Explore Zanzibar Island, the hidden gem of East Africa
Its 2015 I hadn’t even landed yet, but I already knew Zanzibar wasn’t going to feel like “just another beach holiday”. I’d seen the photos of turquoise water and white sand, but no one told me how the island would sound, smell and move – the call to prayer over Stone Town, the scent of cloves in the air and the slow, unhurried rhythm of island life.
If you’re dreaming about Zanzibar but haven’t been yet, this guide shares what to really expect: where to go, what the beaches are like, how safe it feels and the kind of experiences you can book with Paradise Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is an island off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, and it really does feel like a meeting point of worlds: African, Arab, Indian and European influences all layered together. As a first-time visitor, you quickly notice three things – the colour of the water, the spice-scented air and the warmth of the people.
Days drift by slowly here. You might start with a late breakfast overlooking the ocean, wander along the beach, join a tour in the afternoon and finish with a sunset dhow cruise. Even when the streets and markets feel busy, there’s an easy-going, welcoming energy that puts you at ease.
One of the first Swahili words you’ll hear is karibu. Locals are used to visitors and hospitality is a big part of life on the island. From hotel staff to tour guides, people love to explain their culture, food and history – especially if you’re curious and respectful.
You don’t have to choose between culture and relaxation. One day you’re getting lost in the alleys of Stone Town, the next you’re snorkelling over coral reefs or relaxing on a sandbank in the middle of the ocean. That mix is what makes Zanzibar special for first-time visitors.
Before my first trip I kept hearing: “all the beaches are beautiful”. That’s true – but each coast has its own personality. Here’s how the main areas feel when you’re seeing them for the very first time.
Stone Town is the historic heart of Zanzibar – a UNESCO World Heritage Site made of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors and rooftop views. Nearby you’ll find small city beaches and easy access to popular tours like Prison Island, Sunset Dhow Cruises and Spice Tours.
If you love wandering old streets, cafés and markets, this is where you’ll want to spend at least a day or two.
This is the “screensaver” Zanzibar you’ve probably seen online: long stretches of white sand, calm turquoise water and plenty of bars and restaurants on the beach. Sunsets here are incredible and there’s a lively but relaxed atmosphere in the evenings.
On the east coast, the tide goes far out, revealing sandbanks and shallow pools that glow in shades of blue and green. Paje is famous for kitesurfing, while Jambiani and surrounding villages feel more sleepy and authentic – perfect if you like long walks and quiet evenings.
The south is greener and less developed, with small fishing villages and mangroves. This is where many Dolphin Safaris and the famous Safari Blue dhow trips depart – think sandbanks, snorkelling and long lazy lunches on island beaches.
Even before setting foot on the island, I had a mental list of “must do” activities. Once I arrived, I realised how helpful it is to have a local team organise everything – transfers, guides, timing with tides – so you don’t waste a single day. Here are the experiences that make a first trip truly unforgettable:
Walking through Stone Town with a guide feels like reading a history book in real time. Add a Spice Tour, a Local Village Visit or a Mangapwani Cave stop and you start to understand where Zanzibar’s flavours, stories and traditions come from.
You can see the full list of these experiences on our Tours & Excursions page.
Gliding over the water on a wooden dhow, snorkelling near Bawe or relaxing on a sandbank feels exactly as dreamy as it looks on Instagram – only saltier and sunnier. Trips like Safari Blue, Dolphin Safaris and Snorkelling to Bawe are perfect for first-timers.
Seeing red colobus monkeys jump through the trees in Jozani Forest or watching dolphins break the surface at sunrise stays with you long after you fly home. These experiences are easy to combine in one day with the right timing.
If you like a bit of adrenaline, quad bike tours through the countryside or kitesurfing on the east coast balance out the lazy beach days. For something slower, guided village walks give you a deeper, more respectful look at local life.
Short answer: yes. If you’ve travelled before, you’ll find Zanzibar easy to enjoy. If it’s one of your first big trips, having someone local to lean on (for airport pick-up, tours and advice) makes everything even smoother.
You’ll find everything from boutique guesthouses to five-star resorts. Most places include breakfast, and many can arrange airport transfers and day trips for you. You can spend your days by the pool or out exploring – Zanzibar works for both.
Like many tourist destinations, Zanzibar feels safe when you use common sense: avoid flashing valuables, use registered guides and drivers, and listen to local advice about tides and swimming conditions. Booking through a trusted local operator helps a lot.
Share your travel dates, preferred area (Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje, etc.) and what you’d love to experience. Our team at Paradise Zanzibar will reply with a personalised, no-obligation plan that fits your style and budget.
We can combine accommodation suggestions with our curated Tours & Excursions, so you see the best of the island without spending hours researching.
