Zanzibar Travel & Holidays
The Jewel of the Indian Ocean
Zanzibar is the place where you slow down. After the dust, wildlife and early mornings of safari, the island invites you to walk barefoot across soft white sand, listen to the Indian Ocean and watch traditional dhow boats drift across the horizon.
With Shemeji Safari, your Zanzibar holiday is planned by people who know the country from the inside. As a Dutch-Tanzanian family-owned tour operator based in Arusha, we help you create a journey that reflects your interests, whether you are looking for authentic cultural experiences, unforgettable wildlife encounters or a varied itinerary filled with adventure.
Swimming with sea turtles in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but it is also home to some amazing marine life.
Jozani Forest
In the south of Zanzibar Island, Jozani Forest is a place full of wonders and delight, with stories of leopards, medicinal cures, and breathtaking landscapes.
Swim With Dolphins Tours
The south coast of Zanzibar, particularly the Kizimkazi area, offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature.
Mnemba Snorkelling
Embark on an unforgettable adventure around the renowned Mnemba Island, a destination so enchanting
Safari Blue Tour
Enjoy an unforgettable day aboard a traditional Arab dhow, sailing across cobalt-blue waters.
Prison Island Tour
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, gets its name from the prison originally built to isolate Zanzibar’s citizens on this island.
Spice Tour
Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island” due to its export of cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cardamom to the world.
Stonetown Tour
Step into the rich history of Zanzibar as you wander through the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town
Why visit Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers a unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty. From the winding alleys of Stone Town and centuries of trading history to traditional fishing villages and vibrant local markets, the island provides experiences that go far beyond its coastline.
Zanzibar is a strong choice for travelers who want relaxation, culture and ocean views in one destination. The island works beautifully as a beach holiday on its own, but it is especially powerful as the final part of a safari.
Many travelers add Zanzibar after one of Shemeji Safari’s safari journeys, trading game drives and open plains for warm ocean air, palm-lined beaches and slower days by the coast.
What makes Zanzibar unique
Zanzibar is more than a beach destination. The island combines white-sand beaches, historic streets, spice farms, Swahili culture and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
White sand beaches
Zanzibar is known for soft white beaches, clear blue water and a relaxed island atmosphere. The best beach area depends on your travel style, the season and whether you prefer quiet coastal days or more activity nearby.
Stone Town and culture
Stone Town gives Zanzibar its cultural depth. Its narrow streets, historic buildings, lively markets and waterfront make it a meaningful contrast to the island’s beach resorts.
Marine life and ocean activities
Zanzibar offers many ocean-based experiences, from snorkeling and boat trips to reef visits and relaxed days on the water. You can add suitable activities in Zanzibar depending on your route, interests and travel pace.
Spices, food and locallife
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island for good reason. Spice farms, local food and village life help travelers experience more of the island than its beaches alone.
Where to stay in Zanzibar
Choosing where to stay in Zanzibar depends on the kind of island experience you want. Some areas are better for quiet beach time, while others are more suitable for culture, ocean activities, families or honeymoon-style travel.
Because Shemeji Safari works from Arusha with a local team on the ground, we help match your Zanzibar stay to the rest of your journey. Your accommodation should fit your arrival time, safari route, travel rhythm and preferred comfort level, not just look good in photos.
You can explore Shemeji Safari’s selected accommodations for inspiration while planning your island stay.
Zanzibar weather and best time to visit
Zanzibar weather is generally warm and tropical throughout the year, but the experience can change depending on the season. Rain, humidity, wind and ocean conditions can influence the best time for your Zanzibar holiday.
Dry season
The dry season in Zanzibar is often a popular time for beach holidays because conditions are usually pleasant for relaxing by the ocean. It also works well for many travelers who want to combine Zanzibar with a safari.
Green season
The green season in Zanzibar can bring more rain, but also quieter travel periods and fresh tropical landscapes. A Zanzibar holiday during this period can still work well when your expectations and itinerary are planned carefully.
Best months for beach holidays
The best months for a Zanzibar beach holiday depend on whether you prefer drier weather, quieter beaches or a combination with safari. Shemeji Safari can help match your travel dates with the right island stay and wider safari route.
When to combine Zanzibar with safari
Zanzibar combines well with safari throughout much of the year. Many travelers first visit Tanzania’s national parks and then continue with a Tanzania and Zanzibar holiday for a relaxing end to their journey.
Things to do in Zanzibar
Zanzibar can be as peaceful or active as you want it to be. You can spend slow days by the ocean, explore Stone Town, visit spice farms, join a boat trip or add snorkeling and other ocean activities.
The best activities depend on where you stay, how many days you have and how much structure you want in your island stay. For a wider overview, you can view Shemeji Safari’s activities in Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Combine Zanzibar with a safari
One of the most rewarding ways to experience Africa is to combine safari with Zanzibar. After early mornings, wildlife sightings and days spent moving through national parks, the island gives you space to breathe, rest and enjoy the ocean.
This combination is especially popular with honeymooners, families and first-time travelers who want both adventure and beach time in one journey. Shemeji Safari offers several beach and safari packages that connect mainland Tanzania with Zanzibar.
Meet the local team behind your Zanzibar holiday
A Zanzibar holiday is not only about choosing a beach. It is about understanding how the island fits into your full journey.
Our team helps you decide when to add Zanzibar, how many nights to stay, which area fits your travel style and which activities are worth including. Because we work locally in Arusha, we understand the practical details that make a journey feel smooth, from safari connections to island transfers and travel pace.
With Shemeji Safari, Zanzibar does not feel like a loose add-on. It becomes a natural part of your African experience.
Popular Zanzibar holidays
Zanzibar holidays can be planned in different ways. Some travelers focus fully on the island, while others add Zanzibar after a safari in northern or southern Tanzania.
- Beach holidays in Zanzibar
- Family holidays in Zanzibar
- Cultural and beach holidays
- Safari and Zanzibar combinations
- Luxury island stays
- Honeymoon-style travel
If you want to compare different options, Shemeji Safari’s Zanzibar packages give a clear starting point.
Why travel to Zanzibar with Shemeji Safari
Shemeji Safari is a Dutch-Tanzanian family-owned tour operator based in Arusha. We help travelers combine local knowledge, personal service and carefully planned travel options into one smooth journey.
Our strength is that we are directly involved in the travel experience. With our own safari vehicles, own lodges and local team in Arusha, we can keep a closer eye on quality, comfort and service throughout your journey.
For Zanzibar, we help you choose the right island stay, plan activities that fit your pace and connect your beach days logically with your safari or wider safari trip.
- Dutch-Tanzanian family-owned tour operator
- Local team based in Arusha
- Tailor-made Zanzibar holidays
- Safari and beach combinations
- Own safari vehicles and local operations
- Own lodges and direct quality control
- Personal travel advice before and during your journey
- 5/5 score on TripAdvisor with 170+ reviews
You can also read previous guest experiences on the traveller reviews page.
Start planning your Zanzibar holiday
Whether Zanzibar is your main destination or the relaxing end of your safari, Shemeji Safari can help you plan a journey that fits your travel style.
Tell us when you want to travel, who you are traveling with and what kind of island experience you are looking for. We will help you create a Zanzibar itinerary that feels personal, realistic and connected to the rest of your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zanzibar
Is Zanzibar worth visiting?
Yes, Zanzibar is worth visiting if you want beaches, culture, ocean activities and a relaxed island atmosphere. Zanzibar is a strong choice because it gives you time to slow down by the ocean.
What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
The best time to visit Zanzibar depends on your preferred weather and travel plans. Many travelers choose drier months, especially when combining Zanzibar with safari in mainland Tanzania.
What is the weather like in Zanzibar?
The weather in Zanzibar is generally warm, tropical and suitable for beach holidays throughout the year. Rainfall, humidity and wind conditions can vary by season, so the best period depends on your travel expectations.
How many days should I stay in Zanzibar?
You should stay in Zanzibar for around 4 to 7 days if you want a relaxed beach extension after safari. A longer Zanzibar stay gives more time for culture, activities and slower beach days.
Is Zanzibar suitable for families?
Yes, Zanzibar is suitable for families when the accommodation, beach area and travel pace are chosen carefully. A tailor-made Zanzibar holiday helps make the journey comfortable for children and adults.
Is Zanzibar good for a honeymoon?
Yes, Zanzibar is good for a honeymoon because it combines beaches, private stays, ocean views and easy links with a Tanzania safari. This makes Zanzibar a strong choice for couples who want both adventure and relaxation.
Shaba Boutique Hotel ****
Nestled in the heart of Stone Town, Shaba Boutique Hotel offers an authentic and welcoming bed and breakfast experience, perfect for travellers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.
Dream of Zanzibar Resort *****
Dream of Zanzibar redefines luxury with its boutique-style and premium all-inclusive resort, located on the unspoiled white sands of Uroa Beach, along Zanzibar’s east coast.
Zanzibar Bay Resort ****
Located next to Paradise Beach Resort, Zanzibar Bay Resort offers 104 rooms in a serene and relaxed seaside environment.
Paradise Beach Resort ****
Situated in Marumbi, on a pristine white beach, offering charming accommodation in traditional African style.
Reef & Beach Resort ****
Tucked between the charming villages of Jambiani and Makunduchi, Reef & Beach Resort is the perfect spot for an unforgettable getaway.