As East Africa prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, Zanzibar—the historic archipelago off the coast of mainland Tanzania—is set to offer football supporters an experience unlike anything seen before in the tournament’s history.

For visiting fans, AFCON 2027 promises far more than just 90 minutes of action on the pitch; it delivers an unprecedented mix of world-class football, pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and centuries-old Swahili culture, with an intimate stadium venue coupled with daladala transport and an island-wide party.

Amaan Stadium up close

At the heart of Zanzibar’s tournament showcase is the iconic Amaan Stadium. Anchoring an experience distinct from traditional mainland venues, the 15,000-capacity ground has rapidly transformed into one of the region’s focal football hubs, regularly hosting major CAF competitions including CHAN 2024.

Originally constructed in 1970 as China’s first stadium project in Africa and fully modernised in 2023, the venue now meets full international standards while retaining its rich historical significance, serving as a venue for elite football, national celebrations, and regional tournaments alike.

What truly sets Amaan Stadium apart for traveling supporters is its remarkable location and the unique island environment surrounding it.

Seamless football and tourists’ experience

Unlike modern mega-stadiums isolated in sprawling suburban industrial parks, Amaan Stadium sits right within Zanzibar City, just minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stone Town.

Matchdays offer an extraordinary cultural crossover: supporters can spend their mornings navigating timeless winding alleys, admiring intricate carved wooden doors, and sampling local flavors before taking a brief walk straight into an official AFCON fixture.

Haven for recreation

Beyond the gates of the stadium, Zanzibar seamlessly integrates elite sport with a tropical retreat, eliminating the usual trade-off between football and sightseeing.

Benefiting from pleasant weather and cooler coastal evenings, fans can easily transition from the stands to the shore. Within less than an hour from the stadium, visitors can access world-famous Indian Ocean beaches—from the vibrant nightlife and famed swimming spots such as Nungwi and Kendwa to hubs of Paje renowned for kitesurfing.

Sports and leisure

For eco-tourists, the marine protected area surrounding Mnemba Island offers exceptional underwater visibility and close marine encounters, highlighted by its famous heart-shaped coral reef.

The unique environment is as sampled via its transport system across the close-knit island; taxis and ride-hailing cover the city; dala-dala minibuses and tour transfers can reach the beach villages north and east, while narrow streets make a hired driver’s navigation easier than self-drive here

For football lovers seeking more than just matchday results, the warmth of Zanzibari hospitality, the island’s captivating beauty, and the fusion of sports and leisure ensure that AFCON 2027 will deliver memories that linger long after the final whistle.