How to Plan Your Holiday to the Mesmerizing Beaches of Zanzibar 

Located in Eastern Africa, Zanzibar is an archipelago which is an autonomous part of Tanzania. Zanzibar Island, a part of the archipelago, has numerous small islands and two large ones Unjuga and Pemba. The island is warm due to its proximity to the equator and is popular with its pristine beaches lined with swaying palm groves. Here are some tips for planning an unforgettable beach holiday in incredible Zanzibar.

Visa to Zanzibar

Visitors arriving in Zanzibar must have a tourist visa to Tanzania. Tanzania e-visa can be obtained online before your arrival.
Visitors can also obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Tanzania subject to meeting all entry requirements and having a return or onward ticket. However, it is prudent to go for the e-visa beforehand as there can be long waiting times upon arrival for on-arrival visas.

The best time to visit

While Tanzania is an all-year destination with a tropical climate most beach and safari lovers can enjoy it at its best from June to October when heavy showers have ceased, and the weather is dry with longer days to enjoy the beaches to the maximum.

Image via The Residence Zanzibar

Getting to Zanzibar

Visitors arriving in Zanzibar from different parts of the world can use connecting flights from major cities in neighbouring countries to Dar es Salaam Airport in Tanzania. 

By Air – From Dar es Salaam airport taking a domestic flight is the fastest way to arrive in Stone Town in Zanzibar. It takes approximately 20 minutes.

By Taxi – From Dar es Salaam airport to Stone Town, it takes a little over one hour by taxi. While a taxi can be booked online it can also be arranged in advance through many of the Zanzibar resorts 5 star

By Ferry – Regular ferry services are operated throughout the week between Dar es Salaam and Stone Town using spacious vessels. The journey time is about 2 hours.

Best beaches in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has numerous beaches, each with its distinct beauty and charm that appeal to visitors. Here are some of the best beaches to experience during your stay and create unforgettable memories. All these beaches are less than an hour’s drive from luxury resorts such as The Residence Zanzibar.Paje Beach – This is a picturesque beach with sugary white sand offering exciting vibes. It has a variety of restaurants and lively beach parties that visitors enjoy. With a long stretch of beach and shallow waters, this beach is ideal for kitesurfing. With many schools in the vicinity, even novices can learn to enjoy kite surfing here. Ensure that you use a school with trained instructors. 

Michamvi Beach – This pristine beach is beautiful and secluded, a fine combination appreciated by visitors who want seclusion as they enjoy lazing about the beach. Its beach bars provide music in the evening having people linger over with drinks. Be mindful about the tide here as the shoreline recedes with high tide.

Pingwe Beach – Unspoilt with fine powdery sand, this secluded coastline entices visitors with its tranquil vibes to relax and revel in the sun, sea and sand. Whether you want to swim in the turquoise waters, take a leisurely walk or merely sunbathe the experience will be memorable.

Bwejuu Beach – A serene and pristine beach that makes lounging at this beach soothe your soul. This is an ideal one for snorkelling, swimming and diving.

Sun Protection

Be protected from the sun to enjoy the beaches and the outdoors to the fullest.

The rays of the sun are extremely fierce in Zanzibar and as you will spend quite a lot of time outdoors enjoying the sun-kissed beaches, make sure to carry adequate sunscreen with a high SPF (50 SPF) is wise. Keep reapplying it after every wash to protect your skin. Furthermore, use a wide-brimmed hat to cover your head and protect your eyes with sunglasses.