Where to Stay in Zanzibar: A Neighborhood Guide

Choosing the right neighborhood in Zanzibar can transform your trip from good to unforgettable. Each area has its own personality, price range, and set of advantages. Whether you are a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family with young kids, there is a perfect base waiting for you.

This guide walks you through Zanzibar's key neighborhoods so you can book with confidence.

Neighborhood Overview

1. Stone Town — labyrinthine alleys with Arab, Indian, and Swahili architecture

Best for: First-time visitors, easy access to top sights

This is the most popular area for tourists, and for good reason. You are walking distance from Stone Town UNESCO old quarter and Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and transport links nearby.

• Vibe: Bustling, convenient, tourist-friendly
• Budget: $21–$80 per night
• Drawback: Can feel crowded during July to August and Christmas-New Year period

2. Paje — east coast kite-surfing and boho beach vibes

Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, budget travelers

A more authentic feel with local eateries serving dishes like Zanzibar Pizza — street food crepe filled with meat, egg, and vegetables from Forodhani Gardens at genuinely local prices. This area rewards wandering — every side street holds a surprise.

• Vibe: Authentic, walkable, slightly gritty in the best way
• Budget: $7–$21 per night
• Drawback: Fewer high-end accommodation options

3. Jambiani — quiet fishing village with authentic local culture

Best for: Couples, nightlife seekers, luxury travelers

The upscale side of Zanzibar. Expect sleek hotels, rooftop bars, and proximity to Forodhani Gardens — evening food market with live performances. If you want Private dhow sunset cruise with seafood dinner and champagne within walking distance, this is your spot.

• Vibe: Modern, polished, lively after dark
• Budget: $24–$100 per night
• Drawback: Higher prices across the board

4. Kendwa — calm beach with no tidal issues and full moon parties

Best for: Families, long-stay travelers, peace and quiet

Spacious accommodation, parks, and a slower pace of life. Swimming with giant tortoises on Prison Island are easily accessible, and you will find vacation rentals with kitchens — a game-changer for families.

• Vibe: Residential, relaxed, spacious
• Budget: $6–$18 per night
• Drawback: Requires transport to reach the center

5. Nungwi — northern tip with white sand beach and dhow boat sunsets

Best for: Repeat visitors, off-the-beaten-path seekers

A neighborhood most tourists never discover. Staying here puts you closer to Prison Island (Changuu) and gives you bragging rights among well-traveled friends.

• Vibe: Local, undiscovered, rewarding
• Budget: $6–$18 per night
• Drawback: Limited English signage and fewer tourist amenities

Best Area by Traveler Type

Traveler Type	Recommended Area	Why
Solo traveler	Paje — east coast kite-surfing and boho beach vibes	Social hostels, walkable, affordable eats
Couple	Jambiani — quiet fishing village with authentic local culture	Spice farm tour followed by a traditional cooking class for two, great dining
Family	Kendwa — calm beach with no tidal issues and full moon parties	Glass-bottom boat ride over coral reefs
Budget	Paje — east coast kite-surfing and boho beach vibes	Lowest accommodation prices, local food deals
Luxury	Jambiani — quiet fishing village with authentic local culture	Premium hotels, fine dining, nightlife

Accommodation Tips

1. Book early for peak season (July to August and Christmas-New Year period) — the best places fill up 2–3 months ahead.
2. Read recent reviews — a hotel from 2023 might be under new management now.
3. Check the walk score — staying near a transit stop saves you taxi money every day.
4. Consider vacation rentals for stays of 4+ nights, especially for families or groups.

Pro Tips

• Currency: The local currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) and US Dollar widely accepted. Many places accept cards, but carry some cash for small purchases.
• Safety: Zanzibar is generally safe but petty theft occurs in Stone Town at night
• Transport: Dala dalas (minibuses) are cheap but crowded for long routes

Our Recommendation

For most first-time visitors, Stone Town — labyrinthine alleys with Arab, Indian, and Swahili architecture offers the best balance of convenience, value, and atmosphere. If you are on a tight budget, look at Paje — east coast kite-surfing and boho beach vibes instead — you will save on accommodation without sacrificing the experience.

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