Planning a trip to our beautiful island? One of the first questions on every traveler’s mind is, “What are the real costs in Zanzibar?” While the island life is laid-back, knowing what to budget will ensure your holiday is stress-free. As the home of Paje Villas, we want to help you enjoy your stay in Paje to the fullest, without any financial surprises.

Accommodation Costs in Zanzibar: Paje Villas vs. Others

 Accommodation will be one of your most significant costs in Zanzibar. Paje, with its stunning beach and vibrant kitesurfing scene, offers a range of options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

• Budget Accommodation: Hostels and basic guesthouses can start from as low as $15–$50 per night. This is perfect for the backpacker focused on low costs in Zanzibar.

• Mid-Range Hotels/Boutiques: Comfortable hotels with amenities like pools and beachfront access typically range from $60–$180 per night.

• Luxury & Private Villas (Like Paje Villas): For a premium, private experience, a luxury stay, such as one of our exquisite villas, starts from around $180 and goes upwards to offer privacy, high-end amenities, and space for families or groups. When planning your budget, remember that splitting the cost of a private villa among a group can often be a highly cost-effective way to enjoy true luxury and lower your overall per-person costs in Zanzibar.

Pro-Tip from Paje Villas: Booking a private villa offers an unrivaled mix of comfort, privacy, and value. Our spacious layouts mean you have a full kitchen, which can significantly reduce your daily food costs in Zanzibar by allowing you to self-cater and enjoy local market produce.

Food & Drink Costs in Zanzibar

Dining on the island can suit any budget. Your daily meal costs in Zanzibar will vary based on your preferred dining style.

• Local Eats: Eating at local ‘mama lishe’ stalls in the village is the cheapest and most authentic option. A filling plate of rice and curry or a Zanzibar Pizza can cost as little as $2–$5.

• Mid-Range Restaurants: Beachfront cafes and mid-range restaurants in Paje offer international and fresh seafood dishes for about $10–$25 per person for a main course and a drink.

• Drinks: A local beer is typically $2–$4, while fresh fruit juices are a must-try at around $3–$5.

Transportation and Activity Costs

Getting around and enjoying activities are additional costs in Zanzibar to consider.

• Transport: A taxi from the airport to Paje is usually $40–$60. For local travel, dala-dalas (minibuses) are very cheap (under $2), but a private taxi or rental scooter (~$20–$30/day) offers more convenience.

• Activities:

  • Spice Tours or Stone Town tours cost between $25–$60.

  • Snorkeling and diving trips, like to Mnemba Atoll, range from $50–$150.

  • Kitesurfing lessons are a major draw in Paje, with starter packages typically costing $150–$250 for a short beginner course.

Currency and Tipping Advice

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

• Exchange Rate: As of late 2025, the rate is approximately 1 USD ≈ 2,400–2,500 TZS. Always carry some TZS for small purchases and local stalls to get the best price.

• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up taxi fares, giving a few thousand TZS at local restaurants, or tipping around 10% for excellent service at tourist spots is standard practice.

Understanding these costs in Zanzibar will help you plan your perfect budget. We look forward to welcoming you to your private paradise at Paje Villas!

Ready to experience the perfect blend of luxury and affordability?

Check the availability of our five exclusive villas for your next trip to Paje!

Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs address common user queries about the costs in Zanzibar, offering quick answers that search engines love to display directly.

1. What are the typical daily costs in Zanzibar for a mid-range traveler?

A mid-range traveler should budget approximately $80 to $150 per person per day. This covers a comfortable guesthouse/hotel, two meals at mid-range restaurants, and one activity (like a snorkeling trip or an afternoon of kitesurfing lessons).

2. Is it cheaper to pay with US Dollars or Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) in Zanzibar?

It is generally cheaper and more beneficial to pay with the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), especially for small purchases at local stalls or markets. Tourist-focused businesses accept USD but may use less favorable exchange rates.

3. How much should I budget for food and drink costs in Zanzibar per day?

For food and drink, you can budget $15–$20 per day if you stick to local street food and markets, or $35–$60 per day if you plan to eat at mid-range beachfront restaurants and cafes.

4. Are the kitesurfing lessons a significant part of the costs in Zanzibar?

Yes, if you are a beginner, the initial kitesurfing lessons are one of the higher activity costs, typically ranging from $150 to $200 for an introductory session or $350 to $500 for a full beginner course in Paje. Check out our sister company www.zanzibarkitesurfing.com

5. What is the cheapest way to get from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) to Paje?

The cheapest way is the Dala-Dala (local public transport), costing less than $2, though it is often slow and crowded. The most convenient way is a private taxi, which is an average cost of $40–$60.

6. Do I need to tip in Zanzibar, and how much is customary?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It is standard practice to round up taxi fares, give a few thousand TZS at local restaurants, or offer 10% for excellent service at tourist establishments. Tipping can be considered an optional but important part of your overall costs in Zanzibar.

7. Is it more cost-effective to stay in a hotel or rent a private villa in Paje?

For solo travelers, a hotel or hostel is cheaper. However, for groups (3 or more people), renting a private villa often becomes the most cost-effective option per person, as it includes private amenities and allows you to save money on food costs in Zanzibar by cooking in your own kitchen.