Region

Zanzibar East Coast

The east coast is Zanzibar's classic barefoot stretch, running from kitesurfing-famed Paje and Jambiani up to the quieter luxury enclaves of Michamvi and Matemwe. Long white beaches, turquoise lagoons and big tides define this side of the island.

◷ Best time June to October and December to February ◎ 4 to 8 nights ☼ Honeymooners, kitesurfers and travellers wanting long quiet beaches.
Best timeJune to October and December to FebruaryDry season, ideal weather
Ideal length4 to 8 nightsRecommended stay
Best forHoneymooners, kitesurfers and travellers wanting long quiet beaches.Nature, adventure and relaxation
RegionPaje, Jambiani, Michamvi and MatemweZanzibar / Indian Ocean
Accommodation

The Manta Resort

📍 Pemba Island, Zanzibar

Famous floating Underwater Room World-class Pemba diving Remote eco seclusion Barefoot luxury villas Untouched…

Adventure and NatureDiving Escapes
From€ 700per night
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Accommodation

The Palms Zanzibar

📍 Bwejuu, East Coast, Zanzibar

Just six private villas Personal butler service Total seclusion and privacy Spa and fine…

HoneymoonsRomantic Getaways
From€ 900per night
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Accommodation

Breezes Beach Club & Spa

📍 Bwejuu, East Coast, Zanzibar

Relaxed east-coast beach club Zanzibari-style rooms Good spa and dive centre Several restaurants and…

Family HolidaysRomantic Getaways
From€ 350per night
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Climate & quick facts

When to go to Zanzibar

Tropical: driest and best June-October, with short rains in Nov-Dec. The heavy long rains (Mar-May) are best avoided.

Rainfall & temperature Rainfall Avg high °C
60mm rain55mm rain140mm rain290mm rain240mm rain45mm rain40mm rain45mm rain55mm rain90mm rain200mm rain140mm rain 32°32°32°31°30°29°29°29°30°31°31°32°
JFMAMJJASOND
Best time to travelJune-October (dry season)

Indicative monthly averages. Sea temperature ranges 26-29°C; daytime highs 29-32°C.

Flight timeApprox. 4h from Johannesburg (via Dar es Salaam)
Time zoneUTC+3 (EAT)
LanguageSwahili & English
CurrencyTanzanian Shilling (TZS)
VisaVisa on arrival / e-visa (approx. US$50)
Best monthsJune-October (dry season)
Sea temperature26-29°C year-round

Overview

The east coast is Zanzibar’s classic barefoot stretch, running from kitesurfing-famed Paje and Jambiani up to the quieter luxury enclaves of Michamvi and Matemwe. Long white beaches, turquoise lagoons and big tides define this side of the island.

Why visit Zanzibar East Coast

The east coast is Zanzibar's classic barefoot stretch, running from kitesurfing-famed Paje and Jambiani up to the quieter luxury enclaves of Michamvi and Matemwe. Long white beaches, turquoise lagoons and big tides define this side of the island.

Long white east-coast beaches See memorable landscapes and wildlife.
🏝 World-class kitesurfing at Paje Every route can feel different.
Luxury enclaves at Michamvi and Matemwe Local expertise shapes the journey.

Best time to go

Your consultant will advise the best season based on your interests, dates and preferred route.

Dry seasonJune to October and December to February
Green seasonLush landscapes and fewer crowds
Travel noteMatched to lodge availability

How to get there

Around 60 to 90 minutes from the airport depending on the beach.

FlightsMain gateway routing
ConnectionsDomestic or island transfers
TransfersPrivate or shared options

Explore Zanzibar East Coast

Big tides expose the reef flats at low water; timing matters.

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Tell us your dates, travel style and budget. We will shape the right accommodation, activities, transfers and routing around you.

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