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How to spend twelve days in Zanzibar to see all the major sites?

I visited Zanzibar in August, as a solo female traveler to Zanzibar. Spending 12 days on Spice Island was the perfect amount of time to get the taste of an island 6° South of the Equator, full of culture, history, and stunning nature.

Find out how in my Zanzibar itinerary below. 

🦁 If you have been wondering “Which Disney movie did Anja watch first?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Zanzibar itinerary

In a bit more than 1 week in Zanzibar, you will learn about the interesting history of the islands of Unguja and Pemba, the differences between the best Zanzibar beaches, and admire the doors in the UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town.

If you are planning a trip to Zanzibar, this is a place where you will find where to stay, play, and eat. Inside this Zanzibar travel plan, you will have a perfect blend of beaches and culture, nature and animals, history, and sports activities. Try tons of delicious Zanzibari cuisine, and bargain for souvenirs. Do all of it in less than Zanzibar 2 week itinerary.

From Paje/Jambiani beaches on the East Coast, visiting Jozani forest on your way to famous Nungwi/Kendwa beach on the North, learning about spices on a Spice tour to exploring Prison Island. This is the Zanzibar itinerary, I used for my solo Zanzibar holiday.

This Zanzibar trip plan will detail how to spend twelve days in Zanzibar, to make your vacation memorable while relaxing on white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise ocean.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Plan to spend at least a week in Zanzibar, but if time permits, reserve 10 days in Zanzibar to have enough time to include different beaches in your Zanzibar itinerary.
• Consider dividing your time between different areas of the island: Stone Town for its historical significance, the northern beaches for relaxation and snorkeling, and the beaches on the East for kitesurfing and secluded holidays.
• Include must-see sights like Nungwi Beach, Paje Beach, Jozani Forest, Spice farm and Prison Island in your itinerary.
• Don’t skip Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend at least a day here and book a Stone Town guided tour for the best experience of the previous Spice Island capital.
• Indulge in delicious Zanzibari cuisine, a fusion of Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and Portuguese influences, and experience a lively atmosphere at Forodhani food markets.

Disclosure: This twelve days Zanzibar itinerary article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in Disclaimer.

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1. Breakdown of 12 day Zanzibar itinerary

This is a semi-relaxed itinerary for Zanzibar.

If you are the type of person, who only enjoys spending time by the pool in a resort, then this is not for you. What I mean by semi-relaxed is that it offers a nice and steady pace to explore Zanzibar island.

The itinerary offers a combination of busy days, full of sightseeing, half-day trips, and days to relax. There are also days when you can add some more activities or swap the days around.

Following this Zanzibar blog, you will get an idea of how long to visit Zanzibar, to learn about Zanzibar’s history, experience its culture, explore best beaches in Zanzibar, meet their flora and fauna, and still have time to swim and sip a cocktail.

How many days in Zanzibar is enough? For your first visit to Zanzibar, I would recommend at least 2 weeks in Zanzibar. Spending some time on the beaches of South East (Paje or Jambiani), staying on the beaches in the North, and spending some time in the UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town.

Go to the South East first, to Paje or Jambiani (4 nights). Then to the more touristy and more developed beaches in the North, Nungwi or Kendwa (5 nights). Before leaving Zanzibar, spend some time in Stone Town (2 nights), get lost in the narrow streets, and improve your Bargaining skills when shopping for souvenirs. The itinerary can also be done in reversed order.

SHORT ZANZIBAR ITINERARY OVERVIEW:
Day 1: Arrival to Zanzibar and transfer to Jambiani
Day 2: Jambiani beach and village
Day 3: Half-day trip to Kizimkazi
Day 4: Kuza cave and Paje
Day 5: Jambiani – The Rock – Jozani Forest – Nungwi
Day 6: Nungwi & Dhow boat sunset cruise
Day 7: Mnemba atoll
Day 8: Nungwi village & Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond
Day 9: Nungwi & Kendwa
Day 10: Spice tour – Prison Island – Stone Town
Day 11: Stone Town walking tour & Forodhani market in the evening
Day 12: Stone Town and Departure

Here is how Zanzibar itinerary looks on a map!

2. Best time to visit Zanzibar

Being only 6° South of the Equator makes Zanzibar a destination that can be visited year-round. Temperatures are rather constant during the year, but the rainfall depends on the season. 

There are two seasons in Zanzibar, dry season and wet season.

Choosing when to visit Zanzibar archipelago will depend on a personal preference, but prices and the number of tourists will be higher during European summer.

Below are some general factors you should consider when planning your trip to Zanzibar.

The best time to visit Zanzibar and neighboring islands is during the ‘long dry season‘. This is from June to October. There should be almost no rain and more sunny days. Since this coincides with the summer in the northern hemisphere, expect higher prices on flights and accommodation. I visited Zanzibar in August but I am happy with my spending budget.

The months of November and December are somewhere good to visit. During this time you can expect a ‘minor rainy season’ with light rains and higher temperatures. Prices might rise in the busy holiday season, from Christmas and over New Years.

The period from January to February and mid-March is considered a ‘short dry season‘. You can expect hot weather and sunny days interrupted by rain showers. Rainfall will increase coming more toward March.

March to May is the rainy season, known also as ‘long rains‘. While temperatures will still be high you can expect rain during the whole day or more days in a row. Humidity level will be high. This is considered low season so prices might be lower than at other times of the year.

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3. How to get to Zanzibar

There are two ways how to get to Zanzibar Island, by plane or by ferry.

If you are flying to Zanzibar (Unguja island), you will land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), which is around 10 km (6 miles) or 15-20 minute drive away from Stone Town.

Only a few airlines fly to Zanzibar directly, without the transfer in Dar es Salaam. Amongst those are Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and FlyDubai. Many others have a stopover in Dar es Salaam. Between Dar and Zanzibar is a short 20-minute flight.

A ferry ride from Dar es Salaam usually takes a bit less than 3 h. If you decide to go with a ferry it will cost between $35 to $60 USD. The ferry terminal is in the north of Stone Town, close to the Old Dispensary.

4. How to save money when planning a Zanzibar itinerary

Do you want to travel more and spend less?

I have created a list of Zanzibar travel resources for you. This is a collection of the best travel resources when it comes to transportation, accommodation, travel insurance, and more.

All of these are products that I personally use and recommend to others.

Choosing the best travel resources from the beginning will save you time and money. Trust me, by using these travel resources, you will be able to travel further than you ever imagined.

5. Things to know before visiting Zanzibar

• TANZANIAN VISA
  For visiting Zanzibar you need a Tanzanian visa. If you’re flying straight into Zanzibar you’ll get your Tanzania visa there. Tanzania visa cost varies. It covers Zanzibar and the mainland and vice versa. Citizens from most Western countries can get them on arrival. It costs $50 for a single entry. You can pay by cash or card. For US citizens the visa costs $100 but it is a multi-entry visa. Learn more about Tanzanian visa.
  

• YELLOW FEVER
  If you’re flying to Tanzania and Zanzibar from places without a Yellow Fever risk (Europe, USA, Australia etc.) you shouldn’t need a Yellow Fever certificate. BUT if you are transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (Kenya, Ethiopia) for more than 12 hours – sometimes even less, you might need one. You can see the countries with the risk of yellow fever (YF) here.
  

• VACCINATIONS
  YELLOW FEVER
  If you’re flying to Tanzania and Zanzibar from places without a Yellow Fever risk (Europe, USA, Australia etc.) you shouldn’t need a Yellow Fever certificate. BUT if you are transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (Kenya, Ethiopia) for more than 12 hours – sometimes even less, you might need one. You can see the countries with the risk of yellow fever (YF) here.
  
  Besides Yellow fever, and even with exceptions, there are no obligatory vaccinations. There are recommended ones from World Health Organisation (WHO) but consult your doctor before your visit. Recommended vaccinations are hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, tetanus … Have a look at the recommended vaccines for Tanzania.
  

• MALARIA
  The risk of getting malaria in Zanzibar is low. I didn’t take medication but some travelers – especially the ones coming from safari – were taking them. Others were having them just in case if they get sick.
  
  To prevent mosquito bites, use mosquito bite prevention measures:
  – ensure your accommodation has mosquito nets;
  – use an insect repellent with 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin;
  – wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) clothing and long sleeves at dusk and at night;
  – apply sunscreen first followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
  

• MONEY
  Tanzania’s currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). In Stone Town, Dar Es Salaam and some resorts, you can use credit cards but with a hefty surcharge.
  
  ATMs are rare in Zanzibar. Bring enough cash since ATMs get out of money fast, and the highest amount you can withdraw is around $150. When withdrawing money from the ATM, take out as much as possible to ‘lower’ the withdrawal charges.
  
  Bargaining is common in markets, particularly in tourist areas, but tipping is not necessary.
  
  Beaches in Zanzibar are free, but many tourist attractions, such as national parks and cultural sites, require an entrance fee.
  

• TRAVEL INSURANCE
  Make sure to purchase travel insurance before your travel. I have seen two people needing medical assistance in Zanzibar. One was because of heat stroke. Another sprained her ankle. Seriously, you never know, so better be safe than sorry.
  
  Without travel insurance, this can be REALLY expensive. Buy one from your home country provider or find the best option with Safety Wing. In case you forgot, with Safety Wing you can get one when already abroad!
  

• SAFETY TIPS
  Is Zanzibar safe? Zanzibar is safe, even for solo female travelers, but it still doesn’t hurt to use common sense. Don’t flash your valuables and walk alone after dark.
  

• DRESS CODE
  The majority of the population is Muslim. Respect their culture and dress accordingly, by covering your legs, midsection and shoulders. This is especially true when visiting local villages or walking around the streets in Stone Town. Wearing a bikini on a beach is perfectly fine.

6. Twelve days in Zanzibar itinerary

DAY 1: Arrival to Zanzibar and transfer to Jambiani

Arrive in Zanzibar/Stone Town. No matter if you will be flying into Zanzibar from overseas or from Tanzania mainland, you will arrive at Stone Town airport. If you are coming with a ferry from Daar Es Saalam, then you will also be arriving to Stone Town.

If you are coming from the United States or Canada or from Japan or Australia, this is likely going to be a hectic day, spent in the company of jet lag. If you are coming from Europe, the journey to Zanzibar should not be that bad, since Zanzibar is in GMT+3 time zone. Which means from 1 to 3 hours ahead of European time. 

After the formalities, exchange some money into Tanzanian shillings or get some cash from ATM at the airport. Outside of Stone Town ATMs are limited and get out of cash fast.

After you have some cash on you, grab a taxi and drive to Jambiani. Price for a taxi should be around $40. If you arrive in the morning and are feeling adventurous, you can also use dala dala.

My flight with Qatar landed in the morning. I exchanged € to TNZ and got into a taxi organized by accommodation. It was already waiting for me outside to drive me to Jambiani.

For the rest of the day, I was chilling by the pool on one of the most beautiful tropical beaches.

Where to stay in Jambiani, Zanzibar:
• There are many beautiful beach hotels in Jambiani. I’ve stayed at an affordable, beachfront accommodation with a private beach and pool. New Teddy’s On The Beach is a travel-sustainable property, with a ‘living room’ full of daybeds to relax and enjoy the view of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Read my hotel review here.

Pin the one you like more!

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 2: Jambiani; beach and village

Jambiani is a really relaxed and laid-back village. It is located on the East side of Zanzibar, where the difference between high and low tide is significant. During low tide, the ocean is far away, which pushes you to do other activities. What I love about Jambiani is that tourists and locals are as one. It is less touristy and here you get the feel of the real Zanzibar.

High tide: During high tide go for a swim in the ocean. If you want, you can even go diving, rent a stand-up paddle board or sign up for kitesurfing lessons. Conditions for kitesurfing here are perfect, even for beginners. Or you might want to go on a dhow sailing boat tour.

Low tide: At the time of low tide, you can still explore the beach. Maybe you would want to walk all the way to the reef, only go and observe local women manning their algae plantations. It could also happen you will see ladies dig shells for dinner from the sand.

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 3: Half-day trip to Kizimkazi

On this day you can go on a half-day tour to Kizimkazi. Beaches there are not the best for swimming but the place is known for dolphin spotting and mosque. Dimbani mosque is the oldest mosque in East Africa, dating back to 1107 AD.

I went to Kizimkazi to go on a dolphin tour. If you decide to join a tour, please, do your part and research a tour provider. Always choose an Ethical Dolphin encounter. You might want to check out Kizimkazi Ethical Dolphin Tours offered by African Impact.

I was happy with their approach, which was similar to the one I experienced in Kaikoura, New Zealand. We followed their swimming, watch them swim by, without disturbing or interacting with them.

You can swap the dolphin encounter and instead go on a Blue safari tour.

Back at Jambiani just relax, have a few cocktails or mocktails, try Zanzibar Dawa and enjoy.

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 4: Kuza cave and Paje

Explore Jambiani and Paje surroundings.

Today is the day for an adventure and a bit of exploring. Visit Kuza Cave, which is 10-minute drive or 30 min walk from Jambiani. Kuza cave is a limestone cave with cold and clear water where you can swim in. You can also enjoy Swahili music, learn Swahili cooking or search for monkeys and birds in wildlife sanctuary.

Before or after go to Paje. At low tide, you can walk from Jambiani to Paje on the beach. Walk will take around 1,5 hour. In Paje, explore their food stalls and restaurants, have a dip in the ocean (at high tide) or go kitesurfing. Don’t leave before stopping at Mr Kahawa for an award-winning coffee, and a delicious meal with a view.

If you decide to walk, don’t forget to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 5: Jambiani – The Rock – Jozani Forest – Nungwi

After a few days on a more relaxed East Coast, head over to the North West Coast. To Nungwi or Kendwa, where you will find the best beaches on the island.

To maximize your time and transportation costs, instead of going directly, do a little sightseeing. Taxi drive from Jambiani to Nungwi lasts from 2 to 2,5 h, and costs from $50. I paid $70 because of the detours.

From Jambiani, firstly go to The Rock Restaurant. This is a tiny restaurant built on a rock in the Indian Ocean. During low tide you can walk to it and at high tide, you will be transferred there by boat. If you wish to dine there, make sure to book in advance! This is a popular spot!

After The Rock, stop at Jozani Forest. It is on the way to Nungwi and your driver will wait for you there. This is a national park where you will walk through the mangroves, learn about plants in the forest, and (hopefully) see the Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Fun fact about them is that they are unable to digest the sugars found in ripe fruit.

Continue to Nungwi, where you arrive just in time for sunset and dinner.

Nungwi is touristy and more things are going on.

Where to stay in Nungwi, Zanzibar:
There are many luxury resorts in Nungwi and Kendwa. One of the best is Z Hotel with an infinity pool on the beach! Amazing!
• I stayed in more budget-friendly accommodation, Makofi Guesthouse, with an amazing BBQ and the best burgers in Zanzibar. They are super close to the beach. They have nice little swings, a lovely common area, and a dedicated spot for digital nomads.

DAY 6: Nungwi & Dhow boat sunset cruise

Spend the day on one of the best beaches in Zanzibar. In Nungwi you can swim in the ocean the whole day. During low tide walk around the beach and count how many different starfish you will find.

For lunch, go to one of the local restaurants like Mama Africa, Kings Restaurant on the main street, or MJ cafe. At sunset go on a sunset cruise or go on a Z hotel rooftop and enjoy the view.

Watching a sunset in Nungwi is one of the must be included things in Zanzibar itinerary.

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 7: Mnemba atoll

Mnemba Atol is around 1h boat ride from Nungwi. Mnemba, a privately owned island, is considered to be the best diving and snorkeling spot in Zanzibar. At least that is what they say.

I visited Mnemba on a snorkeling tour and was not impressed. Firstly, I was put off by the tour on our way there since the boat drivers were chasing dolphins like it is a sort of competition. On Mnemba Island there were at least 50 other boats. Corals were mostly dead and there were not many fish. If you haven’t had a chance to see ‘corals’ or fish, go and see for yourself. But if you are coming here just because of that, I would skip it.

Mnemba Island is privately owned by andBeyond. The island is only accessible for exclusive guests staying in one of the 12 luxury bungalows. The maximum capacity of the island is 24 guests. Plus 2 staff members per guest. Celebrity guests who stayed here in the past, like Mick Jagger, Naomi Campbell, Paul McCartney, Tom Cruise, Bill Gates … can give you an idea of how exclusive it is.

If you decide to go diving, make sure to give yourself at least 24 h between your last dive and the time of flight!

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DAY 8: Nungwi village & Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond

Spend a day exploring Nungwi village and visit Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond. In this turtle sanctuary, you can learn about sea turtles, feed them, and swim with them. During low tide, you can get to the sanctuary on the beach, but at high tide, you will have to take the village roads.

🦁 “Which Disney movie did Anja watch first?” It was The Lion King, with Simba, Nala and Zazu.

DAY 9: Nungwi & Kendwa

Spend a day at Nungwi beach or walk to Kendwa, around 45 min – 1h walk. There is more of a resort feel in Kendwa. Spend a nice and relaxed day swimming. A lot is going on in Kendwa and Nungwi, so you can do as much as you want.

For some amazing tropical photos, book a transparent kayak photoshoot.

Or go on a relaxing massage, have a cooking class, watch people, buy some souvenirs … Enjoy your time by drinking cocktails and eating delicious food.  

When walking by the beach it is easy to forget how strong the sun is. Always wear a hat and sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 10: Spice tour – Prison Island – Stone Town

Today you are going to say goodbye to Nungwi and head back to Stone Town. this is the beginning of the last part of Zanzibar itinerary. To maximize your time and transportation costs, just like on Day 5, you will do sightseeing along the way.

You can not visit Zanzibar, or Spice Island, without visiting a Spice farm and a visit to Prison Island. Taxi drive from Nungwi to Stone Town lasts around 1 h, and costs from $50. I shared a taxi with 2 other travelers and paid $50, which included both of the tours and a transfer to historic Stone Town.  

Morning: After breakfast say goodbye to Nungwi and head to Stone Town. On the way down stop at the Spice farm. On a Spice farm, you will learn about the variety of spices that grow here and see why Zanzibar is called Spice Island. You will see how many of the spices grow, like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and learn about their usage and health benefits. I highly recommend this tour.

After the Spice tour, you will arrive in historic Stone Town. Here you will have time for a quick lunch before visiting Prison Island.

Afternoon: After lunch go to Prison Island, or Changuu Island. It is a short 30 min boat ride away from Stone Town and a popular day trip. Here you will learn about the history of the island (hint: it was NOT used as a prison, but for quarantine purposes). On Prison Island, you will also be able to see a population of Aldabra Giant Tortoises. They were brought to Zanzibar from Seychelles.

Evening: Have dinner at one of the best restaurants in town. I went to Cape Town Fish Market Zanzibar with an amazing ambiance, stunning sunset, and great seafood and sushi selection. Portions were the right size, food was fresh and delicious. Their wine selection was great and well worth the price. Another great option is to have a meal at 6 degrees South. They offer seafood, amazing steaks, and traditional Swahili dishes. 

Where to stay in Stone Town, Zanzibar:
UNESCO World Heritage Site Stone Town doesn’t lack amazing places to stay. From Freddie Mercury’s house to top-notch resorts, and the historic Zanzibari tea house.
• I have stayed opposite Freddie Mercury Museum, in Lost & Found. It is on a well lit street, and withing walking distance to Forodhani market, beach and Stone town alleys. Their beds are superb. Big and comfortable!

Just in case, so you won’t forget! Pin those.

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 11: Stone Town Itinerary & Forodhani market in the evening

Spend a day winding the streets of Stone Town. Stone Town is a historic center of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar. This fine example of an East African coastal trading town was added to UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Stone Town is also the birthplace of Queen lead singer, Farrokh Bulsara, known as Freddy Mercury.

Morning: If your accommodation is not serving breakfast, I highly recommend visiting Stone Town Cafe. It is right in the center, close to Freddy Mercury Museum, post, and currency exchange office. It is also close to Memories shop, where they sell souvenirs at fixed prices. No bargaining there.

After breakfast go on a guided walking tour of Stone Town. It will take around 2 hours and it costs $20. Tour is great and will take you to all must do Stone Town attractions. Among others you will visit the cathedral, Jews Corner, Old Slave Market, Darajani market, and Old Fort. 

Keep in mind that the majority (more than 99%) of the population is Muslim. So when in Stone Town, dress conservatively. Have your shoulders covered, don’t have cleavage, and cover your knees.

Afternoon: You can have lunch at well-known local Swahil restaurant Lukmaan’s, serving traditional Zanzibari food at affordable prices. Or you can stop at the top of Emerson Spice Tea House. Tea house offers amazing 360°panorama views, where you can see Prison Island, the old and the new Stone Town.

After lunch explore more hidden alleys of Stone Town. Take some more photos of famous Stone Town doors or relax on the beach and watch locals practicing their craft or playing soccer.

Evening: Have dinner at Forodhani Food Stalls. It is a food market that comes to life each night around 5 pm. They sell a variety of street food, from Zanzibar pancakes to seafood, grilled corn, and chicken. You can also get sugarcane juice or other types of juices. It is a nice experience but in my opinion, the prices are rather high for what you get. 

Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

DAY 12: Stone Town and Departure

This is last day in your Zanzibar itinerary. As you will see Zanzibar is a rather small island. It only takes a few hours to get from one side to another but for various reasons, I always stay close to the airport before the departure. Because you just never know.

Depending on your flight time, have a nice breakfast in one of the restaurants. If you have some time left after it, use this as time for last-minute souvenir shopping, or another walk in the Stone Town alleys. When it is time, grab a taxi, dala dala or tuk-tuk and make your way to the airport.

My flight out was in the evening hours (and postponed three times). So, after my breakfast at Stone Town Cafe, I did some more shopping and walked in the narrow alleys of Stone Town. then I took a tuk-tuk to Jungle Paradise Beach Resort & Spa where I spend the day as a day guest. After dinner, I grabbed boda boda to get to the airport. 

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Zanzibar itinerary Zanzibar

7. Final thoughts on How to spend 12 days in Zanzibar Itinerary

This Zanzibar itinerary is perfect for a first-time visitor to Zanzibar. It is a perfect combination of beaches, sightseeing, nature, and history. You will have enough time to relax and explore what Zanzibar Island has to offer. 

12 days in Zanzibar will be plenty of time for you to experience the vibe on various Zanzibar beaches. So you will be able to decide if you like the ones in the Southeast, like Jambiani, more or are the ones in the North, like Nungwi, a better option for you.

I am positive you will be amazed at how impressive the difference between low and high tide is. Despite that, I still prefer Jambiani Beach more than Nungwi.

This Zanzibar travel itinerary gives you enough time to experience Zanzibar’s animal world. From seeing Red Colobus monkeys, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling and seeing at least a dozen different starfish. You will also have the time to see sea turtles and Giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island.

You will have enough time to visit some of the must-do places on Zanzibar. Already mentioned Jozani Forest, learn about spices on a Spice tour, and to explore the streets of UNESCO Stone Town. You can see all the historical spots by following a Stone Town itinerary as described on day 11. 

7.1. Possible Zanzibar itinerary alternations

I would probably spend more time in Jambiani than in Nungwi. But you should experience both. Since this is a relaxed itinerary, you could see all the major sites in one week itinerary.

You can also shorten your days in Nungwi and add an extra day to Stone Town if you wish to visit Nakupenda island. Blue Safari and Nakupenda Islands have a very similar concept; sailing, snorkeling, and lunch on a sand bank.

If you are a fan of kitesurfing I would also extend my stay in Jambiani to get more kitesurfing or surfing lessons there.

If you don’t have 12 days to spare in Zanzibar and are wondering “How long to stay in Zanzibar?” I would say, to have at least one week in Zanzibar, and if you are coming to the island after a safari, try to get in an extra two.

Regardless of how many days in Zanzibar itinerary you have planned, make sure that you enjoy every moment watching the beautiful turquoise water of the Indian Ocean.

Hakuna Matata,
Anja

8. BONUS: Zanzibar travel planning guide

8.1. Do I need travel insurance for Zanzibar?

YES
Enjoy peace of mind on your travels with a plan from SafetyWing. You can choose between monthly coverage or insurance for specific travel dates. They are one of the biggest names in the travel insurance world, and also give you the option to get insured while already abroad! Stay and be safe!

8.2. Do I need to book my accommodation in advance?

NO, BUT IT IS RECOMMENDED
There is plenty of accommodation options in Zanzibar. During shoulder and low season, there is no need to prebook. But to avoid any unwanted stress, I would recommend booking places to stay before you arrive in the summer. Booking.com has a great feature on some stays, where you can reserve your room and cancel it for free if your plans change.

8.3. Will my phone work in Zanzibar?

MAYBE
It depends on your mobile provider and the plan you are on. I would say that the WiFi on this tropical island is really good. You can buy a local Sim card once there or travel carefree and buy an Airalo eSim before your travels.

8.4. Is it safe to rent a car in Zanzibar?

YES
Renting a car in Zanzibar is safe with some precautions. Check the rates at Discover Cars to make sure renting pays off. It depends on how much of an explorer you are, but I have found no need to have a car.

8.5. Do I have to book tours in Zanzibar before I arrive?

NOT NECESSARILY
You can explore areas of Zanzibar without a tour, like Jambiani, Paje, Nungwi, and Kendwa. You can go to Jozani Forest with a taxi, but will get their guide when you purchase an entrance ticket. For others like Spice Tour, Mnemba Island, Prison Island, Nakupenda, I would book a tour. One tour you have to book, is a Stone town walking tour! You will learn and see a lot!

Viator offers similar tours in Zanzibar than GetYourGuide.

➤ What you should read next …

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🗨 FAQ related to Zanzibar itinerary

For more Zanzibar travel tips, Zanzibar itinerary ideas, like Zanzibar 1 week itinerary, and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

For more travel Zanzibar tips, Zanzibar itinerary ideas, like 2 week itinerary Zanzibar, and things to do in Zanzibar visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester.

Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me.