Frequently asked questions
Zanzibar City: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-October (dry and cool), January-February (hot and dry). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Zanzibar City: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Zanzibar City: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +23.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Zanzibar City: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Zanzibar City: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on March-May (long rains), November-December (short rains). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Zanzibar City: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "white powder sand" surface, white sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Nungwi Beach — most popular in the north. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Zanzibar City: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Zanzibar City: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. Sea urchins and corals on reefs. Water shoes recommended. Generally safe.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Zanzibar City: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $73.00 (≈ 6 126 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Zanzibar City: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $85.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $213.00 per night, an apartment — $70.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Zanzibar City: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $6.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $3.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Zanzibar City: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Zanzibar City: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Stone Town — Zanzibar's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets and carved wooden doors.; House of Wonders — Former sultan's palace, now a museum with exhibits on Zanzibar's history and culture.; Old Fort — 17th-century fortress built by the Omanis, now a cultural centre.; Prison Island — Island with giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkeling opportunities.; Forodhani Night Market — Evening market with traditional street food, including Zanzibar pizza.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Zanzibar City: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Zanzibar Pizza — Street food — a thin crispy pancake with egg, meat and vegetable filling.; Ugali — Traditional cornmeal porridge served with meat or fish.; Fresh Seafood — Fish, prawns and octopus from the Indian Ocean.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Zanzibar City: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Stone Town — Historic centre with attractions, shops and restaurants.; Nungwi — Northern part with the best beaches and developed infrastructure.; Kendwa — Area with quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Zanzibar City: is a visa required?
Visa: required (visa on arrival 50 USD or online). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Zanzibar City: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Абейда Амани Каруме (code ZNZ). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Zanzibar City: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — TZS. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $73.00 (≈ 6 126 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Zanzibar City: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Zanzibar City: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Zanzibar City: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Pemba Island — Neighbouring island with untouched reefs and a quiet atmosphere, ~100 km.; Mafia Island — Island with a marine park and whale shark watching opportunities, ~150 km.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
