Book accommodation first

  • Festive period: about 15 December to 10 January depending on the hotel. Operator examples in 2026: 3 nights minimum in a large Stone Town hotel, 7 nights in an east-coast resort.
  • Prices: about 40 % more than low season on two sample packages; see Zanzibar in December.
  • Galas: a Nungwi package in 2025 excluded compulsory gala dinners on 24 and 31 December. Ask whether the gala is included and at what price.
  • When to book: one operator advises 8 to 10 months ahead for high season.
  • Where: see where to stay in Zanzibar, all-inclusive in Zanzibar and Stone Town boutique hotels.

31 December: where to celebrate

  • Nungwi and Kendwa: a hotel guide updated in March 2026 names Melia Zanzibar and Essque Zalu in Nungwi and Kilindi in Kendwa, with rooftop countdowns and gala dinners; rates are not published. See Nungwi and Kendwa.
  • Kendwa Rocks: the last full-moon party of the year is usually followed by a big 31 December party. A 2025 article gave a cover charge of 35,000 to 40,000 TSH for non-guests. See Kendwa Rocks.
  • East coast: The Residence in Paje and Matemwe Retreat are on the same list.
  • Families: The Mora offers a daytime version of the countdown for children ("Noon Year's Eve") according to its blog.
  • Stone Town: a stroll in the Forodhani gardens and a terrace dinner; public places are more discreet.

Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town

Christmas (25 December)

25 December is a public holiday in Tanzania, but the island is mainly Muslim: Christmas is celebrated mostly in hotels, with dinner and decorations. Dress decently in town; alcohol is limited to hotels and some restaurants (see the alcohol rules).

Weather and sea

December: 28 to 32 °C by day, about 23 °C at night, sea at 27-29 °C, strong humidity, some showers. See Zanzibar in December and Zanzibar in January.

What to do between Christmas and 1 January

Activities that sell over the holidays

  1. Mnemba boat trip with dolphins and snorkelling from Kendwa: the most booked outing on the north coast.
  2. Stone Town, spice tour and Prison Island with lunch: the classic cultural day.
  3. Safari Blue: lagoon, snorkelling and lunch.
  4. Jozani and Salaam cave: for the forest and colobus monkeys.

FAQ

Should you book early for New Year in Zanzibar?

Yes: up to 8 to 10 months ahead according to one operator, with a minimum stay of 3 to 7 nights.

Is the gala dinner compulsory?

Often, with a supplement. Ask before booking.

Can you celebrate New Year's Eve in Stone Town?

Yes, more quietly; the big parties are in Nungwi and Kendwa.