Get to know Zanzibar
Pair Zanzibar's coast with time in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by centuries of Indian Ocean exchange. Its historic streets and architecture bring another dimension to an island holiday.
Places and experiences to explore
- Explore Stone Town's historic streets and waterfront.
- Look for the Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences in its architecture.
- Combine cultural sightseeing with time on Zanzibar's coast.
Balance heritage time with the coast
A Zanzibar itinerary can bring together time in Stone Town and time by the coast. These experiences have a different pace: the historic urban setting rewards a slower visit, while a coastal stay may be more about time at your accommodation and its surrounding area. Decide what balance suits you before choosing where to stay. Planning the two parts together helps you avoid spending more time than expected on transfers between different areas.
Consider transfers and flight connections together
Share any mainland connection or other onward travel when enquiring about a flight to Zanzibar. Include your preferred dates, departure airport and who is travelling, and mention fixed accommodation dates if you already have them. Check local transfer arrangements before arrival and use the official visitor information to explore the areas that interest you. Confirm the practical details of any excursion directly with the provider rather than relying on a general itinerary description.
Planning your visit
Decide how to divide your stay between Stone Town and your chosen coastal area before booking accommodation. Check individual heritage-site access and opening arrangements.
Getting around
Explore Stone Town on foot where practical and arrange transfers separately for your coastal accommodation or island excursions.
A useful travel tip
Leave an unhurried morning for Stone Town, rather than seeing it only during an airport transfer.
Questions before you travel
Can I combine Stone Town and a coastal stay?
Yes, those are different parts of a Zanzibar visit that you can plan together. Consider where each stay is located and allow for the transfers needed between them.
Can I enquire about flights to Zanzibar if no fare is listed?
Yes. Use the Flights button or the enquiry link on this guide. When no published fare is available, the form opens with the destination already selected. Add your departure airport, dates and traveller details for our team to discuss.
Explore more: Official visitor information for Zanzibar ↗