Zanzibar, a paradise archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, conjures up images of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. However, behind this idyllic postcard lies a more nuanced reality.
Indeed, in 2025, the island of Unguja, which we call Zanzibar, presents certain risks that should not be overlooked.
Between petty crime and sensitive areas, let's discover the truth about insecurity in Zanzibar, the areas to avoid and the precautions to take for a peaceful stay.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Even 10 years ago, the question of insecurity in Zanzibar did not arise because the island was really safe for tourists.
On the other hand, since Covid, crime has increased sharply in Tanzania and also in Zanzibar which is an island in this African country. See article: on thecitizen.co.tz, and on africaintelligence.com.
Indeed, just as Tanzania can be risky (see below), with a crime index of 52,74 Zanzibar also presents certain risks for tourists in certain areas of the island (see list below).
And, if we compare on a global level, Zanzibar is more criminal than Istanbul, New York, Rome ou Cairo en Egypt.
That said, overall homicides are quite rare, with the majority of crimes coming from petty crime (theft, burglaries, scams).
Is it dangerous to go to Zanzibar at the moment?
Insecurity in Zanzibar is highly disparate geographically. In fact, it is not dangerous to go to Zanzibar in 2025 provided that certain areas and neighborhoods are avoided (see list below).
This is confirmed by France Diplomacy which publishes the following travel recommendations:
"In Zanzibar, attacks are concentrated in the tourist areas: Stone Town, Nungwy, Paje and Jambiani. In Paje and Jambiani, burglaries of rooms and villas occupied by tourists have been reported. Burglars do not hesitate to enter hotel rooms, sometimes with the complicity of hotel staff, including guards. It is recommended to close the windows and doors of the rooms properly. In Paje and Jambiani, several cases of rape or attempted rape of tourists have been reported. Women traveling alone are advised to be particularly vigilant, to lock their rooms at night and to choose rentals in secure hotels rather than isolated villas."
On the other hand, tourists should be aware that there is also a risk with fake taxis. It is absolutely necessary to take official taxis with white plates.
Areas to avoid in Zanzibar
As we have just seen, there are places on the island that are less recommended for tourists because they have become less safe than before.
This is the case of Stone Town, the historic capital listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which deserves special attention.
Indeed, while its daytime visit is a must, Stone Town is an area to avoid at night due to drug and petty crime problems. See the article: " Zanzibar: among the old junkies of Stone Town". Additionally, poorly lit or more deserted streets in Stone Town increase the risk of petty crime.
In addition, the canadian government indicates that in Zanzibar, great caution should be exercised in Nungwi, Paje and Jambiani.
Indeed, although these places are very touristy with heavenly beaches, you should avoid walking at night on the beaches and areas that are too isolated from hotels, poorly lit or not very busy.
Best place to stay in Zanzibar
All the coasts are beautiful around Zanzibar. Wherever you go, you will have magnificent beaches, white sand and turquoise waters.
So, I am not going to detail here the characteristics of all the coasts of the Island (see my article: Where to go in Zanzibar – Which coast to choose?).
However, I will explain to you why, the 2 best areas to stay in Zanzibar are the north of the island and the east coast.
North of Zanzibar
One of the best areas to stay in Zanzibar is around Nungwi and Kendwa, the most legendary and lively beaches on the island.
Indeed, these two beaches are located in the far north of Zanzibar (where the tide phenomenon is the least sensitive). With turquoise, crystal-clear waters and white sand, these are picture-postcard landscapes.
Additionally, Nungwi is also home to a fishing village and a sea turtle conservation center.
Among the best hotels facing Kendwa beach, I recommend the Zuri Zanzibar :
East Coast of Zanzibar
The East Coast (less isolated and more lively) is also an ideal area for a seaside holiday on heavenly beaches. This coast has many equally beautiful ones (Pongwe, Matemwe, Pwani Mchangani) with clear waters and accessible coral reefs and a calmer atmosphere.
Pongwe most beautiful beach in Zanzibar
On this east coast is Pongwe Beach which is one of the most beautiful in Zanzibar.
With its secluded lagoons and idyllic beaches along the entire length of this stretch of coastline, this dream beach is home to some very beautiful 5-star hotels in Zanzibar including:
If you are looking for an EXCEPTIONAL hotel on the most beautiful beach in Zanzibar, I recommend you The Island - Pongwe Lodge.
Cheap hotel in Zanzibar
And for a nice hotel, well located on the east coast and not expensive, which I tested during my trip to 10 days in Tanzania : the Karafuu Beach Resort & Spa.
Find out below what this hotel looks like that I recommend for those looking for low prices:
The sources for this article are diverse and very serious: Statistics, government recommendations, economic studies, international media, press articles.