*1, Zanzibar vs. Seychelles vs. Maldives: Which Island Escape is Best?

When it comes to tropical island getaways, three destinations consistently top the list: Zanzibar, Seychelles, and the Maldives. Each offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable experiences — but which one is right for you?

In this detailed guide, we compare Zanzibar vs. Seychelles vs. Maldives based on key travel factors to help you decide the best island escape for your next vacation or honeymoon.

🌍 Quick Overview of the Islands

🏖️ Beaches & Scenery

Zanzibar

Zanzibar features long stretches of powdery white beaches, swaying palms, and warm, shallow waters. The east coast is dotted with boutique resorts, while Nungwi and Kendwa offer swimmable beaches all day long. Sunsets are magical on the north and west coasts.

✅ Best For: Beach + cultural combo, budget flexibility
📸 Iconic Spots: Kendwa Beach, Paje Beach, Mnemba Atoll

Seychelles

Seychelles offers dramatic granite rock formations, lush greenery, and postcard-perfect beaches. It’s more natural and untouched compared to the others, with protected marine parks and hiking trails.

✅ Best For: Nature lovers, privacy, and exclusive beaches
📸 Iconic Spots: Anse Lazio, Anse Source d’Argent

Maldives

The Maldives is famous for its private island resorts and dreamy overwater bungalows. Each resort is on its own island, offering seclusion and endless sea views.

✅ Best For: Romantic escapes, luxury honeymooners
📸 Iconic Spots: Any private resort island (e.g., Baros, Soneva Fushi)

🏨 Accommodation & Budget

• Zanzibar has the widest price range, great for both budget and luxury travelers.

• Seychelles leans toward mid to high-end travel but offers local guesthouses on main islands.

• Maldives is the most expensive — ideal for luxury-seeking couples or honeymoons.

✈️ Accessibility

• Zanzibar: Easily accessible from Tanzania’s safari circuit (Arusha, Serengeti, Kilimanjaro). Also has international flights.

• Seychelles: Direct international flights from Europe, Dubai, and Africa. No visa required.

• Maldives: Fly into Malé International Airport, then take a speedboat or seaplane to your island resort.

✈️ Winner for Safari Extensions: Zanzibar
✈️ Winner for Direct Flights from Europe: Maldives & Seychelles

🌦️ Best Time to Visit

All three destinations are year-round, but Maldives and Seychelles avoid long rainy seasons better than Zanzibar.

🎭 Activities Beyond the Beach

Zanzibar:

• Explore Stone Town (UNESCO site)

• Spice farms and cultural tours

• Scuba diving, snorkeling, kite surfing

Seychelles:

• Island hopping (Mahe, Praslin, La Digue)

• Nature hikes in Vallee de Mai

• Tortoise sanctuaries and marine parks

Maldives:

• Scuba diving and snorkeling reefs

• Overwater spa treatments

• Private beach dinners and dolphin cruises

🎒 Best for Culture: Zanzibar
🐢 Best for Nature & Wildlife: Seychelles
🛶 Best for Luxury Water Experiences: Maldives

👫 Who Should Choose What?

🏁 Final Verdict: Which Island is Best?

• Choose Zanzibar if you want affordable beach bliss, post-safari relaxation, and rich Swahili culture.

• Choose Seychelles for a balance of stunning scenery, hiking, and privacy.

• Choose Maldives for pure luxury, romantic escapes, and underwater magic.

🔍 Related Articles from Olduvai Tours Tan Africa

• Best Beaches in Zanzibar

• Why You Should Add a Safari or Zanzibar Trip After Kilimanjaro

• Zanzibar Beach Holidays: Complete Itineraries

Looking for personalized advice?
Olduvai Tours Tan Africa offers custom Zanzibar beach packages and can help you combine your island holiday with a Tanzania safari or Kilimanjaro climb.

📩 Get in touch for a tailor-made itinerary — luxury or budget, solo or group.