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The best islands in Tanzania for an African beach vacation include the Zanzibar archipelago and Tanzania’s Indian Ocean islands. Well-known for their pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and stunning marine life, these islands also have a rich cultural heritage that blends Swahili, Arab, and European influences. While here, travellers can take advantage of world-class diving and snorkelling spots to see vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. A visit to historic sites such as Stone Town in Zanzibar is not to be missed.
These islands provide a mix of luxury resorts and authentic cultural experiences, making them ideal for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Destinations in Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands
From vibrant markets and historic architecture to pristine beaches and marine reserves, these islands offer travellers a wealth of experiences:
Stone Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Once one of the busiest trading routes in the world, the history of this fascinating town can still be seen in the winding alleys and architecture. Take a day trip here to peruse the vibrant markets, explore the Mtoni Palace ruins, and get a taste of the local cuisine, which is a delicious mixture of different local and international influences.
Nungwi Beach: Picture-Perfect Beach Paradise
When you bring to mind a perfect tropical beach, your vision will most likely fit Nungwi Beach. One of Zanzibar’s most popular beaches, it features powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful sunsets (ideal time for a dhow cruise), and excellent watersports.
Mnemba Island: Abundance of Marine Life
If you’re looking for an exclusive island escape, you can’t go wrong with Mnemba Island. This paradise is what island vacation dreams are made of, with its unspoiled white sand beaches and turquoise water. Part of a marine reserve, this island is perfect for diving and snorkelling with dolphins and turtles.
Prison Island: The Land of Giant Tortoises
Just a 25-minute boat trip from Stone Town lies Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. As the name suggests, this island was once the site of a penitentiary, and while travellers can visit the ruins, the main attraction is the giant tortoises that call this land home.
A day spent at Prison Island can include a hike around the island, visiting the tortoises, sunbathing on the beach, and snorkelling.
Pemba Island: Secluded Beach Experience
Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, Pemba Island offers travellers a more authentic island experience compared to the busier main island, Unguja. While not as developed as the main island, Pemba offers more secluded beaches and some of the best snorkelling in the archipelago.
Out of the water, the Ngezi Forest Reserve is a fantastic place to go on a hike to see flying foxes, vervet monkeys, and bushbabies.
When’s the Best Time to Go to Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands?
June to October is the best time of the year for a Tanzania island vacation, as these months bring with them dry, sunny weather – perfect beach conditions. December to February is a great time to visit, with warm, sunny days ideal for diving and snorkelling. You may get short bursts of rain in December, but the temperatures remain in the low 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Animals Found in Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands
The vast coral reefs around these islands are home to a variety of tropical fish. You’ll also be able to spot bottlenose dolphins, green turtles, whale sharks, manta rays, and blacktip reef sharks. Between July and August, pods of humpback whales pass through the waters of Zanzibar with their calves as they make their way along their migration route.
On land, you’ll find the giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island and the Pemba scops owls, Pemba sunbird, and Pemba flying fox on Pemba Island.
How to Get to Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands
By Air
You can fly directly into Zanzibar’s Fly Abeid Amani Karume International Airport from major international hubs. Pemba has its own airport, which you can fly to directly from Dar es Salaam. To get to smaller islands, you can opt for charter flights.
By Sea
Ferries run regularly between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
