Budget Zanzibar Holidays: Tips to Save Money

Zanzibar may be known for luxury resorts and exclusive island experiences, but it’s also one of the best destinations for travelers on a budget. With smart planning, you can enjoy crystal-clear beaches, spice tours, and cultural adventures without breaking the bank.

Here’s your complete guide to planning a budget Zanzibar holiday, with practical money-saving tips and affordable activity ideas.

1. Travel During the Off-Season

Zanzibar’s low season (March to May and November) offers:

Lower hotel rates
Fewer crowds
Greater flexibility with bookings
Occasional short rains—but still plenty of sunshine

Tip: Traveling in shoulder seasons like June or October can also bring good deals with great weather.

2. Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation

You don’t need a 5-star resort to enjoy Zanzibar. There are plenty of charming, clean, and affordable places to stayes, pecially in:

Paje and Jambiani – ideal for solo travelers and backpackers
Nungwi – offers everything from dorms to simple beachfront guesthouses
Stone Town – great for budget hotels with cultural charm

Mandari Travel can help you find vetted, affordable guesthouses or budget hotels with a local feel and great reviews.

3. Eat Local

Skip the tourist restaurants every now and then and try local dishes like:

Zanzibar pizza (savory or sweet) at Forodhani Night Market
Urojo soup (Zanzibar mix soup) from street vendors
Fresh grilled seafood at small beach cafes

Eating local is not only cheaper,it’s a delicious cultural experience.

4. Use Shared Taxis or Public Transport

While private taxis are convenient, dala-dalas (local minibuses) are the cheapest way to get around. They’re great for adventurous travelers and cost just a fraction of a taxi fare.

Tip: Ask your hotel or Mandari Travel to help you identify the right route.

5. Book Group Tours Instead of Private Ones

Join small-group excursions to reduce costs while still experiencing the island’s top activities:

Spice farm tours
Snorkeling trips to Mnemba Atoll
Jozani Forest tours
Walking tours in Stone Town

Mandari Travel can match you with trusted group tours or mix and match experiences to fit your budget.

6. Plan Ahead with a Custom Budget Itinerary

The best way to save is by knowing what to expect. With Mandari Travel, you can create a custom Zanzibar itinerary that sticks to your budget, no surprises, no inflated prices.

Our team will help you:

Choose the best value-for-money stays
Find authentic, low-cost experiences
Avoid common tourist traps
Arrange safe, affordable transport

Book a Budget-Friendly Zanzibar Holiday with Mandari Travel

Traveling smart doesn’t mean missing out. With local insight, expert planning, and great connections, Mandari Travel will help you enjoy the best of Zanzibar, even on a budget.

Email: info@mandaritravel
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811

Fill out the form below to request a custom quote tailored to your budget.