ZANZIBAR INDEPENDENT WEEKEND

4 Days

Escape to Zanzibar for a short island break of turquoise seas, spice-scented air, and barefoot freedom—perfect for couples and families seeking to unwind, explore, and reconnect. Your perfect island escape begins here!

Bookings close  10  days before departure

  • 5
  • 1 - 12
  • Zanzibar, Africa
  • Zanzibar, Africa
  • Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
  • 12
  • English
  • 5

Overview

Escape to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, where culture, history, and beachside bliss come together effortlessly. Begin your journey in the atmospheric streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO-listed maze of history shaped by African, Arab, and European influences. 

Discover the island’s famous spice heritage on a guided tour, awakening your senses with the scents and flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves. Then, retreat to the pristine northern coast, where turquoise waters and powdery white sands invite you to relax and unwind.

With seamless transfers, comfortable stays, and the perfect balance of exploration and leisure, this Zanzibar escape is designed for pure enjoyment from start to finish.

Highlights

  • Savour the aromas of cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and more on an optional spice plantation tour, and learn about Zanzibar’s rich spice trade history while enjoying freshly brewed local tea.
  • Wander through the narrow alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with centuries of history and a fascinating, complex past.
  • Watch breathtaking sunsets as golden and orange hues reflect across the Indian Ocean from some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
  • Enjoy a full day at leisure on Zanzibar’s northern beaches—relax in a hammock or indulge in fresh seafood by the sea.
  • Unwind on powder-white sands and crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar, a postcard-perfect island escape.

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Stone Town

    Jambo! Welcome to Zanzibar, Tanzania – an archipelagic gem known for its idyllic beaches, vibrant markets, and layered history. Once a major hub in the East African slave trade and home to Arabian sultans, its past has shaped a distinctive culture where African, Arab, and European influences converge. With no planned activities today, why not throw yourself into Stone Town’s maze of narrow streets and explore the bazaars, mosques and ruins. Perhaps head to one of the bars on the seafront and soak up the salty ocean air with a cocktail.

  • Day
    02

    Zanzibar North Coast

    Venture out of Stone Town this morning and drive to the spice plantations for a guided tour to learn all about the history of this town's renowned spice trade. Take the opportunity to touch, smell and taste various spices – such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger – then sample some delicious teas! After lunch, head to the northern beaches, where white sands and blue seas await. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure – this is the Indian Ocean at its best.

  • Day
    03

    Zanzibar North Coast

    Ease into the day with the sound of gentle waves and soft ocean breezes. With a full day free to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastline, you might choose to take a refreshing swim, stretch out on the beach beneath the palms, or savour the flavours of the island with a fresh seafood dinner by the water. However you spend it, today is all about slowing down and letting the rhythm of island life take over.

  • Day
    04

    Zanzibar North Coast

    Today, you’ll transfer from the resort to Zanzibar Airport for your departure flight and the end of your beach break. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Join our fixed departure trip where you will travel with a small group of like minded people!

  • Thursday June 18, 2026
    Sunday June 21, 2026
  • Friday June 26, 2026
    Monday June 29, 2026
  • Thursday July 9, 2026
    Sunday July 12, 2026
  • Friday July 17, 2026
    Monday July 20, 2026
  • Thursday July 30, 2026
    Sunday August 2, 2026
  • Friday August 7, 2026
    Monday August 10, 2026
  • Thursday August 13, 2026
    Sunday August 16, 2026
  • Thursday August 20, 2026
    Sunday August 23, 2026
  • Thursday August 27, 2026
    Sunday August 30, 2026
  • Thursday September 10, 2026
    Sunday September 13, 2026
  • Thursday September 17, 2026
    Sunday September 20, 2026
See all departures at ZANZIBAR INDEPENDENT WEEKEND

Inclusions

  • Accommodation
  • All transport mentioned: Complimentary Airport Transfer - Stone Town to Northern Beaches
  • All activities mentioned: Zanzibar - Spice tour
  • Meals mentioned

Exclusions

  • Flights
  • Visa (if required)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Personal belongings insurance
  • Meals except the mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Transports except the mentioned on the trip
  • No guide on this trip

Important

Min. group size: 1 pax/ Max. group size:   12  pax

Gender group: mixed

This is a join-in trip, so if other travelers have booked on the same date you may share some activities.

No guides are included in the trip, you will be free to explore at your pace independently.

Arrival: 

Transfers from Zanzibar Airport to your hotel and back are included as part of this trip. Please provide us with your flight departure details as soon as you book. 

If you have pre-arranged a transfer, please look for your name on the transfer barrier when exiting the customs area at the airport. A representative will be there to collect you. If you cannot find your driver after a considerable amount of time, please contact +254 733 523 813.

Departure: 

On the last day (Day 4), if you’re flying out today, the most convenient option is to depart from Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ). For travellers with flights from Dar es Salaam, ferries to the mainland operate at 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. Please ensure you allow sufficient time to reach the mainland before your onward flight from Dar es Salaam.

Accommodation: 

Tembo House Hotel, Stonetown is located a short 15 minute drive from the main Zanzibar Airport

A 3-minute walk from the Old Fort of Zanzibar, this exotic, beachfront hotel is 6 minutes on foot from the Sultan's Palace and 9 minutes from Christ Church.

The hotel features antique furniture, the airy, polished rooms and suites come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes and minifridges, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. Some have 4-poster beds and mosquito nets; most offer balconies with views of the beach or the outdoor pool.

Freebies include parking, and breakfast that's served in the beachfront international restaurant.

Please note that accommodation is automatically shared in double occupancy. If you book with an even number of guests, you will be sharing the room with your travel companion. If you book solo, you will share with another guest (might be of opposite gender). If you prefer to stay alone in your room, please purchase the single supplement at check out. 

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out within a reasonable time after booking. It is not included in the price of the trip. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each of the categories of cover. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without these details. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

Prices

Prices are dynamic and very based on seasonality. Please check the ‘DATES’ tab for specific prices. Discounts available at checkout for couples, families and groups of friends.

Cancellation policy:

  • Up to 60 days prior to departure: the booking is 100% refundable except for the 0.3% non-refundable booking fee
  • Between 59 days to 31 days prior to departure: the booking is 50% refundable except for the 0.3% non-refundable booking fee
  • Between 30 days and 1 day as well as no show: the booking is 100% non-refundable.

Flight info

Flights are not included. 

Zanzibar is well connected from major hubs in GGC.

From United Arab Emirates (Dubai / Abu Dhabi)

  • Direct flights available:
    • flydubai 
    • Air Tanzania
    • Emirates or Qatar Airways via Dar es Salaam 

Official websites:

Oman (Muscat)

  • Direct flights available:
    • Oman Air 
  • Via Doha, Addis Ababa, or Dar es Salaam 

Official website:

Qatar (Doha)

  • Direct flights:
    • Qatar Airways 
    • Via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam 

Best option: Qatar Airways direct

Official website:

Saudi Arabia (Riyadh / Jeddah)

  • No direct flights currently 
  • Common routes:
    • Riyadh to Doha to Zanzibar 
    • Riyadh to Dubai to Zanzibar 
    • Riyadh to Addis Ababa to Zanzibar 

Official websites:

Visa info

Visas are not included in the package and must be arranged by travellers if required.

GCC & EU Nationals 

Citizens of GCC and European Union countries have simplified entry options.

They can obtain a visa on arrival at Zanzibar (Tanzania) entry points.

The visa validity is typically up to 90 days (tourist visa). The fee is usually around USD 50, payable on arrival (cash or card depending on airport systems).

Indians and other nationalities

Many nationalities can select the visa upon arrival. However, to speed up the process, we advise to obtain the visa prior to the departure via the Tanzania e-visa portal: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/

FAQs

Are flights included in this trip?

No, flights are not included. Travellers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Zanzibar. We provide guidance on the best airline options, especially from GCC countries.

Do I need a visa to enter Zanzibar (Tanzania)?

Yes, most travellers require a Tanzania visa. GCC nationals (UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia) can usually obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa in advance. A passport valid for at least 6 months is required.

What is included in the accommodation?

Accommodation is included for 3 nights (Stone Town hotel + northern coast bungalow). Rooms are shared on a double occupancy basis unless a single supplement is purchased.

Is airport transfer included?

Yes, transfers between Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and your accommodation in Zanzibar City (Stone Town / north coast) are included. Arrival details must be provided at least 15 days before departure.

What meals are included?

A total of 5 meals are included: daily breakfast and selected dinners as per itinerary. All other meals, snacks, and drinks are at your own expense.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers and must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and personal accidents. You will need to provide your insurance details before the trip starts.

Is this a guided trip?

No, this is an independent long weekend trip with no guide. You will have the free time to explore with no fixed schedule, so you can enjoy your own time by yourself.