How Much Does a Zanzibar Holiday Cost? (Complete 2026 Guide)

Many travelers combine a Zanzibar beach holiday with other iconic Tanzania experiences such as a wildlife safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro, or a Mount Kilimanjaro trekking adventure. Whether Zanzibar is your main destination or the relaxing finale after a safari or Kilimanjaro climb, understanding the costs helps you plan the perfect itinerary.

Short answer: A Zanzibar holiday costs $700–$1,200 per week for budget travelers, $1,800–$3,500 for mid-range travelers, and $4,000–$10,000+ for luxury travelers, depending on accommodation, activities, and season.

This guide explains exactly how much a Zanzibar holiday costs in 2026, covering flights, accommodation, food, transport, activities, packages, and hidden fees—so you can plan confidently and avoid surprises.

Average Cost of a Zanzibar Holiday

Here’s a realistic daily cost breakdown per person:

• Budget Zanzibar holiday: $80 – $150 per day

• Mid-range Zanzibar holiday: $180 – $350 per day

• Luxury Zanzibar holiday: $400 – $1,200+ per day

These estimates usually include accommodation, meals, local transport, and a few activities. International flights, premium excursions, and shopping are extra.

What Affects the Cost of a Zanzibar Holiday?

Several key factors determine how much you’ll spend:

• Travel season: High season (June–October, December) is more expensive than low season (March–May).

• Accommodation type: Guesthouses vs. boutique hotels vs. luxury beach resorts.

• Dining style: Local restaurants are far cheaper than hotel dining.

• Activities & excursions: Snorkeling, diving, Safari Blue, spice tours, and cultural tours.

• Length of stay: Longer trips often unlock better hotel and package rates.

• Travel style: Independent travel vs. all-inclusive Zanzibar holiday packages.

Cost of Flights to Zanzibar

International flights are one of the biggest expenses.

• From Europe: $600 – $1,000 round trip

• From the USA: $900 – $1,500 round trip

• From East Africa (Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro): $50 – $200 one way

Most travelers connect via Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro, then take a short domestic flight. Ferries from Dar es Salaam cost around $35–$60.

Accommodation Costs in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has options for every budget:

• Budget guesthouses & hostels: $25 – $60 per night

• Mid-range hotels & boutique stays: $80 – $200 per night

• Luxury resorts & private villas: $350 – $1,000+ per night

Popular beach areas such as Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, and Jambiani are typically more expensive due to high demand.

Cost of Food and Drinks in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is affordable if you mix local dining with resort restaurants.

Meals:

• Local street food & cafés: $3 – $8

• Mid-range restaurants: $12 – $25

• High-end hotel restaurants: $30 – $80

Drinks:

• Local beer: $2 – $4

• Cocktails: $6 – $12

• Bottled water: $0.50 – $1

All-inclusive resorts bundle meals and drinks, which can reduce daily costs.

Transportation Costs in Zanzibar

Getting around Zanzibar is straightforward:

• Dala dala (shared minibus): $1 – $3

• Private taxi: $25 – $50 per ride

• Airport transfers: $30 – $60

• Car rental: $40 – $60 per day

• Motorbike rental: $20 – $30 per day

Most visitors use hotel transfers or private taxis for comfort and convenience.

Cost of Activities and Excursions in Zanzibar

Activities are a major highlight of a Zanzibar holiday:

• Stone Town walking tour: $25 – $50

• Spice plantation tour: $20 – $35

• Prison Island (Changuu Island): $30 – $50

• Snorkeling trips: $40 – $80

• Scuba diving: $70 – $120 per dive

• Safari Blue full-day trip: $80 – $120

• Sunset dhow cruise: $40 – $70

• Kitesurfing lessons (Paje): $100 – $150

Recommended activity budget: $200 – $400 per person.

Zanzibar Holiday Package Costs

Many travelers prefer packaged holidays:

• Budget package (5–7 days): $700 – $1,200

• Mid-range package (7–10 days): $1,500 – $3,000

• Luxury package (7–10 days): $3,500 – $8,000+

Packages often include flights, accommodation, meals, transfers, and tours—and may cost less than booking separately.

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Don’t forget these additional expenses:

• Tanzania visa: $50 – $100 (varies by nationality)

• Tourist tax: $1 – $2 per person per night

• Tips for guides & drivers: $5 – $15 per day

• Souvenirs & shopping: $20 – $100+

• Travel insurance: $50 – $150

How to Save Money on a Zanzibar Holiday

• Travel during the low season (March–May)

• Book early for peak season travel

• Choose mid-range boutique hotels instead of large resorts

• Eat at local restaurants

• Join group excursions

• Combine a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar holiday with one operator for discounts

FAQ: Zanzibar Holiday Costs

Is Zanzibar expensive for tourists?
No. Zanzibar can be very affordable, especially for budget and mid-range travelers.

How much money do I need for 7 days in Zanzibar?
Between $700 and $3,500 for most travelers, excluding international flights.

Is Zanzibar cheaper than the Maldives?
Yes. Zanzibar is significantly cheaper than the Maldives at all travel levels.

Can Zanzibar be done on a budget?
Absolutely. Guesthouses, local food, and public transport keep costs low.

Final Thoughts

A Zanzibar holiday can be tailored to almost any budget. Whether you want an affordable beach escape, a cultural experience, or a luxury Indian Ocean retreat, Zanzibar delivers excellent value.

With smart planning, early booking, and the right mix of activities, you can enjoy Zanzibar without overspending—while still experiencing its beaches, culture, and marine life.

This guide is based on real travel pricing and on-the-ground experience in Zanzibar and Tanzania.