Zanzibar

Ready-to-book Zanzibar holidays: beach, kitesurfing at Paje, Jozani Forest, Stone Town, and whale sharks on Mafia Island. Day-by-day itineraries with prices, run by a Tanzanian operator.

Which package should we pick?

If you have never been and want it decided for you, take Zanzibar in Five Nights. It front-loads the sightseeing and leaves the back half empty. Three nights is the minimum worth flying for. If you are travelling with children, the north coast one matters because the water stays put at low tide.

Can we change what's in a package?

Yes. They're a starting point, not a fixed menu. Swap the hotel, add nights, drop an excursion, move it to a different coast. Tell us which one you like and what you'd change, and we'll price it.

Is the price per person?

Per person, sharing a room, for the nights listed. It covers accommodation, island transfers and the excursions in the itinerary. International flights, visa, insurance and most lunches and dinners aren't included. Each package lists exactly what isn't.

How do we get there from the mainland?

A short flight, around 90 minutes from Arusha, 20 from Dar es Salaam. Only the Mafia package includes an internal flight in the price; for Zanzibar we book it separately once we know where you're coming from.

Can we combine this with a safari?

That's how most of these are booked. Northern circuit safari first, then fly to the island from Arusha. One booking, one price, and if a game drive overruns we move the flight rather than you missing it.

What about the tide, really?

On the east coast the sea can retreat several hundred metres and swimming stops for a few hours. On the north coast around Nungwi and Kendwa it doesn't. If swimming whenever you feel like it matters, say so and we'll put you north.