Crystal waters, white sand beaches, UNESCO Stone Town, and the world's finest diving — the perfect safari beach extension.
Zanzibar Island is one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in East Africa, located off the coast of mainland Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. It’s famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, rich history, and unique blend of African, Arab, and European cultures.
Beyond its historical charm, Zanzibar offers some of the most pristine coastal scenery in the Indian Ocean. The beaches stretch for miles, lined with palm trees and soft white sand, while the warm turquoise waters invite swimming, snorkeling, and diving. On the northern coast, places like Nungwi Beach and Kendwa Beach provide calm waters and lively atmospheres, whereas the eastern side, including Paje Beach, is more tranquil and known for water sports like kitesurfing. The changing tides on the east coast also reveal fascinating marine life, making it ideal for beach walks and exploration.
Nature lovers will find Zanzibar equally rewarding. The island is home to unique ecosystems, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and tropical woodlands. A visit to Jozani Forest offers a chance to encounter the rare red colobus monkeys, found only in Zanzibar. Meanwhile, the southern village of Kizimkazi is famous for dolphin tours, where visitors can experience these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Snorkeling and diving excursions reveal colorful coral gardens teeming with fish, making Zanzibar a paradise for marine enthusiasts.
World-class diving and snorkelling with turtles, dolphins, and 500+ reef fish species in the bluest water imaginable.
UNESCO World Heritage Site — labyrinthine streets, carved wooden doors, and the historic slave market.
Year-round dolphin watching at Kizimkazi — spinner and humpback dolphins in the channel.
The original Spice Island — taste and smell cloves, vanilla, cardamom, and cinnamon at a working plantation.
Giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old, living on the historic quarantine island.
Best weather — sunny, dry, perfect visibility underwater. Most popular months. Book accommodation early.
Excellent weather returns after the short rains. Busy over Christmas/New Year. Whale sharks present Oct–Mar.
Heavy rains, rough seas, many resorts close. Budget prices. Stone Town exploration still enjoyable.
Perfect post-safari retreat — north coast beach resort, snorkelling, Stone Town tour, sunset dhow cruise
View Package →3-day Northern Circuit safari + 4-day Zanzibar extension — the ultimate Tanzania experience
View Package →UNESCO Stone Town, spice farm, dolphin tour, Prison Island — the cultural Zanzibar experience
View Package →45-minute flight from Dar es Salaam (multiple airlines, from $80 one-way) or 2-hour high-speed ferry from Dar. Flights also from Kilimanjaro and Arusha airports (1-hour, from $120). SAT arranges all transfers.
No national park fees. Marine park levy applies for Mnemba Atoll diving/snorkelling ($19/person). Stone Town is free to explore.
North coast: Nungwi Beach Resort, Essque Zalu (luxury), Z Hotel · East coast: Paje by Night, Dongwe Ocean View · Stone Town: Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Emerson Spice.
Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll · PADI scuba diving courses · Spice farm tours · Stone Town historical walking tour · Dolphin tour (Kizimkazi) · Prison Island tortoises · Sunset dhow cruise · Jozani Forest (red colobus monkeys).
Post-safari beach relaxation, honeymooners, divers and snorkellers, cultural travellers, families with older children, solo travellers.
Talk to one of our specialists. Every itinerary is tailor-made, and our team is available 7 days a week.