Embark on a journey from Auckland to the captivating Zanzibar archipelago, a destination steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Zanzibar's allure lies in its blend of iconic landmarks, a rich heritage reflected in its architecture and traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're drawn to its pristine beaches, the historic Stone Town, or the spice plantations, a trip to Zanzibar promises unforgettable experiences.

Direct flights from Auckland to Zanzibar are typically not available, meaning a stopover is necessary. The flight duration will vary depending on the chosen route and layover time, but expect a total journey time of around 24-36 hours or more. Airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways often offer connecting flights, with common stopover cities including Dubai and Doha. These layovers add time to your trip, but they can offer a chance to explore another destination. Flight frequency varies depending on the airline and season – you'll find more frequent options during peak season.

To find the cheapest flights, consider booking during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). These months offer a balance between pleasant weather and lower airfares compared to the peak season (June-August). Booking your flights well in advance, ideally 2-3 months before your intended travel dates, tends to yield better deals, avoiding the surge in prices closer to departure. Peak season sees a significant influx of tourists, coinciding with pleasant weather. This makes flight prices higher. In contrast, the low season (March-May) offers the quietest and potentially most budget-friendly travel experience, though it may be riskier due to the high chance of rain.

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from June to October, is characterised by warm temperatures averaging around 26°C to 30°C, low humidity, and abundant sunshine. This is the most popular time to visit, making accommodation expensive. Rainfall is minimal during this period. The wet season, from March to May, experiences higher temperatures and humidity, with more frequent, intense rainfall. The short rains, which occur between November and December, are generally shorter and less intense, however there is a higher chance of rain and the weather is unpredictable. Therefore the best time to visit Zanzibar is generally during the dry season, and the cheapest would be during the wet seasons. This depends heavily on your preference between paying a higher price for a holiday with a lower chance of rain or paying a lower price for a holiday with a higher chance of rain.

Auckland has two major international airports currently in operation: Auckland Airport (AKL) and Ardmore Airport (ACM). Both serve commercial flights, with Auckland Airport being the primary international gateway.

Auckland Airport (AKL)

Auckland Airport is New Zealand's largest and busiest airport. It's a modern facility with multiple terminals, serving numerous international and domestic airlines. This airport offers many facilities and services, including restaurants, shops, lounges and many more. It's known for its efficient operations and connections to destinations worldwide.

Ardmore Airport (ACM)

Ardmore Airport is a smaller airport, primarily catering to domestic flights and general aviation. Its history dates back to 1930s, though it has been modernized and renovated throughout the years. While it does not typically handle international flights, it's a significant hub for smaller airlines and aviation services in the Auckland area.

Main airlines for this route

• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines

Zanzibar has two main operational airports: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) and Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ).

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is the primary airport serving Zanzibar and the main gateway for most international and regional flights. It is located about 5 km from Stone Town and offers various services such as restaurants, shops and transfer services. Reaching Stone Town is easily done by taxi, which is the most convenient option for tourists, a car rental for independent exploration, or by bus for a budget-friendly and local experience. The journey by taxi takes around 15-20 minutes, the bus is significantly longer and depends on traffic.

Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)

Zanzibar Airport is a smaller airport that primarily handles domestic flights and some charter services. It's located on the island of Unguja, and while it might not be a significant international hub, it caters to shorter domestic flights. The airport is not far from Stone Town, so there are different means of transport to choose from.

Zanzibar, an island paradise off the coast of Tanzania, offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning beaches to historical sites and unique cultural experiences.

• Explore Stone Town: Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its historical architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks.
• Relax on the beaches: Spend time on the beautiful beaches such as Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach and Paje beach, known for their pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere. They offer various opportunities to swim, relax and sunbathe.
• Visit a spice plantation: Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of Zanzibar's spice plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation and history of these essential ingredients and sample the flavors.