Quick Answer: Zanzibar costs approximately $80–150/person/day in standard accommodation including breakfast, local meals, and activities. Mid-range beach hotels cost $100–250/night for a double room. Luxury boutique hotels run $350–800+/night. The domestic flight from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar adds $180–250 per person.
Cost Overview
| Budget Level | Hotel/Night (double) | Daily Total (pp) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $40–80 | $60–90 | Basic beach guesthouse, local restaurants, no pool |
| Standard | $80–180 | $100–150 | 3-star beach hotel, breakfast, pool access, some activities |
| Mid-range | $180–350 | $150–250 | 4-star boutique, sea view, restaurant, reef snorkeling |
| Luxury | $350–800+ | $350–600+ | Private beach, butler, pool villa, full board |
Accommodation Costs by Beach
| Beach Area | Standard Night | Comfort Night | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nungwi (north) | $100–200 | $200–400 | Most developed. Calm water year-round. Sunset views. |
| Kendwa (north) | $80–160 | $160–320 | Quieter than Nungwi. Good for couples. |
| Paje (east) | $60–140 | $140–280 | Kite surfing hub. More local feel. Tidal variation. |
| Jambiani (east) | $50–120 | $120–250 | Quietest option. Local village atmosphere. |
Key Activity Costs
| Activity | Cost (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town guided tour | $25–40 | Half day. Essential. Book through hotel or us. |
| Spice Farm tour | $20–35 | 3–4 hours including traditional lunch. |
| Snorkeling trip (Mnemba Atoll) | $40–70 | Half day by boat. Best snorkeling in Zanzibar. |
| Scuba diving (certified) | $60–90/dive | Multiple dive sites. PADI courses available. |
| Sunset dhow cruise | $30–60 | 2 hours. Often includes drinks. |
| Dolphin tour (Kizimkazi) | $35–55 | Morning boat tour. Not guaranteed. |
| Prison Island (giant tortoises) | $15–25 | Half day by boat from Stone Town. |
What a Day in Zanzibar Costs
For two people in a standard beach hotel (North Coast, 3-star):
• Hotel per night: $140 (shared between 2)
• Breakfast: included
• Lunch at beach restaurant: $15–20 per person
• Afternoon activity (snorkeling or tour): $40–60 per person
• Dinner: $20–35 per person
• Drinks: $10–20 per person
Total per person per day: $140–185
FAQ
The Zanzibar section of our 13-Day Tanzania Adventure (Days 9–13) includes 4 nights beach hotel, Stone Town tour, and Spice Farm. Free quote from our Moshi team.