Zanzibar welcomed 124,481 tourists in August 2026, marking an 18% increase from 105,506 arrivals in August 2025, according to figures released by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism. The island also experienced a 15.5% month-on-month rise compared to 107,801 visitors in July 2026.
Visitor Origins and Arrival Modes
European visitors made up the majority of arrivals with 72,304 tourists, representing 58.1% of the total. Africa accounted for the second-largest contingent with 30,495 arrivals or 24.5%. Asian visitors numbered 14,359 (11.5%), followed by the Americas with 5,755 (4.6%) and Oceania with 1,535 arrivals (1.2%).
Air travel was the primary mode of entry, with 114,553 tourists (92%) arriving
through Zanzibar’s airports. The remaining 9,928 visitors (8%) entered via seaports. Male visitors numbered 71,829 (57.7%) while female arrivals totaled 52,652 (42.3%).
Purpose of Visit and Accommodation Utilization
Nearly all visitors, 99.8%, traveled for leisure purposes, with only 0.2% arriving for business or meetings. The bed occupancy rate in Zanzibar’s accommodation facilities was estimated at 92.9%, reflecting strong demand, as reported by TanzaniaInvest.
Factors Driving Tourist Growth
Hassan Amer Vuai, a tourism statistics researcher at the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, attributed the growth to the destination’s rising appeal in the global market. Dr. Styla Hassan, an economist at the State University of Zanzibar, highlighted investment in infrastructure such as improved
roads as a contributing factor that facilitates visitor mobility across the islands.
Dr. Hassan also linked the rise in visitor numbers to the prevailing peace and stability in Zanzibar, which have made the destination more attractive for tourists. Tourism continues to be an essential component of Zanzibar’s economy, supporting employment and business activities.
Technological Advances and Visitor Health
The Zanzibar Immigration Department is implementing an online visa system to enhance and simplify the visa process for international travelers. Yussuf Nuhu Adam, the department’s public relations officer, confirmed the adoption of this technology reflects evolving traveler needs.
Bakari Mussa Yussuf of the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation reported
no major health issues among tourists during August 2026, indicating a stable health environment for visitors.
Infrastructure and Stability Impact on Accessibility
Improved infrastructure on the islands has eased visitor movement, contributing to higher tourist volumes. The combination of infrastructure upgrades and sustained peace has played a significant role in increasing visitations to Zanzibar during the reported period.
