Planning a first-time trip to Zanzibar: Stone Town vs. the Northern Beaches?

ZanzibarTravel AdviceTanzaniaBeach Holiday

Vasil_DIY

Joined:
27.02.2021
Posts: 228

Topic Starter

04.01.2025 23:22

I am currently looking into booking a 10-day holiday to Zanzibar for later this year and could use some advice from those who have been recently. I'm struggling to decide how to split my time between the cultural sites in Stone Town and the beaches in the north or east. Is Nungwi still the best spot for swimming during low tide, or has it become too crowded with tourists lately? I'd also love to know if anyone has recommendations for a reliable local guide for the Jozani Forest and spice tours. Any help with budgeting for daily meals and local transport would also be fantastic.

13 replies in this topic

Timo_G

Joined:
08.04.2020
Posts: 2323

07.02.2025 22:26

I did 3 days in Stone Town and 7 in Nungwi last summer. 3 days is plenty to see the main sites and get the vibe of the markets before heading to the beach.

Fari_P

Joined:
05.02.2021
Posts: 1130

02.03.2025 02:35

Nungwi is definitely crowded now compared to a few years ago, but it's still the best for swimming. If you want it a bit quieter, look at Kendwa just a short walk away.

Nadiya_D

Joined:
06.08.2022
Posts: 357

25.03.2025 03:24

In reply to a previous post

I second the Kendwa suggestion! The beach is wider there and you don't have to walk as far to reach the water when the tide goes out.

Oli_S

Joined:
10.04.2021
Posts: 168

26.04.2025 01:27

For the Jozani Forest, you can actually just hire a guide at the park entrance. They are all official and very knowledgeable about the Red Colobus monkeys.

damian_varna

Joined:
31.08.2023
Posts: 1101

04.05.2025 01:04

Budget-wise, expect to pay $15-25 for a decent dinner in a touristy restaurant. If you eat at the Forodhani Gardens night market, you can do it for much cheaper, though stay away from the pre-cooked seafood sticks.

star_vulk

Joined:
30.03.2021
Posts: 965

26.05.2025 05:27

In reply to a previous post

Honestly, I found Stone Town a bit overwhelming after two days. The narrow streets are cool but the constant 'hey friend' from sellers gets exhausting.

Ameli_Z

Joined:
15.01.2025
Posts: 1661

26.06.2025 20:53

I'd recommend staying on the East Coast (Paje) if you want a more 'chilled' vibe. It's way less built up than Nungwi, though it's the kite-surfing capital.

ekspert_forum

Joined:
13.11.2023
Posts: 2064

04.07.2025 07:59

In reply to a previous post

Paje is great, but keep in mind you can't really swim at low tide there. The water goes out for miles and it's very shallow/seaweedy.

otgovor_BG

Joined:
01.08.2022
Posts: 42

10.08.2025 18:12

Taxis are quite expensive. A trip from Stone Town to the north will cost you about $35-50. Try to arrange a shared shuttle if you are solo or on a budget.

misho_777

Joined:
14.12.2020
Posts: 1311

19.09.2025 18:04

Just got back! Don't miss the sunset at Emerson on Hurumzi in Stone Town. It's a rooftop spot, a bit pricey for drinks, but the view is worth every cent.

Yani_Z

Joined:
01.03.2023
Posts: 2077

31.10.2025 11:54

Make sure you bring plenty of USD cash printed after 2006. Many places still don't take cards or the machines are frequently 'down'.

seba_bg

Joined:
13.07.2023
Posts: 2380

03.12.2025 04:32

In reply to a previous post

That is a very good point about the cash. Also, the ATMs in Stone Town often run out of money on weekends, so plan ahead!

Stefan_W

Joined:
16.08.2024
Posts: 988

27.02.2026 21:09

For the spice tour, I'd suggest Tangawizi Spice Farm. It's locally run and they really take their time explaining everything. We paid about $20 per person including lunch.

Planning a first-time trip to Zanzibar: Stone Town vs. the Northern Beaches?

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