🌴 Zanzibar Island Local Secrets and Budget-Friendly Excursions You’ll Love

Discover how to spend 7 unforgettable days in Zanzibar Island on a tight budget. Includes local tips, excursions, cheap stays & activities under $500.

By TuneTravels | Budget Travel • Island Adventures • Zanzibar

Dreaming of turquoise waters, island breezes, and exotic wildlife—but your wallet’s screaming “Not today!”? No worries. Zanzibar Island offers a magical experience even for travelers on a shoestring budget. If you’re planning a 7-day stay with less than $500 to spend after flights, this guide will help you stretch every dollar (or shilling!) while still soaking in the sun, culture, and adventure.

🛏 Where to Stay: Affordable Comfort on the Island

While luxurious resorts are everywhere, budget-friendly accommodation in Zanzibar does exist—you just need to know where to look.

💡 Top Tip: Book a cheap Airbnb or hostel in the outskirts of Stone Town or quieter coastal villages like Paje or Jambiani. Prices range from $15–$25 per night, and you can often find discounts for week-long stays.

Another option? Ask locals when you arrive. Many families rent out rooms informally, and prices can drop to $10/night with basic amenities.

🌊 What to Do on a Budget: Island Activities & Excursions

Yes, Zanzibar is paradise. But it doesn’t have to cost you paradise prices. Here’s how to explore without breaking the bank:

🏝️ Island Tours and Swimming Spots

• Prison Island Trip – Famous for giant tortoises and snorkeling. Skip hotel prices and talk to local boat owners directly. You can get a trip for as low as 20,000 TSH (~ USD 8) if you negotiate well.

• Public Beaches – Nungwi and Paje offer crystal-clear water and amazing sunset views, for free.

• Snorkeling or Sandbank Trips – Join a group and split the cost. Prices start at 20,000–30,000 TSH, especially if you book through a local.

“You are so welcome in Zanzibar Island! I have a boat for trips to Prison Island and more. I can also help with the Jozani Forest by using my friend’s taxi. I will offer you an affordable price.” – Local guide offer we received

🐒 Jozani Forest Visit

See Zanzibar red colobus monkeys in their natural habitat. Entry is about USD 10, and you can split a taxi with other travelers to get there. Or hop on a daladala (public minibus) for just 2,500 TSH one-way.

🐘 Wildlife Safari? Here’s the Truth

Let’s clear this up: There are no giraffes or zebras on Zanzibar Island. Real safari action—like spotting lions, elephants, and giraffes—is only on the mainland. But…

• Safari prices on the mainland start at $300 per person for just one day.

• If you’re on a tight budget, skip the mainland safari this time. Focus on marine life and forest trekking instead.

🍛 Eating on a Dime

Street food is your best friend.

Item Average	e Price
Chapati	500 TSH
Boiled Egg	1,000 TSH
3 Bananas	500 TSH
Fresh Juice	2,000 TSH
Zanzibar Pizza	3,000 TSH

Head to Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town in the evening for cheap, delicious local treats. Keep your expectations simple and your appetite adventurous.

🛵 Getting Around: Motorbikes & Daladalas

• Daladala Buses: The Cheapest way to move around. From one end of the island to the other for just 2,500–3,000 TSH.

• Motorbike Rentals: Around $10/day, but you’ll need an international license.

• Walk When You Can: Some coastal areas, like Jambiani and Paje, are small enough to explore on foot.

“If you want to save money, take the bus around the island.”

🧳 Sample 7-Day Budget Breakdown (Under USD 500)

This leaves some wiggle room for emergencies or spontaneous adventures.

🙌 Final Tips for Smart Travelers

• Learn Local Prices: Knowledge is power when negotiating.

• Skip Tourist Traps: Book directly with locals when possible.

• Travel Slow: Less rushing means more saving and deeper experiences.