Island, Zoo, Sandy beach, For kids

Prison Island, known as Changuu in Swahili, is a small island near Stone Town. Its main attraction is the colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, but you’ll also see historic buildings and a small beach. In my view, Prison Island is a pleasant half-day trip, not a place I’d travel all the way across Zanzibar for. It makes the most sense if you’re staying in Stone Town or as part of a full-day boat trip to Nakupenda Sandbank. [btn "Compare trips to…

Sandy beach, Cave, Mosque

Kizimkazi, in the very south of Zanzibar, is not a typical seaside resort with a long beach, a promenade and dozens of restaurants. It is a sprawling area of fishing villages, small hotels and a few secluded resorts, about 53 km from Stone Town. Most people come here for morning trips to see wild dolphins. For me, however, what I like most about Kizimkazi is the tranquillity, the sunsets and the atmosphere, which is significantly less touristy…

Cave, Sandy beach

About 25 kilometres north of Stone Town is the village of Mangapwani with a beautiful clean beach and several caves. The name of the village means "Arabian Coast" and probably refers to one of the caves, which is actually a man-made cavern that was used to hide slaves after the trade with Oman was outlawed in 1845. [btn "View the best beach hotels in Zanzibar" https://www.booking.com/beach/region/tz/zanzibar.en.html?aid=2380460;label=p-zanzibar…

Resort, Sandy beach

I would recommend Jambiani to travellers who are looking for a long beach, a quieter atmosphere and a glimpse into everyday life in Zanzibar. Small hotels and restaurants line the coast, whilst just a few streets away the local village continues. Don’t expect the usual kind of swimming from morning till night, though. At low tide, the sea recedes hundreds of metres and the beach transforms into a vast sandy plain dotted with small pools,…

Sandy beach

The beautiful, palm-fringed beach around the fishing village of Matemwe is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more local holiday destination. I would choose Matemwe mainly if you’re looking for peace and quiet, a small boutique hotel and an easy trip to Mnemba Atoll. I wouldn’t choose it for swimming at any time of day, lively evenings or a wide choice of restaurants. At low tide, the sea here recedes hundreds of metres from the shore. …

Sandy beach

Bwejuu is a quiet village on the south-eastern coast of Zanzibar, which flows seamlessly into the much busier town of Paje. It offers a beach of the same length, but fewer hotels, vendors and tourists. I’d choose Bwejuu if you want to stay in a more local setting whilst remaining close to the restaurants, bars and kitesurfing in Paje. I wouldn’t choose it for a comfortable, all-inclusive resort holiday, nor for swimming regardless of the tide.…

Sandy beach, Island, For kids

Nakupenda Sandbank is a sandbank in the middle of the sea, not far from Stone Town. At low tide, it forms a spacious beach with fine white sand, whilst at high tide it shrinks considerably and much of it disappears beneath the surface of the water. I’d recommend a trip there mainly for the beautiful colour of the sea, a swim and lunch on the sand. However, don’t expect a deserted island or top-class snorkelling. Nakupenda is one of the most…

Resort, Sandy beach, Zoo

Nungwi is the northernmost and, in my opinion, one of the best resorts in the whole of Zanzibar. The town offers the best shopping, excellent resorts and budget-friendly small hotels. Here, you can experience authentic local life in the poorer (but safe) neighbourhoods, visit several animal farms and enjoy a huge range of excursions and water sports. [btn "Compare prices for holidays in Zanzibar" http://cestujlevne.com/zajezdy/tanzanie…

Resort, Sandy beach

Kendwa is a resort in the north of the island, near the larger town of Nungwi, and is one of Zanzibar’s most luxurious holiday destinations. The local beach is definitely the most beautiful I’ve visited in Zanzibar, and you can swim in the sea even at low tide, unlike on the beaches along the east coast. You’ll also find some excellent 5* resorts in Kendwa. [btn "Compare prices for holidays in Zanzibar" http://cestujlevne.com/zajezdy/tanzanie…

Sandy beach

Pwani Mchangani is a peaceful resort on the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar, between Matemwe and Kiwengwa. When I visited Pwani Mchangani, it struck me as a good compromise between the two neighbouring areas. It has more traditional beach resorts than Matemwe, but is significantly quieter and less built-up than Kiwengwa. I’d choose it for a relaxing resort holiday, long walks along the beach and trips to Mnemba Atoll. On the other hand, it…

Resort, Sandy beach

Kiwengwa is the largest and, in my opinion, the most beautiful resort on the northern half of Zanzibar’s east coast. Of all the surrounding resorts, it has the best facilities, including services such as mini-markets, cash machines and restaurants, as well as the most beautiful beach. [btn "Compare prices for holidays in Zanzibar" http://cestujlevne.com/zajezdy/tanzanie/zanzibar?gad=p-zanzibar-kiwengwa] What I liked about Kiwengwa: …

Sandy beach

The small resort of Pongwe lies just about 5 km south of Kiwengwa, one of the main beaches on the north-east coast. In Pongwe, it is as if time has stood still – life here flows at a very leisurely pace, and the relaxed atmosphere is enhanced by the wide, horseshoe-shaped sandy beach fringed with palm trees. [btn "View the best beach hotels in Zanzibar" https://www.booking.com/beach/city/tz/pongwe.en.html?aid=2380460;label=p-zanzibar-pongwe] …

Resort, Sandy beach

In my opinion, Paje is the best choice on the east coast of Zanzibar for those who want to combine the beach with restaurants, bars, excursions and kitesurfing. It is a lively resort where you’ll meet independent travellers, young people and visitors staying in high-quality boutique hotels. Unlike purely resort-style areas, you can go somewhere different every evening and aren’t restricted to the facilities of a single hotel. The biggest…

Sandy beach

Dongwe is a very peaceful resort on the south-eastern coast of Zanzibar. You’ll find almost nothing but hotels and resorts here, making Dongwe the ideal spot for a carefree week of relaxation by the sea. [btn "View the best beach hotels in Zanzibar" https://www.booking.com/beach/region/tz/zanzibar.en.html?aid=2380460;label=p-zanzibar-dongwe] I recommend Dongwe if you’re looking for: a quiet, long beach without crowds a high-quality resort…

Sandy beach, Cliff, The Cove

Zanzibar is famous for its endless beaches, which stretch for many tens of kilometres along the entire coastline. But even here you’ll find secret, romantic beaches tucked away amongst picturesque cliffs. Head to the very south of Zanzibar, where you’ll discover the bustling yet beautiful Mtende Beach. Don’t expect a secluded beach or a spot for a leisurely day’s swimming, though. Mtende is well-known; organised day trips arrive here during…