7 Insider Secrets for the Perfect Holidays in Zanzibar
Talk to the world’s great divers who’ve been to Africa, they’ll all tell you that Zanzibar is one of the best dive locations in the world.
It’s why the Tanzanian archipelago recorded over 68,000 international vitors in January 2023 alone.
Zanzibar gurantees heartwarming experiences that will make you come back year after year - and with the holiday secrets I’m about to share, get ready for time of your life.
The beaches? Miles of fine, soft, powder-white sand lapped by the warm Indian Ocean. The water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming below your feet.
In this blog post, I'’ll share with you 7 insider secrets for the perfect holidays in Zanzibar – secrets I've gathered from over 4 decades as a tour guide living on the Island and helping people discover it’s beauty.
7 Secrets for the Perfect Holidays in Zanzibar
Ready for it?
I’ll be sharing secrets that I often reserve for my holiday clients and scuba divers. These simple tips I reveal have changed “ordinary” trips into unforgettable experiences for many people visiting even for the 3rd time.
I hope you can use them for your next vacation in Zanzibar.
1. Leave The Unbeaten Path, Visit Pemba Island: A Hidden Paradise
The first insider secret I often share with visitors is to do what most people won’t do, which is to leave the Unbeaten path of Zanzibar.
Don't just stick to the tourist hotspots. There are many hidden gems to be discovered on Zanzibar. I encourage friends to visit the village of Kizimkazi, to swim with dolphins, or the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, where you can see red colobus monkeys.
While people crowd on Zanzibar’s beaches and resorts, I take my friends to the much quieter Island of Pemba in Tanzania, where they enjoy tranquility, much better dive experiences and can of course escape the busy steets/pushy salespeople of Zanzibar.
If you truly want to experience something off the beaten path, don't miss the opportunity to explore Pemba Island, Zanzibar’s much quieter cousin Island.
When you visit, make sure to take a traditional dhow sailing trip in Chake Chake Bay, where you can snorkel or scuba dive in some of the most unspoiled coral reefs I've ever seen.
The real secret to enjoying your holidays in Zanzibar is to explore the underwater world on Pemba Island (Scuba diving, freediving and snorkeling excursions are common).
In 40+ years of diving, I’ve never seen waters so clear and clean anywhere else in the world. It’s the best place to really see amazing marine life unfold.
2. Visit during the shoulder season.
Most people don’t realize this, but a great time to visit Zanzibar is during the shoulder season, which is from April to May and from October to November. During these months, the weather is still warm and sunny, but there are fewer tourists and the prices are lower.
The general consensus is that the best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry seasons, which are December to February and June to October. However, the shoulder seasons offer a number of benefits. We’re talking about:
Fewer tourists: Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination, and it can get quite crowded during the peak seasons. If you visit during the shoulder season, you'll be able to enjoy the island's attractions with fewer crowds.
Lower prices: Accommodation and other tourist services are often cheaper during the shoulder season. There’s less demand.
Good weather: The weather in Zanzibar is generally good all year round. However, the shoulder seasons are a good time to go because it's less humid and there are fewer rainy days.
More opportunities to interact with locals: Because there are fewer tourists, you have more opportunities to meet and interact with the locals. This is a great way to learn about the island's culture, take a cooking class, explore spice farms, etc.
More flexibility with travel arrangements: It's easier to book flights and accommodation during the shoulder season, because there’s less demand.
Ready for an African adventure? Here are 7 tips for planning the perfect trip to Africa. Learn everything you need to know.
3. Unearth Stone Town's Hidden Gems
Tourists who are lucky enough to discover Stone Town and it’s maze-like alleys are the one who truly get life-changing experiences out of a Zanzibar holiday.
Stone Town isn't just about the tourist spots. It's about those nameless alleys where locals live their lives. You'll find bustling markets and street food that'll tantalize your taste buds. It's where Zanzibar's heart truly beats, one of the few UNESCO World Heritage locations in East Africa.
Yet, many tour agencies fail to give their clients this pleasure. So make sure you have your agency include a stone town tour in your booking.
Visiting Zanzibar with friends from Germany in September, we wandered off the main streets of Stone Town, exploring the lesser-known alleys. We met local artisans, sampled delicious street food, and truly soaked up the local atmosphere.
The most common comment? "This is the real Zanzibar, and I've never experienced anything like it."
4. Savor Zanzibari Flavors
Urojo – a zesty soup. Biriani – spiced rice with meat. These aren't just dishes; they're a cultural journey on a plate. Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town is where you savor the freshest seafood, right off the boat.
It's a culinary adventure.
To me the best way to explore Zanzibar’s or any other culture is to eat the food.
Now, East Africa has a reputation for the best food on the continent; the likes of the ugali, the Nyama Choma and the Kachumbari. However, most people who come here for the first time are skeptical about trying the food, often for hygiene and related concerns.
If you’re eating at the right resort or local restaurant, you can rest assured that the quality food you’re eating is clean, safe and heavily nutritional, besides being the best thing you’ve ever tasted.
The cuisine of Zanzibar is influenced by its African, Arab, and Indian heritage. Be sure to try as many of the local dishes as possible, such as pilau (rice with spices and meat), birian (rice with meat and vegetables), and urojo (a sweet dessert made with coconut milk).
5. Sunset Dhow Cruise
A sunset dhow cruise is pure magic. Romance, peace, and the serenity of Zanzibar all in one moment.
Sunset dhow cruises in Zanzibar are a popular way to experience the island's stunning scenery and rich culture. As the sun sets, you'll sail along the coast on a traditional dhow boat, enjoying the views of the turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation.
Here is a secret that most people don't know about sunset dhow cruises in Zanzibar:
Most sunset dhow cruises follow a similar route, so if you want to avoid the crowds and have a more unique experience, book a private charter. The benefits can make your Zanzibar holiday 10x better:
Going on a private dhow cruise will allow you to choose your own route and itinerary, and you'll be able to enjoy the cruise at your own pace.
You can also ask the crew to stop at specific locations, such as a secluded beach or a small village, so that you can explore at your leisure.
Request a specific type of cuisine for dinner, or ask the crew to prepare a traditional Zanzibari meal. This is such a great way to experience the island's delicious cuisine and to enjoy a romantic meal under the stars. Honeymoon, I see you!
Onboard, you'll be treated to delicious Zanzibari snacks and drinks, as well as traditional live music. You'll also have the opportunity to learn about the island's history and culture from your knowledgeable guide.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, you'll be welcomed into an unbelievable display of colors. The sky will be ablaze with shades of orange, pink, and purple, and the water will shimmer like gold.
It's why Zanzibar is one of the top Islands in Africa for a vacation or a honeymoon.
6. Take cooking classes on Spice Farms in Zanzibar
You’d probably adore take your cooking lessons directly on the spice farms in Zanzibar, everyday of week and even twice on Sundays.
But most people don't know that Zanzibar is known as the "Spice Island." The sexy name comes from it’s history of producing a colossal variety of spices, including cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper.
Spice farms have been a part of the island's culture for centuries, and they play an important role in the local economy.
On a Zanzibar spice farm tour, you'll learn about the different spices grown on the island, and you'll see how they are harvested and processed. You'll taste fresh spices and learn about their culinary and medicinal uses.
Away from the history lessons, spice farm tours are a great way to experience the stunning natural beauty of Zanzibar. The Spice farms are typically located in lush green valleys, surrounded by tropical rainforests and rice paddies.
The scenery is amazingly breathtaking, and you'll have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies. Bring your binoculars.
Spice Farm demonstrations
Finally, for me, spice farm tours are the best way to taste the delicious local cuisine to learn how to cook the best East African delicacies like a true Zanzibari. Many spice farms lineup cooking demonstrations and tastings, where you can learn how to make traditional Zanzibari dishes using fresh spices.
There’s no better way to take your cooking lessons and have the perfect vacation in Zanzibar, buddy.
You'll also have the unique opportunity to purchase spices and other local products at the farm shop.
Here are 15 other amazing things to do in Zanzibar for a vacation or adventure.
Dine with Us
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Dine with Us 〰️
7. "Hakuna Matata" Lifestyle and Nightlife
Zanzibar lives by "Hakuna Matata" – no worries. There's no rush, no stress. Just a laid-back, island vibe that seeps into your soul. Immerse yourself, leave your worries behind, and embrace the nightlife.
Adopting the Hakuna Matata lifestyle and nightlife will completely transform your holidays in Zanzibar. For few tourists, it is the best way to escape the struggles of daily city life — to experience genuine liberation and relaxation on the highest levels of nature that money can’t buy.
Many visitors never immerse themselves into this lifestyle, as they’re all caught up in their city mind-set. But for you who’s eager to get a new and unforgettable Africa experience, join the nightlife.
I’ve noticed an interesting trend with couples on my tours who are often able to leave their couple disputes behind and embrace the "Hakuna Matata" spirit. They join the locals, dance to the rhythms of Taarab music, and laugh under the starlit sky.
It’s often nights they hadn't plan for, but it became their favorite memory of the trips.
Why Zanzibar is such a fan-favorite location for Vacation
The people of Zanzibar are known for their warm hospitality and friendly smiles. They are always happy to help visitors and make them feel welcome.
Here are some specific examples of things that I love about Zanzibar:
Scuba diving with Sharks on Fumba Bay.
Scuba diving with sharks on Fumba bay
The smell of spices in the air in Stone Town
The sound of the waves crashing on the shore at Nungwi Beach
The taste of fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant
The sight of the red colobus monkeys in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
The feeling of the warm sun on my skin as I swim in the crystal-clear water
Let’s settle the debate between Pemba Island and Zanzibar. Here’s my ultimate comparison as a local, and travel guide.
Final thoughts
What really makes Zanzibar stand out is the cultural kaleidoscope. You've got Arab, African, Indian, and European influences blending seamlessly.
In a nutshell, Zanzibar brings authentic and unforgettable experiences to those who seek it. Above are 7 of the real secrets, the moments that leave an indelible mark on travelers.
So pack your bags, delve into the authentic Zanzibar, and let the island's real stories weave their magic on you. Happy travel.
Diving on a holiday trip to Zanzibar.
"We scheduled 6 dives over 3 days. The diving was so good we stayed and dove an extra day. I am a divemaster, and my friends with me dove their 100th dive here. We have been diving in many parts of the world. Diving Pemba was superb. The dive company was excellent. I recommend it highly. Really pleased we chose to dive at Pemba, and especially pleased we dove with Swahili Divers."
Suzan (@Eriespirit), Kandy District, Sri Lanka
