Where to Stay In Zanzibar

Zanzibar

4 Jun

Location Really Does Matter In Zanzibar

Choosing the perfect accommodation in Zanzibar isn't as straightforward as you might expect. While every beach boasts stunning beauty, each also offers unique features that can greatly influence your experience. Beyond the beaches, Zanzibar offers diverse attractions like spice farms and historic Stone Town to explore. With the island's compact size allowing for day trips, yet extensive enough to require careful planning, selecting the ideal location involves considering multiple factors. Let us help you navigate these difficulties to ensure your Zanzibar holiday exceeds expectations.

The Capital

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a intriguing blend of African, Arab, and European cultures. It is renowned for its narrow streets, bustling markets, and beautiful architecture. You can explore the former slave market, the Palace Museum, and the House of Wonders, which are all steeped in history and offer a glimpse into the island's past.

Wandering through Stone Town, you'll discover history and vibrant culture, where the narrow alleys lead to local gems like the Darajani Bazaar, an enchanting marketplace where you can discover traditional souvenirs, exquisite textiles, and aromatic spices. Stone Town also features a vibrant dining scene with an array of restaurants, cafes. Popular choices include Secret Garden Restaurant at Emerson Spice Hotel and Lukmaan for traditional Swahilli food.

Each evening as the sun sets, Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens park transforms into an open-air night food market. Offering a wide variety of local food and fresh sugarcane juice all in a safe, family friendly environment.

The East Coast

The east coast of this exotic island offers a different kind of charm. With villages like Matemwe, Pongwe, and Kiwengwa, you'll discover a more serene and laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling northern and southern parts. This area is known for its peaceful, unspoiled beauty. The beaches here are a quieter paradise, and you'll find it easy to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

This region boasts charming boutique lodges and eco-friendly accommodations. Many of them are on the beach, offering an authentic island experience. Expect cozy thatched-roofs, open-air showers, and friendly service that makes you feel like you're part of a the community.

It also serves as a gateway to the renowned Mnemba Atoll. This private island, nestled off the coast, is home to a protected marine park and ranks among the world's top destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling.

The North Coast

Nestled on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi and Kendwa are where your dream of powdery white sands kissed by crystal-clear turquoise waters comes to life. In fact, Kendwa Beach has earned the accolade of Africa's best beach and the world's 4th best beach!

What sets the northwest coast apart is its non-tidal beaches, offering pristine, silky-soft white sands all day long. Here, the shores remain free from seaweed and sea urchins that can be a challenge elsewhere. As a result, you can indulge in swimming and water sports at any hour, along with activities such as sailing on traditional Dhow boats and exploring nearby coral reefs.

Nungwi, with its upscale 5-star luxury resorts, is a haven for those who seek relaxation. Nungwi's nightlife scene also adds a lively dimension to your experience. Yet, it's important to note that the allure of Nungwi draws crowds, especially during the high season

The South Coast

The southern regions of Zanzibar show another side of the island's allure. With beautiful beaches, adventure activities and a vibrant nightlife scene. It is home to some of the most best beaches in Zanzibar (outside of Nungwi), including the idyllic stretches of Jambiani and Paje. What sets them apart is the dramatic tidal range that reveals expansive sandy beaches, making them perfect for long strolls. Unlike some of Zanzibar’s other shores, these southern beaches are mostly free from corals and sea urchins.

Paje, the primary town in this area, is known as the kitesurfing capital of Zanzibar, thanks to its favorable wind. Here, you can do kitesurfing and windsurfing amongst other watersports. The easterly winds create ideal conditions, and you'll find schools and rental centers offering lessons and equipment. When the sun sets, Paje comes alive with bars, clubs, and beach clubs, hosting nightly entertainment and parties throughout the week.

Our Accommodation Top Picks

At Haydar Experiences, we ensure your satisfaction by rigorously vetting each of our partners for quality and service. Rest assured, every accommodation we recommend has been personally verified to ensure an unforgettable stay on this beautiful island. While the options showcased below are among the most popular, they are just a sample of what we offer. Contact us today to begin your journey and let us handpick the perfect accommodation tailored to your preferences.