Is Zanzibar expensive to visit?
Zanzibar is a quaint locale that appeals to a variety of visitors, each with different travel styles, spending patterns, and budget needs. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Zanzibar can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $26 (TZS69,398) per day, mid-range travelers spend $62 (TZS164,112) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $134 (TZS357,357) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Zanzibar.
Within Africa, Zanzibar is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Zagora or Nairobi.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Zanzibar Expensive?
The Beach of Zanzibar, Tanzania
How much money do I need for a trip to Zanzibar?
The average Zanzibar trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Zanzibar travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Zanzibar cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Zanzibar, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $26 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Luckily, there are plenty of hostels in Zanzibar, such as Your Zanzibar Place, Drifters Backpackers, and New Teddy's on the Beach. Staying at these hostels means you can score affordable dorm lodging and a lively social vibe, but be prepared for basic amenities.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most tourists in Zanzibar are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $62 per person, per day.
In Zanzibar, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Zanzibar Coffee House is a fantastic option for families, and Mizingani Seafront Hotel is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Zanzibar here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $134 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the destination, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Walking Tour Of Stone Town - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Zanzibar
The cost of hotels in Zanzibar can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $63, but peak season () average prices jump to $118. Overall, prices range from $28 to $257. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Zanzibar for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $47 (TZS126,419). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $24 (TZS63,210) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Zanzibar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Zanzibar include:
- Jungle Paradise Beach Resort & Spa at Mbweni Ruins Hotel Zanzibar starting at $82
- Zanzibar Palace Hotel starting at $117
- Mizingani Seafront Hotel starting at $43
- 236 Hurumzi starting at $124
- Warere Town House starting at $39
Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.
Transportation Budget in Zanzibar
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $11 (TZS29,202) per person, per day, on local transportation in Zanzibar. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Zanzibar is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$11
TZS29,202
The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Zanzibar is by dala-dala, or mini buses. They operate much like taxis and are available to hire.
Renting a car is always an option in Zanzibar. Take precautions when selecting a rental car service, however. Many of the cars are between 15 and 20 years old and aren't regularly serviced. Since backup or exchange services aren't typically offered, should the car break down or need repairs, they will be your responsibility.
Also, if you do decide to drive yourself around, keep a few things in mind for the frequent police checks on the road. Always have your driver's license, your temporary Zanzibar driver's permit, car insurance on you, and be sure the proper road license stickers are on your windshield.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Airport /Hotel Transfers in Zanzibar for $25 details
- Kisauni Airport Private Transfer to Nungwi Zanzibar or Kiwengwa for $55 details
- Private Transfer by Car in Zanzibar for $60 details
How much does it cost to go to Zanzibar? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Zanzibar will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Zanzibar
Cuisine often serves as a primary motivation for travel, so make sure to indulge in the local dishes.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Zanzibar can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Zanzibar is $28 (TZS74,147) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$28
TZS74,147
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Zanzibar is around $28 (TZS74147) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $64. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Zanzibar are as follows:
- Breakfast: $3 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $11
- Dinner: $8 to $19
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
With all the cultures passing through Zanzibar, the food reflects that. You really can find any dish you're craving. While there, though, be sure to take advantage of the amazing seafood selections like crab claws, calamari steaks, shrimp on a stick and coriander-spiced tuna.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Bring a water bottle to avoid frequent drink purchases. It's also a sustainable choice.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Zanzibar, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Full-Day Private Tour in Zanzibar with Cooking Class for $110 details
- Cooking Class Tour for $90 details
- Spice tour and cooking class (local food) for $155 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Zanzibar
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Zanzibar typically cost an average of $12 (TZS33,159) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$12
TZS33,159
Your first journey outside of your hotel should be the charming capital city of Stone Town. Lining the streets are nineteenth century buildings decorated with elaborately detailed doors. Stroll through the streets and just feel the vibrancy of this area.
For a little evening snack, take a short walk along the Forodhani Gardens. This popular waterfront spot is full of vendors selling all sorts of treats. Enjoy a fish skewer. Nibble on some mango slices dipped in chile salt. And if you're absolutely stuffed, you should still sip on a cup of sugar can juice infused with ginger and lime.
What vacation would be complete without an afternoon relaxing by the waves? The Mangapwani Beach is covered in perfect white sand and lined with resorts offering all the luxuries you can imagine. From daybeds to restaurants, all your vacation goals are met. Be sure to check tide predictions before you go. With low tide moving out miles, it can make swimming very tricky. The beach is, after all, one of the best things to do in Zanzibar.
These places are just a few of the many great things to see and do here. For more ideas, check out this very comprehensive Zanzibar travel guide which covers a lot more of the breathtaking scenery.
Most travelers are searching for grand adventures to write home about when they explore new worlds. For this unique experience, make your way to Chumbe Island Coral Park for a snorkeling adventure. This marine protected island is completely uninhabited and only allows fourteen people to visit everyday. If you can arrange to be one of those lucky four, you'll have the opportunity to witness undisturbed wildlife. Dip your head beneath the surface to see over 400 species of fish and rainbow coral.
If you're up for visiting more islands, be sure to tour Spice Island. While here, you'll see where your common kitchen spices like nutmeg, vanilla and cloves come from - from back peppercorns found by climbing up a plant over ten feet high.
Be sure to check the Mtoni Palace Ruins for any concert or shows going on. You'll love being surrounded by the island's celebrated music, taarab. It's a combination of all the different cultures that have passed through Zanzibar - Swahili, Arab and Indian.
For a nice relaxing way to end the day, kick back at the Old Dispensary in Stone Town with a smooth hookah. Enjoy the ocean view with 70 types of shisha including cinnamon and jasmine. As you settle into your relaxation, look around and take in the traditional elaborate woodcarvings and stained glass.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Zanzibar. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Stone Town Tour in Zanzibar. For $30 details
- Stone Town Walking Tour with Hassan for $25 details
- Private Stone Town, Nakupenda Beach and Prison Island Tour for $145 details
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.