Celebrate African Cinema & Creativity
Experience the vibrant heart of African storytelling at ZIFF, East Africa’s premier film and cultural festival. From powerful documentaries to bold new voices in cinema, the festival shines a spotlight on stories that connect, inspire, and empower.
Connect Cultures Across Oceans
Set in historic Stone Town, Zanzibar, ZIFF bridges cultures from Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Through film, music, and art, it celebrates the shared heritage of the Dhow Countries and fosters dialogue among global diasporas.
Be Part of a Global Movement
More than a festival, ZIFF is a movement for cultural pride and creative expression. Join a community of artists, filmmakers, and changemakers using art to reclaim narratives and amplify African voices on the world stage.
Duration
5 Days – 4 Nights
Tour Type
Daily tour and visit
Group Size
Between 10 to 50 people
Languages
English + local translation
Trip Overview
- Airport pickup: Included
- Extra Security: Included
- Experience tour guide: Included
- Breakfast: Included
- Dinner: Included
- Places to visit: Included
- Accommodation: Included
- Visa: Not included
- Airline ticket: Not included
Discover the Heart of African Cinema at ZIFF
The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries, is East Africa’s premier cultural celebration. Held annually in the stunning Stone Town, Zanzibar, it stands as one of the largest and most vibrant film festivals on the continent.
Since its founding in 1997, ZIFF has been a powerful force for cultural exchange, uniting filmmakers, artists, and creatives from across the world. As a non-governmental organization, its mission is to promote African film and culture, fostering regional social and economic growth through the transformative power of the arts.
Join us for an unforgettable journey, where cinema, music, and culture meet, and be part of this iconic celebration that brings the stories of Africa and the Dhow Countries to life.
Festival Highlights
- Film Screenings: Over 100 films from Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, the USA, and Asia, with a focus on films from Africa and by Africans, including the African Diaspora.
- Workshops & Panels: Discussions and educational sessions on filmmaking, cultural storytelling, and the film industry.
- Cultural Activities: Dhow races, music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural village tours.
- Special Programs: Women Panorama, Children Panorama, Village Panorama, and UNICEF Life Skills Camps.
Why ZIFF is Special
The Zanzibar International Film Festival is more than just a film event—it’s a powerful homecoming for diasporans seeking to reconnect with their roots through art, culture, and shared stories. Set against the historic backdrop of Stone Town, ZIFF offers a unique space to witness African narratives told by African voices, bridging generations and geographies through film, music, and conversation.
For those on a journey of self-discovery, ZIFF is a chance to engage with the richness of Swahili heritage and the broader cultural legacy of the Dhow Countries. It’s an inspiring, immersive experience that reaffirms identity, celebrates creativity, and nurtures a deep sense of belonging within the global African family.
Trip Itinerary
More questions about this trip?
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