Zanzibar Island has experienced a rapid increase in tourist arrivals to its beaches, historical landmarks, and heritage sites, primarily attracting visitors from Europe.
In June 2025, the island welcomed approximately 67,500 tourists to its captivating attractions, marking a rise from the 37,038 visitors recorded in the preceding month of May.
Europe remains the main source of tourists traveling to Zanzibar for beach vacations and exploration of the island’s rich cultural heritage, including the renowned Stone Town, celebrated for its historical significance.
Situated off the coast of the expansive Tanzania mainland, Zanzibar is evolving into an African paradise, featuring miles of pristine beaches that extend as far as the eye can see, set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Life in Zanzibar is idyllic, and the nightlife is lively, with locals emerging after sunset to gather at leisure venues, particularly in Stone Town and Forodhani, which are known for their enticing restaurants, pubs, and tourist accommodations.
Experiencing Zanzibar can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The stunning tourist attractions include the pristine white sandy beaches, Stone Town, the Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, the Sultans’ Palace Museum, the Old Arab Fort, and The House of Wonders.
Bwejuu Beach, famous for its palm-fringed white sand along the southeast coast, is an ideal destination. In contrast, Nungwi Beach, located in the north, is renowned for its vibrant beach activities both during the day and at night, making it particularly popular among the youth.
Jozani Forest serves as a naturally protected area where visitors have the opportunity to observe the unique Red Colobus monkey, a rare species that is not found anywhere else in East Africa except for Zanzibar.
Changuu Island represents another significant tourist attraction in Zanzibar. The island is primarily known for its famous Giant Tortoises, which can live for up to 200 years. These Giant Aldabra Tortoises are notable tourist attractions exclusive to Zanzibar.
According to official statistics from the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT), there has been a rise in tourist arrivals to the island, with Europe accounting for the highest percentage at 62 percent of total arrivals, translating to 41,872 tourists in June.
In June, Germany emerged as the top source of international visitors, contributing 6,360 tourists, followed by the United Kingdom with 5,189 tourists, France with 5,090 tourists, the United States with 4,356 tourists, and Poland with 4,129 tourists visiting the island.
Prominent European airlines, such as Air France, offer direct flights to Zanzibar, while other airlines provide connections. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Condor Air are also significant European carriers that link various European countries to Zanzibar.
Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, and British Airways facilitate access to the island through their hubs and collaborative flight-sharing agreements.
