Zanzibar has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. You can choose from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, hostels and Airbnb rentals. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Zanzibar are:
- Stone Town: The historic and cultural heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the island’s diverse influences from Africa, Arabia, India and Europe. You can stay in one of the many charming hotels or guesthouses that are housed in old buildings with carved doors, balconies and courtyards. Stone Town is also a great place to explore the narrow streets, markets, museums and monuments of Zanzibar’s past.
- Nungwi: Nungwi is a lively beach town on the northern tip of Zanzibar, known for its stunning sunsets, vibrant nightlife and water activities. You can stay in one of the many beachfront hotels or resorts that offer comfortable rooms, pools, bars and restaurants. Nungwi is also a good base for diving, snorkeling, fishing and sailing trips.
- Paje: Paje is a laid-back beach village on the east coast of Zanzibar, famous for its powdery white sand, turquoise water and palm trees. You can stay in one of the many budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels that offer simple but cozy rooms, hammocks and gardens. Paje is also a hotspot for kitesurfing enthusiasts, as it has consistent winds and waves throughout the year.
- Jambiani: Jambiani is a quiet and authentic beach village on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, where you can experience the local life and culture of the island. You can stay in one of the many family-run guesthouses or bungalows that offer spacious rooms, friendly service and delicious food. Jambiani is also a good place to enjoy the beach, swim in the lagoon or visit the nearby seaweed farms.
What to See and Do in Zanzibar
Zanzibar has plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained and amazed during your stay. Here are some of the highlights:
- Explore Stone Town: Stone Town is a must-see for anyone visiting Zanzibar. It is a fascinating maze of narrow alleys, colorful buildings, ornate doors and bustling markets. You can wander around on your own or join a guided tour that will show you the main sights and tell you the stories behind them. Some of the places you should not miss are the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, the Palace Museum, the Anglican Cathedral and the Forodhani Gardens.
- Visit a Spice Farm: Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island for its production and export of various spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla. You can visit one of the many spice farms on the island and learn about their cultivation, processing and uses. You can also taste some of the fresh spices and buy some souvenirs to take home.
- Enjoy the Beaches: Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, where you can relax on the soft sand, swim in the clear water or enjoy some water sports. Some of the best beaches are Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, Paje Beach, Jambiani Beach and Matemwe Beach. You can also take a boat trip to some of the nearby islands, such as Prison Island, Mnemba Island and Chumbe Island, where you can see more marine life and coral reefs.
- Go Diving or Snorkeling: Zanzibar has a rich and diverse marine ecosystem that attracts divers and snorkelers from all over the world. You can explore the underwater world of colorful fish, turtles, dolphins, sharks and whales. Some of the best diving and snorkeling spots are Mnemba Atoll, Leven Bank, Tumbatu Island and Manta Point. You can also join a dolphin tour that will take you to see and swim with these friendly creatures in their natural habitat.
- Learn about the History and Culture: Zanzibar has a long and complex history that has shaped its culture and identity. You can learn more about the island’s past and present by visiting some of the museums, monuments and cultural centers. Some of the places you should check out are the Slave Market, the Old Dispensary, the Princess Salme Museum, the Peace Memorial Museum and the Zanzibar Cultural Centre.
