Weddings in Zanzibar – Destination Wedding Guide

Discover how to plan a wedding in Zanzibar — best seasons, church and beach ceremonies, documents, tides, and wedding planner tips.

A wedding in Zanzibar combines tropical beauty, cultural richness, and a relaxed island atmosphere in a way few destinations can offer. With white sand beaches, turquoise waters, palm trees, and warm island hospitality, the island provides a naturally romantic setting for couples looking to celebrate their special day somewhere meaningful and memorable.

At Boutique Hotel Matlai, many couples choose Zanzibar for its calm atmosphere, privacy, and the opportunity to combine wedding and honeymoon in one unforgettable stay.

Why Get Married in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is ideal for couples who want a wedding that feels personal, elegant, and surrounded by nature. Instead of large, busy resorts, the island offers intimate locations where celebrations feel authentic and relaxed.

A destination wedding in Zanzibar allows you to combine:

• Ceremony and honeymoon in one location

• Tropical scenery with minimal logistics

• Time with close family and friends

• Culture, nature, and relaxation in one journey

For many couples, Zanzibar becomes more than a wedding destination — it becomes a lifelong memory.

Ceremony Options in Zanzibar

Zanzibar offers a variety of beautiful ceremony settings:

• Beach ceremonies

Barefoot weddings by the ocean with turquoise water and palm trees.

• Garden ceremonies

Tropical settings surrounded by greenery and privacy.

• Church weddings

For couples planning a religious ceremony, Stone Town is home to beautiful historic churches, including Anglican and Catholic churches, which offer a meaningful and traditional setting within Zanzibar’s cultural heart. Upon request, church ceremonies can also be held in a breathtaking beachfront setting

• Symbolic ceremonies

The most popular option for destination weddings, allowing flexibility and simplicity.

Many couples complete the legal marriage at home and celebrate with a symbolic ceremony in Zanzibar.

Best Months for a Wedding in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s tropical climate makes weddings possible year-round, but some months offer particularly reliable weather.

Best months are:

• January

• February

• June

• July

• August

• September

• October

These months typically bring sunshine, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures.

Rainy seasons:

• March–May (long rains)

• November (short rains)

Weddings are still possible during these periods, but planning becomes more weather-dependent.

Planning with the Tides

One of the most unique aspects of Zanzibar’s coastline — especially on the east coast — is the dramatic tidal movement. The ocean can shift significantly between high and low tide throughout the day.

When planning a beach wedding, it is important to:

Check the tide schedule

• Plan ceremonies around mid or rising tide

• Avoid very low tide for photography

• Consider garden or terrace alternatives

Working with local professionals ensures the ceremony timing aligns perfectly with the ocean.

Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Zanzibar

Couples can choose between:

• Legal civil marriage in Zanzibar

• Religious ceremony

• Symbolic ceremony

• Legal marriage at home + symbolic ceremony in Zanzibar

For a legal wedding in Zanzibar, documents usually include:

• Passports

• Birth certificates

• Certificate of single status / no impediment

• Divorce decree (if applicable)

• Death certificate (if widowed)

Documents typically need to be submitted several weeks in advance, and requirements may vary depending on nationality.

Because of this, many couples prefer a symbolic ceremony in Zanzibar.

How Far in Advance Should You Plan?

For a destination wedding in Zanzibar, planning typically begins:

• 6–12 months in advance

This allows time to:

• Secure accommodation

• Confirm guest travel plans

• Arrange documentation

• Coordinate ceremony design

• Plan experiences around the wedding

Small weddings and elopements can sometimes be planned faster, but early preparation ensures a smooth experience.

Why Work with a Wedding Planner?

Planning a wedding abroad is much easier with local expertise.

A professional wedding planner helps with:

• Legal documentation

• Ceremony design

• Vendor coordination

• Tide and weather timing

• On-site coordination

• Communication with local authorities

At Matlai, we work closely with experienced wedding planners to ensure a calm, personal, and seamless experience for every couple.

Weddings at Boutique Hotel Matlai

With only six rooms and a peaceful oceanfront location in Michamvi, Boutique Hotel Matlai is ideal for:

• Small destination weddings

• Intimate Elopements in Paradise

• Wedding & honeymoon stays

• Private celebrations with family and friends

Many couples choose to book the property exclusively, creating a private wedding retreat.

From Wedding Bliss to Honeymoon Moments

To make your celebration even more special, couples can choose to book a Honeymoon Package after their wedding at Matlai — the perfect way to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the first days of married life in a peaceful oceanfront setting.

For those who wish to prepare for the big day in a calm and romantic way, we also offer our “Pampering Package for Two.” This experience includes a romantic bath, relaxing massages, and a private dinner by the beach — designed to help you slow down, unwind, and enjoy precious moments together before saying “I do.”

You can learn more here:

Destination Weddings in Zanzibar

Wedding & Honeymoon Stays

Bustani Spa