From the savannah to the shore: the perfect combination
After days of early morning game drives, the thrill of watching predators at work and the endless golden grass of the Serengeti, there's nothing quite like kicking off your shoes and wading into warm turquoise water. Zanzibar — the spice island off the coast of Tanzania — is the ideal finale to a safari. And the best part? It's just under two hours by light aircraft from Arusha or the Serengeti airstrips.
At Makasa, combining a Tanzania safari with a stay on Zanzibar is by far our most popular itinerary. The contrast is breathtaking: from the raw, sun-baked landscape of the Serengeti to the lush, powder-soft coastline of the Indian Ocean — two entirely different worlds in a single journey.
The most beautiful beaches on Zanzibar
Zanzibar has dozens of beaches, but a handful really stand out:
- Nungwi (north coast): wide white sand, clear water with minimal tidal variation — ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with enough evening atmosphere for those who want it
- Kendwa: just south of Nungwi, slightly quieter and more romantic — perfect for couples
- Paje (east coast): a paradise for kitesurfers thanks to consistent winds, but equally wonderful for those seeking a quiet, empty horizon
- Matemwe: secluded and peaceful, with stunning views over the coral reef — perfect for complete disconnection
- Michamvi: less visited but beautiful, with calm waters and charming small guesthouses
Stone Town: UNESCO World Heritage and a world of its own
Visiting Zanzibar without spending time in Stone Town is like going to Rome and skipping the Colosseum. This ancient city — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is steeped in history. Narrow alleys, intricately carved wooden doors, mosques and Swahili-Arab architecture around every corner. Stone Town is the birthplace of Freddie Mercury and the haunting epicentre of the island's former role in the slave trade.
We always recommend spending at least one night in Stone Town before heading to the beach. An evening walk past the illuminated old buildings, a meal at the Forodhani Gardens Night Market — these are experiences that stay with you long after the tan fades.
Things to do on Zanzibar
Those who think Zanzibar is only about beaches are missing out. The island has plenty to offer active travellers:
- Snorkelling or diving at the Mnemba Atoll coral reef — one of the finest dive sites in East Africa
- Swimming with wild dolphins near Kizimkazi village
- A spice tour: discover how cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg are grown across the island
- Sunset sailing on a traditional wooden dhow
- A visit to Prison Island and its giant Aldabra tortoises
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is warm year-round, but two dry seasons are most popular: June to October (which also coincides with the prime safari season on the mainland) and December to mid-March. The long rains fall in April and May. If you're combining safari with Zanzibar, the transition from the dry safari season to the beach couldn't be smoother.
Makasa takes care of everything, from the Serengeti to the shore
Whether you want three nights on Zanzibar or a full week, Makasa will perfectly align your beach stay with the rest of your journey. We know the best accommodation for every budget — from authentic boutique hotels in Stone Town to exclusive beachfront resorts along the north coast. All you need to do is enjoy.
