After early game drives, dusty roads and unforgettable wildlife, there is no better way to end a Tanzania trip than on the white beaches of Zanzibar. The island is a short flight from Arusha and Kilimanjaro, and the safari-and-beach combination is one of the most popular trips we plan. In this guide we explain how to get there, how many nights to stay, which beach to choose and what to know before you go.
Why add Zanzibar to your safari?
- Turquoise Indian Ocean water and powder-white sand
- Historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Snorkelling, diving, sunset dhow cruises and spice farms
- A relaxing finish after early mornings on safari or a Kilimanjaro climb
Step 1: Getting from your safari to Zanzibar
The easiest way is a domestic flight. There are daily flights to Zanzibar from Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. Some lodges in the Serengeti also connect by light aircraft from nearby airstrips. Driving and taking the ferry takes too long to be worth it.
Tip: Small planes have a luggage limit of around 15 kg per person in a soft bag. See our safari packing checklist to pack light for both the bush and the beach.
Step 2: Decide how many nights
- 3 nights: enough to relax and visit Stone Town
- 4 to 5 nights: the perfect balance of beach time and excursions
- 7 nights: a real beach holiday, ideal after a Kilimanjaro climb
Step 3: Choose your beach area
| Area | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Nungwi & Kendwa (north) | Swimming and sunsets | Less affected by tides, so you can swim most of the day; livelier atmosphere |
| Paje & Jambiani (south-east) | Kitesurfing and a relaxed vibe | Big tides: the sea goes far out at low tide |
| Matemwe (north-east) | Quiet beaches and snorkelling | Close to Mnemba Atoll, one of the best snorkelling spots |
| Stone Town | History, culture and food | Perfect for 1 night at the start or end of your stay |
Pro tip: Combine 1 night in Stone Town with 3 or 4 nights on the beach for the best of both worlds.
Step 4: The best things to do in Zanzibar
- Walk the narrow streets of Stone Town with a local guide
- Visit a spice farm and taste cloves, cinnamon and vanilla
- Take a boat to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises
- See the rare red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest
- Snorkel or dive at Mnemba Atoll
- Relax on a sandbank picnic or a sunset dhow cruise
Step 5: Know the entry rules and insurance
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so your Tanzania visa is valid there. However, every foreign visitor to Zanzibar must buy the compulsory Zanzibar travel insurance ($44 per adult) online before arrival. Since 1 October 2026, mainland Tanzania also has its own compulsory visitor insurance, and no mutual recognition between the two policies has been announced. A safari plus Zanzibar trip may therefore need both policies.
Important: These rules are new and can change. We confirm the latest requirements with every guest before travel and help you with the right documents.
Step 6: Respect the local culture
- Most people in Zanzibar are Muslim. In Stone Town and villages, cover your shoulders and knees
- Swimwear is fine on the beach and at your hotel, but not in town
- Always ask before taking photos of people
- During Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking in public during the day outside your hotel
Best time to visit Zanzibar
- June to October: dry, sunny and pleasant, the same season as the best safari months
- December to February: hot and sunny, great for the beach
- March to May: the long rains; some hotels close
- November: short rains, often still good for travel
Sample safari and Zanzibar itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to Arusha
- Days 2 to 5: Safari in Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 6: Fly to Zanzibar, night in Stone Town
- Days 7 to 9: Beach time in Nungwi, Kendwa or Matemwe
- Day 10: Fly home from Zanzibar
See our ready-made 13-Day Safari & Zanzibar Combo, or our 2-Day Fly-in Safari from Zanzibar if you are already staying on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from the Serengeti to Zanzibar?
Most guests drive back to Arusha at the end of their safari and fly from Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport to Zanzibar. Some Serengeti lodges connect by light aircraft from nearby airstrips. We arrange the connection for you.
How many days should I spend in Zanzibar after a safari?
We recommend 4 to 5 nights: 1 night in Stone Town and 3 to 4 nights on the beach.
Do I need a separate visa for Zanzibar?
No. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so your Tanzania visa is valid. You do need the compulsory Zanzibar travel insurance.
Which is the best beach in Zanzibar?
Nungwi and Kendwa in the north are best for swimming at any time of day and for sunsets. Paje is great for kitesurfing, and Matemwe is quiet and close to Mnemba Atoll for snorkelling.
Can I do a safari from Zanzibar?
Yes. If you are already on the island, a fly-in safari to Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater takes 2 days, or longer to include the Serengeti.
