Zanzibar
Zanzibar's most romantic island, Nakupenda Island simply can't be missed. If you're looking for quiet beaches, crystal clear waters, pristine Read more
Trip to Zanzibar. Fashion Design. What's the perfect fusion of travel and fashion? Traveling Fashion Designers. Yep. That's us. And Read more
Stone Town is really an amazing city. The capital of Zanzibar and sometimes known as Zanzibar city, it certainly has Read more
Finding the best beach can be a challenge in a country that is just one island full of endless shores. Read more
Zanzibar. Pristine beaches. Turquoise waters. White sands. It certainly feels like a little slice of paradise. Whether you're looking to Read more
Sometimes in life there are places that you dream to visit, that are so incredible that you almost don't even Read more
Although most people visiting Zanzibar certainly are just looking to relax on the beach the entire trip, the archipelago of Read more
Zanzibar. Stunning beaches. Untouched nature. Incredible history. What more could you want in a travel destination? If I'm being completely Read more
Nakupenda “I Love You” Island – Zanzibar’s Most Romantic Island | Day Trip From Stone Town
Zanzibar’s most romantic island, Nakupenda Island simply can’t be missed. If you’re looking for quiet beaches, crystal clear waters, pristine white sands, and calming waves, this is the place for you! If you time it right, it’s almost like have a private island all to yourself.
Nakupenda “I Love You” Island
The day is extremely hot, like all of the days in Zanzibar. The sun shines painfully bright and forceful on your skin. All you can think of is going swimming in the ocean. But, Stone Town‘s beaches are a little too busy for you and not as clear and pristine as you were hoping.
Just a 20 minute boat ride away, you can swim on a “private” little oasis of white sands and snorkel-worthy waters. No one really knows if it should be called an island or just a bank of sand, but Nakupenda is one of the loveliest beaches in all of Zanzibar.
In Swahili (the local language) Nakupenda means “I Love You”. So you are literally taking a day trip to I Love You Island. Who wouldn’t want to go?
When to Visit
The timing of when to visit Nakupenda is extremely important. If you want a private island feel, then you have to go in the morning! Around 12 pm masses of people ride up to the island’s shores, pitch their tents, and start to enjoy the fresh food and mini pop-up market set up by locals.
Although it is certainly a fun experience for lunch, if you want some privacy, the early morning hours will be a different experience entirely. Most people visit Nakupenda after a trip to Prison Island (just a short boat ride away), which is why it becomes extremely packed. Consider switching up the order if you want to explore the islands alone.
In the evening, due to the tides, Nakupenda can literally disappear. If the tides are strong, the small white sand bank will be covered until the morning. The island shrinks more and more as it gets later in the day!
So in short, the best time to visit Nakupenda is in the morning! Less crowds, more island, and a truly much more private experience. Our guide/boat driver was the first one to set up a little tent of shade in the sands, and there were maybe four other people on the island with us. By the time we left, there were literally hundreds. It hardly even felt like the same place.
Snorkeling at Nakupenda
According to the locals, Nakupenda also offers some great snorkeling opportunities, so be sure to bring along some snorkeling equipment if you are planning to spend the day there. When we went to visit, however, the waves were much too strong to be able to pleasantly snorkel, so we sadly missed out on some amazing sea life. Come prepared, but also be aware that the waves may make the snorkeling difficult at times.
Tips for Visiting Nakupenda
- NO SHADE. Nakupenda is really just a bank of sand that appear for the beginning half of the day. That means that there is literally no shade on the entire island. The sun is super strong so be sure to come prepared. Our guide/boat driver brought the equipment to set up a lovely shady spot for us, which really saved the day.
- BUSY. Be careful with the time of day that you go! It gets quite busy in the afternoon. The island is really quite small so it’s much less enjoyable when the crowds appear.
- COMBINE it with a trip to the famous Prison Island, just a stone’s throw away. Although it will certainly be quite busy (it’s one of Zanzibar’s most famous attractions) you can definitely do both islands in one day.
- BRING lots of sunscreen. Even if you are fortunate enough to have some shade while visiting, the reflection of the white sands, the water, and the proximity to the equator can almost guarantee you a pretty little sunburn
Looking for other amazing things to do in Zanzibar? Check out 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
Zanzibar – The 2 Outfits I Made Just for My Trip to Paradise | Fashion Design
Trip to Zanzibar. Fashion Design. What’s the perfect fusion of travel and fashion? Traveling Fashion Designers. Yep. That’s us. And I made some pretty cute outfits before my trip to Zanzibar, made just to match two EPIC locations.
Planning the Trip
Zanzibar always seemed like quite a magical destination for me. It was like a dreamland. I wasn’t really sure if it was real. It’s the kind of place you hear about in the passing, but never actual see any real pictures of. A magical fairyland of mystery.
But….it was open for tourism despite Corona, and it was the perfect place for my boyfriend and I to rendezvous after not seeing each other for two months. And so the itinerary planning and fashion planning began. There was no way I could go to such a dreamy place without making something special just for the country. Zanzibar inspired my creativity and deserved some lovely creations.
Design Process
Since Zanzibar is a big island and most famous for its beaches, the most obvious first choice of something to design and create for a photoshoot in the country would be beach related. So it looks like it was time to go shopping for some swimwear fabric. I went to my favorite fabric store in Tel Aviv, and perused through the piles and piles of stretchy swimwear fabrics until I found something that caught my eye. STRIPES. Oh yes. Stripes are one of my weaknesses. And GREEN!! Double yes.
The fabric has such a retro vibe that I decided I wanted to make something that looked really vintage. I looked up some vintage and retro swimsuits and started to create something that I would love. The perfect combination of retro and trendy.
Once I had the plan for my swimsuit, I decided to design my second outfit. I had a stunning blue rose print that I bought while shopping for something totally different. It was just too incredible to pass up on, so I bought a few yards and saved it in my stash for a day just like today.
I was so incredibly excited to go visit the famous Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar. It was always a dream of mine. And what better to have as the inspiration for designing a dress than the dreamy floating restaurant in the middle of the Indian ocean??
It had to be long and flowy and dream-like. Lots of gathers and a big, extravagant flowy skirt with an excess of fabric ready to blow in the wind. And just like that, everything was ready in my mind. Now it was time to create!
Outfit #1 – Retro Candy Stripe Bathing Suit for the Beach
Outfit #2 – Blue Rose Flowy Dress for The Rock Restaurant
Sewing and Creation
There’s little more exciting and more fulfilling that being able to envision something in your mind and then actually create it. To watch a beautiful outfit come together from pieces of fabric and thread.
1. Retro Candy Stripe Bathing Suit
Using a combination of some old patterns that we have in our collection and some of our handmade pattern pieces, I began to sew. I knew that I wanted to make two different options for the bottoms – high waisted and low waisted. The high waisted would definitely be for the photos, but I wanted the suit to also be wearable for sunbathing, so I made an alternative low waist pair of bottoms as well.
I also wanted to take advantage of all the stripes and lines. The top piece I made really took advantage of all that stripes offer! And I created something that had the stripes going in different directions to give it a fun and playful look.
I had a few extra pieces of fabric so I decided to whip up a little tie to add some cinch around the waist and a head scarf to further exemplify the vintage feel.
View the full blog post where this bathing suit is featured: BEST BEACHES IN ZANZIBAR – NUNGWI, STONE TOWN, PAJE, AND MORE
2. Blue Rose Flowy Dress
Now onto the second project I had in mind! I had made a skirt similar to what I had in mind in the past so I pretty much already knew how to make it. Instead of making a dress, I decided to make a blouse and skirt set. It would be much more useful in everyday life as I could have double the outfits and uses for the pieces!
The skirt was lots and lots of gathering to make it long and flowy and full of volume….with full ability to spin and blow around romantically in the wind. For the blouse I recreated a favorite top of mine, with elastic gathers around the arms and neckline. Overall a really simple set to make.
All ready for the trip to Zanzibar!!!
View the full blog post where this dress is featured: THE ROCK RESTAURANT IN ZANZIBAR – THE RESTAURANT BUILT ON A ROCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE OCEAN
Photoshoots
And here are the end results!!! I’m really so happy with how the pictures turned out! The outfits couldn’t have been a more perfect fit in my opinion.
The bathing suit looks playful and vintage and the mix of blues on the boat ride was just perfection. At first I didn’t really know where I would take the photos of this suit….I just had the general idea of the beach in my mind. But when we booked a snorkeling trip to the private island of Mnemba, I knew this was the first choice. The only sad part was that we got soooooo seasick (we also had a bit of food poisoning from the dinner the night before) right after this photoshoot. We had to stop our boat trip early, which was such a bummer. But at least we got some lovely photos!!!
The dress was exactly how I envisioned it…actually even better!! The Rock Restaurant is one of the coolest places I’ve ever seen and I was so happy to have a super cool dress to go along without. And check out the perfectly matching blues and browns??
1. Retro Candy Stripe Bathing Suit for Mnemba Island Snorkeling Trip
2. Blue Rose Flowy Dress for The Rock Restaurant
To read more about my travels to Zanzibar check out our Zanzibar page! Which outfit was your favorite?
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
Visiting Stone Town? Everything You Need to Know -Things to Do, Places to Eat, Where to Stay | Zanzibar Travel
Stone Town is really an amazing city. The capital of Zanzibar and sometimes known as Zanzibar city, it certainly has a lot to offer. From lovely beaches to incredible history to stunning sunsets to winding through the maze of narrows streets, you’re sure to love this beautiful place.
Top 12 Things to Do in Stone Town
Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a good old beach lover, Stone Town will certainly provide you with some memorable things to do. Although Stone Town definitely does have a lot to offer, I would only recommend staying 2-3 nights there. Zanzibar has so many amazing places to see it would be a shame to spend most of the time in the city.
1. Nakupenda Island
Nakupenda Island is a tiny and very beautiful island about a 15-20 minute boat ride off the coast of Stone Town. Usually combined in a day trip with Prison Island, it is also possible to visit just Nakupenda itself. In Swahili, Nakupenda means “I Love You”. If you go before noon, I can almost guarantee that’ll you’ll have the island to yourself.
In the afternoon, they set up a large marketplace and “pop up BBQ’s” and the tiny white-sanded beach will become very crowded (usually with people coming from their visit to Prison Island) This island is so small that it actually disappears in the evening when the tides come up! So be sure to visit before 5pm if you want to actually see the island itself.
If the waters aren’t that rough it’s also a nice place to go snorkeling! When we visited unfortunately the waves were far too choppy to be able to enjoy the snorkeling however.
View the full post: NAKUPENDA “I LOVE YOU” ISLAND – ZANZIBAR’S MOST ROMANTIC ISLAND | DAY TRIP FROM STONE TOWN
2. Prison Island
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Stone Town, if not all of Zanzibar is Prison Island. Also known as Changuu Island, this island has quite a tragic history. It was used as a prison (hence the name) for rebellious slaves in the 1800s. A bit later in the history it was also used as a quarantine island for those with yellow fever. Now it is one of Stone Town’s most popular tourist destinations, most famous for the abundance of giant tortoises that inhabit the island! A day trip by boat to visit Prison Island can last half a day to a full day as it’s just about a 20 minutes boat ride from Stone Town port.
3. Explore the Town’s Narrow Streets
Zanzibar has a long and very interesting history. Did you know that the current capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town, was once the capital of Oman? Zanzibar has been colonized by the Portuguese and then the Omanis and then the British and then Oman again before becoming the United Republic of Tanzania (with Zanzibar as a semi autonomous state) in the 60s. Simply wandering through the narrow streets will give you a feel for the history and the interesting culture.
4. Witness the Historic Slave Market
Zanzibar was home to one of the last open slave markets in the world, operating until the late 1870s. Predominantly used by Arab traders (usually from Oman) the slaves were held in tiny cramped quarters, shackled to prevent them from escaping. Certainly a sobering visit, it is definitely important to understand the tragic side of Zanzibar’s history.
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5. Visit the Old Fort
Zanzibar has a long and very interesting history. Did you know that the current capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town, was once the capital of Oman? Zanzibar has been colonized by the Portuguese and then the Omanis and then the British and then Oman again before becoming the United Republic of Tanzania (with Zanzibar as a semi autonomous state) in the 60s.
Built in 1699, the Old Fort is the oldest building in Stone Town. Although there’s not much to do at the site itself, it is free so you mind as well stop in the take a look around. Used as a garrison, a prison, and even a train terminal throughout history, it is not used mainly as a cultural center.
6. House of Wonders
One of Zanzibar’s most famous attractions was known as the House of Wonders. It was the tallest and largest building in Stone Town and it faced the famous Forodhani Gardens. Sadly in December of 2020, it partially collapsed due to neglect and cannot be visited at this time.
7. Freddie Mercury’s Childhood Home
Located on Kenyatta Road in the heart of Stone Town, you’ll find a monument to Freddie Mercury, known as the Mercury House. Although not officially open the public, you can pass by and see an array of photos and memorabilia from the musician at his childhood home.
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8. Forodhani Gardens
Located in the center of the historical district of Stone Town, the Forodhani Gardens are more of a park than a garden. Best to visit once the sun has set, you’ll find a bustling fresh seafood market with countless unique Zanzibari street foods to taste.
9. Stone Town Port/Ferry to the Mainland
Just about 1.5-2 hours and $35 and you could find yourself on a ferry ride to mainland Tanzania. The beautiful city of Dar es Salaam (Tanzania’s largest) certainly has plenty to offer and is refreshing change of environment if you’re spending a lot of time on the island. Pop on over for a day trip, or even spend a night in the city. There’s so much to discover.
10. Souvenir Shopping
Stone Town is full of lovely little shops selling unique goods from Zanzibar. From handmade straw bags to African motif blankets to lovely pieces of jewelry, you’ll surely be able to find some amazing goodies from the street stores scattered throughout the city. In the center of Stone Town, you’ll find a cluster of most of the stores in the city.
11. Spice Market
One of the nicknames for Zanzibar is “Spice Island”. It would certainly be a shame to visit the country and not indulge in some of its famous spices. The best market in the country is located in Stone Town and it’s called Darajani Bazaar. Here you can buy just about anything you may be interested in; traditional clothing, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, baskets, toys, and of course….SPICES. Some of the spices they are most famous for are clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chili. And although not technically a spice, Zanzibar’s vanilla is almost as famous as Madagascar’s.
12. Sunset Views
Stone Town certainly has no lack of astonishing sunset views. Silhouettes of sailboats floating by against a backdrop of pastels and blue waters. A dream. Beach House, Serena Hotel, and the rooftop of 6 Degrees South all offer some of the clearest views in the city!
Where to Eat in Stone Town
Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise! Prawns, crab, octopus, lobster, and countless types of fish are easily on the menu everywhere. No need to search. If you’re a seafood eater, be sure to enjoy all that the country has to offer with its fresh and local products! Here are some of the best restaurants in Zanzibar for seafood lovers and vegetarians alike.
Beach House
Although I’m normally not a big fan of repeating restaurants, the Beach House such a lovely place to relax and see the sunset that we spent many meals here. Delicious cocktails and a mix of local and European food makes for a perfect combination. If you need a place to work from, they also have decent Wi-Fi and lovely vibes.
Stone Town Cafe
Located right in the middle of Stone Town, Stone Town Cafe is a great place to grab a coffee while exploring what the city has to offer while also people watching the mix of locals and tourists who frequent the area.
6 Degrees South
Rooftop views of the ocean? You won’t find any better place than 6 Degrees South, perfectly located right near most of the main hotels and the beach. They certainly win the best Wi-Fi in Stone Town award, although they are a bit touchy about people working from their café. At one point the manager very rudely asked us how much we had purchased to see if we has spent enough money per seat time. (It was almost empty and we got breakfast, lunch, and drinks there). The food, however, is quite good and it usually has a nice vibe.
Where to Stay in Stone Town
Being the main city of Zanzibar, Stone Town certainly has no shortage of lovely, beachfront hotels with stunning views. We stayed at two hotels during our stay:
Serena Hotel
Perhaps one of the loveliest hotels we ever stayed in, Serena was a complete pleasure. We had a stunning beachfront view with an enormous balcony. The pool was delightful with a 30-second walk to a lovely beach. The food was a bit questionable, but centrally located to some lovely restaurants right nearby.
Tembo House Hotel
The main building was lovely and authentically decorated in Arabic style and the staff was very friendly and helpful. If staying at the Tembo Hotel, we would suggest requesting to stay in the main building and not the annex building. Besides horrible Wi-Fi (the main building wasn’t that much better, Stone Town Wi-Fi was challenging), the annex building had an incomplete vibe to the décor. Our room in the main building had a beautiful beachfront view and a rooftop pool.
Tips for Visiting Stone Town
- It’s Small– Stone Town is a very small city and just about everything is inn walking distance. We didn’t need a vehicle for any of the activities within Stone Town itself although we did see some people navigating around on scooters
- HOT – As is the case throughout Zanzibar, Stone Town is very, very hot. Be careful with the sun, carry lots of water, and make sure to be extra cautious against sunburn. Zanzibar is just 6 degrees south of the equator. The sun is strong!
- Street Vendors – Stone Town is bustling with countless street vendors trying to sell you something on every corner. Whether it is a tour of the Prison Island or a little spice boat, they can be very persistent.
- Beaches – Stone Town is a lovely city, but its beaches are honestly not the best that the country has to offer. Of course you can certainly still enjoy a swim (and the island’s a boat’s ride away from Stone Town are pristine) be sure to experience the beaches throughout the country as well.
- Wi-Fi – The Wi-Fi in Stone Town was horrendous! Even at the nicest hotels, it was still pretty awful. The only place with decent Wi-Fi was the restaurant 6 Degrees South, but they were pretty strict about people not working from their place. If you need to work from Stone Town, be aware that the service is challenging!
Looking for more amazing things to do in Zanzibar? Check out: 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO.
And for tips and tricks before you travel: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ZANZIBAR | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
Best Beaches in Zanzibar – Nungwi, Stone Town, Paje, and More
Finding the best beach can be a challenge in a country that is just one island full of endless shores. It can definitely seem quite overwhelming. But whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, white sands, turquoise waters, or just a little peace and quiet, Zanzibar certainly has it all. So here we have it, the best beaches in Zanzibar, divided by region.
Northern Beaches – Pristine and Bustling
The Northern Beaches of Zanzibar offer some of the island’s most picturesque shores. Pristine white sands, turquoise, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts. Imagine a postcard for a tropical destination. That is the North Coast. And the best beaches on the north coast? Nungwi and Kendwa. Just about a 15-minute drive away from each other, these beaches are almost exactly the same. Beautiful, clean, and full of people and activities.
Because the north offers some of the best beaches in the country, it is also usually the most crowded. Tourists come from all around to stay at their all-inclusive resorts on the pristine beachfront. Because of this, the north coast is also significantly more expensive than some other areas of Zanzibar (almost 3x the price for the equivalent stay on the east coast)
One of the most alluring aspects of the north coast is the fact that the tides do not differ so drastically throughout the day. Although there is a very clear high tide and low tide, it is possible to swim at all hours of the day (and night). On the east coast, the tide difference is so drastic that you can’t really swim in the ocean for a good portion of the day.
If you are looking to do any type of water sports like jet skiing, the north coast is the best place! Since most of the tourists go straight there, they also offer the most activities. You can also find water sports options in the other areas of Zanzibar, but it is the most easily accessible from the North Coast.
1. Nungwi
Beyond being famous for its beautiful beaches, Nungwi is famous for being the center of dhow (traditional boat) building in Zanzibar. Originally discovered by backpackers and hippies, it has become much more touristic over the years as resort after resort popped up along the beachfront. Regardless, it is still an amazing place with a wonderful mix of people. Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful sunsets from one of the areas rooftop bars!
2. Kendwa
Although essentially the same as the nearby Nungwi beach (they are only about 15 minutes drive apart), Kendwa does boast the best place to party in all of Zanzibar. Kendwa Rocks has a monthly full moon party at their club right on the beach.
Where to Stay on the North Coast
We spent three lovely nights in Nungwi at the Z Hotel. The resort itself was simply lovely with an infinity-like pool, a private beach, and a rooftop bar. The staff were absolutely AMAZING and they made our time there feel so special. If you’re looking to go horseback riding on the beach, they also have their own stables – Zanzibar Horse Club.
If you’re looking for a less expensive option or traveling solo, Nungwi also has many bungalows to rent and lovely hostels!
Eastern Beaches – Restful and Quiet
The East Coast of Zanzibar is a completely different atmosphere compared to the bustling north coast. Everything is much more relaxed, there is far less to do (in a good way) and there is a truly peaceful vibe, Not to mention that everything is MUCH less expensive. The biggest downside is that the tides vary a lot during the day. I would say that for at least half the day they will be so far back that you really can’t realistically go swimming in the ocean (without walking a significant distance). But, once the tides come in, it makes it worth it!
3. Bwenjuu
Bwenjuu is a very small little town, the definition of quiet and peaceful. We stayed at the Sahari Hotel in Bwenjuu and had some of the loveliest days of our trip. We could stargaze at the clear sky with no light pollution. There were no sounds at all except for the few other guests, total relaxation. When we first drove up I was a bit skeptical of the quiet, but after just a few moments it was clear how enjoyable it would be.
4. Michamvi
The beach itself at Michamvi will most likely be fairly empty. Michamvi itself is actually a peninsula with very lovely beaches. But what used to be a quaint fisherman’s town, has turned into one of Zanzibar’s most famous tourist attractions. The Rock Restaurant was built on a rock in the middle of the ocean on Michamvi Pingwe beach. It instantly became one of Zanzibar’s most memorable icons.
5. Paje
Paje beach, just a short distance from Bwenjuu is one of the more popping east coast beaches. The town is a big larger than some of the others in the area and is definitely the best place to go kite surfing (probably in all Zanzibar). Paje also has a few lovely clubs where you can spend the whole night partying until you see the sun rising on the beach. B4 and Jambo are the most famous and have an amazing vibe. If you want to go club hopping, you can just walk right along the beach about 15-20 minutes between the two.
Where to Stay on the East Coast
The most important tip for where to stay on the East Coast…..Find a place with a pool. Realistically, you probably won’t be able to go swimming in the ocean until around 2pm, so a pool comes in very handy.
In general, the east coast is much less expensive than the northern coast (by about 1/3) and even stone town (about 1/2), but the same quality. We stayed at Sahari Hotel and absolutely loved it. The food was delicious, the pool was lovely, and the Wi-Fi was the best we had in all of Zanzibar (I was actually able to have full work meetings).
Stone Town (West Coast) – Perfect Combination of City and Beaches
Stone Town itself is not famous for the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar. Oftentimes the water is a bit rougher than in other areas, not quite as clear, and full of boats (it is a port city after all). But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have some amazing beaches to offer.
6. Nakupenda
Nakupenda Island, about a 20 minute boat ride from Stone Town, has one of the loveliest beaches in all Zanzibar, in my opinion. It’s a tiny, entirely empty island…not a tree or a shrub in sight. As a matter of fact, in the evening the island disappears entirely as the tides come up. But visiting in the morning or afternoon proves to be one of the loveliest experiences. If you go before 12pm I can almost guarantee you’ll have the island almost entirely to yourself. The clear waters, the stunning snorkeling opportunities, the brightest whitest sands. It’s truly a little oasis.
7. Hotel Beaches
Although compared to some of Zanzibar’s other beaches, Stone Town may not be listed among the absolute best, they are still quite lovely! The nicest beach that we found was in front of the Serena Hotel or the Beach House. In the evenings the beach is full of locals playing football and enjoying the sunset. It’s really such a lovely atmosphere and opportunity to understand the local culture.
Check all all the amazing things to do in Stone Town: VISITING STONE TOWN? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW -THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO EAT, WHERE TO STAY | ZANZIBAR TRAVEL
8. Mnemba Island – Luxurious Private Island Experience
By far the most luxurious option of them all, Mnemba Island is not for those on a budget. The island is very exclusive and private. There is a private coast guard that patrols the area to ensure no strangers land on the precious white shores. But, if you’re willing to spend a pretty penny I can assure you the experience will be like no other!
If you are more budget-oriented (like me) you can at least go snorkeling in the area surrounding the island. It is by far the best snorkeling in Zanzibar with a huge and stunning coral reef. Sea turtles are known to make the occasional appearance and are often seen hatching their eggs on Mnemba itself. You won’t be allowed to go near the actual land of the island, but the waters are stunningly clear and the snorkeling is definitely worth it.
Check out the details of this handmade swimsuit here: ZANZIBAR – THE 2 OUTFITS I MADE JUST FOR MY TRIP TO PARADISE | FASHION DESIGN
Locals will proudly tell you that Bill Gates, Naomi Campbell, and Tom Cruise have all visited this lovely place for a truly private and luxurious experience.
Looking for more amazing things to do in Zanzibar? Check out: 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO
Have other questions before your visit? Check out: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ZANZIBAR | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
10 Days in Paradise – Best Itinerary for First Time Travelers to Zanzibar
Zanzibar. Pristine beaches. Turquoise waters. White sands. It certainly feels like a little slice of paradise. Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach, discover the history, or explore the country, Zanzibar has so much to offer. We spent 10 days in this little paradise and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them.
Is this Zanzibar Itinerary Right for You?
Now I’m sure this itinerary is not for everyone. Our trips tend to be very memorable, and if you’re looking to spend all your time in the resort, then this is probably not for you. But, this itinerary is for you if you want….
- An epic and diverse trip
- A combination of some busy and some very relaxed days
- A well-rounded visit that includes a bit of history, sightseeing, and of course….LOTS of beaches
- Exploring different areas of the island
- Endless amazing memories
Things to Know Before You Travel to Zanzibar
Safety – Zanzibar is extremely safe for tourists. The country’s economy relies heavily on tourism and you will generally be treated very well.
Clothing – Although a majority Mulsim country, there is no particular need to dress modestly unless you are visiting a mosque or a very not touristic town. The locals are very accustomed to tourists and they do not take offense to non-modest dress.
Getting Around – The easiest and most convenient way to get around the country is by taxi. Public transportation is nearly impossible to figure out unless you’re a local.
Costs – Zanzibar is overall a relatively expensive destination. Hotel costs and food prices at non traditional restaurants are similarly priced to most western European countries.
Visa – Most countries require a visa to visit Zanzibar. It costs $50 and you can apply directly at the airport (bring cash) or online with the e-Visa application.
For more details about Zanzibar Travel Tips check out the full article here: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ZANZIBAR | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
10 Day Zanzibar Itinerary
I didn’t really have any expectations for Zanzibar, but it was an amazing surprise of delight. Although a fairly small place, it still has a lot to offer. The beaches, the interesting history, the lovely people, and the unmatched vibes. I really wish I could have stayed forever!
Days 1-3 Stone Town (2 nights)
First stop is Stone Town, the capital city of Zanzibar. Whether you’re arriving by airplane or by ferry (from the mainland Tanzania), you’ll still be entering through Stone Town. The airport itself is just about a 20 minutes drive from the center of Stone Town making this the perfect place to spend the first couple of days.
Also colloquially known as Zanzibar City, Stone Town is beautiful, full of history, and bursting with fun things to do. Countless yummy cafes and restaurants with lovely sunset views. A day trip to the infamous Prison Island or the pristine Nakupenda Island. The port, the tragic history of the slave trade, the spice market, it’s the main hub of the island.
The major downside of Stone Town is the beaches. Although they are swimmable, they are not the pristine white sand and turquoise water beaches that you picture of Zanzibar, which is why we would only recommend staying two nights in the city. Leaving just enough time to explore everything the city has to offer, but also adventure to the rest of the island.
For a full post of things to do in Stone Town, check out this post: Check all all the amazing things to do in Stone Town: VISITING STONE TOWN? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW -THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO EAT, WHERE TO STAY | ZANZIBAR TRAVEL
Where to Stay in Stone Town
Being the main city of Zanzibar, Stone Town certainly has no shortage of lovely, beachfront hotels with stunning views. We stayed at two hotels during our stay:
1.Serena Hotel – Perhaps one of the loveliest hotels we ever stayed in, Serena was a complete pleasure. We had a stunning beachfront view with an enormous balcony. The pool was delightful with a 30-second walk to a lovely beach. The food was a bit questionable, but centrally located to some lovely restaurants right nearby.
2. Tembo House Hotel. The main building was lovely and authentically decorated in Arabic style and the staff was very friendly and helpful. If staying at the Tembo Hotel, we would suggest requesting to stay in the main building and not the annex building. Besides horrible Wi-Fi (the main building wasn’t that much better, Stone Town Wi-Fi was challenging), the annex building had an incomplete vibe to the decor. Our room in the main building had a beautiful beachfront view and a rooftop pool.
Days 3-6 Nungwi (3 nights)
After a few days exploring Stone Town, head on over to the north coast’s Nungwi Beach. Famous for its idyllic crystal clear waters, white sands, and honeymoon accommodations, this is certainly what you picture when you think of Zanzibar. Always quite busy with tourists, there is no lack of things to do. Water sports, day trips to go snorkeling, endless long walks on the beach, even horseback riding! Nungwi has it all! The nearby Kendwa beach is also lovely and offers a very similar experience.
I would suggest spending at least three nights on the northern coast as it really offers a very different vibe than the other areas of Zanzibar. Although it can seem a bit touristy, there are really so many amazing things to do and the beaches are by far the best in the country. The tides are relatively consistent unlike some of the other beaches on the island.
It is also the perfect place to stay if you want to take a day trip to Mnemba Island for snorkeling! The stunning beaches offer the best snorkeling in the country.
Where to Stay in Nungwi
We spent three lovely nights in Nungwi at the Z Hotel. The resort itself was simply lovely with an infinity-like pool, a private beach, and a rooftop bar. The staff were absolutely AMAZING and they made our time there feel so special. If you’re looking to go horseback riding on the beach, they also have their own stables – Zanzibar Horse Club.
If you’re looking for a less expensive option or traveling solo, Nungwi also has many bungalows to rent and lovely hostels!
Days 6-9 Paje/Bwenjuu (3 nights)
Just a few hour’s drive from Nungwi, we couldn’t leave Zanzibar without also visiting the East Coast- to the small town of Bwenjuu. Famous for its peaceful, relaxing atmosphere, we certainly we not disappointed. Although very, very different from the North Coast, Bwenjuu offered that authentic, relaxed island vibe. There were far fewer people, much less to do (in a good way), and it was a lovely place to spend a few days.
The Eastern Coast is covered with lovely beaches and towns. Paje, one of the largest has many lovely clubs and lots of wonderful food. The biggest downside of the east are the beaches. The tides vary immensely throughout the day, and it’s nearly impossible to go swimming in the ocean in the morning as the tides go so far out.
However, what it lacks in beaches, the East Coast certainly makes up for with food. The best food in Zanzibar is certainly along the east coast, probably due to the prevalence of Italians on that side!
Although quiet compared to the other areas of the island, Bwenjuu and Paje offer so many amazing things to do. Whether its visiting the Jozani forest to see rare monkeys or eating at the world famous Rock Restaurant (its built on a rock in the middle of the ocean), it offers all the fun without the busy pressure of the other areas.
Where to Stay in Bwenjuu
The most important tip for where to stay on the East Coast…..Find a place with a pool. Realistically, you probably won’t be able to go swimming in the ocean until around 2pm, so a pool comes in very handy.
In general, the east coast is much less expensive than the northern coast (by about 1/3) and even stone town (about 1/2), but the same quality. We stayed at Sahari Hotel and absolutely loved it. The food was delicious, the pool was lovely, and the Wi-Fi was the best we had in all of Zanzibar (I was actually able to have full work meetings).
Days 9-10 Stone Town (1 night)
Although the island itself is very small and it only takes a few hours to drive anywhere, we thought it would be easiest to be in Stone Town the night before our flight. Shopping for last minute trinkets, finding ATMs to pay our taxi driver for the trip, and picking up Co-vid test results. Plus, the airport is just 20 minutes drive away from most hotels!
Our trip to Zanzibar was simply incredible. It was among the most amazing trips I had ever had and I honestly wish that I could have stayed there forever. Although I normally don’t like to repeat locations, I feel like Zanzibar may be an exception!
If you are looking for the best travel/tour operator within Zanzibar I would highly recommend Amnaf Shellah. He helped us so much to organize boat trips, provide us with reliable taxis, and so much more! It’s a small family business and they are really the best. Contact Amnaf at +255 777 45 4245.
To many more island adventures!
Check out some of our other tips and tricks for visiting Zanzibar here: 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO
Also: BEST BEACHES IN ZANZIBAR – NUNGWI, STONE TOWN, PAJE, AND MORE
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar – The Restaurant Built on a Rock in the Middle of the Ocean
Sometimes in life there are places that you dream to visit, that are so incredible that you almost don’t even believe that they are real. They stay in your mind like a fairytale dream. That place for me was The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar. The whimsical restaurant built on a very large rock and thriving right in the middle of the ocean. I always saw pictures of it, but honestly never really knew if it was a real place or not!
The Rock Restaurant
What used to be an outpost for the fisherman of the village of Michamvi was turned into one of Zanzibar’s most famous sites. “The Floating Restaurant”, “The Restaurant in the Middle of the Ocean”, “The Place on the Rock” or however it may be known is certainly one of the coolest places in Zanzibar, and quite honestly, the world.
Built in 2010 by a group of resort owners in the area, this restaurant almost immediately became a household name. Although not too much is known about how they built it and how they have everything running so smoothly, Wi-Fi, waste disposal, and storage, somehow it all works together. All while maintaining and even adding to the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Check out our post on this handmade dress! (Made just for this awesome location in Zanzibar) : ZANZIBAR – THE 2 OUTFITS I MADE JUST FOR MY TRIP TO PARADISE | FASHION DESIGN
During the high tides a little water taxi will take you on a short journey to the entrance of this lovely place. The décor and the atmosphere is simply unmatched. Whether seated inside for the actual meal or on the outdoor terrace for after dinner drinks and to gaze at the stars, the architecture really is astounding.
How to Get to The Rock Restaurant
The Rock Restaurant is located on the south-eastern coast of Zanzibar on the beach of Michamvi. The entire area is spotted with resorts of all kinds and just a 20-minute drive from Paje and Bwenjuu. If you don’t have the opportunity to stay on the East Coast, it is still not that far of a drive from Stone Town, under 1.5 hours.
Best Time to Visit The Rock Restuarant
The Rock Restaurant is open all year round. The best time to visit depends on what you are looking for. The most important thing to keep in mind is that the tides on this side of the country vary GREATLY. During half the day (usually the morning) the tides will go very, very far back. This leaves The Rock looking a little bit like an abandoned fort whose moat has dried up. The plus of visiting during this time is that you can walk right out to the restaurant, no water taxi needed.
As the day progresses, the rides usually begin to come back up. We arrived around 5pm in December and the tides were very high. We took the little boat ride to the entrance, relaxed inside, and just a few hours later the tides has regressed so far that we could almost walk back to the beach without getting wet. However, it also depends on the season and honestly even the day!
If you want to make sure you are there for a specific time (high tide or low tide) I would suggest spending at least half a day in the area or asking the locals when the best time to visit would be, depending on the time of year.
Menu at The Rock Restaurant
The food at The Rock Restaurant is amazing. Honestly, it was probably the best meal that we had in all of Zanzibar. Their menu features a very large selection of fresh seafood, a few vegetarian options, and many cocktail and wine options. Be warned, however, that it is probably going to be the most expensive dinner you’ll have on the island. But, it is Zanzibar’s most memorable tourist attraction, so I guess you can’t blame them. Be prepared to spend at least $40 per person.
Things You Should Know Before Visiting The Rock
- Expensive – The Rock Restaurant is much more expensive than just about any other place we came across in Zanzibar. Although it is similar to normal food prices in nice US or Western European restaurants, it is far more expensive than the average Zanzibar restaurant.
- Book in Advance – When we went to visit, they only accepted people with reservations. Everyone else was turned away. So be sure to book your place in advance!! To make a reservation, click here.
- Lots of People – Remember, this is one of Zanzibar’s top (if not the #1) tourist attractions. There will definitely be lots of people there. The number of times we saw the little water taxi taking people back and forth was shocking. We really wondered if everyone would fit inside. The restaurant is surprisingly spacious but be prepared for it to be full.
- You Might Get Wet – Now this should go without saying since the restaurant is built in the middle of the ocean, but you will probably get at least a little wet on your way to the entrance. Unless you visit at the lowest tides, when the water is very far back, you will probably get at least a little wet. Wearing easy to remove sandals is very convenient!
Other Things to Do on the East Coast
The East Coast of Zanzibar offers countless other amazing activities, stunning beaches, and wonderful places to stay. If you are in the area, consider visiting these places before you leave.
Visit Jozani Forest
Do you want to see a breed of monkeys that can’t be found anywhere else in the world? Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar, is located on the eastern coast of the island. Not too far from Paje, it’s a wonderful place to explore. Home to the Zanzibar Skye’s Monkey which cannot be found anywhere else in the world, and also the very rare Red Colobos Monkey, this forest is certain to impress!
Go Partying
The East coast offers some of the best partying in the country. B4 and Jambo club near Paje will always provide wonderful Dj’s and a great time (rumor has it that the Dj’s there are from Radio Ibiza).
Where to Stay
The most important tip for where to stay on the East Coast…..Find a place with a pool. Realistically, you probably won’t be able to go swimming in the ocean until around 2pm, so a pool comes in very handy.
In general, the east coast is much less expensive than the northern coast (by about 1/3) and even stone town (about 1/2), but the same quality. We stayed at Sahari Hotel and absolutely loved it. The food was delicious, the pool was lovely, and the Wi-Fi was the best we had in all of Zanzibar (I was actually able to have full work meetings).
Looking for more amazing things to do in Zanzibar? Check out: 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO
If you have any general questions about Zanzibar itself you have to read over: ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ZANZIBAR | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters
18 Amazing Things You Can’t Miss on Your Trip to Zanzibar | Things to Do
Although most people visiting Zanzibar certainly are just looking to relax on the beach the entire trip, the archipelago of islands has so much more the offer! Made up of over 50 islands, overflowing with a unique and interesting history, and culturally rich, you can’t miss all the amazing things Zanzibar has to offer.
1. Go Beach Hopping
Of course the biggest appeal in traveling to Zanzibar are the stunning beaches. Images of clear and turquoise waters and white sands beaches are certainly the first to come to mind. But don’t get stuck just to one beach! The country is so full of countless unique and untouched beaches (it is an island after all) so be sure to explore them all and go beach hopping to find your favorite!
2. Explore Stone Town
Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, and sometimes referred to as Zanzibar City is a small, yet incredibly compact city. The windy, narrow pathways will lead you through a maze of lovely things to explore. Whether it’s the harbor, the city’s incredible history of forts and the tragic history of the slave trade or even just enjoying it’s beaches, Stone Town never ceases to amaze.
3. Snorkeling at Mnemba Island
Unarguably the BEST place to go snorkeling in all of Zanzibar. Mnemba Island is located on the north eastern side of Zanzibar. Infamous for its private inaccessibility, it is not possible to visit the actual island itself. It can be rented out privately for a very hefty fee, hence why the average person is not so much as allowed to step foot on the island. However, it is possible to go snorkeling around the outskirts of Mnemba. Taking a boat, it’s just about a 15 minute ride through the crystal clear waters to the snorkeling location where you can see all kinds of amazing sea life.
4. Visit “I Love You” Island – Nakupenda
Nakupenda Island is a tiny and very beautiful island about a 15-20 minute boat ride off the coast of Stone Town. Usually combined in a day trip with Prison Island, it is also possible to visit just Nakupenda. In Swahili, Nakupenda means “I Love You”. If you go before noon, I can almost guarantee that’ll you’ll have the island to yourself.
In the afternoon, they set up a large marketplace and “pop up BBQ’s” and the tiny white-sanded beach will become very crowded. This island is so small that it actually disappears in the evening when the tides come up! So be sure to visit before 5pm if you want to actually see the island itself.
View the full post: NAKUPENDA “I LOVE YOU” ISLAND – ZANZIBAR’S MOST ROMANTIC ISLAND | DAY TRIP FROM STONE TOWN
5. The Rock Restaurant
Perhaps Zanzibar’s most famous tourist attraction, The Rock Restaurant was one of the highlights of my trip. The restaurant is literally built on a rock in the middle of the ocean. During high tides, you take a short “sea taxi” ride to the entrance and enjoy a delicious meal in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
View the full post here: THE ROCK RESTAURANT IN ZANZIBAR – THE RESTAURANT BUILT ON A ROCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE OCEAN
6. Explore the Northern Beaches
Zanzibar’s beaches vary greatly between coasts. The northern beaches will provide you with the typical honeymoon like resorts, beautiful and clear waters, and almost constant tides. There is so much to do here, all the typical water sports, countless restaurants, and lots and lots of people. Despite the people, it has a lively, rather than overcrowded vibe, and it was such a fun area with by far the best beaches in all of Zanzibar.
7. Relax on the Eastern Beaches
The east coast of Zanzibar is a whole different story compared to the northern coast. Here, everything is relaxed. Also very full of tourists, but with far less to do (in a good way). The tides vary greatly here, however, making swimming in the ocean a bit difficult in the morning hours. It can be quite a walk to get to the actual water if it’s early. It’s also much much less expensive than the northern coast, with far better food!
8. Go Shopping at the Spice Market
One of the nicknames for Zanzibar is “Spice Island”. It would certainly be a shame to visit the country and not indulge in some of its famous spices. The best market in the country is located in Stone Town and it’s called Darajani Bazaar. Here you can buy just about anything you may be interested in; traditional clothing, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, baskets, toys, and of course….SPICES. Some of the spices they are most famous for are clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chili. And although not technically a spice, Zanzibar’s vanilla is almost as famous as Madagascar’s.
9. Visit Prison Island
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, has quite a tragic history. It was used as a prison (hence the name) for rebellious slaves in the 1800s. A bit later in the history it was also used as a quarantine island for those with yellow fever. Now it is one of Stone Town’s most popular tourist destinations, most famous for the abundance of giant tortoises that inhabit the island!
10. Take a Ferry to the Mainland
Just about 1.5-2 hours and $35 and you could find yourself on a ferry ride to mainland Tanzania. The beautiful city of Dar es Salaam (Tanzania’s largest) certainly has plenty to offer and is refreshing change of environment if you’re spending a lot of time on the island. Pop on over for a day trip, or even spend a night in the city. There’s so much to discover.
11. Visit Jozani Forest
Do you want to see a breed of monkeys that can’t be found anywhere else in the world? Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar, is located on the eastern coast of the island. Not too far from Paje, it’s a wonderful place to explore. Home to the Zanzibar Skye’s Monkey which cannot be found anywhere else in the world, and also the very rare Red Colobos Monkey, this forest is certain to impress!
12. Go Partying
Looking for a good night out in Zanzibar? Don’t worry as there are countless options! In the north, Kendwa Rocks, located right on the beach, is the most famous with a monthly New Moon Party. On the East coast, B4 and Jambo club near Paje will always provide wonderful Dj’s and a great time. Supposedly in B4 and Jambo, the Dj’s are from Radio Ibiza.
13. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
If you’re feeling up for an adventure, horseback riding on the beach in Zanzibar is certainly for you! Whether you’re a beginner and would like to just go for a walk through and along the ocean, or would like a full gallop in the early morning along the sands, Zanzibar has it all! We went to Zanzibar Horse Club in Nungwi.
14. Enjoy the Local Food
Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise! Prawns, crab, octopus, lobster, and countless types of fish are easily on the menu everywhere. No need to search. If you’re a seafood eater, be sure to enjoy all that the country has to offer with its fresh and local products!
Also be sure to take full advantage of the abundance of delicious fresh fruit. From bananas to pineapples to mangos…there is an endless supply of delicious and local fruits at all times!
15. Enjoy Countless Beautiful Sunsets
Pinks and blues and oranges setting over the quiet ocean? Who doesn’t love a beautiful sunset? Well fortunately, Zanzibar is bursting with them. Whether you’re in Stone Town, Nungwi, or Kendwa, you’re sure to catch a lovely sunset every day. Find yourself a rooftop bar like The Z Hotel in Nungwi or 6 Degrees South and Beach House in Stone Town. If you’re more of a sunrise person, head over to the east coast!
16. Learn About the History
Zanzibar has a long and very interesting history. Did you know that the current capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town, was once the capital of Oman? Zanzibar has been colonized by the Portuguese and then the Omanis and then the British and then Oman again before becoming the United Republic of Tanzania (with Zanzibar as a semi autonomous state) in the 60s.
From the tragic history of slavery to the bright and vibrant spice trade history, there is so much to learn! Stop by some museums in Stone Town, see where Freddie Mercury was born, learn about the culture! It’ll enhance your experience so much more.
17. Water Sports
Jet skiing? Kite surfing? Just about whatever you’re looking for, I’m sure Zanzibar has it! From what we gathered, most of the water sports take place in the northern beaches- Kendwa and Nungwi. It can also be found on the eastern coast, but it is certainly harder to come by. So if you’re visiting up north, be sure to enjoy the water sports to the fullest before you leave. Jet skiing costs about $50 per half hour.
18. HAVE FUN
The most important part of any trip is to just HAVE FUN! Talk to the locals, learn from them and about them. Share your cultures and your stories. Enjoy everything that the island has to offer and make the absolute best of it! Every country in this world is so beautiful, it’s just a matter of discovering that beauty!
Have more questions about Zanzibar? ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ZANZIBAR | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP
For more amazing things to do in Stone Town: Check all all the amazing things to do in Stone Town: VISITING STONE TOWN? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW -THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO EAT, WHERE TO STAY | ZANZIBAR TRAVEL
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke
Ultimate Guide to Zanzibar | Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip
Zanzibar. Stunning beaches. Untouched nature. Incredible history. What more could you want in a travel destination? If I’m being completely honest, Zanzibar was never really on my radar of countries to visit. I don’t feel like you hear much about it or see many pictures. It just sounds like some far off, exotic place.
I knew literally nothing about Zanzibar before my first visit to the country. All I knew was that it was an island. That’s all. I wasn’t even exactly sure what the relationship was between Tanzania and Zanzibar (Zanzibar is technically a part of Tanzania but also autonomous). But there was still time to learn!
History of Zanzibar
Before traveling to Zanzibar I decided to learn as much as I could about this interesting little island I had only heard mentioned in the passing. Was Zanzibar its own country? What is its history? I had so many questions. I listened to as many podcasts I could find and I found them all fascinating.
Zanzibar is an archipelago of over 50 islands. Unguja is the largest island and most visited, and what you normally consider ‘Zanzibar proper’, even containing the capital city of Stone Town. Pemba, a bit more north, is the second largest.
Zanzibar is strategically placed as an incredibly important part of the trade route through the Indian Ocean. As a result, it even gained the nickname of “Spice Island” throughout the years as they exported and traded a huge amount of exotic spices throughout history.
Between Oman and Portugal and Great Britain and then Oman again, countless colonial powers seemed to constantly fight over this little island in the Indian Ocean. Oman, which seemed to have the largest and longest influence in the religion and culture, used the island for more tragic purposes – for the slave trade.
The island is peppered with remains of the huge slave industry that had Zanzibar as its hub. Prison Island off the coast of Stone Town was used as a jail for rebellious slaves and the less rebellious were sent to the Americas to work on plantations. This island was so important to Oman and their slave industry that the Sultan of Oman even made it the capital city in 1832.
In the 60s a revolution began among the African locals to overthrow the apartheid Omani rule, which was successful! Zanzibar united with the neighboring Tanganyika to form what we now know as Tanzania.
Coronavirus in Zanzibar
Tanzania and Zanzibar have a very unique corona policy. As a matter of fact, the official policy of the government is that corona does not exist in their country. They went into a very brief lockdown in March/April and then simply stopped testing people. They do not report new cases or new deaths and simply continue on with their lives as if corona never happened.
Tanzania and Zanzibar are completely open for tourism with no requirement to produce a negative test or to quarantine. Once you land, you will be asked to fill out a health form to sign that you do not have corona or corona symptoms and that is the extent of their precautions.
Mask wearing is not required in Tanzania/Zanzibar and not even suggested. You probably won’t see a single mask wearing person in the country. Big gathering are allowed, nightclubs are open, in short….it’s a mini oasis of life before corona.
Although I highly doubt that corona simply does not exist there, the country does not seem to be suffering from increased deaths, overrun hospitals, or the like. Interestingly, the death rate has not increased since last year.
What to Wear in Zanzibar
Although Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim country. 99% of the population is Muslim, with a very small Christian minority. Despite this, there is no real requirement to dress conservative. They are very moderate/secular Muslims and used to seeing tourists. No one will make you uncomfortable for wearing shorts, short skirts, sundresses, or bare shoulders throughout the town, or bikinis on the beach.
Before I visited, I read many suggestions to dress conservatively, but from my experience that is not necessary or even expected. In some of the smaller, less touristic towns far from the beach, you may consider dressing a bit more conservative. Also if you are visiting a mosque, be sure to cover your shoulders and knees. But overall, Zanzibar is very open so feel free to dress as you would in just about any beach destination.
Is Zanzibar Safe?
From my experience in Zanzibar, I would say that it is a very safe country. The people are very relaxed (as in most beach destinations) and we walked around late at night and never felt unsafe. The people are very friendly and their economy relies heavily on tourism.
However, as in ANY location, always be careful. Pickpockets and thieves are everywhere.
Getting Around
Zanzibar is very untouched. I think we probably saw just a handful of traffic lights during our entire stay on the island. Even the largest of roads are just one lane in each direction, and many of them are made of dirt. That’s all apart of the beauty of Zanzibar. The tourism industry is fairly new, giving you a truly authentic experience.
Taxi
The best way to get around Zanzibar is by taxi. There are registered taxis that you will see everywhere. They are almost van like with two rows of seating. For a one hour drive, you’ll pay about $20. We hired a driver for the entirety of our trip. He, or someone he worked with, would come to pick us up and often wait for us to drive us back home. It helped to ensure we always received a fair price.
Car Rental
I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in Zanzibar as there are practically no road signs, the roads are difficult to maneuver, and you will most likely get lost. There is also the option in some of the beaches to rent a scooter along the beach, particularly on the eastern coast.
Public Transport
Busses or public transportation is also an option and very much cheaper than taxis. However, you just have to ask a local when you arrive for directions as there is no real official bus system with official bus stops in place.
Visa
Most countries require a visa to enter Zanzibar and the cost is $50. It can be done online before, but it is also possible and recommended to simply complete it at the airport. At the airport itself YOU CAN ONLY PAY WITH CASH and there are no ATM’s at the airport so be sure to bring enough cash with you.
Weather in Zanzibar
As very few people want to go for a beach vacation and be stuck inside with rainy weather, the worst time to visit Zanzibar is March – May, which is Zanzibar’s rainy season. Although still warm, afternoon downpours are quite common and you’d probably find yourself stuck indoors most of your trip. The best time to visit is from June to October, the dry season filled with reliably warm and sunny days. From November to February, you may experience light rains, but they last for such a short time that they’re unlikely to ruin any plans. Located just 6 degrees south of the equator, Zanzibar is usually warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25°-35° C year round. (75°-95° F).
Cost/Prices
Depending on what kind of traveler you are, Zanzibar can be very cheap or very expensive. If you are open to staying in hostels or small bungalows and eating at small, local restaurants, it can be around $50-$100 a day per person. However, hotels can get quite expensive. The Northern coast – Nungwi and Kendwa are the most expensive, but the Eastern coast is almost half that price. Prices are pretty similar to what you’d find in most Western European countries. It is, after all, considered a honeymoon destination, so the prices stay in line with what people are willing to pay. If you choose to stay at hotels and eat at more western places, it’ll be closer to $150-$200 or more per day per person.
Also as a note, tourism is fairly new to Zanzibar. Only within the past 10 years have they really built the majority of the hotels and western style tourism establishments, so the prices are still low compared to many other African countries (despite what many people think, many African countries are extremely expensive for tourists, especially Kenya), but they are slowly getting more and more expensive every year as mass tourism begins.
Other Tips
- Wi-Fi – The Wi-Fi in Zanzibar was ceratinly a challenge. Even at the nicest hotels, the service was iffy at best. There were a few restaurants with decent service, but I did struggle to work remotely while there. If you do need to work while there, I would suggest getting a local SIM.
- Cash – The official currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzania shilling (1 USD = ~2,300 TZS) however USD are widely accepted and oftentimes preferred. I hardly carried local currency with me at all during my stay. Just be careful to stay on top of the exchange rates!
- Food – Although the food itself tasted fine in most places, I would be cautious of food poisoning. Both my boyfriend and I had multiple bouts with food poisoning during our stay, even from the meals at the fanciest hotels.
- Language – The official language of Zanzibar is Swahili. Many locals also speak Arabic and English. Due to the high prevalence of Italian and Russian tourists, many locals also spoke bits of Russian and Italian. In hotels and tourist locations, most people will speak English, although it may be difficult to communicate outside of the very touristic areas.
- Medical – Malaria is a bit of a risk in Zanzibar, but far less than in most of the neighboring East African countries. Try to avoid mosquito bites and you should be fine!
- Alcohol – Although it is a majority Muslim country, alcohol consumption is permitted and most places serve alcohol. It is suggested, however, to avoid being blatantly drunk especially walking through Stone Town or other towns.
If you are looking for the best travel/tour operator within Zanzibar I would highly recommend Amnaf Shellah. He helped us so much to organize boat trips, provide us with reliable taxis, and so much more! It’s a small family business and they are really the best. Contact Amnaf at +255 777 45 4254.
Any more questions about Zanzibar? Check out 18 AMAZING THINGS YOU CAN’T MISS ON YOUR TRIP TO ZANZIBAR | THINGS TO DO
Also: BEST BEACHES IN ZANZIBAR – NUNGWI, STONE TOWN, PAJE, AND MORE
Lots of Love and Safe Travels,
Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters