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Picture of Unguja, Tanzania

Travel Guide for
Unguja

Tanzania

Tropical, humid, two rainy seasons

Introduction

Unguja, often called Zanzibar Island, is a tropical gem off Tanzania’s coast, famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Once a center of the spice trade, its narrow, storied streets in Stone Town reflect centuries of Arabic and Swahili heritage.

Visiting in late February, expect warm, humid weather—perfect for barefoot walks along quiet beaches or sunset dhow cruises. Couples on a budget will find affordable guesthouses, lively street markets, and romantic, hidden cafes. Unguja’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a magical and intimate escape.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleRomantic getaway

Dates19-26 February 2026

BudgetLow budget

AccommodationResort, hotel

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesgastronomynightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Unguja, Tanzania

Key Facts

Location

Zanzibar Archipelago

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Religion

Islam

Population

896,721

Language

Swahili, English, Arabic

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, plug types D/G

Time zone

UTCEAT (UTC+3)

Country code

+255

Internet access

Available in urban, moderate speed, affordable

Climate

Tropical, humid, two rainy seasons

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Language:

Swahili

  • hello

    hujambo (hoo-jam-bo)
  • goodbye

    kwaheri (kwa-heh-ree)
  • yes

    ndiyo (n-dee-yo)
  • no

    hapana (ha-pa-na)
  • how much

    hii ni bei gani? (hee nee bay gah-nee)
  • please

    tafadhali (ta-fa-dha-li)
  • thank you

    asante (ah-san-teh)
  • excuse me

    samahani (sa-ma-ha-ni)

Map

Logistics

Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar, is best reached by ferry or flight from Dar es Salaam. Ferries are a budget-friendly and romantic option, offering scenic sea views on the two-hour journey—be sure to use reputable operators for safety and comfort. Flights, though slightly pricier, are quicker and land directly at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.

Upon arrival, local minibuses (dala-dala) provide the cheapest travel around the island, while shared taxis offer more comfort for couples. In February, the weather is typically warm with little rain, making it an ideal time for beaches and exploring stone towns. Ferries and flights operate almost unaffected during this season, creating a stress-free start to your romantic getaway.

Weather

Unguja, the largest island of Zanzibar, features a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 89°F). The island experiences two rainy seasons: the main one from March to May, and a shorter one in November, while June to October remains pleasantly dry and breezy.

From February 19 to February 26, expect hot and humid days, with average highs around 31°C (88°F). Rain showers are possible but brief, as this period falls between peak dry season and the long rains. No extreme weather events are likely during these dates, making it a great time for family activities, outdoor adventures, sightseeing, tasting local cuisine, and enjoying lively nightlife.

Food & Drink

Unguja, known as Zanzibar Island, offers a rich blend of Swahili cuisine and spices. Popular dishes include seafood curries, Zanzibari pizza, and urojo (Zanzibar mix soup), often accompanied by refreshing sugarcane juice or spiced tea. Street food markets in Stone Town, like Forodhani Gardens, provide a romantic and affordable dining experience under the stars.

For budget-friendly, cozy options, try Lukmaan Restaurant or the 6 Degrees South Grill and Wine Bar for local flavor and seaside ambiance. Stone Town Café is perfect for breakfast or a coffee date, while the Mercury’s Bar offers sunset drinks with a view. Tipping is appreciated, usually 5-10%.

Vegetarian options are widely available, but always ask about preparation. As most locals are Muslim, pork and alcohol are limited, especially during Ramadan. Remember to dress modestly and enjoy the island’s friendly, laid-back dining atmosphere for your romantic getaway.

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Ugali

Ugali is a staple food in Tanzania, made from maize flour or cassava flour cooked with water to...

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Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma is a popular grilled meat dish in Tanzania, featuring marinated chunks of meat (often goat or...

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Mishkaki

Mishkaki consists of skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat (commonly beef or chicken), typically seasoned with a...

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Mchuzi wa Samaki

Mchuzi wa Samaki is a traditional Tanzanian fish curry, featuring a flavorful tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices....

A picture of Pilau

Pilau

Pilau is a fragrant and aromatic rice dish cooked with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and...

Accommodation

For a romantic, budget-friendly getaway on Unguja (Zanzibar Island), focus on North Coast areas like Nungwi and Kendwa, known for their beautiful beaches and affordable resorts. Consider Kisiwa on the Beach or Warere Beach Hotel—both offer great value and intimate ambiance. Use Hotels.com to compare deals and secure the best prices.

Stone Town, the cultural heart of Unguja, also offers budget hotels with charming, historic vibes like Jafferji House. Booking early through Hotels.com is highly recommended, especially for February 19–26, as this is a popular travel period. Many hotels offer free breakfast and lovely gardens, perfect for a romantic escape without breaking the bank.

Itinerary

Begin your romantic holiday by settling into the relaxed island atmosphere, soaking in the beach vibes, and exploring the local surroundings at a gentle pace.

Sunset Stroll along Nungwi Beach

Ease into island life with a romantic sunset walk along Nungwi Beach. Soft sand and calm, warm waters make this a perfect spot to unwind after your arrival. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sunset together for a magical start to your getaway.

Explore Stone Town's Old Fort and Markets

Wander leisurely through Stone Town, discovering its centuries-old Arab Fort and vibrant local markets. This UNESCO-listed area is perfect for exploring hand-in-hand and sampling affordable Zanzibar street food.

Sample Local Flavors at Forodhani Night Market

Taste authentic Zanzibar cuisine at Forodhani Night Market. Enjoy seafood skewers, samosas, and sugarcane juice—all at low prices. This is a lively, budget-friendly place to start your island culinary adventure.

Dolphin tour, Jozani Forest, Jambiani Kuza Cave, Paje Beach &The Rock restaurent

Dolphin tour, Jozani Forest, Jambiani Kuza Cave, Paje Beach &The Rock restaurent

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Exclusive Zanzibar Tours & Excursions offers!!! To enjoy absolute mixture of Full Day Tours for your Holidays in Zanzibar, start your day for swimming with playful Dolphins over majestic Mnemba Island, then Discover Jozani Forest in the south of Zanzibar. Witness rare Colobus Monkey, Mahogany Forest, and Mangrove. Explore Kuza Cave and swim into a clear crystal water in Jambiani beach. Visit magnificent Paje Beach with white sandy beach. Finish your day to witness The Rock Restaurant! This Excursion program has aim to save your Budget and time. Departure from all Beach Hotels of Zanzibar.

4.3 (181 reviews)

From $145 USD

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Experiences

Culture Week in Tanzania
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Culture Week in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

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$495/week

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English Teaching in Tanzania
teaching

English Teaching in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

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$370/week

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Environmental Conservation in Tanzania
volunteering

Environmental Conservation in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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Maasai Tribal Immersion in Tanzania
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Maasai Tribal Immersion in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$430/week

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Empowering Village Women in Tanzania
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Empowering Village Women in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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Medical Experience in Tanzania
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Medical Experience in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

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$615/week

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Attractions

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Kilimanjaro climb, Lemosho Route (6-day)

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Embark on this epic 6-day Kilimanjaro Lemosho hiking adventure and enjoy thrilling scenic vistas and pristine wildlife on the way to the peak of Africa. This trail would be a great chice for regular hikers or fit travelers who are up to a challenge. Previous high-altitude experience would help to acclimate smoothly but is not mandatory. You will cross several climatic zones (from heath on Shira Plateau to Arctic desert in the summit area), each different, unique and captivating.   Our professional climbing crews will take care of your safety and comfort. Overnight stays are in our walk-in tents (designed by us and customized for Kilimanjaro), the “kitchen” team will surprise you with their cooking skills, and the porters will carry all equipment. The guides will be leading your way, excitedly sharing their knowledge of this amazing Mount.   Pre and post-climb accommodation (included) will be in a hotel in the foothills of Kilimanjaro. Airport transfers included.   

From $3327 USD

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5.0 (93 reviews)
4 Days Tanzania Lodge Safari With Two Nights at Serengeti

4 Days Tanzania Lodge Safari With Two Nights at Serengeti

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Free Cancellation

This safari will allow you to explore some of the most stunning parks in northern Tanzania. This includes a journey to the Serengeti National Park's vast plains, where you will be able to see all members of the Big Five family. You will also visit Tarangire National Park, which is noted for its large elephant population. You'll also visit the Ngorongoro Crater, locally known as the Garden of Eden, where you have a good chance of seeing all members of the Big Five in one day.

From $2180 USD

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5.0 (89 reviews)
5-Day private Camping Safari Tour in Tanzania

5-Day private Camping Safari Tour in Tanzania

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This will be a fantastic tour. Drive to the best and most popular destinations for tours and game drives in the world! Seeing wildlife and take tons of photos while on the way to the lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater and Tarangire National Parks.

From $2300 USD

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5.0 (79 reviews)
Private Kilimanjaro Hike 7 Day Lemosho Route

Private Kilimanjaro Hike 7 Day Lemosho Route

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Free Cancellation

The Lemosho route is considered the most scenic trail on Kilimanjaro, granting panoramic views on various sides of the mountain. As one of the newer routes, Lemosho is a superb choice for your climb. It is our preferred route due to its ideal balance of low crowds, beautiful scenery, and a high summit success rate. The majority of our clients climb Kilimanjaro using the Lemosho route and their feedback on this route is excellent. We highly recommend the Lemosho route to our clients. The climb begins at Lemosho Gate at an altitude of 2360 meters, with a western approach. It then circles around Kilimanjaro to the south, passing through majestic rainforest, home to some of the region’s most unique wildlife. The route continues up to Shira Ridge; the mountain’s third summit.

From $2450 USD

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5.0 (77 reviews)
Kilimanjaro climb, Marangu route (6-day)

Kilimanjaro climb, Marangu route (6-day)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Embark on this exciting 6-day Kilimanjaro Marangu hiking adventure and enjoy thrilling scenic vistas and pristine wildlife on the way to the peak of Africa. This most popular climbing route with good acclimatization transition is always a good choice to climb KIlimanjaro. You will cross several climatic zones (from rainforest on the first days of your adventure to Arctic desert in the summit area), each different, unique and captivating.   Our professional climbing crews will take care of your safety and comfort. Overnight stays are in the comfortable wooden huts, the “kitchen” team will surprise you with their cooking skills, and the porters will carry all equipment. The guides will be leading your way, excitedly sharing their knowledge of this amazing Mount.   Pre and post-climb accommodation (included) will be in a cosy hotel in the foothills of Kilimanjaro. Airport transfers included.   

From $3181 USD

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5.0 (68 reviews)
 5-Day Mid-Range Safari in Tanzania

5-Day Mid-Range Safari in Tanzania

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Embark on a spellbinding journey through Tanzania's awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife-rich havens. From the dense forests of Lake Manyara and the majestic expanse of the Ngorongoro Crater to the vast plains of Tarangire, you'll be enveloped in nature's grandeur. Alongside expert guides, spot the elusive Big Five, witness the flamboyant dance of flamingos, and delve into the heartbeat of Maasai traditions. Each day unveils a new chapter of wonder, culminating in an optional tropical retreat on pristine islands. This is not just a tour; it's a transformative adventure, illuminating Tanzania's untamed beauty and vibrant culture. Seize the moment, and let Tanzania's magic resonate with your soul.

From $2315 USD

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FAQ

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