Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful islands in East Africa. It is peaceful, sunny, and full of places where you and your partner can enjoy your time together. You can drive along the coast, stop at small beaches, and stay at cozy hotels. If you rent a car, you can plan and move at your own pace. You can stop for photos, try small restaurants, or just enjoy the view from the vehicle. Ready to plan your romantic road trip in Zanzibar? Let’s get started.
Zanzibar’s warm weather, clear blue water, and peaceful beaches make it a top choice for romantic getaways. You can swim in the ocean, walk on the sand, or relax under palm trees. There are many beach hotels where couples can enjoy privacy and comfort. Most roads are in good condition, especially those connecting Stone Town, Nungwi, and Paje.
When you choose to drive instead of joining a group tour, you avoid crowded buses and strict schedules. You and your partner can also visit different sides of the island, from the lively north to the quiet villages in the east and south. The drive from one side of the island to another usually takes 1 to 2 hours, so you can see many places without feeling rushed.
Renting a car in Zanzibar is simple. Most travelers pick up their vehicles at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Stone Town. You can also rent from local providers in Nungwi or Paje. You will need your home country’s driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
When choosing a car, think about the roads you will use. A small car is fine for most paved roads. If you plan to visit remote beaches or drive through the countryside, choosing a small SUV is better. These cars have more ground clearance and can handle bumpy roads better.
Romantic getaways in Zanzibar are more special when you travel at your own pace. You might pass spice farms with the scent of cloves in the air, or stop at a roadside grill serving fresh octopus. Some beaches have no crowds, just soft waves and space for two. You don’t need to follow a strict plan or rely on a driver. With your own car, every stop can feel personal and unhurried. Here are some of the best road trip ideas for couples in Zanzibar.
Start your road trip in Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar. It is one of the best places to spend your first day in the island. The streets are narrow, the buildings are old, and every corner tells a story. Park your car and explore on foot. Walk down Gizenga Street for handmade crafts, visit the Old Dispensary to see its carved balconies, and take your time at the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and Sultan’s Palace Museum. These sites are close to each other and easy to reach without rushing.
In the evening, head to Forodhani Gardens. This seafront park comes alive with food stalls at sunset. While watching the ocean light up, you can try grilled lobster, fresh sugarcane juice, and the famous Zanzibar pizza.
For something quieter, stop by Zanzibar Coffee House. The rooftop is open from 11 am to 3 pm and offers a wide view over Mkunazini. You can sit among 120-year-old teak wood doors and sip spiced tea or Arabica coffee. They serve Cappuccino, Espresso, and other top-quality blends made from beans grown at their own Utengule Estate in the Southern Highlands. You can also try their cakes, muffins, wraps, and mini pizzas for a light afternoon treat.
For a romantic hotel nearby, you can also stay at Emerson on Hurumzi, a restored palace with rooftop dining and Swahili décor. If you prefer something more modern, Maru Maru Hotel offers a rooftop pool, a full bar, and quick access to the old town’s top spots. Either way, Stone Town gives you a strong and memorable start to your romantic Zanzibar road trip.
After soaking in the history of Stone Town, drive 2 hours north to the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa. These are two of the best beach spots in Zanzibar, especially for couples looking to slow down and enjoy the ocean. The drive is easy, and once you leave the busy town roads, you’ll pass small villages, local markets, and coastal scenery. Nungwi is lively with music, bars, and a social beach vibe. Kendwa, just ten minutes away, is quieter and better suited for couples who want more privacy.
In Nungwi, you can book a stay at The Z Hotel. This boutique hotel has modern rooms with sea views, a spa for couple massages, and a peaceful pool area away from the crowds. At night, you can walk along the beach and enjoy fresh lobster or calamari at Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill, which sits right by the water. If you prefer a more laid-back setting, check out Kendwa Rocks Hotel. It is known for its wide stretch of beach, clean sand, and calm swimming area. Their beachfront rooms give you direct access to the ocean, making it easy to enjoy quiet mornings by the shore.
For daytime activities, snorkeling and diving trips are easy to arrange at local dive shops. The clear waters near Mnemba Atoll are full of colorful fish and coral. You can also visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond, a small sanctuary that lets you learn about and even feed rescued turtles. Many local boats offer sunset sailing trips, where you can sit back, sip a cold drink, and watch the horizon turn pink. This part of the road trip is all about soft sand, warm sun, and time alone together in one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful corners.
After enjoying the buzz of Nungwi, take a short coastal drive to Matemwe. The road passes through palm-lined villages and open fields, making the ride smooth and relaxing. Matemwe is one of the best places for couples in Zanzibar who want peace, space, and quiet. The beach is long and peaceful, and you will often feel like you have it all to yourselves. It is ideal for slow walks, lazy afternoons under the sun, or just lying on a towel with a book and the sound of waves nearby.
For a romantic stay, book a room at Kasha Boutique Hotel. This adults-only hotel sits on a low coral cliff with wide views of the Indian Ocean. Each suite has a private splash pool, and the terraces face Mnemba Island. Staff can help you plan snorkeling trips or arrange a private dinner by the water. If you prefer something simpler but still relaxing, Villa Kiva Boutique Hotel in Matemwe offers beachfront rooms and a large garden.
In Kiwengwa, make sure to visit Zan View Restaurant. The restaurant sits slightly above the beach, so you get open views of the coastline as you eat. The vegetables and fruits are grown nearby, and the lobster and tuna come fresh daily from the village. The food blends Swahili flavors with international favorites.
From Kiwengwa, drive about 1 hour south to reach the beach towns of Jambiani and Paje. This stretch along the east coast is known for its wide sandy beaches and calm, shallow lagoons. Jambiani is a small fishing village with a slow rhythm and peaceful atmosphere. Paje is more active, with cafes, water sports, and a younger crowd, but it still feels quiet compared to busier parts of the island.
In Jambiani, check in at Casa del Mar Hotel, a small beachfront property with direct access to the sea. Coral Rock Hotel is another choice if you want a bit more privacy. It is located on a rocky platform with wide views of the Indian Ocean. It is stunning during high tide when the water comes right up to the base of the property. For dinner, go to The Stone Culture Restaurant, one of the most romantic places in the village. Their seafood platters and candlelit tables make it a top pick for couples.
In Paje, consider staying at Kisiwa on the Beach, a boutique resort with private bungalows and a quiet garden area. The beach here is long and soft, perfect for morning walks or watching locals practice kite surfing in the afternoon breeze. If you want to learn something new together, sign up for a Swahili cooking class or take a guided walk through the Paje mangroves, where you can see crabs, fish, and birds in their natural habitat.
Head further south to Kizimkazi, located at the island's southern tip. The drive from Paje takes about 1 hour. Kizimkazi is known for its dolphin tours and quiet beaches. Early in the morning, local fishermen offer boat trips to see dolphins swimming close to the shore. On some tours, you can swim near them, but always listen to your guide and follow safety tips.
A great place to stay in Kizimkazi is Aya Beach Bungalows. The resort is just a short walk from Kizimkazi Mkunguni Beach and offers a peaceful, low-key atmosphere. It has 11 rooms and 9 villas by the sea, with an outdoor swimming pool and tropical garden views. The resort sits near a traditional fishing village and gives you a quiet escape from busier parts of the island. Many couples come here for the calm setting, private beach dinners, and couple’s massages under the trees.
For food, make time for a sunset dinner at Karamba Restaurant. This spot blends Mediterranean and Swahili flavors. It serves fresh grilled fish, coconut curries, vegetarian plates, and even a few Asian-inspired dishes. The background music is soft, the service is warm, and the sea view completes the experience.
On your way back up the island, stop at Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar. This is home to the rare red colobus monkey, a species found only here. A guide can take you along forest trails and explain the local plants, trees, and wildlife. The canopy offers cool air, and the setting is peaceful and green. It is a nice change of pace from the coast and adds a special nature moment to your romantic Zanzibar road trip.
The best time to enjoy your romantic road trip in Zanzibar is from June to October or December to February. These months bring sunny skies, less humidity, and calm seas. Pack light clothes, sunblock, a hat, and sandals. A week is enough to cover the north and south without rushing, but 10 days will give you more time to relax between stops.
Mix your plans with rest and activity. Spend your mornings swimming or walking on the beach, and leave your drives or tours for the cooler hours in the afternoon. Bring cash in small notes for fuel, village shops, and tipping. Many areas outside of Stone Town do not accept cards. A local SIM card can help you stay connected and use maps while driving. Consider booking a private spice tour or a sunset dhow cruise for something extra special. Many hotels can also arrange private dinners, spa treatments, or romantic beach settings.
A romantic road trip in Zanzibar is not just another holiday. It is time spent with someone you care about, away from noise and routine. You get space to talk, try something new, and move at your rhythm. At the same time, you can walk on a quiet beach in the morning or enjoy grilled lobster together at a rooftop restaurant with a cool breeze.
Final Rentals is a trusted car rental service in Zanzibar. You can book your car online before your trip and pick it up at the airport. We have options if you need a compact car for two or a larger vehicle for long drives. Our platform offers clear prices, reliable customer support, and no hidden fees.
