The-Rock-Restaurant-Zanzibar

What to Do, See, and Eat!

The Ultimate Guide To Stone Town Zanzibar. Zanzibar captures the essence of paradise with its pristine, white sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Its capital is rich in history, making it a destination worthy of being on your radar.

Some Info
Visa: Yes $50 Apply here
Population:  800,000
Official Language: Swahili, English spoken in most places
Religion: Islam 
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling, US $ widely excepted

Zanzibar is a stunning island located just off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. In this ultimate guide to Stone Town, Zanzibar, you will find everything you need to know about this amazing island.

Zanzibar is an archipelago, It’s made up of 3 main islands (Unguja, Pemba and Mafia), plus several smaller islands. The largest island, Unguja, is what most tourists refer to as Zanzibar.

Zanzibar can easily be reached by air from Dar-Es-Salaam (‘Dar’) or Arusha/Kilimanjaro, making it ideal before or after a safari.

Stone Town

Stone Town is the historic centre of Zanzibar City. The town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Its streets have been preserved in their original form since their establishment in the late 18th century by Sultan Seyyid Said bin Sultan, who moved his capital there from Muscat in Oman. Do not go to this paradise island without staying here for a minimum of three days.

The name “Stone Town” comes from its buildings made out of coral stone and lime mortar, which were constructed over hundreds of years by slaves brought from India and Persia (now known as Iran). Stone Town’s architecture reflects its true diversity with Arab influence but also includes Indian designs such as domes and arches that can be seen throughout the island.

Doors

Stone Town is well-known for its intricately carved wooden doors, which have remained unchanged for over a hundred years. There are over 550 of these doors, each with its own unique story.

However, the number of these doors is decreasing due to lack of maintenance and theft, as they have garnered increased attention from international collectors. These grand Teak or Mahogany masterpieces depict the social status, religion, and profession of the residents.

Influenced by Swahili, Indian and Arabic designs each one is a work of art.

Stone Town is still considered to be one of the most important cities in the region in terms of history and artistry with its well-preserved 19th-century colonial buildings and a unique culture that is based on Swahili traditions but with a touch of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European elements which make Zanzibar such a vibrant contrasting place of beauty and decay.

Airport Zanzibar

Getting to Stone Town

There are several ways to get to Stone Town, but the most popular is by plane. Several airlines fly directly into Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) Non directly from the US. It is easier in Europe with direct and indirect flights going from hubs in Frankfurt, London, and Amsterdam.

KLM, British Airways, Emirates, Kenya Airways, Ethiopia Airlines, and Qatar fly to Zanzibar. For my trip, I flew direct from Amsterdam (AMS) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) with KLM, which took 9 hours. You will land at Abeid Amanu Karume Internation Airport (ZNZ) in the shiny new Terminal 3.

The most convenient way to get from Zanzibar Airport to your hotel in Stone Town or elsewhere on the island is by Taxi. They often charge a fixed price of  $15 to take you to Stone Town,  which will take about 30 minutes.

You can also reach Stone Town by ferry from Dar es Salaam. Ferries depart daily and take about 1.5 hours and cost around £50 (VIP/Gold). You will need your passport details handy when booking. Try and avoid the ticket touts outside the main building. I would recommend booking 24 hours in advance.

Stone Town is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic African experience. It has plenty of culture, history, beaches, and bars to keep you busy. While doing my research before my trip I read numerous times that Zanzibar was (dry) as in no alcohol, not the weather 😉 This is not the case, there are some hotels and restaurants that do not sell alcoholic beverages, but plenty that do.

Which currency to take?

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency with banknotes in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10000 Shilling. The Shilling is perfect for small expenses in local shops and markets. In the main tourist areas, the US Dollar is king and preferred. Some places might charge a higher rate in dollars for goods and services.

Please remember the following information:
If you plan to bring US dollars, make sure the banknotes are not older than 2006. It is recommended to use smaller denominations, as larger bills may be more difficult to exchange.

ATMs are available at the airport, Stone Town, Nungwi, Donga, and Paje. It’s best to withdraw cash before travelling to the coast. Most major credit and debit cards such as Mastercard and Visa are accepted.

Before travelling, check with your bank to ensure that your card will work and be mindful of typical fees, which are usually around 3-6%. If you haven’t already got one consider a Wise card.

What Time is it?

Zanzibar is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3). It does not observe daylight saving time, and there is no time difference between Zanzibar’s summer and winter months.

When To Go?

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect beach destination, then Zanzibar is the place for you. If you prefer dry, sunny 12-hour days, then June to October is the best time to visit. However, keep in mind that this is a busy time for tourists.

If you want to avoid being stuck in your hotel room on a rainy day and regret not booking your trip for a different time, it’s best to avoid travelling during the long rainy season from March to May, as the rain continues throughout the day. However, if you need to travel during this period, the short rainy season from November to December is a better option. During this time, the rain usually only lasts for a few hours before the sun comes out again.

Getting around.

Taxis are the primary mode of transportation in major towns and are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

If you’re looking for an affordable mode of transportation, Dala Dalas (small local minibuses) are your best bet. Choosing this option will kickstart your adventure! Keep in mind that these minibuses are often crowded and will stop to pick up additional passengers along the way making for much longer journey times .

Walking. Exploring Stone Town on foot is the best way to fully enjoy the experience. Although the area may seem small and daunting to navigate at first, it won’t take long for you to get the lay of the land. It’s wise to avoid relying solely on Google Maps as it may not always be dependable. However, the friendly locals are more than happy to lend a hand and guide you on your way.

Exploring Stone Town

One of the joys of exploring a new city is getting lost, but take my word for it this place is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, side roads, and dead ends. So to maximize your time I would recommend hiring a local guide. He will be able to take you to all the sites you want to see and provide a wealth of local knowledge along the way. With a local guide, you will not miss all the hidden gems you might have if you were to explore Stone Town by yourself. Stone Town is truly magical!

Your hotel is a good place to find recommendations and will sort everything out for you, or book in advance with the links below. The walking tour will usually start at your hotel and set off around the winding streets of Stone Town.  You will see such landmarks as The House of Wonders try this 3 hour walking tour here

street stone town
zanzibar moped

The Old Fort

The Old Fort (Arab Fort) was built in 1593 by Portuguese explorers who called it Fortaleza Santa Maria de Jesus dos Frades (Fortress Holy Mary of the Friars). It was later taken over by Omani Arabs who renamed it Forte de São João Baptista de Mombaça (Fort Saint John Baptist Mombasa).

The British took control after Omani rule ended in 1832; they renamed it Fort Amherst after Lord Amherst, who led an expeditionary force against Zanzibar in 1823-24. It is considered to be the oldest structure in Zanzibar. The Old Fort opens between 8 AM to 6 PM every day. There’s a craft market with locals selling hand-carved wooden bowls and wood carvings of animals like giraffes and elephants. Depending on the month you go maybe a movie as it’s also the base for the Zanzibar international film festival held in its large open-air amphitheatre.

St Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral

The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Joseph is one of the most important historical buildings in Stone Town and one of its main visitor attractions. Built in the late 19th century its twin spires are easily seen from a distance and are dominant on the skyline of Stone Town. Scheduled masses take place every morning at 6:30 am on weekdays and 3 times at 7 am, 9 am, and 11 am on Sunday

Christ Church Anglican Cathedral

An impressive example of early Christian architecture in East Africa.

The Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church was built in Stone Town in the exact place where the biggest slave market in Eastern Africa operated. Its altar was placed where once a tree stood and the slaves for sale were whipped to see how strong they were. Down in the basement, you will find the horrific conditions where the slaves were kept. Outside the Cathedral, there is a stone monument showing four people enchained by their necks as a way of reproducing how slaves were offered to buyers. 

Near the Church is the Exhibition of the Slave Market of Eastern Africa, an exhibition centre that displays pictures, photographs and historical information. Entry is $5 but is included with a tour. Do not miss this deeply moving experience into the East African Slave Trade.

The East African Slave Trade Exhibit

Stone Town was formally the capital of the spice and slave trade in the region. Slaves captured on the mainland were brought to Zanzibar in chains to be sold in the city’s slave market. It is because the island was so central to the slave trade that it played such an important role in the abolition of slavery, not just in Africa but worldwide. The market was closed on the orders of the sultan in 1873, and in 1879 an Anglican cathedral was constructed at the site.

The East African Slave Trade Exhibit
The East African Slave Trade Exhibit

Go Snorkeling

Nakupenda Sandbank is located just off Stone Town, about 20 minutes away. The word “Nakupenda” means I Love You in English. Nakupenda Sandbank has been listed as the second-best beach in Africa based on Traveler’s choices in 2022 on TripAdvisor.

Many tourists visit Chwaka Bay during their stay in Stone Town because it offers great snorkelling opportunities just steps from shoreline restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes like lobster tails and shrimp burgers. You can also hire a boat captain here who will take you out on an unforgettable fishing trip off nearby Mafia Island or Pemba Island (the latter being known as “the pearl” due to its white-sand beaches Try this tour here.

A very popular day trip in Zanzibar is the Blue Safari. This trip also includes a beach BBQ.

Check Out The House of Wonders

Sadly this place is currently closed as it partially collapsed in 2020 and is going through restoration. It was probably one of the most well-known landmarks in Stone Town and Zanzibar city.  It was built in 1883 and restored after the Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896. Formerly the Sultan’s residence, it became the seat of the Afro-Shirazi Party after the revolution. It was the first building in Zanzibar city to have electricity in addition to being the first building in East Africa to have a lift. This amazing feat gave it its nickname ‘House of Wonders’.

Spice Tour

Why does everyone end up on a spice tour in Zanzibar? Well, its nickname is the Spice Islands, and there was once a time when Zanzibar was the largest producer of cloves in the world.

These days, the production of spices is declining while tourism is booming, resulting in much of the spice industry turning towards plantation tours as a way to stay in business.

Spice-Tour

Boat Trip To Prison Island (Changuu)

The Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island is located around 25 minutes by local boat riding from the Stone Town beach.

The island’s main attraction is the popular Giant Tortoises,  which can live up to 200 years old. You can get up close and feed them and if asked nicely take your selfie with them. For around $30 you will get a tour for a couple of hours. The ticket to enter Prison Island is paid separately and it costs about $5 per person. It has never been a prison and no prisoners were ever housed there so it was converted into a quarantine island for yellow fever patients, for a short period. Check out this recommended tour of Prison Island Here 

Freddie Mercury House

Fun fact: The famous lead singer of Queen, Freddy Mercury, was actually born in Stone Town, Zanzibar in the 1940s. He lived with his family on Gizenga Street, in the same house that is now a museum. Unfortunately, the family fled during the Zanzibar Revolution in 1964. If you’re a fan, the museum is definitely worth a visit as it provides insight into Mercury’s childhood in Zanzibar. It may be small, but it’s a must-visit attraction in Stone Town.

Watch the world go by at Jaws Corner

If you’re searching for a spot where you can enjoy a flavorful cup of black coffee while indulging in stimulating conversations, then look no further than this busy square located right in the heart of old Stone Town. Talk about anything from politics to relationship advice, this is undoubtedly the ultimate destination for locals and tourists.

Traditional Sunset Dhow Cruise

Tourists love this kind of thing and one of the most romantic things to do at sunset in Stone Town.  It takes one and a half tour with a traditional Zanzibar sailing boat. The departure place of the tour is in front of Livingstone Beach Restaurant in Stone Town.

A good idea is to do a Stone Town tour with the Sunset Dhow cruise at the end to make the best day experience.

Normally, the Sunset Dhow Cruise starts at 17:00, from the Livingstone Beach Restaurant to the Mtoni beach area, and then returns to Stone Town while the sun slowly goes down with a beautiful view of the Stone Town from the sea. On board, you will have locally-made snacks and soft drinks.

Where To Stay in Stone Town

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 the city is awash with old colonial-style hotels and apartments. The price of accommodation changes drastically between the three main tourist seasons. Low, High and Peak. You can easily pay twice the price at peak season.

Presidential Suite
View from the Presidential Suite

I highly recommend the Emerson Spice Hotel and the Tembo House Hotel. Both offer a nostalgic atmosphere with modern comforts. These hotels provide exceptional design and facilities in Stone Town. The Emerson’s rooftop terrace, where they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offers one of the best views in the city. There’s also the high-end Park Hyatt Zanzibar is easily one of the top 10 hotels in Zanzibar. The hotel finds a perfect balance between the brand’s signature look and the former palace that the main building now occupies.

Most hotels offer diving and/or snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and outlying islands

Where to Eat and Drink in Stone Town

6 Degrees South Grill and Wine Bar Great fusion food and atmosphere set right on the beach. Head to the rooftop for sunset.

Terrace Restaurant at Maru Maru Hotel. Head straight up to the rooftop. A nice place at any time of day, with stunning views and decent food and bar.

Tembo Bahari Restaurant. Tembo’s in-house restaurant is set right on the beach, great with service and seafood.

Fine Dining in Stone Town?

Yes please. I highly recommend the Tea House restaurant at Emerson for a truly elegant dining experience. The rooftop setting provides stunning views of Stone Town. To fully enjoy the cocktails and sundowners, I suggest arriving before 5:50 pm to catch the 6 pm start. The five-course meal is set to commence at 7 pm, so being punctual is crucial. On Wednesdays and Fridays, you can also look forward to live music events.

Also located at this hotel is The Secret Garden at Emerson Spice. Set amidst lushly landscaped hidden ruins, open to the skies, the Secret Garden offers a Zanzibari inspired à la carte menu.

Local Swahili Food at Lukmaan Restaurant

This place is now a Stone Town institution serving authentic Zanzibari food. I wouldn’t say it’s one of the best places to eat, but it’s one of the most popular. You can’t miss it and if you have a guide or are on a tour you will pass by it. Check out the Sugar Cain and Ginger drinks close by, there’s no water added and so refreshing.

Forodhani Gardens after Sunset

Forodhani Park is one of the best free places to chill and watch the sunset in Stone Town, it is located in front of the House of Wonders and Zanzibar Old Fort.

Forodhani Gardens is the ultimate destination for foodies seeking an unforgettable local culinary experience. As the sun sets, the Gardens transform into a lively street food market that offers a variety of seafood and local delicacies.

If you don’t fancy doing this on your own, try this relaxed guided walking tour.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in the famous Zanzibar pizza, not like any pizza I’ve ever eaten. A calzone-like dish, that is a fusion of Bantu, Arab, and Indian flavours , making it truly unique. The spices used in most dishes, such as masala, cardamom, garlic, turmeric, and saffron, add an exotic touch to the food.

Seafood lovers can choose from an array of options, including squid, lobsters, crabs, octopus, and shrimp. The seafood stalls looked impressive but some were selling seafood skewers that were far from fresh. The best stalls can be located by following your nose and the longest queues. While savouring the tasty street food, take a stroll by the seafront and witness the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean.

The ideal spot to capture this moment is the seawall by Forodhani Gardens, which is conveniently located for those staying nearby. The market is open every day from 6 pm to 11 pm, but it’s advisable to avoid weekends as it can get crowded. A bonus if you are staying at Tembo House as it’s only a 5 min walk away. Try this three-hour street food tour here.

Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar

This establishment is not a fish market – it’s a vibrant seafood and sushi restaurant. While seafood is their speciality, they also offer a diverse selection of chicken and beef dishes. Guests can enjoy live music and breathtaking sunsets, as well as happy hour specials every day from 6 PM

Shopping in Stone Town

There are a few places to go shopping in Stone Town. The first place to visit is the Old Fort, which has been turned into a craft market. Here you can find local crafts such as hand-carved wooden bowls and sandalwood carvings of animals like giraffes and elephants. Another good place for souvenirs is the Zanzibar Museum, where you can purchase items such as Zanzibar flags, the must have football shirt and prints of historic buildings from around Stone Town. Tanzanite is also a good buy in Stone Town.

Nightlife in Stone Town

Stone Town is a great place to experience the nightlife of Zanzibar. There are many bars and clubs in Stone Town and live music performances. The best way to find out what’s going on is by asking around or checking online listings. The Livingstone Bar is a great place to have a few sun downers, and Mercury’s Bar.


Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world.

After exploring Stone Town, it was time to head east. My next destination was the Baladin Zanzibar, a boutique hotel at Michamvi in Pingwe, on the island’s east coast. It took around an hour door to door and cost around $50/60 organized by the hotel ( a local taxi quoted the same price).

It’s a quiet location, populated with high-end hotels, restaurants and bars. Ideal for some R&R after Stone Town.

If you turn left at the beach you have a good Italian restaurant, the Zantiny by Matlai (5 minutes walk ) In the opposite direction you will find The Wishing Tree (free delicious orderves with every drink) and the famous The Rock Restaurant.

wishing tree restaurant and bar
View from the bar at the Wishing Tree


If you want to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the other side of the Michamvi peninsula, on Chwaka Bay, then head for Kae Funk or Kati Kae (slightly quieter) for a delicious sundowner and seafood BBQ.

Go Kite Surfing in Paje

Paje has a longstanding reputation as one of the finest kitesurfing beaches in the world, but in my view, it’s also one of the top swimming beaches after Nungwi and Kendwa. The beach has a pleasant vibe and gets busy, with various excellent bars and restaurants to choose from.

If you cannot kitesurf, consider taking a few lessons; it’s an affordable and enjoyable way to spend a few hours.

Check out Kite Centre Zanzibar on Paje Beach very welcoming and professional.

Paje boasts several PADI-certified diving companies, making it an excellent location to learn how to dive amidst the crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant shades of blue. Check out this 5-Star Dive Centre ZANZIBAR. EAST AFRICA DIVING.

A Taxi from Stone Town or the airport will set you back around $50/60 a Dala Dala is much cheaper but you get what you pay for.

Recommended hotel in Paje Zula Zanzibar


The Rock Restaurant in Michamvi

The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar

The most famous restaurants in Zanzibar with good reason. Perched on its own chunk of coral rock on the southeast coast of the island, this iconic restaurant is a must. Open daily for lunch at 12 pm or 2 pm and dinner at 4 pm or 6 pm, I would recommend booking in advance to guarantee your table.

I booked this restaurant for my birthday lunch.

I’d read mixed reviews before coming here, so was feeling a little dubious and not expecting much apart from the view. I was presently suspired and had a great time. I was well looked after by the manager and staff, with a warm welcome.

Before your meal, you can check out the menu while enjoying a refreshing cocktail on the patio at the back. The food, drinks, and atmosphere were all excellent. I ordered the lobster dish and steak on a stick, and they tasted even better than they sounded.

They were cooked perfectly, and to top it off, I received a lovely surprise of a chorus of “Happy Birthday” and a delicious The Rock Coconut Tiramisu with a candle on top. It was a fantastic experience, happy days.

The tides are extreme on the east coast. Depending on what time you go you can either walk to the restaurant or take one of the shortest boat rides in the world.


Frequently Asked Questions

Voted one of the safest places in Africa.

Most people have a hassle-free holiday in Zanzibar. If you take the usual precautions, you shouldn’t face any danger. Stone Town is busy and safe during the day. However, as in many countries around the world, I wouldn’t suggest walking around at night wearing your favorite Rolex.

What sort of plugs?

Plug sockets require a 3-pronged British type G. Some are also wired for 2 pronged European. Take this to use any socket.

Should I Tip?

Tipping is definitely a thing in Zanzibar. With all the Western tourists, the locals have become accustomed to it. For good service a small amount of money goes a long way and is very much apricated.

Wi-Fi?

Changing your Sim to a local one at the airport is quick, easy and cheap. Most hotel accommodations, bars and restaurants have FREE Wi-Fi but is often slow. There are a few internet cafes in Stone Town. Turn off your roaming if you don’t change your sim.

Nungwi

Nungwi Beach

Nungwi is located on the northern part of the island, which means you’ll see some incredible sunsets. It’s the most visited part of the island. Imagine brilliant white sand and crystal clear water with every hue of blue possible. It’s also home to lots of different resorts and accommodations, which is another reason many tourists visit that area.

Nungwi is also one of the few places on the island where the tide is relatively stable throughout the day and hardly any seaweed. It hardly goes in and out, compared to other parts of the island, like Matemwe or Jambiani, the tide can be about a mile out. Nungwi Beach is also famous for its party atmosphere.

This is where I stayed. Highly recommend right on the beach. Great restaurant and rooftop bar.

View from the bar.

In Nungwi It can be hard to find somewhere to just chill on your own without being bothered by beach boys selling every activity you could wish for. It’s not a problem- everyone’s got to make a living- but being asked every five minutes can get a little tiresome.

Kendwa

Kendwa Beach is around a 25 to 30-minute walk from Nungwi Beach at low tide. You can take a taxi for $10 or a water taxi for around $5. It has a wide white sand paradise beach.

Recommended Hotel in Kendwa

Things to Do in Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches

Try haggling with the beach boys for lower prices as they’re all selling the same activates and receive a  commission.

  •  Nungwi Natural Aquarium / Turtle sanctuary
  • Jet Skis
  • Kayaks
  • Day trips to Mnemba Island for snorkeling tour
  • Horseback riding on the beach
  • Sunset cruise on a catamaran
  • Dolphin Tours
  • Dhow sunset cruise, you won’t be disappointed.

Check out the full moon party at Kendwa Rocks, if you happen to be visiting while there’s a full moon it’s totally worth it. There’s live music, dancing, and drinks all under the lights of the full moon!

Is Zanzibar Safe in 2024?

Zanzibar’s popularity is growing year on year and most people have a hassle-free holiday.  Before you start planning your visit, you should make sure that the reality matches Instagram. If you take the usual precautions, you shouldn’t face any danger. Stone Town is busy and safe during the day. However, as in many countries around the world, I wouldn’t suggest walking around at night wearing your favourite Rolex.

Solo female travelers are encouraged to follow all the usual safety precautions. Dress appropriately for Stone Town or anywhere away from the beach as Zanzibar is predominantly a conservative Muslim country. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Keep your bathing suit for the beach only, there are fines for both men and women who violate regulations.

Some female travellers report feeling uncomfortable in Zanzibar as street harassment is very common, usually in the form of catcalling.

Carry a copy of your ID instead of the official document. Leave most of your cash in your hotel room locked in a room safe. When you go swimming, never leave your belongings unattended.

Based on my experience, I highly recommend Zanzibar as a safe travel destination. With tourism being the primary source of income for the region, the authorities place a significant emphasis on the safety and well-being of visitors. My time there was stress-free and an enjoyable experience.

10 Things Not to do in Zanzibar

Considering Zanzibar or have already booked your escape to paradise follow these tips for a stress-free trip.

Don’t drink tap water.

Avoid drinking tap water at all costs! Drink only bottled water or use a  water purification system. Bottled water is readily available in most places, but you might want to consider an eco-friendly alternative to reduce plastic waste. Of course, you can always have wine or beer with your meal. (my preferred option)

This water bottle is one of the first things I put in my bag. 

It’s ideal for travellers who want to stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic bottles!

Don’t wear revealing clothing.

Be respectful of the local customs in the wardrobe department. Zanzibar is a Islamic country so it’s important to dress modishly when out and about in public places away from the beaches. You can be fined for ‘indecent dressing’.

Don’t drink alcohol

In public places away from the beaches, hotels and restaurants. It’s prohibited to consume alcohol or to be seen as drunk. You will not be able to buy the good stuff in the local shops on the island. There are a few outlets in Stone Town, one across the road from the iconic Freddy Mercury’s house for example. Some restaurants are ‘dry’ mocktails only, so if you like a glass of wine with your meal, it’s better to check in advance.

Don’t visit Stone Town at weekends.

Stone Town gets extremely crowded and can be hard to around.

Don’t forget insect repellent.

Mosquitoes are everywhere in Zanzibar so it’s best to bring your own as it’s hard to find and expensive. A strong one with a least 50% DEET is recommended. I use this and had no issues.

Don’t take pictures.

Zanzibar is a stunning country and you will undoubtedly capture some incredible pictures to relive the moments forever.

However, its essential to show respect to locals and others by seeking their permission before taking their photograph. While capturing general pictures is ok, it is crucial to ask for consent when it comes to individuals. If you point your DSLR or phone at someone’s face, they won’t be happy and will ask you for money.

Don’t swim in the sea after dark.

There have been cases of people being attacked and robbed. So when the sun goes down called it a day in the sea.

Don’t forget to pack sun screen.

It’s hot and sunny in Zanzibar and the UV can be extreme so easy to get sunburned. It’s expensive and hard to find so bring your factor 50.

Haggle

The markets are lively and great places to buy your souvenirs. As a foreigner, you are likely to be told a silly inflated price at first. Be prepared to bargain but don’t haggle excessively as you may offend the seller. Zanzibar is a relatively poor country so remember everyone’s got to make a living and eat.

Don’t go in rainy season.

The long rains are from March to May and the short rains are in November and December.

Before you go.

Do I need Vaccinations?

Consult a doctor or health professional before your visit (4 to 6 weeks) to see if you need any shots and receive proper advice on vaccinations and preventive medication. Compared to the rest of Tanzania, the risk of contracting Malaria is much lower in Zanzibar.

Get Travel Insurance

Investing in travel insurance is a wise decision, even if it requires additional expenses. It’s important to remember that these policies are intended to offer emergency medical coverage while traveling abroad but won’t cover any pre-existing conditions. If you’re headed to Zanzibar, Tanzania and require travel insurance have a look Here

Travel Adapter

It’s always better to take your own to save you from paying over the odds when you reach your destination. This hasn’t let me down yet.

Learn a few Swahili words

My favorite. Hakuna matata No worries

  • Jambo/Hujambo Hello  
  • Asante sana Thank you very much
  • Asante Thank you
  • Hapana No
  • Hapana asante No thank you 
  • Sawa Ok
  • Ndiyo/Ndio Yes

After a few weeks of island exploration, I can confidently say that every place I visited exceeded my expectations. However, Stone Town and Nungwi stood out as my personal favourites. The northern villages of Nungwi and Kendwa have wide white pristine beaches lined with palm trees and hotels. Paje delivered an exceptional kite surfing experience. Definitely one to add to your list.

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