A Nigerians Guide to Visiting Zanzibar: All You must Know

If you are a Nigerian, thinking of an exotic getaway that won’t have your bank account screaming “wey my money?”, then visiting Zanzibar should be on your radar.

This tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania is the definition of a perfect vacation: stunning beaches, rich culture, delicious food, and enough adventure to keep your Instagram followers jealous for weeks.

Zanzibar has something for everyone, whether you love a soft life, history, or just good food. Let’s break it down if visiting Zanzibar is on your list!

Why Zanzibar Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Zanzibar is an island of dreams. The beaches look like something out of a Nollywood wedding scene, the air smells of spices, and the vibes are as soft as fresh agege bread.

Picture clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and coconut trees swaying like they are dancing to Wizkid’s latest hit. This place is the real-life wallpaper of your dreams.

But it is not only about the beauty; Zanzibar has a deep history, welcoming people, and food so good you might rethink your entire relationship with Nigerian jollof (okay, maybe not that far). And the best part of visiting Zanzibar? It is not as expensive as Dubai or the Maldives, but it gives you the same luxurious experience if you plan well.

How to Get to Zanzibar from Nigeria (Without Getting Stranded at the Airport)

Getting to Zanzibar is not as complicated as your visa interview at the American embassy. There is no direct flight from Nigeria, but you can fly to Zanzibar through Tanzania’s main airport in Dar es Salaam or connect through Ethiopia, Kenya, or even Qatar. Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Qatar Airways offer good options.

Once in Dar es Salaam, you can take a short domestic flight or a ferry to Zanzibar. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours, but if you enjoy a fast life, grab a quick 30-minute flight.

Either way, ensure you have your yellow fever card unless you want to argue with immigration officers who don’t have your time.

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Best Time to Visit (Because Nobody Likes Rain Spoiling Their Trip)

Weather is key! You don’t want to land in Zanzibar only to realize that the rain came to greet you before your tour guide. The best time to visit is between June and October when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for beach flexing. December to February is also good, but March to May? Avoid it unless you enjoy rain washing away your holiday excitement…and tears.

Top Places to Visit in Zanzibar (Because You Didn’t Travel All This Way to Sleep in a Hotel)

1. Nungwi Beach & Kendwa Beach – If heaven has a beach, it probably looks like this. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and the sunsets? Unbelievable! Plus, the nightlife here is lit, so prepare to shake your body.
2. Stone Town – If you love history, this is your spot. Walk through the old town, see the Slave Market, and explore the streets where Freddie Mercury of Queen was born. Plus, it is a great place to buy souvenirs (but please, sharpen your bargaining skills, because they will try you!).
3. Prison Island – Sounds scary, but it’s a cool place. The island was once a prison (hence the name), but now it’s a turtle sanctuary where you can see and even feed giant tortoises older than your grandfather.
4. Jozani Forest – This is your chance if you have never seen a red colobus monkey before. Just ensure you hold your belongings tight—some of these monkeys are professional pickpockets.
5. The Rock Restaurant – Ever eaten in a restaurant in the middle of the ocean? Now is your chance. The Rock is exactly what it sounds like – a restaurant on a rock, and the food is as fancy as the setting.

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What to Eat When Visiting Zanzibar (Because a Nigerian Must Eat Well)

Zanzibar is a paradise for food lovers. The blend of African, Indian, and Arabic flavors will have you licking your fingers in public (and we won’t judge). Some must-try dishes include:

• Zanzibar Pizza – Forget Domino’s; this street food version is stuffed with meat, eggs, and cheese, then fried to crispy perfection.
• Urojo Soup – A spicy and tangy soup with beef, potatoes, and a little bit of everything.
• Seafood Platter – Fresh fish, prawns, squid, and lobster. If you love seafood, you might just relocate here.
• Spiced Tea & Coffee – Zanzibar is the spice capital, so even their tea and coffee come with a little extra flavor.

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Cost of Living & Budgeting for Your Trip (Because We Must Count Our Money)

Zanzibar can be both budget-friendly and luxurious, depending on how you plan. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect:

• Flight: ₦400,000 – ₦700,000 (depending on the season and airline)
• Accommodation: Budget hotels start from ₦15,000 per night, while resorts can go up to ₦200,000+ per night.
• Food: You can eat well for ₦3,000 – ₦10,000 per meal.
• Transport: Local transport (dala dala buses) costs about ₦500 per ride, while taxis can be ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 depending on the distance.
• Tours & Activities: Expect to spend ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 for different excursions.

Final Tips for a Smooth Zanzibar Trip

• Respect the Culture: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so dress modestly when in town. Bikinis are cool at the beach, but don’t walk into town dressed like you are still at a pool party.
• Bargain Smartly: Don’t just accept the first price when shopping. Bring out your inner Igbo trader and haggle.
• Cash is King: Many places don’t take cards, so carry cash (Tanzanian Shillings or US dollars).
• Learn a Few Words in Swahili: Saying “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you) can get you some extra smiles.

Final Verdict: Zanzibar is a Vibe!

If you are looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and pure relaxation, Zanzibar is the place to be. This island promises memories that will last a lifetime. And if anyone asks where you got your new glowing skin from, just tell them, “Na Zanzibar I go!”

Clare Aririahu

Welcome to my world! 🌟 I’m Clare, the proud founder of lovemeandtour.com website. I’m passionate about connecting people and helping them find love. Join me on this exciting journey and let’s spread love together! 🌟 #LoveMe #Travel #Passionate