The choice at a glance
| Where you sleep | Idea for tonight | Suggested start |
|---|---|---|
| North (Nungwi, Kendwa) | Sunset dhow, with traditional dance on some offers | 1 to 1.5 h before sunset |
| Stone Town | Seafront, then Forodhani | Around 5:30 pm |
| East (Paje) | Dinner on the beach or at the hotel rooftop | Depending on the tide |
Dhow, Forodhani, rooftops
The sunset dhow lasts about 2 to 3 hours and leaves from the north or Stone Town; an offer from Kendwa adds a traditional dance. In Stone Town, the Forodhani night market sets up at nightfall (about 6 to 9 pm on one listing, hours vary): grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza, sugarcane juice. Agree the price before eating, keep cash in shillings, and note that alcohol is not allowed there. For a drink with a view, see Stone Town bars and rooftops and the rules in alcohol in Zanzibar.
Beach and night outings
In the north, the beach bars of Nungwi and Kendwa stay open after sunset; the full-moon party at Kendwa Rocks is held once a month (check dates on the hotel's site). Go home in a booked taxi rather than on foot in the dark: see scams and safety in Zanzibar. For an overview, read nightlife in Zanzibar.
FAQ
What to do in Zanzibar on a rainy evening?
A covered restaurant or rooftop, or a museum open late: see Zanzibar in the rain.
Can you walk around Stone Town at night?
The seafront and Forodhani are busy in the evening, but keep your things in front of you and go back by taxi.
La rédaction Zanzibar Authority, 30/10/2026.
