Zanzibar and Horse Riding in the Sea – A Dream Trip from India

Zanzibar, a tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania, is rapidly becoming a top destination for Indian travelers. One of the most magical experiences in Zanzibar is horse riding in the shallow turquoise waters. If you are planning a trip from Chennai or anywhere in India, this complete guide will help you plan the perfect vacation.

Flight Connections from Chennai to Zanzibar

There are no direct flights from India to Zanzibar. However, several one-stop or two-stop options are available from Chennai.

Popular Flight Routes

• Chennai to Doha to Zanzibar via Qatar Airways

• Chennai to Dubai to Zanzibar via Emirates or FlyDubai

• Chennai to Nairobi or Addis Ababa to Zanzibar via Kenya Airways or Ethiopian Airlines

Approximate flight duration is 12 to 16 hours depending on layover time. Most flights arrive at Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.

Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens need a visa to enter Tanzania and Zanzibar. The good news is that Tanzania offers an easy e-Visa system.

Steps to apply

1. Visit the official Tanzania e-Visa portal

2. Fill out the online application form

3. Upload passport and travel documents

4. Pay the visa fee online

5. Receive the visa via email within 7 to 10 working days

Visa Type: Single-entry tourist visa
Validity: 90 days
Fee: Approx 50 US dollars

Carry a printed copy of the visa during travel.

Suggested Itinerary – 8 Days Covering Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania

Day 1 – Arrival in Zanzibar

• Land in Zanzibar, transfer to beach resort

• Relax at Kendwa or Nungwi Beach

Day 2 – Horse Riding in the Sea

• Visit Nungwi for the famous horseback riding experience

• Ride through crystal-clear waters with guided trainers

• Optional sunset dhow cruise in the evening

Day 3 – Stone Town and Spice Tour

• Explore the heritage-rich Stone Town

• Visit spice plantations and experience local cuisine

Day 4 – Snorkeling and Island Hopping

• Take a boat trip to Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling

• Visit Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank

Day 5 – Fly to Arusha or Moshi (Mainland Tanzania)

• Explore local town or relax at a lodge

Day 6 – Safari in Ngorongoro or Tarangire

• Enjoy a full-day game drive to see elephants, lions, giraffes and more

Day 7 – Optional Mount Kilimanjaro Day Trek or Cultural Tour

• Choose between a light Kilimanjaro hike or Maasai village experience

Day 8 – Return to Zanzibar or Depart via Kilimanjaro International Airport

Note: You can also fly directly from Zanzibar to Kilimanjaro if you want to start with safari.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options

In Zanzibar

• Warere Beach Hotel

• Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel

• Antonio Garden Hotel (Stone Town)

In Arusha or Moshi

• Green Mountain Hotel

• Outpost Lodge

• The Secret Garden

All hotels provide comfortable stays under 40 to 70 US dollars per night.

Estimated Tour Cost from India

Total Duration: 8 Days
Per Person Estimate (Budget Trip)

• Flights (international and domestic): INR 70000 to 95000

• Visa and insurance: INR 5000

• Accommodation (7 nights): INR 28000 to 40000

• Activities and transfers: INR 30000 to 45000

• Food and shopping: INR 8000 to 12000

Approx Total: INR 141000 to 187000 per person

Luxury options can go higher depending on lodge type and private tours.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

• June to October: Dry season, perfect for beach activities and safaris

• December to February: Warm and sunny with clear skies

• Avoid: March to May due to heavy rains

Travel Tips

• Carry sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and light cotton clothes

• USD is widely accepted, but carry some Tanzanian Shillings

• Respect local customs and dress modestly in towns and villages

• Book horse riding slots in advance, especially during peak season

Zanzibar is more than just a beach destination. It offers a rich mix of adventure, history, culture, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences like horse riding in the Indian Ocean. Pair it with a mainland Tanzania safari, and you have the ultimate African escape.