Zanzibar vs Africa’s Newest Beach Hotspots in 2025: What Travelers Are Choosing
Zanzibar has long held its crown as one of Africa’s most iconic beach destinations. Its mix of turquoise waters, Swahili culture, historical Stone Town, and palm-fringed beaches have made it a favorite for honeymooners, adventurers, and laid-back luxury seekers alike. But in 2025, as travel trends shift and new destinations gain traction, Zanzibar is facing fresh competition.
So where are travelers headed now, and how does Zanzibar still hold its own in this changing landscape?
New Contenders on the Rise
1. São Tomé and Príncipe
This tiny island nation off the coast of Central Africa is being billed as the “Galápagos of Africa.” With untouched rainforests, volcanic terrain, and bioluminescent bays, it’s attracting eco-tourists and luxury travelers looking for something remote yet exclusive.
2. Sal and Boa Vista, Cape Verde
Cape Verde is booming thanks to direct flights from Europe, year-round sunshine, and affordable all-inclusive resorts. Sal and Boa Vista, in particular, are pulling in travelers who want consistent weather and Atlantic beach culture without the crowds of the Mediterranean.
3. Likoma Island, Malawi
Though still under the radar, Likoma Island in Lake Malawi is making waves for travelers wanting fresh-water beach experiences combined with community-led tourism. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, it offers sandy shores, snorkeling, and cultural depth with far fewer tourists.
4. Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago
Known for its raw beauty, Bazaruto is becoming more accessible in 2025. White sand, whale sharks, and barefoot luxury lodges are appealing to Zanzibar lovers seeking a less developed, more exclusive experience.
Where Zanzibar Still Leads
Despite new competition, Zanzibar continues to stand out because of its balance between comfort and culture. Here’s what still makes it unbeatable for many:
- Cultural Heritage: No other island offers the unique combination of Arab, African, and colonial influence like Zanzibar’s Stone Town.
- Ease of Access: With direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and East Africa, Zanzibar remains more connected than most island alternatives.
- Diverse Experiences: Travelers can blend beach time with spice farm tours, Jozani forest monkeys, or island hopping in one trip.
- Range of Accommodations: From budget backpacker lodges in Paje to high-end escapes in Kendwa, Zanzibar caters to every kind of traveler.
Shifting Traveler Priorities
In 2025, travel isn’t just about Instagram-worthy beaches. Travelers are looking for:
- Local immersion over packaged experiences
- Sustainability and low-impact tourism
- Undiscovered locations to avoid overtourism
Zanzibar is evolving to meet these shifts. A number of properties now integrate local communities into the guest experience—offering guided village walks, Swahili cooking classes, and community-run spice farm visits. In Paje and Jambiani, guesthouses are increasingly built with traditional materials, blending into the environment and supporting local artisans.
Eco-resorts are also stepping up, focusing on reef-safe practices and solar-powered operations, while marine conservation projects—like seaweed farming with women’s cooperatives and coral reef protection programs—allow visitors to participate or support regenerative efforts directly.
Still, there’s an authenticity that newer destinations can offer simply because tourism hasn’t taken root yet. In places like Likoma or São Tomé, the sense of discovery is raw and personal, something that’s harder to maintain as popularity grows. This makes them ideal for travelers looking to explore “what’s next,” without the trappings of mass tourism.
The Verdict
Zanzibar isn’t losing ground—it’s simply being joined by worthy challengers. While São Tomé and Bazaruto attract the adventurous and remote-seeking traveler, Zanzibar remains a gateway destination for those who want a mix of culture, comfort, and coastline without sacrificing convenience.
For travelers in 2025, the choice isn’t necessarily Zanzibar or somewhere new—it’s about Zanzibar first, then somewhere new next time.
