Cape TownvsZanzibar
Can't decide between Cape Town and Zanzibar? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the world's most beautiful cities, nestled between Table Mountain and two oceans. South Africa's Mother City offers stunning beaches, world-class wine regions, incredible wildlife, and a vibrant cultural mix.
Known for
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is the "Spice Island," a tropical paradise off the Tanzanian coast with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a UNESCO-listed Stone Town. This archipelago offers a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences, plus world-class diving and snorkeling.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cape Town offers Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope, V&A Waterfront
Zanzibar offers Stone Town, Spice Tour, Nungwi Beach
Food & Dining
Cape Town is famous for its local dining scene
Zanzibar is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cape Town offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Zanzibar offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
November to March
June to October, December to February
Weather
Summer: 26°C, Winter: 12°C
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 26°C
Top Attractions in Cape Town
- 1Table Mountain
- 2Cape of Good Hope
- 3V&A Waterfront
- 4Robben Island
- 5Winelands Day Trip
- 6Boulders Beach Penguins
Top Attractions in Zanzibar
- 1Stone Town
- 2Spice Tour
- 3Nungwi Beach
- 4Prison Island
- 5Jozani Forest (Red Colobus)
- 6Sunset Dhow Cruise
Cape Town is Popular With
Zanzibar is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Cape Town
- 1
Kirstenbosch Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway ('Boomslang')
A curvaceous, elevated steel and wood walkway that snakes through the treetops of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
- 2
The Noon Gun
Two cannons fired every day at precisely 12:00 from Signal Hill, a tradition dating back to 1806.
Hidden Gems in Zanzibar
- 1
Kuza Cave
A stunning freshwater cave and swimming hole near Jambiani, considered sacred by locals.
- 2
Mbweni Ruins
The overgrown ruins of a 19th-century Anglican mission and school, located south of Stone Town.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Cape Town
City Bowl & V&A Waterfront
The bustling heart of Cape Town, framed by Table Mountain and Signal Hill.
Atlantic Seaboard (Camps Bay & Clifton)
A glamorous stretch of coastline along Victoria Road, famous for its white-sand beaches, trendy cafes, and stunning sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Top Areas in Zanzibar
Stone Town
The historic heart and cultural core of Zanzibar, a UNESCO-listed maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and bustling markets.
Nungwi & Kendwa (North Coast)
Famous for its stunning beaches, dramatic low tides that reveal sandbars, and a lively, resort-focused atmosphere.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Cape Town
Budget in Zanzibar
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cape Town
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Zanzibar
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Cape Town
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Cape Town
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Find cheap transport to Zanzibar
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Our Verdict
Both Cape Town and Zanzibar are incredible destinations. Cape Town excels in Table Mountain and wine, while Zanzibar stands out for spices and beaches.
Best destination for:
beaches
Cape Town
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