A 5-day Zanzibar beach holiday

Yes, most tourists will need a visa to enter Tanzania (which includes Zanzibar). You can either apply for an eVisa online through the Tanzanian government website, or obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport. Citizens of some countries may not need a visa for short stays (check your country’s requirements).
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of entry.

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from June to October and December to February. The weather is sunny and warm, with minimal rain, making it perfect for beach activities.
Rainy season is from March to May, and while you can still visit, the weather can be unpredictable, and some activities may be limited.

• Light clothing (cotton and breathable fabrics)

• Swimwear and beachwear

• Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)

• Hat, sunglasses, and flip-flops

• Comfortable walking shoes for Stone Town and forest tours

• Insect repellent (especially for forest and village areas)

• Light jacket for cooler evenings

• Camera/phone to capture the beautiful scenery

• Travel adapter (Zanzibar uses Type D & G plugs, 230V, 50Hz)

• Health essentials (medications, hand sanitizer)

It depends on your booking. Typically, the Stone Town, Spice, and Jozani tours are in small group settings with a local guide, but you can request private tours for an additional fee.
The Safari Blue tour is usually a shared experience with other travelers, but some luxury packages offer private boat tours as well.

Zanzibar is generally considered safe for tourists, but like in any travel destination, you should always exercise caution.

• Keep your valuables secure, especially in busy areas like Stone Town and markets.

• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

• Always use official taxis or your resort’s transport service for safe transfers.

Absolutely! Zanzibar is a top destination for water sports.

• Kite surfing: The wind conditions in Paje make it one of the best spots in the world for kite surfing. You can take lessons or rent equipment.

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The crystal-clear waters around Mnemba Atoll and Nungwi offer fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities. Many resorts have partnerships with dive shops offering guided dives.
  You can arrange these activities with your resort or tour operator.

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and it’s important to respect local customs. Here are a few tips:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting Stone Town and the spice farms. For women, cover shoulders and knees when walking through villages or religious sites.

• Respect local traditions: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

• Ramadan: If you’re visiting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan (dates vary each year), be aware that many local businesses may be closed during the day, and it’s respectful to avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

The official currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, US Dollars are widely accepted, and many places will price items in USD.
Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are also accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases or local markets.