Insider Tips for a Luxury Stay in Zanzibar

If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning a trip to Zanzibar. Good choice! Zanzibar is Africa’s own Hawai, where you can live like a king or queen, without breaking the bank.

Zanzibar was one of Africa’s most visited places in 2023, bringing in millions of tourists who wanted an unforgettable luxury nature experience right near the jungle and the beaches, away from Western life.

Your first tip? Don’t miss out on the beautiful Pemba Island. After over 4 decades of work as a tour guide in Zanzibar, I’ll be sharing my top insider tips for a luxury stay in Zanzibar.

It’s a paradise for scuba diving, beach vacations, African safari, forest tours, and a haven for nature lovers. But hold on, there’s more to come!

Insider Tips for a Luxurious Stay in Zanzibar

Pick the Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar is a tropical paradise, so it’s warm all year round. But if you want to make the most of your visit, consider coming between June and October. The weather is dry and sunny, perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.

Plus, this is when Zanzibar hosts some of its most vibrant local events, like the Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Eid celebrations.

And here’s a tip: book your accommodations and activities in advance to get the best deals!

Go for the more Unique Aspects of Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is more than just a tropical paradise. Its rich history and culture set it apart. The island has been a melting pot of African, Arab, and European influences for centuries.

Let’s explore the unique aspects of Zanzibar that make it a top choice for luxury travel:

Stone Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. The city is a living testament to Zanzibar’s rich history, with its winding alleys, bustling bazaars, and grand palaces.

Insider’s tip: Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sultan’s Palace and the Old Fort. And remember, the best way to explore Stone Town is on foot, so wear comfortable shoes!

Spice Tours: Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island (a family island perfect for all ages), and for good reason.

The island is home to numerous spice farms where you can learn about the cultivation and uses of various spices.

Insider’s tip: These tours often include a traditional Swahili lunch, so make sure you go on an empty stomach!

Beaches: Zanzibar’s beaches are some of the best in the world.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, go snorkeling, or try out water sports, there’s a beach for you.

Insider’s tip: Nungwi and Kendwa beaches are known for their stunning sunsets. Make sure to stick around in the evening to catch one!

Jozani Forest: This is the last sanctuary in the world for the Zanzibar red colobus monkey. A walk through this lush forest is a great way to connect with nature.

Insider’s tip: The forest is also home to a beautiful mangrove boardwalk. Don’t miss it!

Local Cuisine: Zanzibar’s food culture combines African, Arab, and European influences. Trying the local cuisine is a must.

Insider’s tip: For a truly unique dining experience, visit The Rock restaurant. It’s located on a rock in the middle of the sea and offers stunning views along with delicious food.

We found you the Best Luxury accommodation

If you experience the right luxury hotels, you’ll never ever forget your time in Zanzibar. The perfect vacation is the term you will use. Let’s take a virtual tour of some of Zanzibar’s top luxury hotels:

Park Hyatt, Stone Town:

This hotel is a favorite among travelers for its elegant rooms and excellent service.

Located in the heart of Stone Town, it offers easy access to local attractions. The hotel’s architecture beautifully blends Zanzibari traditions with modern comforts.

Insider’s tip: Ask for a room with a view of the Indian Ocean. The sight of the sun setting over the sea is truly breathtaking. Waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the Indian Ocean is an experience you won’t forget.

Zuri Zanzibar, Kendwa:

If you prefer to stay by the beach, Zuri Zanzibar in Kendwa is a great choice. It offers stunning ocean views, private beach access, and a variety of dining options.

The hotel’s design is inspired by the natural beauty of Zanzibar, creating a tranquil and luxurious atmosphere.

Insider’s tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at their beach restaurant for a romantic dinner under the stars.

Boutique Hotel Matlai, Michamvi:

This hotel is known for its cozy rooms and delightful property. It’s located on the beach, offering villas with infinity pools and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean1.

Insider’s tip: Try their seafood, it’s fresh from the ocean and prepared with local spices.

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa, Paje:

This hotel is a part of the Relais & Chateaux collection and is located on the pristine beach of Paje. It features a spa, 2 restaurants, 3 bars, and a kite surfing center.

This hotel is a haven for relaxation. The spa offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. The beachfront villas offer direct access to the beach— perfect for a moonlit stroll.

Insider’s tip: Book a beachfront villa for direct access to the beach and enjoy a private dinner on your patio.

Some insider tips on getting the best rooms and services in Zanzibar:

Book in Advance: The best rooms often get booked up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. So, book your room well in advance to secure your preferred choice.
Ask for What You Want: Don’t hesitate to ask for what you want. Whether it’s a room with a sea view, a late check-out, or a special meal, most hotels are happy to accommodate your requests if they can.
Leverage Off-Peak Times: If your travel dates are flexible, consider visiting during off-peak times. Not only are the rates often lower, but hotels are also less crowded, meaning you might get upgraded to a better room.
Research Amenities: Look into the amenities offered by the hotel. Facilities like a spa, private beach access, or a personal butler can elevate your luxury experience.
Check Reviews: Look at reviews from other travelers. They often share useful tips about the rooms, the service, and the overall experience at the hotel.

Go Luxury Shopping

Shopping in Stone Town is an experience in itself. Here are some insider tips to make the most of your shopping experience:

Explore the Darajani Bazaar: This is the main market in Stone Town and a great place to buy spices, which Zanzibar is famous for. The market can be a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t be shy to ask for help.

The locals are usually more than happy to guide you.

Visit Local Art Galleries: Stone Town is home to several art galleries where you can find unique pieces of art. The Beautiful Eyes and Hurumzi Henna Art Gallery are worth a visit.
Check Out Speciality Shops: Several specialty shops in Stone Town offer unique items. The Coins Shop, for example, sells jewelry made from coins from all over the world1. Another interesting shop is the Smoke Shop, which offers a large variety of products.
Bargain: Bargaining is a common practice in Zanzibar. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price, especially in the markets. However, remember to keep it respectful and friendly.
Buy Tanzanite Jewelry: Tanzanite is a blue-violet gemstone that is only found in Tanzania (Discover more exclusive experiences in Tanzania). It makes for a great souvenir or gift. There are several shops in Stone Town where you can buy Tanzanite jewelry.
Support Local Businesses: Many shops in Stone Town sell items made by local artisans. By buying from these shops, you’re supporting the local economy and taking home a piece of Zanzibar with you.

Pemba Island:

Pemba Island is a gem that offers a unique luxury experience. Here are some insider tips:

Stay at Luxury Resorts: Pemba Island is home to some truly luxurious resorts. The Manta Resort is a great place to stay. It’s known for its underwater room where you can sleep surrounded by incredible marine life.

Another great option is the Aiyana Resort, which blends perfectly with the natural splendor of the island.

Scuba Diving: Pemba Island offers some of the best scuba diving spots. The Pemba Channel has over 320 coral species where you can see a mesmerizing variety of marine life.

If you’re new to scuba diving, the Swahili Divers dive center (East Africa’s first dive center), offers courses for beginners right up to advanced divers.

Ngezi Forest Tour: If you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll love the Ngezi forest tour4. The forest is home to various bird species and is a great place to connect with nature.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying the local cuisine. Seafood is a must-try. Many resorts offer beachfront dining for a truly luxurious experience.
Traveling in Pemba: Traveling in Pemba is discovering untouched territory. Villagers are eager to talk to anyone who passes and small children will give you their biggest smiles as they yell “bye-bye!” as you pass them by.

Remember, the key to a great trip is to plan, be open to new experiences, and take the time to enjoy the beauty and culture of Pemba Island. Happy travels!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my insider tips for a luxury stay in Zanzibar. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy every moment. Zanzibar is a beautiful place with a lot to offer.

So go ahead, plan your trip, and experience the luxury of Zanzibar and Pemba Island for yourself. Safe travels!