Zanzibar Hotels

Top reasons to visit Zanzibar

• Stunning Beaches: Zanzibar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, exploring historic sites and enjoying traditional performances.
• Adventure Activities: Embark on thrilling safari trips and captivating travel tours to experience the region's stunning wildlife.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to luxurious resorts, catering to all types of travellers.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Zanzibar is perfect for families, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation for all ages.

Find great hotels near Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a delightful array of accommodations, ranging from charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to families, business travellers, and beach enthusiasts alike. Whether you're seeking the best Zanzibar hotels, the exquisite Zuri Zanzibar, or renowned resorts in the area, you'll find plenty of options. With a wealth of hotel reviews available, planning your perfect getaway has never been easier.

• Tembo House Hotel: Nestled 14km from Zanzibar, the 4-star Tembo House Hotel offers a unique blend of beach and hot spring experiences, making it ideal for families seeking relaxation. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy the soothing ambiance of natural hot springs located nearby. Family-friendly amenities such as window guards, a foosball table, and a shared playground ensure children are entertained while adults unwind. The hotel’s warm hospitality and comfortable lodging create an inviting atmosphere for a memorable vacation.
• Paradise Beach Resort: Located 16km away from Zanzibar, the 3-star Paradise Beach Resort caters to adventure-loving families with its vibrant beach setting. Guests can indulge in an array of recreational activities, including snorkelling right on-site, as well as fishing, horse riding, and windsurfing nearby. The resort is equipped with facilities for children, including a dedicated kids' pool and a children’s club, making it a delightful choice for families. Its relaxed vibe and engaging activities offer a perfect backdrop for a fun-filled getaway.
• Antonio Beach Hotel and Spa: Just 14km from Zanzibar, the 3-star Antonio Beach Hotel and Spa combines beach leisure with a wellness retreat. The property boasts direct beach access and offers a variety of adventure sports such as hiking, fishing, and snorkelling. A full spa is available on-site, featuring treatments designed for relaxation, including couples’ massage and body scrubs. With its tranquil atmosphere and extensive facilities, this hotel is a splendid choice for those wishing to rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Where to stay near Zanzibar

Embarking on a holiday to Zanzibar promises a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the enchanting Zanzibar Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and welcoming atmosphere. Unwind at luxurious beach resorts or discover the best beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture, all while enjoying the friendly spirit of the local communities. Whether seeking a secluded escape or a family-friendly adventure, Zanzibar offers an unforgettable vacation experience.

• Zanzibar Town: Situated approximately 13km from the main island, Zanzibar Town is a vibrant city that combines rich cultural heritage with stunning coastal beauty. The city experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peaks in January to February and July. Travellers are drawn to its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions. Popular activities include indulging in water sports, enjoying theatrical performances, and relaxing at luxurious resorts. Local landmarks such as stunning beaches, lush parks, and the historic Stone Town offer ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
• Unguja: Located around 8km from Zanzibar, Unguja is a picturesque island renowned for its breathtaking beaches and outdoor adventures. This idyllic destination welcomes tourists throughout the year, with peak visitation occurring in January to February and September. Visitors flock to Unguja for thrilling water sports, exquisite resorts, and fun-filled amusement parks. The island's natural beauty is complemented by its inviting beaches and serene parks, making it an ideal escape for adventurers and beach lovers alike.
• Kibele: Only 2km from Zanzibar, Kibele is a charming city that offers a laid-back atmosphere with a focus on beach relaxation. Although the number of visitors remains consistent throughout the year, the peak season runs from December to February. Travellers come to soak up the sun on beautiful beaches and explore nearby islands. Kibele's proximity to Zanzibar allows for easy access to both urban experiences and tranquil coastal retreats, making it a delightful stop on your Zanzibar adventure.

Things to do in Zanzibar

Shopping

Located in Stone Town, Darajani Market offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with local crafts, spices, and fresh produce. For a more contemporary experience, head to the Zanzibar Mall, where you'll find various shops and eateries, providing a nice blend of local and international offerings.

Recreation

In Zanzibar, the Zuri Zanzibar Resort offers holistic wellness experiences with beachfront yoga and soothing spa treatments inspired by local traditions. At the Mvua African Rain Spa, immerse yourself in rejuvenating therapies surrounded by lush gardens, allowing for relaxation and a deeper connection to nature.

Adventure

Explore the pristine beaches of Nungwi and indulge in snorkelling or diving among vibrant coral reefs. For thrill-seekers, a kite surfing lesson at Paje Beach offers exhilarating experiences on the water, while a sunset dhow cruise provides a serene end to your adventurous day.

Nightlife

Zanzibar's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens offering local street food and lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, Tatu Restaurant features a mix of contemporary dining and music, while Kendwa Rocks hosts beach parties with DJs and bonfires, creating an unforgettable coastal experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Zanzibar

To save money on your trip to Zanzibar, consider visiting between March and May when prices are lower. Book hotels about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, focusing on eco-friendly options. Combining accommodation with flights and activities can also yield significant savings. Lastly, explore free activities to maximise your experience without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Zanzibar are March to May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Zanzibar is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Zanzibar is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Zanzibar is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Zanzibar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an ideal destination for beach and outdoor family vacations, offering a rich blend of culture and adventure. Visitors can explore historic sites, lush forests, and charming farms, providing a diverse range of experiences. A must-visit is Zanzibar City, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying various attractions and activities that cater to all interests.

• Siso Spice Farm: Located 14km from Zanzibar, Siso Spice Farm offers a sensory journey through the fragrant world of spices. Visitors can explore lush plantations, learn about the cultivation of various spices, and indulge in tastings that highlight the rich culinary heritage of the region.
• Slave Market: This historic site, also 14km away, provides a poignant glimpse into Zanzibar’s past. The Slave Market holds cultural significance, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical trade and its impact on the island's community.
• Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: Just 11km from Zanzibar, this verdant forest beckons adventurers with its diverse ecosystems. Visitors can embark on guided walks through mangroves and observe unique wildlife, including the endemic Red Colobus monkey.

Best time to go to Zanzibar

The best time to visit Zanzibar is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Zanzibar

Flying into Zanzibar is convenient with Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), located 11km from the city. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, just 2km away, offering transport services including a free airport shuttle. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel and Park Hyatt Zanzibar, both 8km from the airport, provide various shuttle options, including 24-hour services for a fee. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, approximately 76km away, with luxury accommodations such as Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel and Hyatt Regency Dar Es Salaam, both offering shuttle services to the airport.