If you’ve always dreamed of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and African island charm — Tanzania’s Zanzibar Archipelago offers all of it, without draining your wallet. Known as the “Spice Island”, Zanzibar blends ancient culture, delicious cuisine, and some of the best beaches in East Africa.
In this guide, we’ll explore budget hotels in Tanzania and Zanzibar, including where to stay, what to do, and smart ways to save on your tropical getaway in 2025. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, couple, or family traveler, there’s something for everyone.
Best Budget Hotels in Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers plenty of affordable accommodations that balance comfort, cleanliness, and beach access. You can find cozy guesthouses, boutique lodges, and local stays starting at just $25–$50 per night.
1. Lost & Found Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Located in the heart of Stone Town, this backpacker-friendly hostel offers dorm beds and private rooms. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and easy access to spice markets and cafes.
Starting from $25/night
2. Demani Lodge (Paje Beach)
A charming beachside lodge with a relaxed vibe. Perfect for surfers and digital nomads, it features an outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar.
Rooms from $35/night
3. Red Monkey Lodge (Jambiani)
Known for its friendly staff and ocean views, this eco-lodge supports local communities. Expect live music nights and yoga sessions by the sea.
Rooms from $45/night (breakfast included)
4. Kiponda B&B (Stone Town)
A restored colonial building offering clean rooms, rooftop breakfast, and a short walk to the ferry terminal.
Double rooms from $40/night
5. New Teddy’s Place (Paje Beach)
Loved by backpackers, this lodge provides beachfront bungalows and hammocks under palm trees. It’s social yet peaceful — ideal for budget travelers.
Private rooms from $30/night
Budget Hotels on Mainland Tanzania
Before or after your Zanzibar escape, consider spending a few days on the Tanzanian mainland. Cities like Dar es Salaam and Bagamoyo offer affordable coastal stays and cultural charm.
1. Mikadi Beach Camp (Dar es Salaam)
A beachfront campsite with basic huts and dorms. Perfect for budget travelers seeking peace and ocean views.
Starting from $25/night
2. Firefly Bagamoyo
A trendy, eco-friendly guesthouse with a pool, restaurant, and beautiful gardens. Located in the historical coastal town of Bagamoyo, known for its cultural tours.
From $35/night (includes breakfast)
3. Slow Leopard Hostel (Dar es Salaam)
Great for solo travelers and backpackers. Clean rooms, community events, and friendly staff make it a safe and social choice.
Beds from $20/night
Top Budget Beaches to Visit in Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world — and many are accessible even if you’re on a tight budget.
1. Paje Beach
A paradise for kite surfers and digital nomads. The beach is lined with affordable cafes and beach huts.
2. Jambiani Beach
A peaceful fishing village where you can watch locals gather seaweed and enjoy stunning sunsets.
3. Nungwi Beach
Located at the northern tip, Nungwi is perfect for swimming year-round. Budget guesthouses line the main road within walking distance to the beach.
4. Kendwa Beach
Known for full-moon parties and calm waters, Kendwa offers budget stays that feel luxurious.
How to Get to Zanzibar on a Budget
Zanzibar is easily accessible from mainland Tanzania:
By Air: Local airlines like Precision Air and Auric Air fly from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar in under 30 minutes (fares from $40–$70).
By Ferry: The Azam Marine Ferry connects Dar es Salaam and Stone Town. Economy tickets start at $25 one way and the trip takes around two hours.
Budget Tip: Book return tickets online in advance for small discounts.
Eat Like a Local – Affordable Zanzibar Cuisine
Zanzibar’s food scene is a delightful mix of African, Arabic, and Indian influences. Here’s how to eat well on a budget:
Street Food: Try Zanzibar Pizza, Urojo Soup (Zanzibar Mix), and grilled octopus at Forodhani Gardens Night Market.
Local Cafes: Enjoy chapati and chai for less than $1.
Seafood Restaurants: Many beach shacks offer fresh fish and rice for $4–$6.
Things to Do in Zanzibar on a Budget
You don’t have to spend big to enjoy the island’s beauty:
Explore Stone Town: Walk through narrow alleys, visit the House of Wonders, and shop for spices and souvenirs.
Relax at the Beach: Most beaches are free and rarely crowded.
Spice Tour: Guided farm visits start from $10 per person.
Prison Island Tour: Visit giant tortoises for around $15 (boat + entry).
Sunset Dhow Cruise: Shared evening sails start at $20 per person.
Money-Saving Tips for Tanzania & Zanzibar
Travel in the Shoulder Season: Visit from April to June or September to November for discounts and fewer tourists.
Use Local Transport: Dala-dala minibuses and shared taxis cost just a few dollars.
Book Directly: Many local hotels offer 10–15% discounts for direct bookings.
Share Tours: Join group trips instead of private excursions to save 30–40%.
Pay in Tanzanian Shillings: Avoid USD markups at local restaurants and shops.
Budget Safari Adventures in Nairobi & Maasai Mara — Explore Kenya’s affordable wildlife safaris.
Zanzibar Tourism Official Site — for updated ferry schedules, permits, and events.
Conclusion
Budget hotels in Tanzania – affordable beach escapes in Zanzibar prove that paradise doesn’t need to be expensive. From charming local guesthouses to beachfront lodges, you can relax, explore, and connect with nature without overspending.
Whether you’re wandering through Stone Town’s spice-scented streets or watching the sunset from a palm-fringed beach, Tanzania offers one of the best-value destinations in the world for 2025 travelers.
So pack light, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with Zanzibar’s affordable magic!