Zanzibar tourist arrivals soar by 16.4 percent in 2023

Unguja. Zanzibar witnessed a remarkable 16.4 percent surge in international visitors in 2023, welcoming a record 638,498 tourists the annual tourist arrivals report shows.

In 2022, the island attracted 548,503  international visitors.

This impressive growth paints a picture of a thriving tourist destination, fueled by diverse demographics and evolving preferences.

Europe remains the dominant force, with French visitors taking the top spot, followed by Polish, German, and Italian tourists.

Notably, emerging markets like India and Russia also saw significant increases, indicating a broadening appeal.

Air travel reigns supreme, with over 84 percent of visitors arriving through airports. However, sea ferries from Dar es Salaam are gaining traction, attracting almost 64,000 visitors in 2023.

This trend highlights the growing popularity of multi-destination itineraries incorporating Zanzibar's unique charm.

The average visitor stays for eight nights, suggesting a desire to delve deeper into the island's offerings beyond pristine beaches.

Interestingly, the male-to-female ratio has shifted, with female visitors now constituting nearly half the tourist population. This could reflect changing travel patterns and a growing interest in solo female travellers.

Millennials and Gen Z continue to dominate the visitor profile, accounting for over 86 percent of arrivals.

This tech-savvy generation seeks authentic experiences and unique content, presenting opportunities for the tourism industry to adapt and innovate.