Africa
Gateway Safaris
Zanzibar Archipelago
Archipelago·Indian Ocean, Tanzania

Zanzibar Archipelago

Spice-scented islands lapped by turquoise seas

Type

Archipelago

Area

1,651 km²

Region

Indian Ocean, Tanzania

Peak Season

Jun – Oct & Dec – Feb

Overview

About Zanzibar

Zanzibar is Tanzania's island counterpart — a place where the pace of life slows entirely, the water shifts through fifteen shades of blue, and the air carries the scent of cloves, cardamom, and sea salt. Most visitors arrive from a mainland safari, and the contrast is extraordinary.

Stone Town, the historic capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose winding lanes connect Swahili architecture, Arab trading houses, Indian merchant stalls, and colonial-era buildings. A walking tour of Stone Town is a walk through five centuries of East African history.

Beyond the town, the north and east coasts offer some of the Indian Ocean's finest beach experiences: Nungwi and Kendwa are known for white sand and a lively atmosphere, while Paje on the east coast attracts kitesurfers and those seeking something quieter. Below the water, the coral reefs around Mnemba Atoll are among Africa's best diving sites.

Highlights

What Awaits You

  • Stone Town — UNESCO World Heritage labyrinthine lanes
  • Mnemba Atoll coral reef diving & snorkelling
  • Spice farm tours through clove, vanilla, and nutmeg
  • Dhow sunset cruises on the Indian Ocean
  • Swimming with dolphins at Kizimkazi
  • Private beach villas on the north coast
Zanzibar Archipelago gallery image 1
Zanzibar Archipelago gallery image 2
Zanzibar Archipelago gallery image 3
Zanzibar Archipelago gallery image 4

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit

Peak
Good
Low season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Ready to visit?

Plan your Zanzibar experience

Our specialists will tailor an itinerary around the best camps, routes, and season for your journey.

Enquire Now
Mount Kilimanjaro

← Previous

Kilimanjaro

Tarangire National Park

Next →

Tarangire