How much does a Zanzibar holiday really cost?
Discover accommodation prices, food, airport transfers, excursions, luxury resorts, honeymoon packages and everything you need to budget for your dream island holiday.
Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in Africa. Famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise Indian Ocean waters, historic Stone Town, spectacular sandbanks and fascinating Swahili culture, the island attracts travelers from all over the world.
Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, a beach escape with friends or a luxury island experience, Zanzibar offers something for every type of traveller.
However, before booking your flights and accommodation, one important question needs to be answered:
How much does a holiday in Zanzibar actually cost?
The truth is that Zanzibar can accommodate different travel budgets. You can enjoy an affordable holiday in a local guesthouse, stay in a comfortable beachfront boutique hotel, or experience an exclusive five-star resort with private villas, ocean views and personalized services.
Your total holiday cost depends on several factors, including:
- Your accommodation category.
- Number of nights spent on the island.
- Travel season and booking dates.
- Number of excursions and activities.
- Food and dining preferences.
- Airport transfers and transportation.
- Whether you prefer private or shared tours.
In this complete Zanzibar holiday budget guide, Little Lion Tours & Safaris breaks down the costs of visiting Zanzibar, helping you plan your holiday with confidence and avoid unexpected expenses.
1. How Much Does a Zanzibar Holiday Cost?
The average cost of a Zanzibar holiday varies depending on your travel style and accommodation preferences.
For 2026–2027, the following figures provide a useful starting point for planning.
Daily budget per person
| Travel category | Daily budget |
|---|---|
| Budget holiday | $40–$90 |
| Standard holiday | $90–$150 |
| Mid-range holiday | $120–$250 |
| Luxury holiday | $300–$600 |
| Ultra-luxury holiday | $600–$1,500+ |
These are indicative on-island planning budgets, not fixed package prices. Accommodation, meals, local transportation and selected activities are the main components. International flights and one-off entry expenses should be budgeted separately.
A traveller staying in a simple guesthouse and eating at local restaurants will spend considerably less than someone staying at a five-star beachfront resort with private transfers and daily excursions.
Our advice: Decide on your preferred travel experience before selecting your hotel. This makes it easier to allocate your budget correctly.
2. Zanzibar Accommodation Prices: How Much Do Hotels Cost?
Accommodation is usually one of the biggest expenses of a Zanzibar holiday.
The island has a wide selection of properties, from affordable guesthouses in Stone Town to luxurious beachfront resorts in Nungwi, Kendwa, Pwani Mchangani, Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Paje and Jambiani.
Accommodation prices per room per night
| Accommodation category | Price |
|---|---|
| Budget guesthouse | $30–$70 |
| Standard hotel | $70–$130 |
| Superior / Mid-range hotel | $130–$250 |
| 5-star hotel or resort | $250–$500 |
| Ultra-luxury villa or resort | $500–$1,500+ |
Prices depend on the season, room type, occupancy, meal plan and hotel location. They are indicative estimates rather than confirmed hotel quotations.
Where should you stay in Zanzibar?
Nungwi is famous for beautiful beaches, swimming opportunities, beach restaurants and vibrant nightlife. It is an excellent choice for couples, families and travellers looking for a lively beach holiday.
Kendwa is known for its beautiful white sandy beach, clear water and relaxed atmosphere. It is particularly attractive for honeymooners and couples.
Paje is popular for kite surfing, beach activities, cafés and a relaxed atmosphere. It attracts younger travellers, adventure lovers and long-stay visitors.
Jambiani offers a quieter coastal experience, traditional fishing villages and beautiful beaches. It is ideal for travellers looking for a peaceful escape.
Kiwengwa and Pwani Mchangani – North-East Coast
These areas feature beautiful beachfront resorts, spacious properties and excellent options for all-inclusive holidays.
Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar. It is ideal for visitors interested in history, architecture, spice markets, local food and traditional Swahili culture.
Which hotel category offers the best value?
For many international visitors, standard and mid-range hotels provide a good balance between comfort and affordability.
However, if you are celebrating a honeymoon or special occasion, upgrading to a luxury beachfront resort can make your experience even more memorable.
3. Zanzibar Excursion Prices: How Much Do Activities Cost?
One of the best things about visiting Zanzibar is the variety of excursions available.
You can explore historical landmarks, visit tropical islands, swim in turquoise waters, discover spice plantations, enjoy traditional boat trips and experience local culture.
Below are indicative excursion budgets per person.
| Zanzibar excursion | Price |
|---|---|
| Stone Town guided tour | $20–$40 |
| Spice Farm Tour | $15–$35 |
| Prison Island Tour | $25–$50 |
| Nakupenda Sandbank | $40–$85 |
| Mnemba Island Snorkelling | $40–$90 |
| Safari Blue Experience | $60–$100 |
| Jozani Forest Tour | $25–$50 |
| Sunset Dhow Cruise | $30–$60 |
Prices can vary depending on whether the excursion is private or shared, the boat type, hotel pickup, meals, equipment and applicable conservation charges.
The best Zanzibar excursions to include in your budget
Explore the fascinating streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the island’s Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences, traditional architecture, markets and historical landmarks.
Estimated budget: $20–$40 per person.
2. Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
Visit Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island, where you can see the famous Aldabra giant tortoises.
Continue to Nakupenda Sandbank for swimming, relaxation, snorkelling and a delicious seafood BBQ lunch.
Estimated budget: $60–$100 per person for a combined experience, depending on the package.
Discover Zanzibar’s spectacular marine environment through a boat excursion around the Mnemba Atoll area.
Enjoy snorkelling, colourful coral reefs and opportunities to see tropical fish and other marine life.
Estimated budget: $40–$90 per person.
Note that marine conservation charges and access arrangements may affect the final quotation. Mnemba Island itself is privately owned; excursions generally explore surrounding marine areas rather than provide unrestricted island access.
Safari Blue is one of Zanzibar’s most popular marine adventures.
The experience typically includes traditional dhow sailing, snorkelling, sandbank visits, swimming and a seafood lunch, depending on sea conditions and the selected package.
Estimated budget: $60–$100 per person.
Discover why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island.
Visit a local plantation, learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and other tropical spices, and experience the island’s agricultural heritage.
Estimated budget: $15–$35 per person.
Explore the natural beauty of Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, famous for its endangered Zanzibar red Columbus monkeys and rich forest ecosystem.
Estimated budget: $25–$50 per person, depending on transport and tour inclusions.
4. Zanzibar Airport Transfers and Transportation Costs
Transportation is another important expense to consider when planning your holiday.
Zanzibar International Airport is located near Stone Town, while many popular hotels are situated along the northern, eastern and southeastern coastlines.
The cost of your transfer depends on the distance, vehicle category and whether you choose a private or shared service.
Example private airport transfer budgets
| Route | Indicative one-way price |
|---|---|
| Airport to Stone Town | $15–$25 |
| Airport to Nungwi | $45–$60 |
| Airport to Kendwa | $45–$60 |
| Airport to Paje | $35–$50 |
| Airport to Jambiani | $40–$55 |
| Airport to Kiwengwa | $40–$55 |
| Airport to Matemwe | $45–$60 |
These are indicative budgeting figures. Final transfer quotations depend on vehicle size, luggage, passenger numbers and pickup arrangements.
Available transportation options
Private Toyota Alphard
Ideal for couples, small families and travellers who want comfortable private transportation.
Toyota Hiace Minibus
A suitable option for families, small groups and corporate travellers.
Private Costa or larger tourist vehicle
Suitable for larger groups, conferences, events and organised excursions.
Shared transportation
A potential budget-friendly option for selected routes and organised activities, subject to availability.
When booking your accommodation, always confirm whether airport transfers are included or charged separately.
5. Food and Restaurant Costs in Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers a wonderful combination of traditional Swahili cuisine, fresh seafood, international dining and luxury beachfront restaurants.
Your food budget depends on your preferred dining experience and hotel meal plan.
Estimated food prices per person
| Dining experience | Estimated price |
|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $2–$6 |
| Casual restaurant | $6–$12 |
| Tourist restaurant | $10–$25 |
| Seafood restaurant | $15–$40 |
| Premium beachfront dining | $25–$60+ |
| Luxury resort dining | $40–$100+ |
Popular Zanzibar food experiences
- Fresh seafood and grilled lobster.
- Zanzibar seafood pizza.
- Traditional Swahili pilau and biryani.
- Coconut-based fish and curry dishes.
- Fresh tropical fruit juices.
- Zanzibar coffee and local snacks.
- Beachfront BBQ experiences.
For travellers staying at beach resorts, choosing Half Board or Full Board can help make meal expenses more predictable.
What do meal plans mean?
| Meal plan | What is included |
|---|---|
| Room Only (RO) | Accommodation only |
| Bed & Breakfast (BB) | Accommodation and breakfast |
| Half Board (HB) | Breakfast and one main meal |
| Full Board (FB) | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| All Inclusive (AI) | Meals and selected drinks and services according to hotel policy |
Always check whether beverages, minibar items, premium dining and special activities are included.
6. Zanzibar Visa, Travel Insurance and Government Charges
Before travelling to Zanzibar, international visitors should also consider entry requirements and applicable government charges.
Tanzania tourist visa
Many international visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania.
The ordinary single-entry tourist visa is generally USD 50 for eligible nationalities, while US passport holders generally require a multiple-entry visa costing USD 100.
Visa eligibility and requirements vary by nationality. Check the official Tanzania Immigration website before travelling.
Official website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Zanzibar mandatory inbound travel insurance
Visitors should check the Zanzibar mandatory inbound travel insurance requirements before arrival.
The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation administers the relevant insurance scheme. Confirm the latest applicable fee, eligibility, exemptions and coverage directly with the official provider.
Official website: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/
Zanzibar hotel infrastructure tax
Zanzibar applies an infrastructure tax to hotel guests.
According to the Zanzibar Revenue Authority, the rate ranges from USD 1 to USD 5 per person per day depending on the hotel’s star category.
This may be collected separately by your accommodation provider, so check whether it is already included in your quoted room rate.
Other expenses to consider include:
- Personal travel insurance.
- International flight tickets.
- SIM cards and internet.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Souvenirs and shopping.
- Laundry services.
- Drinks and personal expenses.
7. How Much Does a 5-Day Zanzibar Holiday Cost?
A five-day holiday is an excellent option for visitors who want to explore Zanzibar’s main attractions while enjoying some relaxation on the beach.
Here is an illustrative budget for two adults sharing a room.
Example: 5 Days / 4 Nights Zanzibar Holiday
| Expense | Estimated total for two |
|---|---|
| Standard accommodation (4 nights) | $400 |
| Meals and drinks | $200 |
| Three excursions | $360 |
| Airport transfers (round trip) | $100 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $100 |
| Estimated total | $1,160 |
Estimated cost per person: $580.
This example assumes a standard hotel and selected excursions. International flights, visa and applicable insurance charges are excluded.
8. How Much Does a 7-Day Zanzibar Holiday Cost?
Seven days provide more opportunities to discover the island, explore different beaches and enjoy a variety of activities.
Example: 7 Days / 6 Nights Zanzibar Holiday
For two adults sharing a mid-range hotel.
| Expense | Estimated total for two |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (6 nights) | $900 |
| Meals and drinks | $350 |
| Excursions (4 experiences) | $500 |
| Private transfers | $100 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $150 |
| Estimated total | $2,000 |
Estimated cost per person: $1,000.
This is an illustrative holiday budget, not a live package quotation.
9. How Much Does a Zanzibar Honeymoon Cost?
Zanzibar is an excellent destination for couples looking for romance, beautiful beaches, privacy and unforgettable experiences.
A honeymoon can include:
- Luxury beachfront accommodation.
- Romantic room decorations.
- Private airport transfers.
- Sunset dhow cruises.
- Private sandbank excursions.
- Couples’ spa experiences.
- Private seafood dinners.
- Professional photography.
- Special honeymoon arrangements.
Estimated honeymoon budget for two
| Honeymoon category | 5 nights / 6 days |
|---|---|
| Standard romantic escape | $1,200–$1,800 |
| Superior honeymoon | $1,800–$2,800 |
| Luxury honeymoon | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Ultra-luxury honeymoon | $5,000–$10,000+ |
These are indicative package planning ranges, excluding international flights. Hotel availability, meal plans, private experiences and season can significantly affect the final cost.
For couples celebrating their honeymoon, we recommend selecting a beautiful beachfront property and including at least one private romantic experience.
10. How Much Does a Family Holiday in Zanzibar Cost?
Zanzibar is also an excellent destination for family holidays.
Additionally, families can enjoy beach activities, boat excursions, cultural experiences, nature tours and comfortable resort accommodation.
What affects family holiday costs?
- Number of adults and children.
- Children’s ages.
- Family room or connecting room availability.
- Hotel meal plans.
- Private vehicle requirements.
- Excursion prices and child policies.
- Additional beds and accommodation arrangements.
Example: 5 Days / 4 Nights Family Holiday
For two adults and two children sharing suitable family accommodation.
| Expense | Estimated total |
|---|---|
| Family accommodation | $600 |
| Meals | $350 |
| Family excursions | $400 |
| Private transfers | $120 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $150 |
| Estimated total | $1,620 |
This is a sample planning budget. Children’s activity and accommodation rates vary by property and supplier.
11. Best Time to Visit Zanzibar and How It Affects Your Budget
The time of year you choose to visit Zanzibar can have a significant impact on your holiday costs.
June to October – Popular dry season
This is one of the most popular periods for visiting Zanzibar.
Visitors enjoy generally favourable beach conditions, sunshine and opportunities for outdoor excursions.
Because demand can be high, accommodation should be booked early.
November to December – Short rainy season and festive holidays
November can offer attractive travel opportunities, although short tropical showers are possible.
December is particularly popular around Christmas and New Year, when hotel prices and demand can increase.
January to February – Hot and sunny season
These months are popular with visitors looking for warm weather and beach relaxation.
They can be particularly attractive for honeymooners and travellers escaping colder climates.
March to May – Long rainy season
This is generally the main rainy season.
Some hotels may offer lower rates, making it an opportunity for budget-conscious travellers. However, weather conditions can affect beach activities and boat excursions.
September to October – Shoulder-season opportunities
Indeed, these months can offer an attractive balance between weather, availability and travel costs, depending on the exact dates.
Our recommendation: If your travel dates are flexible, compare accommodation rates across several weeks before confirming your booking.
12. How to Save Money on Your Zanzibar Holiday
A memorable Zanzibar holiday does not necessarily require an unlimited budget.
Here are practical ways to manage your expenses.
1. Book accommodation early
Popular beachfront resorts can become fully booked during peak travel periods. Early reservations provide more choices.
2. Choose accommodation according to your itinerary
If you plan to spend most of your time exploring, you may not need the most expensive resort.
3. Combine excursions
In addition, combining Stone Town, Spice Farm and Prison Island experiences can streamline your sightseeing itinerary, depending on the route.
4. Travel as a couple or group
Sharing private transportation and selected boat excursions can reduce the individual cost.
5. Choose the right meal plan
Half Board or Full Board can be good value for visitors staying far from restaurants.
6. Compare private and shared tours
Private tours offer greater flexibility, while shared tours can be more affordable.
7. Plan transfers in advance
Pre-arranged transportation helps avoid last-minute logistical problems.
8. Keep an additional budget
Additionally, set aside money for personal expenses, additional activities and unexpected costs.
13. Why Book Your Zanzibar Holiday with Little Lion Tours & Safaris?
Planning a Zanzibar holiday involves more than choosing a beautiful hotel.
You also need reliable transportation, well-organised excursions, suitable activities and a clear understanding of your total travel expenses.
At Little Lion Tours & Safaris, we help travellers discover Zanzibar through customised travel experiences designed around their preferences, schedules and budgets.
Our services include:
Zanzibar Holiday Packages
For example, customised packages suit couples, families, groups and independent travellers.
Beach Excursions
- Mnemba snorkelling excursions.
- Safari Blue.
- Nakupenda Sandbank.
- Prison Island.
- Pungume Sandbank.
- Nyange Sandbank.
- Sunset Dhow Cruises.
Cultural and Nature Experiences
- Stone Town guided tours.
- Spice Farm experiences.
- Jozani Forest.
- Local village experiences.
- Historical and cultural excursions.
Airport Transfers and Transportation
- Private airport pickups.
- Hotel-to-hotel transfers.
- Toyota Alphard transportation.
- Toyota Hiace minibuses.
- Group transportation.
- Customised transport arrangements.
Accommodation and Luxury Experiences
We assist with accommodation arrangements across different categories:
- Budget hotels.
- Standard hotels.
- Superior and mid-range hotels.
- Five-star beachfront resorts.
- Ultra-luxury villas and resorts.
Mainland Tanzania Safari Extensions
Want to experience more than Zanzibar?
We can also help combine your beach holiday with a mainland Tanzania safari to destinations such as:
- Serengeti National Park.
- Ngorongoro Crater.
- Tarangire National Park.
- Mikumi National Park.
- Nyerere National Park.
Whether you want a one-day safari from Zanzibar or a multi-day wildlife adventure, we can help coordinate the experience.
14. Frequently Asked Questions About Zanzibar Holiday Costs
1. Is Zanzibar expensive for tourists?
Zanzibar offers accommodation, restaurants and activities for different budgets. Budget travellers can enjoy the island at a relatively affordable cost, while luxury travellers can choose exclusive resorts and private experiences.
2. How much money do I need for 7 days in Zanzibar?
A general planning budget is approximately $500–$1,750 per person for a seven-day stay, excluding international flights and one-off entry expenses. Your final cost depends on accommodation, dining, transport and excursions.
3. What is the cheapest month to visit Zanzibar?
March to May can offer lower accommodation prices because of the long rainy season. However, some outdoor activities may be affected by weather conditions.
4. How much does a Zanzibar excursion cost?
Most popular excursions cost approximately $20–$100 per person, depending on the activity, boat type, transportation, meals and whether the tour is private or shared.
5. Is Zanzibar good for honeymoon holidays?
Yes. Zanzibar is an excellent honeymoon destination, offering romantic beachfront resorts, private boat excursions, beautiful sunsets, spa experiences and exclusive dining opportunities.
6. Can I visit Zanzibar on a budget?
Yes. You can reduce your expenses by staying in affordable guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, using shared transportation and selecting a few carefully planned excursions.
7. Is Full Board worth it in Zanzibar?
Full Board can be a good option for visitors staying in beachfront resorts far from restaurants or those who prefer to have their meals arranged in advance.
8. Are airport transfers included in Zanzibar hotel prices?
Not always. Some hotels offer complimentary transfers or airport shuttle services, but many charge separately. Always confirm this before booking.
9. Can I combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari?
Absolutely. You can combine Zanzibar with Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Mikumi or Nyerere National Park through domestic flights and coordinated transfers.
10. How many days are enough for a Zanzibar holiday?
Five to seven days are suitable for experiencing several major excursions and enjoying the beaches. Ten days or more allow you to explore the island at a more relaxed pace.
Ready to Experience Zanzibar?
Your dream Zanzibar holiday starts here!
Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family beach holiday, a luxury escape or an exciting island adventure, Little Lion Tours & Safaris is ready to help you make it unforgettable.
Let us create a personalised holiday package based on your travel dates, preferred accommodation, activities and budget.
Why Request Your Free Quotation?
- Personalised holiday packages designed around your budget.
- Carefully selected hotels and beachfront resorts.
- Private airport transfers and comfortable transportation.
- Exciting excursions and unforgettable island experiences.
- Clear pricing with no obligation to book.
Request Your Free Zanzibar Holiday Quote
Complete the form below and our team will get back to you with a personalised travel proposal.
Your Zanzibar adventure is just one step away!
FOLLOW BELOW LINKS TO LEAN MORE ABOUT US
Safari • Zanzibar Excursions • Transfers • Travel Experiences • About Us
