Zanzibar is one of those idyllic holiday destinations where there is plenty to do if you’re the active type. However, all the activity is set in a beautiful, relaxed island atmosphere, so if you're wanting to sit back and enjoy the view, it's perfect for that too! The weather is balmy, the sea is warm, Stone Town’s bustling activity is perfectly complimented by the aromatic spice farms and laid-back sandy white  beaches… Seriously, it's paradise.The history of the islands is a fascinating one and is still evident in the crazy, cobbled streets of Stone Town. The island is known as the birthplace of Swahili and it became a major port for traders from Persia, Arabia, Indonesia, India, China, Malaysia and, later, Portugal. It is this mix of cultures that brought about the melting-pot of architecture and tradition that still fills Zanzibar beach with an exoticness and sense of romance.In the early 1500’s, after Vasco da Gama’s visit in 1498, Zanzibar became a colony of Portugal. The islands have a chequered history of rule – from Arab sultans in the slave trade to British protectorate to full self-government by Zanzibar in 1963, after which it was briefly ruled by the Sultan Jamshid bin Abdullah, until he was deposed. In 1964, Zanzibar and Tanganyika merged to form the United Republic of Tanzania, of which Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region. you can experience Zanzibar beaches  all year around.

Best Time to Visit

Being slightly below the equator, the coolest months in Zanzibar coincide with the northern hemisphere's summer months. However, its weather is pleasant and comfortable all year round with two distinct rainy seasons - the long rains and the short rains - interspersed with dry periods. 

Zanzibar, as an island, can have its own distinct weather patterns separate from the mainland. That said, the weather is generally similar. The long rainy season can stretch from mid-March until the end of May, bringing heavy early morning showers which often clear by midday. Many lodges close at this time.

The best months to visit are during the dry, 'winter' months from June through to October when daily temperatures average a balmy 25ºC.

The short rains occur erratically during November and December often with showers early morning and late afternoon. 

'Summer' stretches from December to March, with hot sunny days and often

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Getting There

By Air: A number of international airlines offer flights to Dar es Salaam and some directly to Zanzibar. Domestic flights are available from Tanzania’s main cities to Zanzibar. Mango Airlines offer 3 flights per week from Johannesburg's OR Tambo to Zanzibar Airport near Stone Town.

cloudless skies. Temperatures range from mid 20ºC to low 30ºC and the evenings are balmy and comfortable

 

Tings to experience

Dolphin Tour.

This half day tour takes place on the southern part of the Menai Bay conservation area – a home to the bottlenose and humpback dolphin. Includes the boat ride into the bay, and is therefore weather dependent. Snorkeling in the bay is also beautiful

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Stone Town Tour

UNESCO proclaimed World Heritage site. Steeped in history as a hub for trading ivory, slaves and spices. Wander the alleyways, marvel at the architecture and the world famous doors, feast on local tastes and aromas, buy treasures with good haggling skills. A half day or full day tour, finish off with cocktails at sunset, watching out for the elusive green sun flash

Nungwi – village tour

A half or full day tour, Nungwi is situated on the northern tip of Zanzibar. See dhows being built, local furniture craftsmen, wander the village lanes, see the natural turtle museum, walk the lovely beaches and soak up some sun. And en route, see the Mangwapani caves, illegal hiding place of slaves...

Prison Island

A 10 minute boat ride from Stone Town. Witness its dark history as a slave detention center, quarantine station, and then marvel at the 100 yr old giant tortoises, white, sandy beaches and great snorkeling. Fish and chips for lunch!