Everything you need to know before planning your Zanzibar escape
- Maiken Fortes
- Oct 22
- 8 min read
Updated: Oct 27
Zanzibar had long sat on our list of dream destinations — one of those names that conjures images of spice-scented breezes, turquoise shallows and barefoot dinners under the stars. When we finally landed, it was everything we’d imagined and more. The air felt heavy with heat and history, where echoes of Arabic, African and European influences blend into something unmistakably its own. Days moved at a slower pace here, the kind that invites you to forget what time it is. From the white sands of Nungwi to the winding lanes of Stone Town, Zanzibar feels like a place made for couples chasing both adventure and stillness, where luxury comes not from excess but from ease. So how exactly do you create the ultimate romantic escape on this island of spice and soul?
💡 Useful tips before heading to Zanzibar
When to Go
The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to October, during the dry season, when the days are warm, the skies are clear, and the humidity is low. It’s ideal for beach days and diving trips. December to February also offers beautiful weather, though it’s slightly hotter. Avoid April and May, when the long rains arrive.
Getting Around
While most resorts can arrange transfers, hiring a driver gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace. Roads are generally good but winding, and driving can be hectic if you’re not used to local conditions. Alternatively, pair private transfers with short domestic flights if you plan to visit both the north beaches and Stone Town.
Where to Stay
Choose your base depending on your honeymoon style. Nungwi and Kendwa in the north are lively and great for swimming. Paje and Jambiani on the southeast coast offer quiet luxury and boutique resorts. For culture lovers, a night or two in Stone Town adds a romantic, historic contrast to your beach stay.
What to Pack
Think lightweight, breathable fabrics and swimwear, but also pack a shawl or linen shirt for modesty when visiting villages or mosques. A wide-brimmed hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent are essentials. Evenings by the beach can bring a light breeze, so a thin layer comes in handy.
Food & Drink
Zanzibar’s nickname as the “Spice Island” says it all. Expect dishes rich with clove, cinnamon, and coconut, along with fresh seafood caught daily. Don’t miss the Forodhani night market in Stone Town for grilled lobster and Zanzibar pizza. Always choose bottled water, and try a glass of chilled sugarcane juice for a refreshing local touch.
Cultural Etiquette
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and island life runs at a respectful, relaxed pace. Dress modestly away from the beach, greet locals politely, and avoid public displays of affection in towns and villages. Fridays are prayer days, so expect a slower rhythm.
Preparing your trip beforehand
Before heading off to Zanzibar, a little planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth from the moment you arrive. Beyond the beaches and spice markets, it’s worth getting a few travel essentials sorted early, from visas and vaccinations to currency and insurance.
Money - Bring some US dollars in cash, as they’re widely accepted across the island and easy to exchange into Tanzanian shillings (TZS) for smaller purchases. Most high-end resorts and restaurants accept cards, but it’s always handy to have some notes for taxis, tips, and local stalls.
Entry Visa - Most travellers need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online via the Tanzania eVisa portal before you travel. It’s best to submit your application at least two weeks before departure for peace of mind.
Travel Insurance - A must for any trip, especially when you’re planning boat excursions or diving. Double-check that your policy covers medical care, cancellations, and water-based activities, as facilities can be more limited outside the main towns.
Vaccinations & Health - Consult your GP or a travel clinic well ahead of time to ensure you’re up to date with recommended vaccines. You can check the latest guidance on the NHS website if you're arriving from the UK. Malaria tablets are strongly advised, so plan to bring enough for your full trip plus a little extra.
Getting to and around Zanzibar
By Air
Most travellers reach Zanzibar by air, with Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Stone Town serving as the island’s main gateway. There are no direct flights from the UK, but it’s easily accessible via short connections through Doha (Qatar Airways), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Dubai (Emirates), or Nairobi (Kenya Airways).
If you’re already on the mainland, daily domestic flights connect Zanzibar with Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and the Serengeti, making it an easy add-on after a safari. The flight from Dar takes just 20–30 minutes.
By Ferry
For a more scenic route, take the Azam Marine ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. The journey takes around 2 hours, offering views of the Indian Ocean along the way. Ferries run several times a day, but it’s best to book first-class tickets in advance through the Azam Marine website. Note that crossings can be choppy during the monsoon season.
Getting Around the Island by Car?
Zanzibar is larger than many expect, so having reliable transport is key. Most visitors arrange private transfers through their hotel, but if you want flexibility, consider hiring a driver for the day. The roads are generally good, though signage can be limited and driving standards vary, so self-driving is not usually recommended for first-timers.
For shorter journeys, local taxis and hotel shuttles are the easiest option. In Stone Town, you can easily explore on foot, while along the coast, many resorts provide bicycles or e-bikes for guests.
💡 Travel Tip
Distances between the north, east and south coasts can take 1–2 hours by car, so plan your base accordingly. If you’re splitting your stay between Stone Town and the beach, it’s worth arranging a private transfer directly through your resort to make the journey seamless.
Where to stay in Zanzibar
Nungwi & Kendwa (North Coast)
Known for their white beaches and calm, swimmable waters, the north coast is ideal for couples who want classic tropical beauty with a livelier atmosphere. Expect sunset dhow cruises, beach bars, and some of the island’s most luxurious resorts.
Paje & Jambiani (South-East Coast)
This is Zanzibar’s laid-back, bohemian side. The beaches are long and wide, and the steady breeze makes it perfect for kite surfing and morning yoga. You’ll find boutique hotels, beach clubs, and eco-conscious stays that balance style with serenity.
Matemwe & Kiwengwa (North-East Coast)
A little quieter, these beaches are perfect for couples seeking privacy and top-end resorts with uninterrupted views. The area is close to some of Zanzibar’s best diving and snorkelling spots, including Mnemba Atoll.
Stone Town (West Coast)
Zanzibar’s cultural heart and a must for at least one night. Stay here at the beginning or end of your trip to soak up its Swahili-Arabic charm, wander through spice markets and enjoy rooftop dining at sunset.
Looking for something with a touch of luxury and romantic? Our Personal Recommendations
Just a 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Bawe Island feels like a secret escape designed for two. The island is completely private, home to only a handful of villas nestled between jungle and beach. Days here are blissfully simple: snorkelling in clear lagoons, lazy lunches by the water, and dinners under a canopy of stars with only the sound of the ocean around you. It’s the kind of place where time slows down completely and is the ultimate definition of barefoot luxury.
Set along Paje’s sweeping kite-surfing beach, White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa blends modern design with a deep respect for the environment. Each villa comes with its own private pool, outdoor bathroom, and open-air lounge shaded by palms. The spa uses locally sourced products, the restaurant serves fresh seafood with a fine-dining twist, and the atmosphere is quietly elegant. It’s ideal for couples who want five-star comfort without losing the natural rhythm of island life.
The must-do excursion Zanzibar
Zanzibar may be best known for its beaches, but there’s far more to the island than just soft sand and turquoise water. Between its coral reefs, spice farms and centuries-old Swahili architecture, every day offers something different. One of the best ways to experience it all is with Rafiki Tours & Travel, a locally run company that specialises in bespoke island excursions. We joined them for a Pungume Island adventure, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable days of our trip.
The journey began gliding through mangrove forests, where the water shimmered like glass and tiny crabs scuttled along the roots. After a short ride, we anchored near a reef for snorkelling, spotting schools of tropical fish and the island’s famous starfish scattered across the seabed. Lunch was a highlight: a seafood barbecue served right on the sandbank, with grilled lobster, prawns and fresh fruit laid out under a canopy - simple, delicious and completely idyllic. The day finished with a visit to Salaeeam Cave, where we saw green sea turtles swimming in the clear pool below, a gentle reminder of just how wild and untouched this part of the island still feels.
Whether you spend your days exploring Stone Town’s spice markets, kitesurfing off Paje Beach or chasing sunsets on a dhow cruise, Zanzibar has that rare ability to mix relaxation with genuine adventure.
Other experiences not to miss
Beyond the ocean adventures, Zanzibar has a rhythm all its own, and exploring a few of its signature spots gives a fuller sense of the island’s character. Start with Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site where winding alleys reveal carved wooden doors, rooftop cafés, and traces of the island’s Arab and Portuguese past. A guided walking tour is worth it to uncover stories hidden in the spice markets and old merchant houses.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the rare red colobus monkeys that live only in Zanzibar. The boardwalk through the mangroves is short but beautiful, especially in the early morning light.
For a memorable meal, book a table at The Rock Restaurant in Pingwe. Perched on a rock in the middle of the ocean, it’s accessible by foot at low tide and by boat at high tide — and as romantic as it sounds. Pair that with a visit to one of the island’s spice farms, where you can see (and taste) cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon growing in the warm soil that made Zanzibar famous as the “Spice Island.”
Finally, don’t miss a sunset dhow cruise. Whether you set sail from Nungwi or Michamvi, there’s something quietly magical about drifting across the water as the sky turns pink and the sails catch the last of the light. It’s the perfect way to end a day on an island that truly defines barefoot luxury.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Based on my experience, Zanzibar feels very safe for travellers. We felt comfortable everywhere we went. Like anywhere in the world, it’s best to follow a few common-sense precautions: avoid flashing valuables, don’t walk alone down unlit streets at night, and keep an eye on your belongings when out and about.
That said, there have been occasional reports of petty theft, so it’s worth taking a few extra steps. Always read recent hotel reviews, use the in-room safe for passports and electronics, and make sure your travel insurance covers theft and loss. If you’re spending time on the beach, avoid leaving your belongings unattended unless you’re within a private hotel area with staff or security present.
When it comes to transport, only use licensed taxis with red number plates, or better yet, have your hotel arrange transfers for you. Zanzibar’s laid-back pace and welcoming atmosphere make it a wonderful place to explore — just stay aware, as you would anywhere, and you’ll find it to be a truly relaxing and friendly destination.
Accommodation stay was gently offered by Bawe Island and White Sand Luxury Villa & Spa. All views and opinions here are as usual my own.
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