A woman enjoying a sunny day in Zanzibar, standing near lush greenery and overlooking the ocean.

Africa

First time in Zanzibar? Here’s your guide to East Africa’s paradise

Zanzibar is coveted for a reason. The East African island has everything a beach-loving tourist needs: white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxing amenities.

If you’re a Nigerian passport holder heading there for the first time, here’s everything you need to know before your trip.

Overview of Zanzibar

Geography and climate

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. It’s made up of two main islands: Unguja (often referred to as Zanzibar) and Pemba, surrounded by smaller isles. It’s warm year-round.

Culture and language

Zanzibar has a rich culture of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Swahili is the main language spoken, but English is widely understood.

Currency

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency

Timezone

Zanzibar’s timezone is GMT/UTC + 3, that’s two hours ahead of Nigeria.

Zanzibar travel requirements for Nigerians

Nigerian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in Zanzibar. Your passport must have at least six months’ validity, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation. The visa on arrival costs $50 for single entry.

Best time to visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but there are a few things to note about the tourist seasons.

Peak season (June to October) This is the dry season, best for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring Stone Town.

Shoulder season (November to February) There’s plenty of sunshine with chances of rain showers. If you’re into diving, you can still visit as underwater visibility is still good in these months

Off-season (March to May) This is Zanzibar’s rainy season.

How to get around Zanzibar

Zanzibar is easy to explore with several options:

Dala dala: These mini buses are pocket-friendly and great if you’re up for a local experience.

Taxis: They are best booked through hotels or trusted sources.

Bikes and scooters: If you’re staying in beach towns like Nungwi or Kendwa, you could rent a scooter or bike.

Where to stay in Zanzibar

For first-timers in Zanzibar, the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa on the north coast are delightful. They also have a wide range of luxury resorts.

If you’re in Zanzibar for the history and culture, then Stone Town is a must.

What to do in Zanzibar

Here are a few things you don’t want to miss:

Beach days on Zanzibar’s beautiful coastline.

Spice tours where you learn about Zanzibar’s rich history in the spice trade.

Snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs. Particularly around Mnemba Atoll and Prison Island.

Exploring historic Stone Town. Visit the Old Fort, the Sultan’s Palace, and the House of Wonders.

How long should you stay in Zanzibar?

To fully enjoy what Zanzibar has to offer, we recommend a stay of 5 to 7 days.

How much should you budget for Zanzibar?

Here’s an approximate breakdown of costs:

Flights
A round-trip flight from Nigeria to Zanzibar typically costs between $700 and $1,000, depending on the season.

Accommodation
Budget hotels range from $30 to $70 per night. Mid-range stays are around $100 to $200 per night, while luxury resorts can cost upwards of $300 per night.

Food and drinks
The meals at local eateries cost around $5 to $10. Beach resorts and fine dining options start at about $20 per meal.

Activities
Activities like spice tours and Stone Town tours cost around $20 to $40. Snorkeling and diving excursions can range from $30 to $100, depending on the location.

All in all, a week-long trip could cost between $1,500 and $3,000 per person, depending on your accommodation and activity choices.