Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your activities.
For wildlife safaris, the dry seasons from June to October offer excellent game viewing, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
January to February is ideal for witnessing the calving season. For Mount Kilimanjaro treks, the best conditions are from January to March and June to October.
Beach lovers visiting Zanzibar will enjoy the dry months of December to February and June to October.
Zanzibar Island: A Paradise of Culture and Natural Beauty
Zanzibar Island, also known as Spice Island or Sultan Island, is a tropical paradise that boasts over 30 pristine beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear blue waters. The island’s rich history and vibrant culture are reflected in its iconic cities like Stone Town, which transports visitors back in time, almost like stepping into an adventure movie.
Zanzibar is an archipelago off the east coast of Africa, part of Tanzania, and includes several islands, with the largest being Unguja (commonly known as Zanzibar) and Pemba. Other stunning islands in the archipelago, such as Mafia Island, also contribute to the region’s exceptional beauty.
Unguja lies approximately 40 km east of Bagamoyo, Tanzania, in the Indian Ocean. The island stretches 85 km long and is between 20 and 30 km wide. The northern and western areas of the island are fertile and home to agricultural communities, while the eastern part is arid and features coral reefs, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Exploring the charming villages of Zanzibar offers a blend of African, Asian, and Tribal cultures. The island is also known for its lush, paradise beaches, dotted with palm, coconut, banana, and mango trees, as well as pepper and clove plantations.
Zanzibar’s capital, Stone Town, is a historical gem that has preserved its cultural significance for over 200 years. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar’s Swahili culture. Walking through its narrow alleys, vibrant bazaars, and historic Arab-style houses, visitors are immersed in the island’s history, with a heady mix of exotic spices filling the air.
Key attractions in Stone Town include the bustling markets, the coral stone houses, the historic Portuguese fort (dating back to the 1700s), and the House of Wonders, a magnificent four-story building constructed by Sultan Barghash in the late 19th century. The Natural History Museum and the old British clubs like the House of Africa, now a popular spot for cocktails, also offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
Zanzibar’s culture and history are reflected in its diverse architecture, with every building, window, and wooden door telling a unique story. Visitors can explore the vibrant Jamvi Gardens, enjoy live music at the local restaurants, or visit the Jozani Forest Reserve, home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkeys. Other historical sites include the Kidichi and Kizimbani Baths, as well as the royal palaces of Marhubi and Mwinyi Mikuu.
Obtaining a Tanzania visa is simple and convenient. You can apply online via the Tanzania eVisa Portal, at a Tanzanian embassy, or on arrival at major entry points such as airports and border crossings.
Requirements typically include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed application form, and payment of the visa fee.
A single-entry tourist visa costs $50 for most nationalities, while US citizens pay $100 for a multiple-entry visa.
The eVisa process usually takes about 10 business days for approval.
Zanzibar is known for its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Its stunning beaches, historic Stone Town, and diverse cultural influences from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East make it a one-of-a-kind destination
Stone Town is renowned for its preserved Swahili architecture, historical sites like the Portuguese fort and the House of Wonders, bustling markets, and its role in the island’s rich cultural history. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including relaxing on beautiful beaches, diving and snorkeling around coral reefs, exploring Stone Town’s historic sites, hiking in the Jozani Forest, visiting spice plantations, and taking boat trips to nearby islands.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and December to February. The wet season, from March to May, sees heavier rainfall and more humidity, but it’s still a great time for fewer crowds.
Zanzibar can be reached by flights from Dar es Salaam, with direct international flights also available. Once on the island, visitors can get around using local taxis, buses, or boats.
© 2025 African Jackals. All rights reserved.