Where is Zanzibar in Tanzania?

Zanzibar lies off Tanzania’s eastern coastline in the Indian Ocean. It sits opposite the city of Dar es Salaam and is easily reached by a short flight or ferry from the mainland.

Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally considered safe for tourists. Most visits are trouble-free, especially in resort areas. As in any destination, visitors should take normal precautions against petty theft, use licensed taxis, and dress modestly in towns and villages.

Is Zanzibar part of Tanzania?

Yes, Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. In 1964, Zanzibar and Tanganyika united to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar retains a degree of self-governance but remains officially under Tanzanian sovereignty.

Is Zanzibar in Africa or Asia?

Zanzibar is in Africa. It is an East African archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, although its history has strong links to Arab, Persian, and Indian traders through the Indian Ocean trade routes.

Zanzibar Unveiled (2025 Guide): Where It Is, Its Status, Safety, Geography & Why It’s Tanzania’s Most Magical Island

Q: Where is Zanzibar located?

Zanzibar is an island archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa. It lies about 25–50 kilometers from mainland Tanzania and belongs to the United Republic of Tanzania.

Q: Is Zanzibar a country?

No, Zanzibar is not an independent country. It is a semi-autonomous region of the United Republic of Tanzania, with its own local government but shared national institutions such as currency, foreign affairs, and immigration.

Q: How do you get to Zanzibar?

You can reach Zanzibar by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Serengeti, and several international hubs, or by taking a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar City. Many travelers combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari using convenient fly-in connections.

Q: What is Zanzibar famous for?

Zanzibar is famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, historic Stone Town, spice plantations, Swahili culture, and as a perfect base to combine a beach holiday with a Tanzania safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Q: When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to February, when the weather is sunny and ideal for beaches and ocean activities.

Q: Can you go on safari from Zanzibar?

Yes, you can easily go on safari from Zanzibar. Many travelers book fly-in safaris from Zanzibar to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara with operators such as Travel Wise Safari, combining world-class wildlife with a relaxing beach stay.

travelwisesafari
Nov 22
7 min read

Zanzibar is one of the most searched destinations in Africa — yet surprisingly, travelers still ask some of the most basic questions about this enchanting archipelago:

Where is Zanzibar?
Where is Zanzibar located on the world map?
Is Zanzibar a country or part of Tanzania?
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Where is Zanzibar in Tanzania?

This comprehensive, geo-optimized guide answers everything with clarity, depth, and up-to-date information. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a honeymoon, or a Tanzania safari starting from Zanzibar, this guide gives you the full picture.

🗺️ Where Is Zanzibar? (Simple Explanation + Geographic Details)

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago located off the East African coast in the Indian Ocean, belonging to the United Republic of Tanzania.

✔ Quick Facts:

Continent: Africa
Region: East Africa
Ocean: Indian Ocean
Nearest Mainland: Tanzania
Distance from Mainland: 25–50 km (15–30 miles)
Coordinates: ~6° South, 39° East
Main City: Zanzibar City (Stone Town is its old quarter)

Zanzibar’s prime coastal location gives it warm tropical weather year-round, making it one of Africa’s most beautiful island destinations.

🧭 Where Is Zanzibar Located on the Map? (In relation to Africa, Tanzania & the World)

To understand its position clearly, here’s how Zanzibar sits geographically:

🌍 Relative to Africa:

Off Tanzania’s east coast
Below Kenya’s Mombasa coast
North of Madagascar
Southwest of Seychelles

🛫 Flight Distances:

From	To Zanzibar	Duration
Dar es Salaam	15 min flight
Arusha (Safari capital)	1 hr
Serengeti (various airstrips)	1–2 hrs
Dubai	5 hrs
Doha	6 hrs
Istanbul	7 hrs

These connections make Zanzibar the best pre/post-safari destination in Africa.

🏝️ Understanding the Zanzibar Archipelago (Unguja, Pemba & More)

Zanzibar isn’t a single island — it’s an archipelago with two main islands:

1️⃣ Unguja (commonly called "Zanzibar Island")

The largest and most visited
Home to Stone Town
Resorts, beaches, nightlife, markets
Famous places: Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Matemwe, Jambiani

2️⃣ Pemba Island

Smaller, greener, quieter
Famous for diving and spice farms
Minimal mass tourism

⭐ Other tiny islands include:

Mnemba Island (exclusive luxury)
Chapwani
Chumbe
Bawe

🇹🇿 Is Zanzibar a Country? (Full Explanation)

No — Zanzibar is NOT a country.

It is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, meaning it governs itself internally but is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.

🏛 How Did Zanzibar Become Part of Tanzania?

✔ 1961

Mainland Tanganyika gains independence from Britain.

✔ 1963

Zanzibar gains independence from Britain.

✔ January 1964

The Zanzibar Revolution overthrows the Sultan’s government.

✔ April 1964

Zanzibar + Tanganyika unite → United Republic of Tanzania.(Tan = Tanganyika, Zan = Zanzibar)

🏳 What Makes Zanzibar Semi-Autonomous?

Has its own President
Own House of Representatives
Own local laws
Own flag, used alongside Tanzania’s

But shares with Tanzania:

Currency (TZS – Tanzanian Shilling)
Foreign affairs
Military
Immigration & passports

You do NOT need a separate Zanzibar visa.A Tanzania visa covers Zanzibar as well.

🔐 Is Zanzibar Safe? (2025 Travel Safety Guide)

The question “Is Zanzibar safe?” is extremely common — and the good news is:

✔ Zanzibar is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in East Africa.

Thousands of travelers visit every month for honeymoons, family trips, and safaris.

🛡️ Safety Overview

Category	Safety Level	Notes
Violent Crime	Very Low	Rare toward tourists
Petty Theft	Moderate	Same as any major tourist spot
Beach Safety	Good	Be cautious with vendors
Female Solo Travel	Good	Tourist zones secure
Resort Areas	Excellent	High security and lighting
Stone Town	Safe	Use taxis at night

✔ Tips to Stay Safe

Use registered taxi or hotel transport at night
Avoid flashy jewelry in crowded markets
Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach
Dress modestly in Stone Town & villages
Drink bottled water only

🕌 Cultural & Religious Considerations (Important for Tourists)

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so visitors should respect cultural norms.

✔ Appropriate Behavior

Cover shoulders & knees when outside resorts
Avoid kissing in public
Ask permission before photographing locals
During Ramadan, be extra respectful about eating in public

This ensures a respectful and positive experience.

🌦️ Best Time to Visit Zanzibar (Weather Breakdown)

Zanzibar is warm year-round, but these seasons matter:

☀ Best Weather (Peak Season):

June to October (dry, cool, best beaches)
December to February (hot, sunny, festive season)

🌧 Rainy Seasons:

Long rains: March–May
Short rains: November

Even during short rains, showers are brief and beaches remain amazing.

✈️ Why Zanzibar Is the Best Base for a Tanzania Safari

Here’s where Travel Wise Safari comes in.

Zanzibar is the perfect starting point for world-class wildlife adventures because it offers direct domestic flights to Tanzania’s national parks.

✈ Direct Flights from Zanzibar To:

Serengeti (multiple airstrips)
Ngorongoro region (Manyara airstrip)
Tarangire National Park
Arusha (safari capital)

⭐ Top Safari Packages from Zanzibar by Travel Wise Safari:

Travelers love this combination:

✔ Fly from Zanzibar → Safari

✔ Fly back → Relax on the beach

Perfect for honeymoons, families, and adventure seekers.

FAQs

❓ Where exactly is Zanzibar in Africa?

Zanzibar is located on the eastern coast of Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, directly off the mainland of Tanzania. It sits within the region known as the Swahili Coast, between Kenya to the north and Mozambique to the south.

❓ How do you get to Zanzibar?

The fastest way is by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). Travelers coming from Tanzania can fly from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Serengeti, while international visitors can arrive via Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, and various European seasonal flights. Ferries run daily between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City.

❓ Is Zanzibar part of Africa or Asia?

Zanzibar is part of Africa — geographically, culturally, and politically. Although it has strong historical ties to Arab, Persian, and Indian traders, it is an African island archipelago belonging to Tanzania.

❓ What country does Zanzibar belong to?

Zanzibar belongs to the United Republic of Tanzania, formed in 1964 when the countries of Tanganyika (mainland) and Zanzibar united.

❓ Is Zanzibar safe for families and children?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally very safe for families with children. Resorts maintain strong security, beaches are calm, and locals are warm and family-oriented. Basic precautions like supervising children around water and avoiding isolated areas at night are recommended.

❓ Can you drink the water in Zanzibar?

No — travelers should avoid tap water. Always drink bottled or filtered water, including for brushing teeth. Most hotels provide clean drinking water.

❓ What language is spoken in Zanzibar?

The main language is Swahili (Kiswahili). English is widely spoken in hotels, airports, restaurants, and tourist areas, so communication is easy for most travelers.

❓ What currency is used in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, USD is widely accepted for hotels, tours, and park fees. ATMs and money exchange offices are available in Stone Town and major beach areas.

❓ What time zone is Zanzibar in?

Zanzibar follows East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC +3. There is no daylight saving time.

❓ What is Zanzibar famous for?

Zanzibar is globally known for:

White-sand beaches (Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje)
Stone Town UNESCO World Heritage Site
Spice plantations
Swahili-Arab culture
Warm turquoise waters
Direct access to Tanzania safaris from Zanzibar

❓ What is Stone Town?

Stone Town is the historic old quarter of Zanzibar City, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for:

ancient Omani palaces
narrow alleyways
spice markets
carved wooden doors
old mosques
waterfront sunsets
Freddie Mercury’s birthplace

It’s one of the most culturally rich towns in East Africa.

❓ When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time is during the dry seasons:

June–October (cool, dry, perfect for beaches)
December–February (hot and sunny)

Avoid the heavy rains from March–May if possible.

❓ Is Zanzibar expensive?

Zanzibar can be affordable or luxurious depending on your choices:

Budget hotels: $30–60
Mid-range hotels: $80–150
Luxury resorts: $250–1,500+

Food, taxis, and tours are moderately priced compared to other island destinations.

❓ How many days should you spend in Zanzibar?

Most travelers stay 5–7 days on the island. If combining with a safari in Tanzania, many choose:

3–4 days safari
4–7 days Zanzibar beach holiday

❓ Can you go on safari from Zanzibar?

Yes — and it’s one of the best ways to experience Tanzania.Travel Wise Safari offers direct fly-in safaris from Zanzibar to:

Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara

This eliminates long road drives and maximizes your experience.

❓ Do you need a visa to enter Zanzibar?

Zanzibar uses the same visa system as mainland Tanzania. Most travelers require a Tanzania Tourist Visa, available:

online (eVisa)
on arrival
at Tanzanian embassies

❓ Is Zanzibar good for honeymooners?

Absolutely — Zanzibar is one of Africa’s top honeymoon destinations. The island offers:

romantic beachfront villas
private candlelit dinners
overwater restaurants
luxury resorts like Zuri Zanzibar, The Residence, and Melia

❓ Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travelers?

Yes. Zanzibar is welcoming and safe for solo women. Choose reputable accommodations, dress modestly in towns, and avoid isolated areas at night.

❓ Can you wear swimsuits in Zanzibar?

Yes, swimsuits are allowed on resort grounds and beaches.However, in Stone Town and local villages:

cover shoulders
cover knees
avoid revealing clothing

❓ What is the electricity voltage in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar uses 230V / 50Hz with Type G plugs (same as the UK). Travelers may need an adapter.

❓ Does Zanzibar have good internet?

Yes. Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, and mobile data (Airtel, Vodacom, Zantel) is widely available. Speeds vary but are improving every year.

❓ What are the top beaches in Zanzibar?

Some of the most famous beaches include:

North Coast:

Nungwi
Kendwa

East Coast:

Paje
Jambiani
Michamvi

Northeast Coast:

Matemwe
Kiwengwa

❓ What is the population of Zanzibar?

Approximately 1.8 million people, mostly living on Unguja Island.

❓ What is the religion in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim (about 98%), with small Christian and Hindu communities.