medication, obtain a yellow fever test before you leave for your holiday. 
• Bring a Hat and Sunscreen: Dealing with a bad sunburn can really ruin your vacation. So make sure you pack a hat and sunscreen for your outdoor activities. 
• Be Aware of Sea Urchins: If you are walking in the water, be on the lookout for sea urchins. These spiky balls can often be seen resting on the sea flows, but they can be toxic. 

Book a Zanzibar Tour with Us

If you are looking for a reliable and reputable Zanzibar tour operator, book your trip with Bobby Tours. Whether you are visiting Zanzibar for a short time or a relaxed vacation, we tailor the experience to your specific needs and expectations. Be sure of an unforgettable trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get in touch with us today for any inquiries to book a trip. 

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