Zanzibar City Guide 2026 — Where to Stay & Eat
Insider luxury city guide to Zanzibar — hand-selected hotels, fine dining, cultural highlights, and local secrets for discerning travelers.
The Spice Island: turquoise waters, historic Stone Town, and exotic indulgence.
Zanzibar, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town, inhale the scent of spices on a local farm, and surrender to the serene beauty of its turquoise waters. This enchanting 'Spice Island' provides an idyllic escape for those seeking luxury, relaxation, and discovery.
- Best time to visit: June-October (dry season) offers warm, sunny days perfect for beach activities and exploring. December-February is also dry and hot. Avoid the long rains (March-May).
- Ideal duration: 4–7 nights
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Language tip: 'Asante sana' (thank you very much) is always appreciated by locals.
- Getting around: For transfers between Stone Town and beach resorts, private taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers are recommended. Within Stone Town, walking is the primary and best way to explore. For longer day trips, hiring a private driver is advisable. Dala-dalas (local mini-buses) are cheap but crowded and not recommended for luxury travelers.
Where to base yourself
Stone Town
Historic, bustling, bohemian. Best for History buffs, cultural immersion, souvenir shopping. Top pick: Wander the narrow streets and visit the Old Fort and House of Wonders..
Nungwi
Lively, pristine, resort-focused. Best for Beach lovers, diving, sunsets, social evenings. Top pick: Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond..
Kendwa
Relaxed, vibrant, stunning beaches. Best for Sunset parties, beach relaxation, swimming at any tide. Top pick: Enjoy a Full Moon Party if your trip aligns..
Kizimkazi
Authentic, tranquil, dolphin spotting. Best for Dolphin tours, quiet escape, local village experience. Top pick: Morning dolphin safari from the village..
Where to eat
- The Rock Restaurant — Seafood, Contemporary
- Emerson on Hurumzi — Swahili Fine Dining
- Forodhani Gardens Night Food Market — Street Food, Seafood
- Essque Zalu Zanzibar - The Jetty Bar — Casual Dining, Cocktails
Insider tips
- Haggle respectfully when shopping in Stone Town for souvenirs; it's part of the experience.
- Take a spice tour to learn about the island's aromatic heritage and taste fresh fruits and spices directly from the farm.
- Wear modest clothing when exploring Stone Town (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for local customs, as it's a Muslim-majority population.
- Explore Prison Island (Changuu Island) to encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters.
- Book a dhow cruise at sunset from Stone Town or Nungwi for a magical experience on a traditional wooden boat.
Suggested itinerary
Published by Peters Signature Travel.