Every day, you'll experience 2 high tides and 2 low tides.
- High tide: water is typically waist- to chest-deep near the shore
- Low tide: extensive sandbanks exposed, and you need to walk further out to reach the ocean
Essentials
A few things you should know
How to prepare for your trip to Zanzibar, and what to expect during different times of the year.
The Rhythm of the Tides
Paje moves to nature’s own rhythm, guided by the steady ebb and flow of the tides. Each day, the ocean transforms the shoreline, revealing vast sandbanks at low tide and returning as a calm, swimmable lagoon at high tide... shaping how you experience the beach from morning to evening.
While the temperatures are perfect year-round, the best time for swimming is 2 hours before to 2 hours after high tide. The beach is of soft white sand throughout with a very gentle, gradual slope into the ocean.
- High tide: direct, easy access to the water
- Low tide: shoreline extends significantly with shallow lagoon flats
- June–September: stronger trade winds
- December–February: lighter, consistent winds
- Best conditions typically at mid to high tide
Best Months: March, July–October, and December–February.
Clear visibility (20–30m), calm seas, rich coral life, and chances to spot dolphins, turtles, and whale sharks (seasonal).
The low tide is ideal for walking, exploring sandbanks, and lagoon flats
Before you Travel
Zanzibar Requirements
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date—with at least one blank page.
Visa Requirements: Most visitors need a Tanzania tourist visa, valid across the entire archipelago. Apply online via the official Tanzanian eVisa portal, and plan to do so at least two weeks ahead, as visa‑on‑arrival is no longer guaranteed.
Mandatory Travel Insurance: Since October 2024, inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) is required for all visitors—other policies won’t be accepted.
Visa Requirements: Most visitors need a Tanzania tourist visa, valid across the entire archipelago. Apply online via the official Tanzanian eVisa portal, and plan to do so at least two weeks ahead, as visa‑on‑arrival is no longer guaranteed.
Mandatory Travel Insurance: Since October 2024, inbound travel insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) is required for all visitors—other policies won’t be accepted.
SOME MORE ADVICE
HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
PROTECT YOURSELF
You may want to speak to your doctor about taking Malaria pills, expecially if travelling with children. Also pack a mosquito repellent and use especially around sunrise and sunset.
PREVENTATIVE TIPS
SUN & WATER
The tropical sun in Zanzibar can be intense year-round, so regular sunscreen use and staying well hydrated are essential. We recommend drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
USEFUL TIPS
CURRENCY & CONNECTIVITY
Tanzanian Shillings are widely used, but USD is commonly accepted. We recommend to have cash on hand. Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge, though speeds may vary, and you may want to consider a local SIM or eSIM for your stay
