"Step out into the sun and explore Stone Town Maze & Carved Doors. January is an ideal time to visit Zanzibar. Relax on the sand and forget the world for a while."
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
Why Visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar absolutely enchants visitors as Africa's legendary Spice Island and Indian Ocean paradise where Stone Town's UNESCO World Heritage-listed atmospheric labyrinth of narrow winding alleys preserves extraordinary Swahili-Arab-Indian-European fusion architecture with intricately carved wooden doors, powder-white pristine beaches on the northeast coast meet crystal-clear turquoise Indian Ocean waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and aromatic spice plantations scent the tropical air with cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg that historically made this East African archipelago the world's dominant clove producer, at one point supplying about 90% of global production. This culturally rich semi-autonomous archipelago (pop. approximately 1.9 million across main Unguja island where most tourism concentrates, plus Pemba island and smaller islets) lying 25-50 kilometers off Tanzania's coast remarkably blends fascinating contradictions: predominantly conservative Muslim culture (99% Muslim population with calls to prayer five times daily) coexisting with international beach resorts allowing bikinis and alcohol, deep African heritage mixed with centuries of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European colonial influences, and budget backpacker beach hostels ($15–$30/night) situated mere kilometers from ultra-luxury all-inclusive resorts ($300–$800+/night).
Stone Town's (Mji Mkongwe) atmospheric maze of impossibly narrow coral-stone alleys reveals over 500 documented ornately carved wooden Zanzibar doors (Indian and Omani influenced, some with brass studs), Forodhani Gardens' nightly bustling food market serves unique Zanzibar pizza (more like stuffed crepe) and fresh sugarcane juice to locals and tourists, House of Wonders palace (Beit-al-Ajaib, currently closed long-term for structural restoration) once displayed sultanate history, and countless craft shops sell spices, kangas (colorful wraps), and souvenirs. Yet most international visitors quickly head north and east to the legendary beach paradises within 1-2 hours' drive from Stone Town: Nungwi Beach and Kendwa Beach on the northern tip offer swimming regardless of tide thanks to deep water immediately offshore, spectacular sunset beach parties with fire dancers, and traditional dhow sailing excursions, while Paje Beach's extensive shallow turquoise lagoon on the east coast attracts kitesurfers from worldwide taking advantage of consistent trade winds and flat water. The biodiverse Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park protects endangered endemic Kirk's red colobus monkeys swinging acrobatically through coastal mangrove forests and forest canopy on popular half-day tours (around $20–$25 per person entry plus guide).
Traditional spice plantation tours (approximately $20–$30 per person, half-day including transport and guide) visit working farms growing cloves (Zanzibar's signature export), vanilla pods, cinnamon bark, nutmeg, and black pepper—smell, taste, learn uses, and purchase premium spices directly from source at wholesale prices. Popular Prison Island day trips (Changuu Island, 20-minute boat ride from Stone Town, around $30–$40 including boat and entry) let visitors feed and photograph Aldabra giant tortoises over 100 years old (originally from Seychelles), plus snorkeling in surrounding coral reefs. Mnemba Atoll's protected marine waters offshore northeastern Zanzibar offer world-class diving and snorkeling with sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful reef fish (day trips $80–$150 private island resort exists but most visit via boat).
The fresh seafood culture enthusiastically celebrates direct ocean-to-table proximity: perfectly grilled whole octopus with lime, coconut curry fish stews with rice and chapati, and fresh lobster served at casual beach restaurants for incredibly affordable $8–$15 complete meals. Romantic sunset dhow sailing cruises ($30–$50 per person) glide on traditional wooden boats with triangular sails. Yet atmospheric Stone Town absolutely requires dedicated 1-2 days thorough exploration before beach time: Sultan's Palace Museum (Beit el-Sahel, around $6), the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe, 1698, free entry, hosts evening cultural performances), Anglican Cathedral's powerful history built deliberately on the former slave market site with underground chambers, maze-like markets selling everything imaginable, and romantic rooftop restaurants overlooking the dhow-filled harbor at sunset.
With Swahili and English widely spoken (colonial legacy), most visitors can obtain a visa relatively easily (often online e-visa or visa on arrival; check current rules for your nationality), affordable prices (beach meals $8–$15 accommodation $30–$300+ range), consistently tropical warmth year-round (hot humid 26-32°C), and that unique blend of Arab-African-Indian culture creating Swahili civilization, Zanzibar delivers accessible Indian Ocean tropical beach paradise combined with fascinating Stone Town cultural heritage and spice trade history.
What to Do
Stone Town Heritage
Stone Town Maze & Carved Doors
UNESCO World Heritage labyrinth of narrow alleys dating from 19th-century Omani Sultanate. Over 500 intricately carved wooden doors—each tells story of owner's wealth and status through brass studs, chains, and motifs. Wander without map to discover hidden courtyards, crumbling mansions, and local life. House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib—tallest building when built 1883) under renovation but exterior impressive. Old Fort (Arab Fort, 1700s) hosts evening cultural shows and craft market. Anglican Cathedral (1873-1880) sits on former slave market site—underground chambers show holding cells, moving memorial. Freddie Mercury's birthplace (Kenyatta Road) marked with plaque—Queen frontman born here 1946. Best explored early morning (7-9am) before heat or late afternoon. Easily disorienting—embrace getting lost. Watch for scooters in narrow lanes.
Forodhani Gardens Night Food Market
Waterfront food market transforming Stone Town harbourfront nightly (sunset onwards, roughly 6pm-11pm). Dozens of grills serving fresh seafood—Zanzibar pizza (chapati-style dough stuffed with meat/seafood/cheese, griddled, Tsh5,000-10,000 ~US$2–$4), grilled octopus, lobster, squid skewers, urojo soup (Zanzibari mix soup with bhajias). Sugarcane juice pressed fresh (Tsh2,000). Prices negotiable but very cheap—full meal $5–$10 Locals and tourists mingle at plastic tables facing dhows in harbor. Try: Zanzibar pizza (not Italian pizza—unique local creation), grilled seafood platters, samosas. Atmosphere peaks 7-9pm. Watch hygiene—choose busy stalls with high turnover. Bring hand sanitizer. Beautiful sunset backdrop over harbor. Combine with daytime Sultan's Palace Museum visit nearby (Tsh12,000/$5).
Rooftop Restaurants & Sunset Views
Stone Town's flat roofs converted to restaurants offering harbor views and sea breezes. Emerson Spice Tea House rooftop—romantic Arabian Nights ambiance, reservations essential, $25–$40 per person for multi-course Swahili dinner. The Terrace at The Africa House Hotel—cocktails overlooking harbor, historic British colonial building, sunset prime time. Six Degrees South—rooftop grill with Stone Town panoramas. Rooftops best late afternoon for sunset (around 6-6:30pm year-round near equator) with dhows silhouetted against orange sky. Many require advance booking for sunset slots. Dress code generally smart-casual. Alcohol available despite Muslim majority—tourism areas more relaxed. These offer escape from Stone Town's heat and chaos—catch sea breeze.
Beaches & Islands
Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches (North Coast)
Zanzibar's best beaches for swimming regardless of tide—deep water means no exposed reef flats. Nungwi: More developed, beach bars, water sports, accommodation from hostels to resorts. Kendwa: More laid-back, famous for full-moon parties, stunning sunsets, soft white sand. Both have beach clubs renting loungers/umbrellas ($10–$20/day) but free beach areas exist. Swimming safety: jellyfish sometimes present (ask locals), no lifeguards, watch for boats. Snorkeling from beach is decent—better snorkeling on organized trips. Beach vendors persistent but generally harmless—firm 'No thanks' works. Sunsets on west-facing beaches spectacular—Kendwa particularly beautiful. Water sports: diving ($60–$100), parasailing ($50), jet skis ($40), dhow sailing trips ($30–$50). Transfer from Stone Town 1.5 hours ($25–$40 shared taxi, $60–$80 private).
Prison Island (Changuu) & Giant Tortoises
20-minute boat ride from Stone Town to small island housing Aldabra giant tortoises (some 100+ years old). Tour packages $30–$40 per person including boat, guide, and island entry. The tortoises roam freely—feed them grass ($1–$2 guides provide), photograph with them, learn conservation efforts. Island history: built as prison (never used), then quarantine station. Ruins explorable. Snorkeling off island's beach—decent coral and tropical fish ($10 equipment rental). Half-day trip (3-4 hours total). Combine with snorkeling at nearby sandbank for $40–$50 Book through reputable operators to avoid scams—hotels arrange reliable trips. Best morning before heat intensifies. Bring: sunscreen, hat, water, snorkel (or rent), camera. The tortoises are hit with tourists but genuine conservation effort. Very family-friendly.
Paje & Kitesurfing (East Coast)
East coast kitesurfing capital with shallow lagoon, steady winds (June-March), and budget hostels. Paje Beach has extreme tides—low tide walks 1km over reef flats to reach water (wear reef shoes). This creates perfect shallow lagoon for learning kitesurfing. Schools everywhere: lessons $60–$100 full course $350–$500 Even non-kiters enjoy Paje's backpacker vibe—beach bars, reggae music, younger crowd. The Rock Restaurant (iconic restaurant on rock in ocean) requires reservations ($30–$50 per person). Seaweed farming visible at low tide—local women harvest—interesting to observe respectfully. Swimming limited to high tide (check tide tables). Paje more 'scene' and social than relaxation—if seeking quiet, choose Matemwe. Transfer from Stone Town 1.5 hours ($20–$30).
Nature & Tours
Jozani Forest & Red Colobus Monkeys
Zanzibar's only national park (50km² mangrove and forest) protecting endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkeys. Entry is now about US$10–$12 per person for foreign visitors, usually including a local guide (often bundled into half-day tours). 1-2 hour guided walk sees colobus troops (habituated, get within meters for photos), mangrove boardwalks, and native forest. The red colobus exist only on Zanzibar—conservation success story, population recovering. Guides explain spice trees, medicinal plants, and ecology. Located central-south Zanzibar—30-45 min from Stone Town ($15–$25 taxi round-trip), easy to combine with other southern attractions. Best morning when monkeys most active. Bring mosquito repellent. Photography excellent—monkeys pose. Support conservation by visiting. Wheelchair-accessible boardwalk section available. Very family-friendly and educational. Often combined with spice farm tours or beach transfers.
Spice Farm Tours
Zanzibar earned nickname 'Spice Island' from clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla plantations. Half-day tours ($20–$30 per person) visit working farms where guides explain spices growing—see, smell, taste cloves on trees, nutmeg in fruit, cinnamon bark peeling, vanilla vines climbing trees. Taste tropical fruits: jackfruit, passionfruit, rambutan, starfruit. Lunch included (typically Swahili curry with rice). Guides weave palm fronds into hats and show coconut tree climbing. Buy spices direct (much cheaper than shops—$2–$5/bag). Tours run morning or afternoon (3-4 hours total). Book through hotels or Stone Town tour operators. Tangawizi Spice Farm highly rated. Wear closed shoes (farms muddy). Educational and sensory experience. Often combined with Jozani Forest same day ($40–$50 combined). Essential Zanzibar experience understanding island's economic history.
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling & Diving
Protected marine reserve off northeast coast—Zanzibar's best snorkeling and diving. Crystal-clear waters, coral gardens, tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins (sometimes). Snorkeling day trips $80–$120 per person including boat, equipment, guide, lunch, and hotel transfer. Diving $80–$150 for 2 dives (certified divers). The atoll surrounds private Mnemba Island (luxury resort—$1,500+/night). Public can't land on island but boats anchor nearby for snorkeling. Marine life includes: angelfish, parrotfish, moray eels, octopus, rays, occasional dolphins and turtles. Visibility 20-30m. Season: best June-October (calm seas), March-May can be rough. Full-day trip 8am-4pm typically. Book through dive centers—One Ocean Dive Center, Zanzibar Watersports. Not beginner snorkeling—current can be strong. Worth the splurge for serious snorkelers.
Gallery
Travel Information
Getting There
- Airports: ZNZ
- From :
Best Time to Visit
June, July, August, September, December, January, February
Climate: Tropical
Visa Requirements
Visa required
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31°C | 26°C | 14 | Excellent (best) |
| February | 31°C | 26°C | 24 | Excellent (best) |
| March | 30°C | 26°C | 27 | Wet |
| April | 29°C | 25°C | 30 | Wet |
| May | 28°C | 24°C | 23 | Wet |
| June | 27°C | 24°C | 17 | Excellent (best) |
| July | 27°C | 23°C | 18 | Excellent (best) |
| August | 28°C | 22°C | 13 | Excellent (best) |
| September | 30°C | 22°C | 19 | Excellent (best) |
| October | 30°C | 23°C | 15 | Wet |
| November | 29°C | 24°C | 27 | Wet |
| December | 32°C | 25°C | 9 | Excellent (best) |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) • Historical avg. 2020–2025
Travel Costs
Per person per day, based on double occupancy. 'Budget' reflects hostels or shared accommodation in high-cost cities.
💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (January 2026): January 2026 is perfect for visiting Zanzibar!
Practical Information
Getting There
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is 8km south of Stone Town. Airport taxis to Stone Town typically Tsh25,000-40,000 (US$10–$15) for the 15-20 minute ride. Buses cheaper (Tsh2,000). Many beach hotels arrange transfers ($15–$30 depending on location). Zanzibar accessible from Dar es Salaam (ferry 2hr, $35–$75 or flight 20min, $80–$150). International flights via Nairobi, Doha.
Getting Around
Daladalas (minibuses) cheap (Tsh500-2,000) but crowded and confusing. Rent scooters ($10–$15/day, risky on sandy roads). Hire private drivers for day trips ($50–$80/day). Taxis negotiate before ($19–$40 between areas). Walking works in Stone Town and beach villages. Many tourists book tours including transport. Beaches spread across island—Stone Town to Nungwi 1.5hr drive.
Money & Payments
Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh, TZS). Exchange $1 ≈ 2,700-2,900 Tsh, $1 ≈ 2,450-2,550 Tsh. USD widely accepted (sometimes preferred). Cards at hotels/resorts, cash elsewhere. ATMs in Stone Town (Tsh400 notes max). Tipping: $5–$10/day for guides, 10% restaurants, round up taxis. Bargain at markets.
Language
Swahili and English are official. English widely spoken in tourism. Swahili useful (Jambo = hello, Asante = thank you, Hakuna matata = no worries). Stone Town residents speak English well. Signs often English. Communication easy.
Cultural Tips
Muslim culture: dress modestly in Stone Town (cover shoulders/knees), respect prayer times, Ramadan affects restaurant hours. Beaches: swimwear fine, topless illegal. Remove shoes indoors. Right hand for eating/greeting. Bargain at markets (start at 50% asking). Forodhani Gardens: try Zanzibar pizza, sugarcane juice. Tides: north beaches swim anytime, east coast tides extreme (low tide walks 1km to water). Spice tours: included lunch, buy spices. Hakuna matata philosophy—no worries, island time.
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Perfect 4-Day Zanzibar Itinerary
Day 1: Stone Town
Day 2: Spice Tour & Beach Transfer
Day 3: Islands & Snorkeling
Day 4: Beach & Departure
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Stone Town
Best for: UNESCO site, history, culture, maze alleys, food market, hotels, base for exploring
Nungwi & Kendwa (North)
Best for: Best beaches, swimming anytime (no tides), sunsets, beach bars, resorts, lively
Paje & East Coast
Best for: Kitesurfing capital, budget hostels, tides extreme, white sand, backpacker scene, quieter
Matemwe
Best for: Quieter beaches, boutique hotels, snorkeling, romantic, fewer tourists, relaxed
Popular Activities
Top-rated tours and experiences in Zanzibar
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- Official tourism boards and visitor guides
- GetYourGuide and Viator activity data
- Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data
- Google Maps reviews and ratings
This guide combines personal travel experience with comprehensive data analysis to provide accurate recommendations.
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