Key Takeaways

• Safaris to Africa – namely Kenya and Tanzania – have become increasingly popular for global travelers.
• A pre- or post-safari stay can be just what tourists need to get acclimated or decompress, making nearby Zanzibar a great destination.
• The just-opened adults-only Riu Palace Swahili offers brand familiarity, prime location, and a variety of amenities on Zanzibar that make it a perfect safari bookend.

As experiential travel continues to dominate global vacation conversations, the demand for guided safaris in Africa has only gotten louder. After all, what’s not to love about spotting rare and magnificent animals like lions, elephants, and cheetahs in the wild? Or watching baby warthogs, hyena cubs, and zebra colts trotting after their parents?

For some, the answer is the breakneck pace, early mornings, and sometimes rugged accommodations. And for them, we have the perfect solution: bookending their East Coast Africa safari in places like Tanzania and Kenya with an all-inclusive, adults-only stay at the brand-new Riu Palace Swahili on the nearby Spice Island of Zanzibar.

Why Visit Zanzibar?

A gorgeous island just off the coast of eastern Africa, Zanzibar is a premier coastal destination for those in the know. Floating in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago is technically part of the country of Tanzania (with semi-autonomous status), but has a distinct, diverse history that includes Arabian, Indian, Persian, European, and some Chinese influence. In fact, one of the best examples of this is Freddie Mercury, who was born here and split his childhood between historic Stone Town and in India. And despite Zanzibar’s conservative lifestyle, locals take pride in the legend’s connection to the island and his home there is now a museum.

Other reasons to visit Zanzibar include idyllic beaches, amazing marine life and unique wildlife (including rare, indigenous red colobus monkeys!), UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town and its incredible architecture, and – of course – its spice-laced, vibrant cuisine.

Plus, its port makes it a perfect stop for a pre- or post-cruise stay.

Why Stay at Riu Palace Swahili in Zanzibar?

This question has two sets of answers. The first are the amenities on the property.

• Far on the other side of the world, RIU is a name that ALG Vacations^® travelers and travel advisors know they can trust. With a vast portfolio of familiar and beloved properties in the Caribbean and Mexico, all-inclusive vacationers know what to expect, even across the planet.
• Newly opened in February 2026, everything is brand new and top of the line. Over 500 room contemporary décor with design touches inspired by the destination, three sparkling pools with features like in-pool loungers, gorgeous landscaping, updated facilities, the most popular cuisines, and modern hangout spaces make this the resort of the moment.
• Made for adults only, upscale touches are everywhere … but none more than at Elite Club by RIU, an elevated level where upgraded amenities and services transform the experience into something greater than the sum of its parts. Even better? The Swim-Up Elite Club rooms, which boast their own private pools.
• Seven restaurants that span genres are all included (with reservation) in guest stays, which puts international, gourmet, steakhouse, Mediterranean, Italian, and “fusion gastronomy” on your itinerary, based on availability.
• Plentiful entertainment gives you the option of using it as a beach retreat and reset or a way to kick back and let loose. Daytime activities by the pool, nighttime shows on the theater’s stage, live music and shows by the RIU Fun team, and access to all facilities and activities at Riu Jambo – from RIU Party to stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking and pedaloes – are all on the docket on any given day or night.

… But the second is its location and proximity to attractions you won’t want to miss while in Zanzibar.

• Riu Palace Swahili shares its shoreline with Kendwa Beach, famous for its wide sands, calm turquoise waters, and legendary Full Moon Party, putting you in the heart of the action … or relaxation, whichever you see fit. And again, just as close are the Neon and White Riu Family Parties at Riu Jambo next door.
• It’s close to the Baraka Aquarium, where you can swim with and feed rescued sea turtles in a natural tidal lagoon, this is an experience you’ll never forget. Saved from injuries and fishers’ nets, these turtles range in size as they’re nurtured and rehabilitated on site until they’re healthy enough to be released back into their home: the Indian Ocean.
• You’ll be easily able to get to Nungwi Village and Nungwi Fish Market, both of which are important cultural sites. There, you’ll be able to explore local markets, watch the morning seafood auction (if you wake up early enough!), and see craftsmen hand-build traditional Dhow boats.
• Get on a sunset Dhow cruise, to experience traditional sailing with live Swahili music and refreshments. It’s one of the favorite things for tourists to do in Zanzibar. Or book an early departure and you may be able to snorkel, too.

The Bottom Line

If you’re going to go all the way to Kenya or Tanzania for a safari, make the most of your travel and extend your stay with a relaxing or lively (as you please!) all-inclusive resort visit at adults-only Riu Palace Swahili. Its convenient location, familiar amenities and standards, and new construction make it an easy decision to make.