Anoushey Ashraf is back from Zanzibar, sharing an insightful guide for anyone planning a trip to the tropical island. Fresh from her honeymoon, the RJ and host gave her followers a detailed breakdown of where to go, what to do, and how to budget a visit to Zanzibar, which is famous for its spices, beaches, and unforgettable sunsets.
For Ashraf, Zanzibar isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. She described the charm of Stone Town’s alleys, the rhythm of the tides in Paje, and the mesmerizing sunsets in Nungwi that make visitors lose track of time. She emphasized that while the island is not the cheapest travel destination, it is “rich in soul, history, and people who welcome you with genuine warmth.”
In terms of costs, flights range from $600 to $1,200 depending on the airline, with visas priced at $180 and mandatory travel insurance around $44. Ashraf’s biggest travel hack? Carry USD cash, as it’s widely accepted across the island. She recommends spending at least two weeks on Zanzibar, splitting time between the beaches and Stone Town to fully experience the island.
Ashraf suggested starting in Nungwi, known for calm waters, soft sands, and some of the best sunsets. Paje is ideal for kitesurfing and a livelier vibe, while Stone Town offers rich history, spices, and street food, with a suggested two-night stay. For transport, taxis cost around $50 per ride, but renting a car for roughly $35 a day provides greater freedom to explore.
Accommodation options vary widely. Luxury resorts like Zuri, Baraza, and The Residence offer opulence, boutique hotels such as Emerson and Zanzi Resort provide charm, and eco-friendly stays like Chumbe Island Coral Park or guesthouses in Jambiani cater to more budget-conscious travelers. Ashraf recommends mixing luxury and boutique stays to experience the best of both worlds.
She also listed the pros and cons of visiting Zanzibar. Highlights include dream beaches, Swahili culture, seafood, diving, wildlife, and the warmth of local people.
Challenges include pricey resorts and taxis, vendors on beaches, occasional power cuts, and patchy WiFi. Her advice: embrace the island’s slow pace and enjoy the experience.
Concluding her guide, Ashraf reflected that Zanzibar is more than just a postcard destination. With patience, curiosity, and time, it leaves a lasting impression. She believes the island is ideal for couples, but friends and families can make the nights livelier and full of laughter, making every visit truly memorable.
