Cheap Flights to Zanzibar
One-way
Departing from
United States
Going to
Zanzibar, Tanzania
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Zanzibar. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/6/2025).
Popular airlines to Zanzibar
Emirates Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines
Flydubai
Jetstar Hong Kong Airways
KLM
Kenya Airways
Air Mauritius
Qatar Airways
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Facts About Flights to Zanzibar
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Zanzibar flight facts and tips.
Zanzibar city airports
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is the primary airport serving Zanzibar. Located on Unguja Island, it's easily accessible from Zanzibar City and other key locations. ZNZ handles both domestic and international flights, connecting Zanzibar to major hubs in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Several airlines operate here, including local carriers and international airlines. The airport has undergone renovations to improve passenger experience, with services such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and transportation options readily available. Despite being the main airport, it's relatively small, so navigating it is straightforward.
Pro tip: search “Zanzibar (Any)” to see fares to all Zanzibar airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Zanzibar
Cheapest airport
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Welcome to Zanzibar! Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is your gateway to paradise! Located just a few miles south of Zanzibar City, it's a relatively small airport that efficiently connects you to the island's stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Once you land, the aroma of spices and the warm Indian Ocean breeze will let you know you have arrived.
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
Zanzibar (ZNZ) is more of a secondary airport, but it still offers a variety of routes; some popular connections include flights to and from cities like Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, and Amsterdam, making it a sweet spot for island hoppers and international travelers alike!
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
Zanzibar is served by more than 10 airlines, a mix of full-service and budget carriers, including notable names such as Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Flydubai, and Air Tanzania.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$500 - $1500
Dreaming of Zanzibar? Flight prices typically range from $500 to $1500, but can vary. Prices tend to increase during peak tourist season (June to August and December to February) due to higher demand. Keep an eye on shoulder seasons for better deals!
Flight frequency
100+ flights
Flights to Zanzibar operate frequently, with several airlines offering daily connections. Peak seasons, such as holidays and dry months (June to October), often see increased flight frequencies, with morning and afternoon departures being the most common.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Zanzibar
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Zanzibar:
Cheapest month
June
Cheapest month
June stands out as the most budget-friendly month to explore Zanzibar. The weather is still fantastic, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. You'll also find fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience of the island's stunning beaches and vibrant culture.
Best day to book
Sunday
Best day to book
Sunday has emerged as the golden day to book your Zanzibar flights. Airlines often release deals at the start of the week, and booking on Sunday gives you a head start. Plus, it allows you to plan the rest of your week with the exciting anticipation of your upcoming trip.
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
If you're looking to save some shillings, aim to fly to Zanzibar on Wednesday. Mid-week flights are typically less expensive due to lower demand. Take advantage of these savings to splurge on a fancy dinner or an extra excursion during your Zanzibar getaway.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
Snagging your flights around two months in advance hits the sweet spot for the best deals to Zanzibar. This timeframe allows you to take advantage of airline pricing algorithms. Booking too early or too late might mean missing out on significant savings.
Seasonal considerations
Distinct
Seasonal considerations
Zanzibar experiences distinct seasonal shifts that significantly impact flight prices. The dry season (June to October) generally sees higher demand and prices. Consider traveling during the shoulder months (May or November) for a balance of good weather and better deals.
TL;DR: To sum it up, June is your cheapest month for Zanzibar, and Sunday is the day to book! Aim to fly on a Wednesday to save even more. Book about 2 months ahead to snag the best deals. Remember that Zanzibar's distinct seasons affect flight prices, so plan accordingly for the best experience.
Zanzibar Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Zanzibar airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Zanzibar’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
Welcome to Zanzibar! Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, formerly known as Zanzibar Airport, is the main airport serving Zanzibar City. While not overly large, it offers essential amenities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services to make your arrival smoother. The airport has undergone renovations to accommodate the increasing number of tourists flocking to this beautiful island. Getting to Zanzibar City is quite convenient, with taxis readily available outside the terminal; you can expect a 10-15 minute ride to reach the heart of Stone Town. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand!
Tip: Confirm taxi prices before you hop in to avoid surprises!
Other airports
While Zanzibar is an island, there are other mainland airports you could consider! Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam is the largest airport in Tanzania, and depending on ferry schedules to Zanzibar, it might be an option. However, make sure to account for ferry travel time, which can vary, and the potential for choppy seas, so plan accordingly!
Airport transfers
Once you land in Zanzibar, getting around is a breeze! You can hop in a taxi, which is readily available, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. Alternatively, dala-dalas (local buses) offer a budget-friendly experience, or consider renting a car for ultimate flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.
What to Do in Zanzibar
Zanzibar isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Zanzibar, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Zanzibar City is steeped in history! Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow alleyways, historic buildings, and bustling markets. Don't miss the House of Wonders, a former palace that showcases the island's rich heritage.
Arts & culture
Immerse yourself in Zanzibar's vibrant culture by visiting local art galleries and craft shops. Attend a traditional music or dance performance to experience the island's unique artistic expressions. You can explore the culture by visiting one of the many museums around the city.
Food & nightlife
Indulge in Zanzibar's delicious cuisine, a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian flavors. Sample fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant or savor local spices at a street food stall. As the sun sets, experience Zanzibar's nightlife with live music and vibrant bars.
Shopping & fashion
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts in Zanzibar's bustling markets and boutiques. Browse colorful fabrics, handmade jewelry, and intricate wood carvings. You can find some fashionable clothing items tailored with local prints.
Nearby getaways
Escape the city for a day trip to one of Zanzibar's beautiful beaches. Relax on the white sands of Nungwi or Paje, or explore the coral reefs with a snorkeling or diving excursion. You can explore the Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkeys.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Zanzibar has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Events in Zanzibar This Month
somethin’ onna saturday (s.o.s)
Experience the ultimate Saturday night at The Box with DJ DOCTA, delicious food, and fantastic vibes at Somethin’ Onna Saturday. Dance the night away and enjoy the best of Zanzibar's nightlife.
invitation to a 6 day sustainability/ esg reporting, leadership, tax and accounting seminar with cpd hours to be held from 10th to 15th november 2025 at spice tree hotel- zanzibar, with one day zanzibar tour
This seminar is designed for professionals in the Public and Private Sectors, as well as NGOs. It is highly recommended for Chief Executive Officers, Director Generals, Chief Finance Officers, Heads of Finance, and other senior management staff to enhance their skills and knowledge.
stop gbv half marathon zanzibar
Participate in the exciting running races of 2025-2026, featuring 5k races in Zanzibar City, Eastern Africa. Join fellow runners for a scenic and challenging experience.
hidden blessings
Get ready for an incredible event on November 8th featuring the talented MC Nyakwar Nyar British from the coastal region. Expect a night of entertainment and live music, promising an unforgettable experience in Zanzibar City.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Zanzibar
(Have more questions?) Feel free to reach out or check our comprehensive Zanzibar travel guide. We’re here to help make your flight to Zanzibar (and the trip itself) as smooth as possible.
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Zanzibar
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Zanzibar flights:
Be Flexible With Your Dates: Zanzibar is calling, but your wallet is whispering 'be smart!' Play around with your travel dates. Mid-week flights and off-season travels are often cheaper than weekend getaways.
Set up Price Alerts on RatePunk: Don't stalk flight prices, let them come to you! Set up price alerts on RatePunk, and you'll be the first to know when prices drop for your Zanzibar adventure. It's like having a flight-deal fairy godmother!
Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes, flying to a nearby airport and taking a short connecting flight or a scenic drive can save you a bundle. Explore your options and see if expanding your airport horizons leads to savings.
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early!): There's a sweet spot for booking flights. Too early, and you might miss price drops. Too late, and prices skyrocket! Aim for booking 2-3 months in advance for the best balance.
Embrace the Layover: Direct flights are tempting, but layovers can be your secret weapon! Often, flights with layovers are significantly cheaper. Think of it as a mini-adventure along the way!
Mix and Match Airlines: Don't be afraid to get creative! Sometimes, booking your outbound and return flights with different airlines can unlock better deals. It's like creating your own custom flight cocktail.
Use Incognito Mode: Airlines might track your searches and subtly increase prices. Browse in incognito mode to keep your searches private and potentially snag lower fares. Sneaky, but effective!
Check Budget Airlines: Budget airlines can be your ticket to paradise for less! Just be mindful of extra fees for luggage and other amenities. Pack light and save big!
Redeem Travel Rewards: Turn those travel rewards into Zanzibar dreams! Use your credit card points, airline miles, or hotel points to offset the cost of your flights. It's like getting a free pass to paradise!
Look for Package Deals: Sometimes, bundling your flights and accommodation can lead to significant savings. Explore package deals and see if you can score a sweet discount on your entire Zanzibar trip.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the cheapest flights to Zanzibar and make the most of your travel budget. After all, the more you save on your flight, the more you can spend on a Broadway show, a nice meal, or an extra tour in Zanzibar! 🎉✈️
