TUI has announced it will become the only UK package holiday provider to offer non-stop direct flights to Zanzibar, an archipelago often described as a 'slice of heaven' and a 'dream destination'. The new route, part of TUI's Winter 2027 programme, will depart from London Gatwick twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays from November 3, 2027, with the last outbound flight on March 22, 2028.
Growing Tourism to Zanzibar
Tourism to Zanzibar is booming, with the African Travel and Tourism board recording 917,167 visitors in 2025, up 24.5% from 736,755 in 2024. The archipelago, off the coast of Tanzania, boasts idyllic beaches rivaling the Maldives and a unique cultural fusion of African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences.
Current Travel Options and Costs
Until now, reaching Zanzibar from the UK has been challenging. A Metro reporter's 2025 journey took 14 hours via Addis Ababa. Cheaper options include flying to Nairobi (9 hours) then a short flight to Zanzibar, costing around £668 in October 2026. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa costs £1,021. Air Tanzania plans direct flights from London Gatwick to Kilimanjaro, with future direct service to Zanzibar.
Top Beaches in Zanzibar
- Kendwa: Voted the best beach in Africa and fourth best in the world, with crystal-clear water and stunning sunsets.
- Nungwi: Largely unaffected by tides, perfect for swimming, with vibrant beach clubs and restaurants.
- Paje: Known as the kite surfing capital, offering active water sports and relaxing palm-lined strolls.
With TUI's new direct flights, Zanzibar is set to become a more accessible winter sun destination for British travelers.
