Beach
Zanzibar travel guide
Tides here are dramatic, so check the chart before planning a swim, and give the old town a full day.
Zanzibar at a glance
- Best time to visitJune to October
- Daily budget50-140 USD per person, excluding flights
- Days to allow5-7 days
- RegionTanzania
Why visit Zanzibar
Tides here are dramatic, so check the chart before planning a swim, and give the old town a full day.
Like anywhere popular, Zanzibar rewards travellers who go slightly outside the obvious window. Arriving in june to october gives you the conditions people come for without the peak-season pricing, and if you can allow 7 days rather than rushing it in a weekend, the trip changes character entirely.
Practical tips for Zanzibar
Small things that make a real difference on the ground.
- Tide charts matter more than weather
- Old town deserves a night of its own
- Respect local dress away from resorts
- Confirm opening seasons before you travel; some operators close entirely in low season
- Carry some local cash even where cards are widely accepted
More beach destinations
Other places in the same category, with the same practical detail.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
The best months are June to October. Outside that window you will usually find lower prices but less reliable conditions.
How many days should I spend in Zanzibar?
Allow 5-7 days. That is enough to see the main sights without spending the whole trip in transit.
How much does Zanzibar cost per day?
Budget roughly 50-140 USD per person per day excluding flights, covering accommodation, food and local transport.
Do I need to book anything in advance for Zanzibar?
Book accommodation and any capacity-limited experience ahead in peak season. Tide charts matter more than weather.