Zanzibar Holiday Costs
Zanzibar boasts beautiful beaches, rich culture, and historic Stone Town—perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Types Of Holidays in Zanzibar & Their Cost
Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back island escape, a romantic beachside retreat with private dinners, or a culturally rich journey filled with Swahili charm, Zanzibar has something for everyone. From peaceful beach lounging to sailing into the sunset on a traditional dhow, here’s what you can expect when it comes to the cost of your Indian Ocean adventure.
Zanzibar Holiday Costs
Zanzibar Holidays: What Are Your Options?
Zanzibar is a destination that caters to a wide range of travel styles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, cultural discovery, or a relaxing beach holiday after a safari, Zanzibar has something for everyone. Costs can vary depending on your accommodation type, chosen activities, level of privacy, and the season you travel.
💰 What Affects the Cost of Your Zanzibar Holiday
Type of Accommodation – From budget guesthouses to luxury resorts and private island lodges
Travel Season – High vs. low season pricing
Activities & Experiences – Diving, dhow cruises, cultural tours, spa days, and more
Number of Destinations – Combining Stone Town with beach areas adds both richness and cost
Transfers & Logistics – Some remote islands require additional boat or charter flights
✈️ Fly-In Safaris & Charter Flights
Zanzibar is easily accessible by air from major Tanzanian safari hubs such as:
Arusha
Serengeti
Dar es Salaam
Charter flights make remote connections seamless and offer breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean. Pairing a Zanzibar beach break with a safari in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater is a popular option.
⛵ Dhow Cruises & Boat Transfers
Experience Zanzibar’s coast the traditional way:
Dhow cruises offer scenic and romantic journeys
Ideal for island-hopping or sunset sails
Add a cultural touch to your beach experience
🕌 Stone Town & Cultural Experiences
Zanzibar’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of history and charm:
Walk through winding alleys and bustling markets
Visit iconic landmarks: Sultan’s Palace, Old Fort, Forodhani Market
Learn about the island’s Arab, African, and Indian influences
Take a guided spice tour or cycle through rural villages and coconut groves
Discover the more authentic, off-beat side of the island on Pemba
🏖️ Beach & Relaxation Holidays
Zanzibar is famed for its idyllic beaches and world-class resorts:
Relax at top resorts in Nungwi and Kendwa (north) or Paje and Michamvi (southeast)
Enjoy infinity pools, beachfront dining, and spa treatments
Stay on a private island like &Beyond Mnemba Island for ultimate seclusion
Perfect for honeymoons, wellness retreats, or celebrations
🌊 Marine Adventures & Ocean Safaris
The waters around Zanzibar are ideal for both underwater and surface exploration:
Snorkeling and diving at Mnemba Atoll
Swim with dolphins near Kizimkazi
Glass-bottom boat rides over coral reefs
Sea turtle sightings on the northern coast
Try kite surfing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding
🐘 Bush & Beach Combos
Get the best of both worlds by combining your Zanzibar beach escape with a Tanzanian safari:
Safari first: Explore the Serengeti, Tarangire, or Nyerere (Selous)
Then unwind on Zanzibar’s peaceful beaches
A popular itinerary for those seeking both adventure and relaxation
How Much Does a Holiday Cost in Zanzibar?
Like any holiday, the overall cost of your trip will depend on the experiences you choose and the destinations you visit. The table below provides a general breakdown of Zanzibar holiday costs, calculated per person per night based on shared accommodation in both low and high seasons.
| Entry-level Self-drive | Mid-range | Luxury | 5 Star Options | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | High | Low | High | Low | High | Low | High |
| $500 pps* | $700 pps* | $750 pps* | $1,000 pps* | $1,100 pps* | $1,500 pps* | $1,500 pps* | $2,500 pps* |
Zanzibar Accommodation & Associated Costs
Zanzibar offers a diverse range of accommodation to suit every type of traveler. From stylish beachfront resorts and comfortable hotels to charming lodges with ocean views, there’s something for everyone. For a more authentic experience, cozy guesthouses and coastal bungalows provide a relaxed atmosphere and a warm welcome, reflecting the island’s easygoing charm and hospitality.
Zanzibar Accommodation Prices
| 4-star comfort | 4-star luxury | 5-star luxury | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | High | Low | High | Low | High |
| $300 pps* | $400 pps* | $500 pps* | $800 pps* | $900 pps* | $1,500 pps* |
Please note: the prices in the table are guidelines based on per person, per night, sharing accommodation during both high and low seasons.
How Does The Time Of Year Affect The Cost Of A Zanzibar Holiday?
Please note: the prices in the table are guidelines based on per person, per night, sharing accommodation during both high and low seasons.
Additional Costs
When booking an ‘all-inclusive’ holiday, it’s important to remember that inclusions can vary widely, especially in Africa. What may appear comprehensive at first glance might not cover everything you expect. It’s always a good idea to clarify the details before booking.
One of the first steps is checking whether your destination requires a visa. For U.S. citizens, our blog on visa-free African countries is a helpful starting point and could eliminate one cost early on.
Here are some potential additional costs to be aware of when planning your trip:
✈️ International Flights
Typically not included in most packages.
Getting to Zanzibar or any other African destination usually requires separate flight bookings.
🚐 Local Transfers
Some lodges or hotels include transfers; others may charge extra.
Charter flights and road transfers are both available in Zanzibar.
Always check how you’ll get from the airport to your accommodation or between locations.
💉 Vaccinations
Certain vaccines may be required or recommended before travel.
These are not included in your package—consult your doctor or visit the CDC website for up-to-date info on Zanzibar travel health requirements.
💵 Tipping
While optional, tipping is customary and appreciated.
Carry some cash for tipping drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
See our tipping guide for suggested amounts.
🛡️ Travel Insurance
Not included in most bookings.
Strongly recommended to cover unexpected delays, cancellations, medical issues, or lost baggage.
🎯 Extra Activities
Some excursions (like snorkeling, scuba diving, dhow cruises, or spice tours) may be charged separately, depending on your package.
Always review your itinerary to see what’s included and what’s optional.
💳 Currency & Exchange Rates
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency.
U.S. dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.
Using international credit/debit cards may involve currency conversion fees.
Understanding these potential extra costs will help you budget more accurately and avoid surprises during your Zanzibar holiday.
Ready to Transform This Safari Guide into Your Ultimate Zanzibar Adventure?
Connect with someone who truly knows the destination. Speak with one of our Africa Safari Experts to help customize a journey that’s perfectly suited to your travel style.
