The exotic island of Zanzibar is located about 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast, and 6° south of the equator.  

White sandy beaches line the shores, fringed by wispy palm trees that sway gently in the breeze that comes off the Indian Ocean.  The crystal clear, warm turquoise waters entice snorkellers and divers to explore never-ending coral reefs.  Romantic dhows cruise into the golden sunsets. 

The capital of the island is the historic and ancient Stone Town, which has a maze of winding narrow alleys, mosques and grand Arab houses, an elegant waterfront, and bustling bazaars selling everything from silk to spices.

Zanzibar is a relatively small island, only 60 miles long and 20 miles wide, and is home to 800,000 inhabitants.  The island (also known locally as Unguja) is actually part of a small archipelago, which is made up of Zanzibar and a number of other islands, which include Pemba and Mafia.

The local people speak Swahili, and they have a wonderful mix of ethnic backgrounds - which is encapsulated in the vibe that you feel from the moment you step onto the island. 

Beaches

There are more than 25 tropical beaches on Zanzibar.  Some are busy, others so peaceful you will have the white sands all to yourself.   Either way, they are the perfect place to relax for a few days and soak up the African sun, either at the beginning or end of your trip to Tanzania.

Some of the best beaches are located on the north and east coasts of the island. 

Diving

The diving off the coast of Zanzibar is outstanding.  Beginners and experienced scuba divers will delight in the colourful coral reefs that surround both Zanziba and Pemba, and good visability and year round warm water temperatures make the experience even more enjoyable!

Barracuda, kingfish, tuna and wahoo swim alongside playful dolphins, graceful manta rays and sharks.  Tropical fish favour the shallower waters, making this also ideal for snorkelling. 

Stone Town

Step into Stone Town, and you may think you have stepped back 200 years.  Nothing has changed in this ancient city since then.  Traders haggle noisily in the busy bazaars, spice smells linger in the air, and the winding streets and alleys weave their way past old stone buildings with elaborately carved, brass-studded wooden doors.  

At sunset, the mosques ring out with the sounds of prayer, and market food stalls set up around the harbour area. 

It is a great place to just wander around and absorb the atmosphere of a town that time has almost bypassed - even if the tourists haven't. 

Search these Properties

Search by name:

• Popularity
• Offers
• Guest Rating
• A to Z
• Star Rating
• Low-High
• High-Low

Properties 1 to 5 of 22

Zanzibar Palace Hotel, Stone Town

Boutique Hotel

In each of the 9 rooms, Zanzibar's rich history is integrated by Arabian, Indian and English designs. Each room has its own unique decor with many local originating antique pieces of furniture, magical beds, Persian rugs, and colourful silks.

From USD102.5 per person.

The Palms, South Eastern Coast

Boutique Hotel

Overlooking the award winning beach (chosen by Conde Nast Traveller magazine as one of the top 30 beaches in the world), the private thatched “bandas” shelter private day beds and loungers to provide intimate beachfront privacy. Each of the 6 beautifully designed villas offers luxurious comforts and amenities with personal attention throughout your stay.

Prices on request.

Zanzibar Serena Inn, Stone Town

Hotel

After the heat and dust of Stone Town, the rooms in the Zanzibar Serena Inn are havens of cool and shade. With high ceilings and shuttered windows, the rooms are constructed in the traditional Swahili manner, whereby the size is dictated by the length of the mangrove poles that make up their ceilings.

Prices on request.

Beyt al Chai, Stone Town

Boutique Hotel

Everything about Beyt al Chai rooms is as authentic old Zanzibari as the great house itself. Each of the 5 en-suite bedrooms and suites are designed with richly coloured organza and silk curtains billowing in the breeze around antique furniture dating back to the days of the Sultan.

Prices on request.

Matemwe Bungalows, East Coast

Beach Lodge

Matemwe Bungalows has a stunning setting, perched on low coral cliffs at the end of one the best beaches in Zanzibar. This laid-back, friendly lodge has a relaxed, unpretentious feel and comprises 12 thatched bungalow suites overlooking the turquoise ocean.

Prices on request.

Properties 1 to 5 of 22