Planning a Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Plan to spend 7 days to split your time between Stone Town and the northern or eastern beaches. Fly directly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) and book your inter-island transfers through reputable local taxi services rather than public 'dala-dala' buses for reliability.
- Decide on your beach zone. Nungwi and Kendwa in the north have the best swimming regardless of tides. If you want kite-surfing or a quieter vibe, choose Paje or Jambiani in the east, but be aware that the tide goes out very far, leaving the beach rocky for swimming at low tide.
- Book internal logistics. Don't rely on walking or public transport between regions. Email your hotel ahead of time to arrange a private airport transfer (typically $40–$60 USD). If traveling between the airport and the north, expect a 90-minute drive.
- Manage your cash. Bring crisp, clean US dollar bills printed after 2013. Most ATMs in Stone Town work, but they often run out of cash or reject cards. Keep enough Tanzanian Shillings for small local purchases, but expect to pay for tours and hotels in USD.
- Respect local customs. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Keep beachwear for the beach and hotel grounds. When walking through villages or visiting Stone Town, cover your shoulders and knees to avoid offending locals.
- Is it safe to drink the tap water?
- No. Only drink bottled or filtered water. Even for brushing teeth, bottled water is recommended to avoid stomach bugs.
- Do I need malaria medication?
- Zanzibar is a malaria zone. Consult a travel clinic 6 weeks before you leave to discuss prophylaxis and bug spray containing DEET.