The #1 Zanzibar Drinks You’ve NEVER Heard Of – But Need to Try!

“Here’s the scoop, travel tribe: When it comes to Zanzibar drinks, there’s a hidden gem that many overlook. The first time I set foot on Zanzibar’s sun-kissed shores, I was greeted not just by the island’s pristine beaches, but also by its sweetest secret: sugar cane juice. And let me tell you, divas, it was love at first sip!” This beverage quickly became a favorite, standing out among the myriad of Zanzibar drinks I tried.

 

The Historical Roots of Sugar Cane in Zanzibar

To truly appreciate the allure of sugar cane juice, one must first delve into its storied past on this island paradise. While many travelers search for the best Zanzibar drinks or the most aromatic Zanzibar coffee or the best Zanzibar beer, few stumble upon this liquid gold. For a deeper dive into my Zanzibar adventures, don’t miss How the F*** we got to Zanzibar and what we did.

Traditional Uses and Cultural Significance

Centuries ago, traders from far and wide brought more than just goods to Zanzibar; they introduced the magic of sugar cane. And honey, Zanzibar embraced it like Beyoncé embraces a stage! From ceremonial rituals to daily refreshments, sugar cane has woven itself into the very fabric of Zanzibari culture. It’s a testament to the rich food of Zanzibar and its diverse drink offerings. Think of it as the island’s own version of ‘Old Town Road’ – timeless and always a hit!

Popular Local Additions: From Ginger to Lime

In its purest form, sugar cane juice offers a sweetness that is both robust and refined. It’s the Lizzo of drinks – bold, beautiful, and unapologetically real. But to elevate the experience, Zanzibaris often introduce a zesty twist, merging the juice’s sweetness with the tang of lime and/ or the kick of ginger and sometimes goes by the name of Karimbu Juice. It’s like adding a little Cardi B flair to an already banging track!

My Zanzibar Drinks Adventure: Trading Coffee for Sugar Cane Juice

During my stay at Nungwi Dreams Hotel, I found myself trading my morning Zanzibar coffee for a refreshing glass of sugar cane juice.  Yes, dear divas, it was so irresistibly good that I willingly forsake my beloved Zanzibari coffee.  Now, our absolute favorite spot to get the sugarcane juice was from our bartender at the Nungwi Dreams hotel. They had their unique take on it (  they added ginger and lime and a few other ingredients so it was essentially a Karimbu Juice), and it’s what they greet you with when you first check in – they call it the ‘welcome drink.’ They don’t even sell it at the bar, but let’s just say I found the bartender who made it and convinced him to keep making us some. As the waves lapped the shores of Nungwi, I sipped on this delightful beverage, realizing that sometimes, the best experiences are those that are unexpected. It was divine! And in Stone Town, we got fresh sugar cane juice at Forodhani Garden ,where street food vendor skillfully extracting this liquid gold from  fibrous canes, a testament to the rich tapestry of Zanzibar street food and drinks.. The price? A mere tshs 2000/ .80 cent a glass. For more on my Zanzibar escapades, check out 24 hours in Stonetown, Zanzibar.

 

Health Benefits: Not Just a Sweet Treat

Beyond its delightful taste, sugar cane juice hides a treasure trove of health benefits that locals have sworn by for generations.

A Natural Energy Booster

After a long day exploring the island, a glass of sugar cane juice proved to be the perfect pick-me-up, recharging my spirits. It’s the island’s natural Red Bull, minus the wings but with all the soar!

Rich in Essential Nutrients

Packed with calcium, magnesium, and a host of other nutrients, this juice is more than just a sweet indulgence. It’s like the ultimate self-care routine for your body – ’cause we deserve the best!

OTHER TRADITIONAL ZANIZBAR DRINKS TO TRY

Out of all the Zanzibar drinks we tried,  sugar cane juice was the best F****** beverage in Zanzibar hands down. But there are some other notably drinks that you should try in Zanzibar

Kahawa (Zanzibari Coffee) (HWT RATING: 4.5/5):

Zanzibari Coffee, known as Kahawa, is a strong and tasty cup that wakes up your senses with its rich flavor. If coffee is your love language, this brew from Zanzibar’s fertile soil is a special and yummy drink.

Flavor Profile: This coffee has a bit of earthy and nutty taste. It’s bold and smooth because the beans are cooked just right. Every sip is like a cozy hug.

Where to Find It: You can get a delicious cup of Zanzibari coffee in local coffee shops and small cafes all around the island. For a cool experience, visit the Zanzibar Coffee House in Stone Town. The folks there make each cup with care to give you the best coffee time.

If you love coffee or just want to try something new, exploring Zanzibar’s coffee scene is like going on a tasty adventure into the heart of the island’s flavors and traditions.

DAWA (HWT RATING: 4.5/5):

Dawa, meaning “medicine” in Swahili, is a lively cocktail that combines vodka, honey, fresh lime, and a touch of sugar. It’s a refreshing concoction with zesty and sweet notes, perfect for quenching your thirst on a sunny day.

Where to Find It: Zanzibar’s beachside retreats are where you’ll discover the magic of Dawa cocktails. Look out for this on the menu at beach bars, seaside restaurants, and laid-back lounges across the island, where skilled mixologists craft their own unique variations. Ask for the “Dawa of the day” for a special twist.

Konyagi (HWT RATING: 4.5/5):

Often referred to as the “Spirit of Tanzania,” Konyagi is a gin-like spirit with a unique blend of botanicals and pure cane juice, making it a popular choice for cocktails. It’s a versatile and aromatic spirit that captures the essence of Tanzania’s flavors.

Where to Find It: Experience Konyagi at bars, lounges, and spirited venues across Zanzibar, where mixologists skillfully blend this distinctive Tanzanian spirit into a variety of creative and tantalizing cocktails. Explore the vibrant nightlife and beachside retreats to discover the magic of Konyagi in its true Tanzanian spirit.

Zanzibar Spice Tea (HWT RATING: 4.5/5):

A flavorful tea infused with an array of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, Zanzibar Spice Tea creates an aromatic and exotic taste. This soul-warming brew is a celebration of Zanzibar’s spice-rich heritage, offering a sensory journey through each cup.

Where to Find It: Venture into the local tea houses and charming markets in Stone town Zanzibar, where the delightful aroma of spices lingers in the air.

Kilimanjaro or Serengeti Beer 

Kilimanjaro or Serengeti Beer, favorites among beer lovers, bring the taste of East Africa to your glass with their refreshing and crisp flavors. Brewed with care, these beers embody the essence of the iconic Kilimanjaro mountain and the vast Serengeti plains.

Personal Note: I’m not usually a big fan of beer, but in Zanzibar, everyone was enjoying Kilimanjaro or Serengeti Beer. They have unique tastes that even non-beer lovers might find interesting.

Where to Find It: You can enjoy Kilimanjaro or Serengeti Beer at local pubs, beach bars, and lively gatherings all around Zanzibar. It’s a great drink to wind down after a day of exploring or to sip while watching the sunset at the beach. Perfect for anyone wanting a taste of East African brewing, whether you’re a beer enthusiast or not.

Swahili Phrases for Ordering Drinks

Heading out in Zanzibar? Sprinkle in some Swahili to elevate your experience. While English is widely spoken, a few local phrases can add a touch of authenticity to your adventures. So, divas, before you order that refreshing sugarcane juice, try these handy Swahili phrases:

English Translation	Swahili Phrase	Pronunciation
“I'd like sugar cane juice, please.”	“Ningependa maji ya miwa, tafadhali.”	(Nin-geh-pen-da ma-jee ya mee-wa, ta-fa-dha-lee)
“Add some ginger.”	“Ongeza tangawizi.”	(On-geh-za tan-ga-wee-zee)
“I want lime.”	“Nataka limau.”	(Na-ta-ka lee-ma-oo)
“It’s sweet!”	“Ni tamu!”	(Nee ta-moo)
“I'd like a glass of ___.”	“Ninaomba glasi moja ya ___.”	(Nin-a-om-ba gla-see mo-ja ya)
“Sugarcane juice, please.”	“Juisi ya miwa, tafadhali.”	(Jui-si ya mee-wa, ta-fa-dha-lee)
“What do you recommend?”	“Unapendekeza nini?”	(U-na-pen-de-ke-za ni-ni)
“Thanks a lot!”	“Asante sana!”	(A-san-te sa-na)

FAQs: Quenching Your Curiosities

Q: How much does sugar cane juice cost in Zanzibar?

A: The price of sugar cane juice varies depending on where you get it from. It can range from 1000 TSHS (about 40 cents) to 4000 TSHS (approximately $1.60) per glass.

Q: Can I make sugar cane juice at home using a recipe?

A: While it’s tempting to recreate the magic of Zanzibar’s sugar cane juice at home, the truth is, it might not be the same. Sugar cane juice from Zanzibar has a unique flavor influenced by the local soil and climate. I wish I could grow this at home or make it myself but unfortunately, attempting to grow your own sugar cane outside of specific zones, such as Zone 9-10 (common in Texas or Florida), may prove challenging. So, make the most of this delightful beverage while you’re in Zanzibar.

Q: Why didn’t you include a sugar cane juice recipe in the post?

A: Given the distinctiveness of Zanzibar’s sugar cane juice, replicating the exact flavor at home may be challenging due to differences in soil composition and climate. I encourage you to savor the authentic experience during your visit.

Q: Is all sugarcane juice the same?

A: No, it’s not. After enjoying the exquisite sugar cane juice in Zanzibar, I was eager to try it elsewhere, like in Hawaii during a recent trip. However, it turned out that not all sugarcane juice is created equal. The taste can vary significantly, and it seems the secret might just lie in the Zanzibar soil—yes, even the sugarcane seems to be influenced by its tropical home!

“So, there you have it, divas! The next time you’re feeling adventurous, let Zanzibar’s sugar cane juice take you on a sweet, soulful journey. And if you’re looking for more travel inspiration, my Our Amazing Trip to Kenya and Zanzibar: Itinerary, Cost, Things to Do is a must-read.

Safe travels and  happy sipping!🥂🌴