The Zanzibar archipelago is organised around three main islands and a multitude of coral islets. The largest, Unguja (commonly called simply Zanzibar), concentrates 90% of the population and almost all tourist activity: Stone Town in the south-west, the major beaches of Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe and Paje, the international airport. Pemba, 50 km north, is wilder and more preserved, little touristy, a paradise for experienced divers. Mafia, 120 km south, is the archipelago for diving enthusiasts and whale shark observation (September-March season).
The most efficient travel logic combines two poles on Unguja: Stone Town for culture (1-2 nights) and a beach for decompression (3-5 nights). Stone Town is essential to understand Zanzibar — its UNESCO heritage, its history as commercial crossroads, its spiced gastronomy, its unique atmosphere of Swahili Muslim city. But limiting yourself to it would be a mistake: the archipelago's beaches are among Africa's most beautiful, and that's where the paradise dimension that gives Zanzibar its global reputation lives.
The most natural combination for a complete Tanzanian trip: Northern Circuit safari (7-10 days) then Coastal Aviation or Auric Air flight to Zanzibar (1 hour from Arusha), 4-7 nights on the archipelago as a final to the trip. This sequence allows progressive decompression after the safari's intensity and a serene return to Europe via ZNZ or Dar es Salaam international flights.
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- Stone Town, UNESCO old city — The labyrinth of alleys with carved doors, Darajani market and the former slave market.
- Nungwi, the paradise northern tip — White sand beach, turquoise lagoon, traditional dhows and moderate tides.
- Northern Circuit: Serengeti and Ngorongoro — The great safari circuit to combine naturally with a Zanzibar beach stay.
- Tanzania — Full country guide: entry requirements, budget, regions and best time to visit.