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Zanzibar’s glistening white beaches, and warm, turquoise waters make it an idyllic island holiday for snorkelling and relaxing. Not to mention this archipelago's friendly culture, fascinating history and energetic nightlife, which are incredible to experience too. All of these fantastic qualities make this island an exceptional holiday destination for everyone. A holiday trip to the incredible Tanzanian island of Zanzibar is a cultural journey into Africa, a continent that needs to be explored by all.

Are you thinking of travelling to Zanzibar? Read on to find out more about this idyllic holiday destination before you book your flights.

A view of a beach with white sand and lush greenery in Zanzibar, which can be visited via a cheap flight from Flight Centre.
A beach in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is a holiday destination like no other. Enjoy popular holiday activities in Zanzibar such as a Spice Tour, Blue Lagoon, Stone Town Tour, visit Freddy Mercury's house, Dhow Cruise, Prison Island Cruise, Jozani National Park and of course the fantastic beaches.

 

What are the top attractions to visit in Zanzibar?
There are several top attractions that stand out for many travellers:

For the home chefs out there a trip to the island’s spice farms is something you cannot miss. Looks can be very deceiving. A bush growing in the parking lot of the Spice Farm happens to be the Lemon Grass herb with the most pungent smell. You will discover every variety of spices that you can imagine and to see them in their natural state, which is impressive.

If you are looking for a snorkelling and braai experience, then Safari Blue is not to be missed. The Blue Safari includes a trip out to sea on a sandbank for fantastic snorkelling, followed by the most incredible seafood braai you will come across. There is nothing fancy about this experience but it's 100% local. Caught and cooked by your dhow boat's crew - You cannot get more authentic than this, and the sailing back to the main island with the sail of the dhow up makes for a perfect end to a fun-filled day.

For those that seek out cultural experiences, Stone Town and Prison Island offer the option of stepping back in time to an ancient town with hidden alleys filled with many twisted turns and hidden gems. In Stone Town don’t forget to go past the home of the late Freddie Mercury who grew up in the old town part of Stone Town. A visit to Prison Island starts with a beautiful boat trip to the island where you have picturesque views of Zanzibar - that real Instagram photo shot. While you are there, visit the giant Tortoises who have been living on the island for over 150 years.

No holiday trip to Zanzibar is complete without a snorkelling trip to Mnemba. I had the best snorkelling to date there, with fantastic guides who take the time to point out fish that you would usually not see. Nevertheless, the best part of this trip is the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins, but it comes with its risks and is not guaranteed. If you do see the dolphins, you won’t be disappointed."

 

What is Zanzibar most famous for?
Zanzibar is best known for its white beaches and its excellent snorkelling. Also, the people are some of the friendliest I have ever met in all my travels, and they would be a reason I go back. They make you feel like a local and will teach you their local ways and customs. 

 

Why is Zanzibar a top holiday destination?
Zanzibar is most famous for its beaches, which are beautiful all around the island. If you are on the east coast, you will be able to see the extreme tides that Zanzibar experiences, which will allow you to explore the ocean life in ankle-deep water.

 

Which part of Zanzibar is best for a holiday?
The northern part of this archipelago is renowned for its beautiful beaches; however, if you want to surf the south is best. Remember if you are staying on the east coast that your beach experience will have an impact when the tides go out. That said, it then allows you to wander the shallow waters and explore the marine life or to use the resort's facilities.

 

What are the best outdoor activities in Zanzibar?
Diving, snorkelling, and going on sailing trips are the best outdoor activities.

 

What is there to do in Zanzibar in 3 days?
There is so much to cram into just 3 days. I would do a Spice Tour and Stone Town Tour on one day, have a beach day and remember a snorkelling tour to Mnemba Island.

 

How long is the flight from South Africa to Zanzibar, Tanzania?

The flight is 4.5 hours long.


Which day of the week is cheapest to fly to Zanzibar?

Flights on Tuesdays are cheapest.


Which month is the cheapest to fly to Zanzibar?

April to May are cheapest because this is cyclone season. 


What time of day is cheapest to fly to Zanzibar?

The direct flight is only once a day.


Which airlines fly direct to Zanzibar? 

Mango Airlines flies direct to Zanzibar.


When are the flights to Zanzibar from Johannesburg?

Direct flights are on Tuesdays and Saturdays.


When are the flights to Zanzibar from Cape Town?

There are no direct flights from Cape Town.


When are the flights to Zanzibar from Durban?

There are no direct flights from Durban.


What should I know regarding COVID-19 pandemic and flights to Zanzibar?

Currently, you need a Covid PCT test no older than 72 hours from departure to fly to Zanzibar if you are going to fly via Nairobi on Kenya Airways.


Is Zanzibar expensive?

Zanzibar is one of our most affordable beach holidays and gives you great value for your money.


What is the best time to go to Zanzibar?
The weather from June to October is the best as the weather is cooler and drier. Also, travelling outside of peak dates, ie: school holidays.

 

What language do they speak in Zanzibar?

Swahili.


What is the weather like in Zanzibar?

Hot and humid, a tropical climate.


What currency should I take to Zanzibar?
The US Dollar is popular amongst travellers that visit Zanzibar. It’s much stronger than the Tanzanian Shilling, and you will have better bargaining power when making purchases. Here's a tip: Make sure the cash notes that you carry are crisp and as new as possible, which are worth more to the locals than older notes.

 

How do you dress in Zanzibar?
When you are at the resort - resort wear is entirely acceptable. However, in Stone Town, please dress conservatively.

 

Can I use an ATM in Zanzibar?
ATMs are not widely available. There are several in Stone Town but not throughout Zanzibar. That is why it’s best to prepay for most of your holiday before going and then to take spending money.


How much money do I need for 1 week in Zanzibar?

If you are going on an all-inclusive holiday, you will need the least amount of money as all you will be spending on is activities and day tours. This can also be pre-booked before you go to save you the hassle.


Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?

You do not need a visa to visit Zanzibar on a South African passport.

 

How much would a trip to Zanzibar cost from South Africa?
An all-inclusive Zanzibar holiday package, which includes a tremendous 3-star resort and flights, for travel in the June school holidays, will cost about R15 980.00+ An all-inclusive package that includes a value-for-money 4-star resort in the June school holidays will cost around R16 890.00+. *Prices are in ZAR and subject to availability. Please refer to specific product’s terms and conditions.

 

Is it safe to travel to Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is 100% safe. Just remember and be aware of underdressing when you are in Stone Town. It’s still quite a conservative nation, and you don’t want to offend anyone.

 

How much money do I need per day in Zanzibar?
While in Zanzibar it is recommended to stay on an all-inclusive holiday package because most food and drink items are imported from the mainland, making them ordinarily expensive. An all-inclusive package also allows you to prepay the majority of your expenses before travelling and then all you would need money for would be for any additional items ie: Shopping, excursions etc.

 

How many days are enough to visit Zanzibar?
A 7-night holiday is perfect. It allows you to do an excursion every second day and on an alternate day, you get a beach day. You will then enjoy the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration of the island.

 

What do I need to bring to Zanzibar?
You need to bring your swimming costume and a hat. Please remember to not bring any plastic bags with you, though. Zanzibar has a strict plastic bag ban. Plastic bags are not suitable for the environment, as well.

 

What honeymoon holiday packages do you recommend in Zanzibar?

The Seacliff Resort and Spa is one of many top hotels and accommodation in Zanzibar for a romantic honeymoon experience.

 

What is the best time to go to Zanzibar?

The weather from June to October is the best as the weather is cooler and drier. Also, travelling outside of peak dates, ie: school holidays.

 

Can I pay off a Zanzibar holiday package that includes flights monthly?
We have some great options with regards to payment:

Pay in the cost of the flights and approximately R1500 per person for the deposit on the accommodation, and then you can pay off the balance over time.
We have a great initiative Stokvel, which allows you to put money aside and once you have sufficient funds in the account, we can use this to pay for the holiday.
Flight Centre has partnered up with RCS, which allows you to make payment for your holiday in full that locks in an excellent price and then paying your RCS account off monthly.

 

Why should you book your Zanzibar holiday package with Flight Centre?
Flight Centre is an industry stalwart and has been in South Africa for over 20 years. We are the industry experts regarding all things travel. We have spent time building and cultivating relationships in countries worldwide, allowing us to provide you with phenomenal service even while you are away through our hotel partners and ground handlers. These relationships enable us to negotiate deals on flights and holidays that you cannot find anywhere else in the industry, which means we are trying to make your money go further and give you more bang for your buck.

Enquire about Zanzibar flights today