Where to go
| Place | Mood | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Rooftop Tea House, Emerson on Hurumzi | Cocktails over the rooftops, Swahili cuisine with Persian and Omani influences | Dinner by reservation, limited seating and a deposit; guests can arrive from 6 pm, service at 7 pm according to one source |
| Africa House Hotel terrace | Historic drink over the sea, a gin and tonic at sunset cited by blogs | Check the bar's status before you come |
| Mercury's (Mizingani Road) | Casual, on the waterfront | Happy hour 5 to 8 pm outside high season according to one guide |
| Forodhani Gardens | Alcohol-free: skewers and sugarcane juice by the sea | See the Forodhani night market |
Which to choose
- As a couple, with dinner: the Emerson rooftop, but book early.
- A simple drink: Mercury's or the Africa House terrace.
- Tight budget or no alcohol: Forodhani, a meal for a few dollars.
- On the water: a sunset dhow cruise leaves from Nungwi or Kendwa rather than Stone Town.
Alcohol: what to know
Zanzibar is mostly Muslim: alcohol is mainly served in hotels and licensed bars. See alcohol rules in Zanzibar and the dress advice in the Stone Town guide.
FAQ
What time is sunset?
Roughly 6:15 to 6:45 pm depending on the season; check the day before.
Do I need to book?
For dinner on a rooftop, yes. For a simple drink, arrive early.
Can I do it without alcohol?
Yes: Forodhani and the tea-house terraces serve juice and tea.
Going further
Continue with the night market or Stone Town in one day.
