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For years, the Maldives has reigned supreme as the ultimate tropical escape . But now, a new contender is quietly stealing the spotlight. Zanzibar, the sun-drenched archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, where turquoise waters, spice-scented breezes and untouched beaches are drawing travellers from around the world. Travel experts at Sundowner Holidays say the island is enjoying a well-deserved moment of recognition and for good reason. Zanzibar has just been named one of the Top Islands in the World in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, ranking 4th in Africa and the Indian Ocean with a score of 91.43. It’s a remarkable feat for an island that, until recently, remained one of the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets. The recent award simply underscores what many seasoned travellers have long said: Zanzibar delivers world-class beaches and rich culture at a fraction of Maldivian prices. Unlike many high-end island destinations, Zanzibar retains a rare sense of authenticity. Palm-fringed beaches run along white sand, traditional fishing boats still pass over coral reefs, and the sea shifts to bright turquoise in strong sun. It offers “barefoot luxury” without excess: wake in a boutique beach lodge, sip fresh coconut by the shore and spend far less than a single night in a comparable Maldivian resort. From Nungwi and Kendwa in the north to Paje and Jambiani in the southeast, Zanzibar’s beaches cater to every kind of traveller. The north is known for its calm, swimmable waters and lively sunset bars, while the east offers wide, windswept beaches perfect for kitesurfing and long, quiet walks. The variety means you can choose between tranquillity and buzz without leaving the island, something even the Maldives can’t always offer. Beyond the beaches, Zanzibar’s appeal lies in its rich mix of cultures and history. Once a major trading hub for spices, ivory and gold, the island blends African, Arab, Indian and European influences in everything from its cuisine to its architecture. Stone Town, the island’s historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors and hidden courtyards filled with the scent of clove and cardamom. Wandering through it feels like stepping back in time, and it’s here that visitors often fall for the island’s soulful rhythm. For adventure seekers, the place offers more than just lazy beach days. You can snorkel or dive in the coral gardens of Mnemba Atoll, spot dolphins off Kizimkazi, or take a spice farm tour to see where nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla grow. Inland, Jozani Forest is home to the rare red colobus monkey, found nowhere else on Earth. Budget is another reason travellers are flocking here. A beachfront boutique stay in Zanzibar can start from around £80–£120 per night, with meals and excursions often priced well below those in the Maldives. Even high-end resorts, complete with infinity pools and private villas, tend to cost far less, making it a realistic paradise escape for couples and families alike. The best time to visit is during the dry season between June and October, when the skies are clear and the seas calm. Flights from London typically connect via Doha, Dubai or Nairobi, with return fares often cheaper than those to the Maldives, another draw for budget-conscious travellers. Zanzibar’s recent rise on global “best island” lists isn’t a passing trend; it’s recognition of an island that perfectly balances beauty, warmth and value. Sundowner Holidays said: "It’s not about overwater villas or polished perfection, it’s about authenticity, colour and calm."
