Zanzibar offers all these options, but each part of the island has its own character. Some areas are lively, with plenty of restaurants and beach activities, while others are quieter and better suited to couples or travellers looking for a peaceful escape.
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 is scheduled for 19 June to 17 July 2027, with Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda co-hosting the tournament. For visitors planning to attend matches and explore Tanzania, Zanzibar can be a wonderful addition to the journey.
In this guide, we look at the best places to stay in Zanzibar during AFCON 2027, what each area offers, how to choose accommodation for your budget, and what to check before making a booking.
Why Stay in Zanzibar During AFCON 2027?
Football brings excitement, but a trip to East Africa can offer much more than time in the stadium. Zanzibar gives visitors an opportunity to experience the Swahili coast, enjoy Indian Ocean beaches, explore historic streets, and try local dishes.
You could spend a few days following your favourite team, then slow down with a beach holiday. Alternatively, you could begin your trip in Stone Town, explore the island, and travel to your next destination according to your match schedule.
Zanzibar is particularly appealing to travellers who want to combine sport with relaxation, culture, and coastal scenery.
1. Stone Town: Best for History, Culture and Short Stays
If you want to experience Zanzibar beyond its beaches, Stone Town is an excellent place to begin.
This historic part of Zanzibar City is known for its narrow streets, carved wooden doors, old merchant houses, lively markets, and waterfront atmosphere. Walking through Stone Town gives you a feel for the island's Swahili heritage and its long history of Indian Ocean trade.
For AFCON visitors, Stone Town can also be a practical option if you want to stay near restaurants, shops, and transport connections. Its location may suit travellers arriving by air or ferry, although you should check the route to your actual match venue before choosing a hotel.
What type of accommodation can you find?
Stone Town has a mix of boutique hotels, guesthouses, heritage properties, and higher-end accommodation. Some properties occupy restored historic buildings, offering a distinctive atmosphere that differs from a conventional beach resort.
Consider Stone Town if you want to:- Explore Zanzibar's history and architecture.
- Enjoy local restaurants and the Forodhani evening food market.
- Take a guided walking tour or arrange a spice excursion.
- Stay for one or two nights before moving to the beach.
- Keep convenient access to the airport or ferry terminal in mind.
Stone Town is not primarily a beach-resort destination, so it may not be the best choice if you want to spend every day swimming directly outside your accommodation.
Best for: Culture lovers, first-time visitors, short stays and travellers who enjoy exploring on foot.
2. Nungwi: Best for Beach Activities and a Lively Atmosphere
Nungwi, on the northern coast of Zanzibar's main island, is one of the most popular areas for a beach holiday.
It has a wide choice of hotels, beach resorts, restaurants, boat excursions, and places to enjoy the evening. If your idea of a holiday includes swimming, sunset views, snorkelling trips, and having several dining options nearby, Nungwi is worth considering.
One advantage of Zanzibar's northern coast is that swimming conditions are generally less affected by low tides than on many eastern beaches. Conditions still vary, so always follow local safety advice.
Where should you stay in Nungwi?
You can choose between larger beachfront resorts, smaller boutique hotels, and more affordable guesthouses. Accommodation close to the main beach is convenient for restaurants and activities, while properties farther from the busiest sections may offer a quieter stay.
Nungwi can suit couples, groups of friends, and travellers who want a combination of beach relaxation and social activities.
If you are visiting for AFCON, check the hotel's location and transport arrangements before booking. The journey to a match venue could take longer than expected depending on traffic and the confirmed stadium location.
Best for: Beach lovers, first-time Zanzibar visitors, groups of friends and travellers who enjoy an active holiday.
3. Kendwa: Best for a Relaxed Beach Holiday
Kendwa is another attractive option on Zanzibar's northwestern coast. It is known for its broad sandy beach and relaxed resort atmosphere.
Compared with the livelier parts of Nungwi, some sections of Kendwa can feel more spacious and peaceful. It can be a good choice if you want to spend your days swimming, enjoying the sea views, or relaxing at your hotel without planning a different excursion every day.
What accommodation is available in Kendwa?
The area includes beachfront resorts, comfortable hotels, and properties aimed at couples and holidaymakers looking for a beach-focused stay.
When comparing options, consider whether you want an all-inclusive package, a room with breakfast, or a property where you can easily visit local restaurants. The best choice depends on how much time you plan to spend at the hotel.
Kendwa is particularly appealing after several busy days of football, sightseeing, or safari travel. You can keep your schedule simple and enjoy the island at your own pace.
Best for: Couples, relaxed beach holidays, swimming and travellers who prefer a quieter atmosphere than a busy resort centre.
4. Paje: Best for Kitesurfing and a Social Beach Scene
Paje, on Zanzibar's southeast coast, has a different character from the northern beaches. It is well known for kitesurfing, beach cafés, casual restaurants, and a social atmosphere that attracts independent travellers.
If you enjoy watersports or want a holiday with a mix of beach time and relaxed evenings, Paje could be a good fit.
The east coast experiences noticeable tidal changes. At low tide, the sea can retreat a considerable distance from the shore, revealing wide stretches of sand and shallow water. This can be beautiful for beach walks and photography, but it affects when and where swimming is practical.
What should you expect from accommodation in Paje?
Paje has options ranging from simple guesthouses and beach bungalows to boutique hotels and stylish resorts. It can appeal to travellers who want an informal atmosphere rather than a large, traditional resort.
Before booking, check the exact beach location, available facilities, and whether the property can help arrange watersports or other excursions. Also consider the travel time to your planned match venue. Paje is on the southeast coast, so it may not be the most convenient base if you need to travel frequently to another part of the island.
Best for: Kitesurfers, younger travellers, independent visitors and people who enjoy a lively beach community.
5. Jambiani: Best for a Quieter and More Local Experience
If you prefer a slower pace, Jambiani is worth considering. This coastal village on Zanzibar's southeast coast offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with long stretches of beach, small accommodation properties, and opportunities to experience everyday island life.
Rather than choosing a large resort, you might stay in a guesthouse or boutique beachfront property and spend your time walking along the shore, enjoying local food, or arranging a guided cultural activity.
Jambiani is not completely isolated, but it generally appeals to travellers who want a calmer holiday than they might find in the busier resort areas. As with Paje, tides play an important role in the east-coast beach experience. Check local swimming conditions and plan water activities accordingly.
Best for: Slow travel, couples, longer stays and visitors interested in a quieter coastal atmosphere.
6. Kiwengwa: Best for Resort Facilities and Families
Kiwengwa, on Zanzibar's northeast coast, is another area to consider if you prefer a resort-based holiday.
The area has a selection of beachfront resorts and larger properties, including options that may appeal to families, couples, and travellers who prefer to have many facilities available in one place.
Depending on the property, facilities may include swimming pools, restaurants, organised excursions, and family-friendly services. Always confirm which facilities are included in your chosen room rate.
Kiwengwa's east-coast location means tides can affect the beach and swimming conditions. If swimming throughout the day is a priority, compare local conditions with those on the northern coast before deciding.
Best for: Families, resort holidays, travellers seeking hotel facilities and visitors who want a relaxed beach base.
Which Area of Zanzibar Is Best During AFCON 2027?
The best area depends on what matters most to you. Use this quick guide to narrow down your options:
| Area | Best For | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Town | History, food and cultural tours | Historic and lively |
| Nungwi | Beach activities, restaurants and social life | Lively |
| Kendwa | Swimming and relaxed resort stays | Relaxed |
| Paje | Kitesurfing and beach cafés | Social and active |
| Jambiani | Local character and a slower pace | Quiet and laid-back |
| Kiwengwa | Larger resorts and family facilities | Resort-focused |
How Much Does Zanzibar Accommodation Cost During AFCON 2027?
The cost of staying in Zanzibar depends on your travel dates, accommodation category, room type, number of guests, and whether meals or activities are included.
Budget guesthouses can help keep costs down, while boutique hotels and beachfront resorts may offer additional comfort and services. Premium properties can cost considerably more, particularly for certain room categories or travel periods.
Because AFCON may influence travel demand, it is sensible to compare current rates rather than relying on prices from previous years.
When requesting a quotation, ask whether the total price includes:- Taxes and any additional hotel charges.
- Breakfast or other meals.
- Airport or ferry-terminal transfers.
- Extra beds or child accommodation, if required.
- Cancellation fees and deposit conditions.
- Any activities advertised as part of the stay.
A room that looks cheaper at first may cost more once meals and transport are added. Compare the total cost of the stay, not only the nightly rate.
When Should You Book Zanzibar Accommodation for AFCON 2027?
Start researching your options early, particularly if you have fixed match dates or want a specific beachfront property.
However, early planning should not mean making a non-refundable booking without checking your itinerary. The most suitable hotel will depend on your arrival date, match schedule, transport arrangements, and the part of Zanzibar you want to explore.
- Confirm your travel dates and the matches you intend to attend.
- Check official AFCON announcements for fixtures and stadium locations.
- Decide whether you prefer Stone Town, a northern beach, or the east coast.
- Compare accommodation prices and room availability for your exact dates.
- Review cancellation and refund conditions.
- Confirm airport or ferry transfers if you need them.
- Save your booking confirmation and payment receipt.
If you are travelling with friends or family, confirm the number of guests and room arrangements in writing. For larger groups, ask whether the property can accommodate everyone in one location.
How to Get Around Zanzibar During AFCON 2027
Zanzibar can be explored using taxis, private transfers, and other local transport options. The best choice depends on where you stay and what you plan to do.
If you arrive by air, arrange transport from the airport to your accommodation. If you arrive by ferry from mainland Tanzania, confirm the transfer from the terminal to your hotel.
For matchdays, leave extra time for the journey. Traffic, road conditions, and event-related arrangements can affect travel time. Ask your hotel or transport provider for a realistic estimate once your match venue is confirmed.
If you plan to move between Stone Town and a beach area, decide whether you would rather book one transfer or arrange transport as part of a wider itinerary. Travellers who want to explore multiple parts of the island may find a private driver or organised excursion more convenient than arranging every journey separately.
Can You Combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania Safari During AFCON 2027?
Yes. Zanzibar can be combined with a wildlife safari on mainland Tanzania, making it possible to enjoy football, wildlife, and the beach in one holiday.
For example, you could spend time in Zanzibar, travel to a suitable mainland destination for a safari, and return to the island for a few days of relaxation. Alternatively, you could complete your safari first and finish with a beach stay.
The right order depends on your match schedule and transport connections. A short safari may fit into a compact trip, while a longer northern circuit itinerary requires more time and planning.
If you want to include a safari, allow enough time for transfers between the island, mainland airports or road routes, and your accommodation. Avoid making a tight connection between a safari journey and a match you do not want to miss. Msonge Tours & Safaris can help you enquire about combining Zanzibar with a suitable Tanzania safari, depending on your travel dates and requirements.
Why Plan Your Zanzibar Holiday with Msonge Tours & Safaris?
A good Zanzibar holiday is about more than choosing a beautiful hotel. It is also about finding the right area, planning your transfers, and making time for the experiences that interest you most.
Msonge Tours & Safaris offers Tanzania travel experiences, including wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and Zanzibar holidays. If you are planning to visit during AFCON 2027, you can enquire about a tailor-made itinerary that combines a beach stay with cultural activities or a mainland safari.
When making an enquiry, share your dates, group size, preferred accommodation standard, and whether you plan to attend a match in Zanzibar or elsewhere. This information helps determine which areas and transport arrangements may suit your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Zanzibar During AFCON 2027
It depends on your priorities. Stone Town is ideal for history and culture, Nungwi is popular for beach activities and restaurants, Kendwa suits relaxed beach holidays, while Paje and Jambiani appeal to travellers looking for watersports or a quieter coastal atmosphere.
The northern beaches around Nungwi and Kendwa are generally less affected by low tides than many east-coast beaches. Conditions can still vary, so check local advice and safety guidance before swimming.
Yes, particularly if you want to explore Zanzibar's history, architecture, markets, and local food. Stone Town is also worth considering for a short stay, although it is not primarily a beach-resort destination.
Yes. Zanzibar has guesthouses, hostels, smaller hotels, and budget-friendly accommodation, alongside mid-range properties and luxury resorts. Compare location, facilities, transport costs, and cancellation terms before booking.
It is sensible to research and compare accommodation early, especially if you have fixed travel dates. Confirm the match schedule and review cancellation policies before making a non-refundable payment.
That may be possible, depending on the confirmed venue, match time, and your hotel's location. Check the official fixtures and calculate the transfer time before booking. A resort on the opposite side of the island may require more travel than you expect.
Yes. You can plan a safari on mainland Tanzania before or after your Zanzibar stay. The best itinerary depends on your match dates, preferred parks, transport availability, and the number of days you have.
Find Your Ideal Place to Stay in Zanzibar
AFCON 2027 could be a great opportunity to experience more of Tanzania and Zanzibar. Whether you choose the historic charm of Stone Town, the lively beaches of Nungwi, the relaxed atmosphere of Kendwa, or the quieter shores of Jambiani, the right accommodation can help you make the most of your time.
Start by deciding what kind of holiday you want, then compare accommodation based on location, budget, facilities, and transport arrangements. Confirm your match plans before making final bookings, and leave enough time to enjoy the island beyond the football.
Planning a Zanzibar Holiday for AFCON 2027?
Contact Msonge Tours & Safaris to discuss your travel plans and explore options for combining Zanzibar, cultural experiences, and a Tanzania wildlife safari.
Inquire About Zanzibar Bookings →"Journeys beyond adventure.
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