Zanzibar Airport

From the UNESCO-listed Stone Town to hidden beach coves and vibrant local markets, the island fuses African, Arab, Indian, and European influences in a way that feels both timeless and alive. Whether you're here to unwind, explore, or escape into a new rhythm, Zanzibar doesn’t just welcome you—it captivates you.

Let this guide be your passport to Zanzibar’s magic—from spice trails to barefoot luxury.

Getting Around with Style

The best way to explore Zanzibar is by car. With otoQ, you have the freedom to chase sunsets, discover hidden beaches, and go wherever the tide pulls you. While the main roads are generally in good shape, some off-the-beaten-path spots call for a 4x4—especially in the rainy season.

Traffic is light, but driving is on the left, and local drivers can be unpredictable. Respect speed limits, especially near villages, and always carry your driving permit and documentation.

In Stone Town, it's best to park and explore on foot—the labyrinth of alleys is made for wandering, not wheels.

Must-See Landmarks: Zanzibar’s Story Told in Stone, Sand & Sea

Stone Town: The cultural heart of the island, where carved wooden doors, winding alleys, and rooftop cafes transport you into a different era.

Forodhani Gardens Night Market: Street food heaven—grab a Zanzibar pizza, sip fresh sugarcane juice, and take it all in.

Jozani Forest: Home of the endangered red colobus monkey and a lush sanctuary of mangroves and mahogany.

Prison Island: A short boat ride from Stone Town with turquoise water, coral reefs, and giant tortoises.

The Rock Restaurant: Iconic, surreal, and photogenic—a restaurant perched on a rock in the middle of the sea.

Tip: Visit Stone Town just before sunset. The golden light, rooftop call to prayer, and ocean breeze make for a poetic walk through history.

Beyond Zanzibar City: Day Trips & Hidden Paradises

Nungwi & Kendwa (1.5-hour drive north): Dreamy beaches, beach bars, and incredible diving spots.

Paje & Jambiani (1.5-hour drive southeast): A kitesurfer’s paradise with endless coastline and laid-back village vibes.

Spice Farms (30-min drive): Smell, touch, and taste Zanzibar’s spice-scented legacy—an aromatic journey you won’t forget.

Kizimkazi (1-hour drive south): Swim with dolphins at dawn and explore ancient mosques and quiet beaches.

Mnemba Atoll (via boat from Nungwi): Snorkel in crystal-clear waters—Zanzibar’s underwater treasure chest.

Tip: Choose an SUV or crossover vehicle for comfort on bumpy roads—especially if you're chasing those less-traveled beaches.

A Taste of Zanzibar: Spices, Seafood & Soul

Zanzibar’s cuisine is a fusion of flavors—Swahili tradition mixed with Indian spice, Arab fragrance, and East African roots.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Zanzibar biryani & pilau: Aromatic, spiced rice dishes that tell stories with every bite.

• Octopus curry: A creamy coconut-based coastal classic, served everywhere from beach huts to fine restaurants.

• Urojo soup: A zesty street-food favorite—thick, tangy, and addictive.

Seafood Lovers, Rejoice: Fresh lobster, grilled calamari, and whole fish cooked with lime and chili—you’ll find it beachside, boat-side, and everywhere in between.

Local Drinks & Tropical Treats: Try sugarcane juice, fresh coconut water, or a chilled Serengeti beer while gazing at the Indian Ocean.

Tip: Book a sunset dinner at a beach restaurant in Kendwa or Nungwi—live music, warm sand, and fresh seafood create a memory worth framing.

Parks & Outdoor Escapes

Zanzibar isn’t just beaches—it’s alive with nature and serenity.

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: Dense mangroves, rare monkeys, and peaceful trails.

Chumbe Island Coral Park: An eco-reserve and snorkeler’s dream with untouched reef life.

Kiwengwa-Pongwe Forest: A hidden tropical forest for nature walks and bird watching.

Tip: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, swim shoes, and a good camera—Zanzibar’s nature is vibrant and photo-perfect year-round.

Zanzibar is not a destination. It’s a feeling.
It’s walking barefoot in the sand after midnight. It’s the aroma of spices on your fingers. It’s stories shared under palm trees and the kind of silence only the ocean can offer.

So set your spirit free, let the island rhythm guide you, and drive your own story.

Enjoy your stay, drive safe and do not forget!
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At otoQ, we go beyond roads. We create journeys.

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