Zanzibar, Tanzania2024
Zanzalu
A pop-up city organizer in Zanzibar that brings together builders, technologists, and innovators from Africa to co-live every summer.
What is Zanzalu?
Zanzalu is a pop-up city and living laboratory where innovators from Africa and beyond collaborate toward an abundant future.
1100+
participants
75+
full-time residents
100+
sessions
History
Zanzalu launched its first edition - Zanzalu 1.0 - in 2024 as a five-week pop-up village in Zanzibar, focusing on workshops, talks on urban development, experimental governance, Web3 technologies, and cultural change.
In 2025, Zanzalu hosted Zanzalu 2.0, collaborating with Logos for the Road to Parallel Society event.
The 2026 edition - Zanzalu 3.0 - runs from July 25 to August 14.
Location
Zanzalu pop-up villages take place in Fumba Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania, an urbanization initiative within the area of the Fumba Special Economic Zone.
Duration
Zanzalu hosts annual pop-up villages lasting 2 to 5 weeks usually.
It aims to evolve into a permanent hub in Fumba Town by 2027, aimed for residencies, experimentation, and events.
Pricing
Tickets for pop-up villages depend on the edition and often have 10-20% early bird discounts.
Base prices for Zanzalu 2026:
Amenities
- Co-working spaces.
- Daily breakfast.
- Wi-Fi
- Beach access.
- Workshops, lectures, and events.
Gym, kayaking, snorkeling, and biking are available for extra cost.
Accommodation, transportation, and meals should be arranged by the participant.
Reviews
“ This was my first pop-up village experience and I believe it could not have been better. ” Václav Pavlín, Web3 Engineer at Logos
I am honored I could be part of Zanzalu 2025 and I am very proud of all we could contribute to there. I am also humbled because it reminded me how privileged I am in my life.
How can you get involved?
- Attend upcoming pop-up villages, often announced on X.
- Subscribe to the newsletter on the website.
- Reach out directly via info@zanzalu.org.
FAQs
What is the goal of Zanzalu?
To cultivate a pro-growth, pro-technology culture and seed a network of high-agency leaders who will shape the next generation of firms, cities, and governance systems across Africa and beyond.
Who is Zanzalu for?
Builders, technologists, founders, creatives, academics, artists, investors, policymakers from Africa and beyond interested in innovation and experimentation.
What activities happen at Zanzalu?
Residencies, forums, workshops, launches, talks, and conversations focused on leapfrog technology, cities and industry, and community building.
Does Zanzalu provide accommodation?
No, participants arrange their own lodging in Aura Spaces, Airbnbs, or nearby hotels.
What is included in the ticket?
Access to core programming, daily breakfast, coworking areas, and option for paid sub-events like the Zanzalu Summit.
What are the residencies at Zanzalu?
Residencies are discussion groups inside Zanzalu. They include Vanguard for early-career professionals, and Swahili Futurism for East African artists exploring future aesthetics. See details on the website.
Are there scholarships or discounts for Zanzalu's pop-up villages?
Yes. There are discounts for African nationals and early birds. Accommodation at Aura Spaces's properties is available at a discount for over 5 nights stays.
What should I bring to Zanzalu?
Everyday essentials, working stuff, clothing and footwear, and adventure gear. For a full view, see the attendee guide.