Zanzibar is an escape from the everyday and the ordinary, with world-class beaches, and a rich history, culture, and geography like no other in the world. It's a true tropical paradise, but with so much more to offer than just surface beauty.
Zanzibar is an archipelago, consisting of a string of islands in the Indian Ocean just over 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. Unguja, commonly called Zanzibar, is the largest island, and it's where most visitors spend their time. Zanzibar is also known as the Spice Islands, and has been a major source of the world's supply of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper for centuries.
There is evidence of civilization in Zanzibar dating back 20,000 years. It has seen waves of settlement and colonization from ancient Persian traders to the Portuguese and British. The result is a fascinating modern island with a diverse population and a welcoming spirit towards visitors to our beautiful tropical home.
Discover why Zanzibar remains one of the world's most magical island destinations.
Zanzibar offers some of the world's most stunning beaches with fine coral white sand and brilliant blue waters. The northern tip around Nungwi and Kendwa features wide, idyllic shores ideal for sunset strolls and swimming. On the eastern and southeastern coasts, Kiwengwa, Matemwe, Paje, Bwejuu, Jambiani, Dongwe, and Michamvi deliver postcard-perfect scenes, many excellent for kitesurfing and relaxation.
Stone Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zanzibar City — is a living mosaic of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Admire elegant minarets, ornately carved wooden doors, and narrow laneways that pass landmarks like the House of Wonders (former sultan's palace), the Old Fort, and the former slave market site — each telling centuries of rich history.
Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, sail on traditional dhows at sunset, jet-ski, windsurf, deep-sea fish, kayak through mangroves, parasail, or kiteboard in world-famous spots like Paje. Zanzibar offers endless ocean adventures suitable for beginners and experts alike.
Zanzibar is home to rare species like the Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Visit Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to walk mangrove trails and observe monkeys, birds, and more. The Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond offers a chance to see protected sea turtles up close.
Zanzibar’s cuisine is a delicious fusion of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and African flavors. Enjoy fresh seafood, aromatic pilau, biryani, urojo soup, and tropical fruits. A spice farm tour lets you taste cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, cardamom, and nutmeg straight from the source.
Your island paradise awaits — pure relaxation, adventure, and memories that last a lifetime.
