Zanzibar Dice Game: The Ultimate Guide to This Fast and Fun Dice Challenge

Looking for a fast-paced game that’s easy to learn, full of laughs, and perfect for any gathering? Say hello to Zanzibar! Whether you're hosting a game night, heading to a picnic, or just want a break from screen time, this dice game brings instant fun with just five dice and a little friendly competition.

In this post, we’re rolling out everything you need to know to get started with Zanzibar: from the basic rules and how to set it up, to scoring tips, winning strategies, and cool twists to keep things fresh every time you play.

What is Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is a fast-paced dice game played with five six-sided dice. It blends elements of classic dice games like poker dice and Yahtzee, but with its own twist. The goal is to roll the best combination out of all players each round. The best combo? A roll known as Zanzibar, three 6s and any two other numbers.

It’s easy to set up, highly replayable, and great for groups. Whether you’re sitting around a campfire, hanging at a party, or looking for a new family game night favorite, this one checks all the boxes.

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What You Need to Play

• Five standard six-sided dice

• At least two players (but more is merrier!)

• Paper and pen (optional, for keeping score)

• A flat surface to roll on

• Optional: drinks or snacks to turn this into a fun social game!

50 Pieces Dice Set100 Pieces White Dice Set6 Sided Dice Set

Basic Rules of Zanzibar

1. Each player takes turns rolling all five dice.

2. One roll per turn: what you roll is what you get (unless you're playing a variation with rerolls).

3. The objective is to roll the highest-ranking combination.

4. The player with the highest-ranked hand wins the round.

5. You can play in rounds or to a set score (like first to 10 points wins).

Hand Rankings (Highest to Lowest)

Here are the common combinations in Zanzibar, from best to worst:

1. Zanzibar: Three 6s and any two other numbers (example: 6-6-6-2-5)

2. Five of a Kind: All five dice show the same number

3. Four of a Kind: Four dice are the same

4. Full House: Three of one number and two of another (like 4-4-4-1-1)

5. Straight: Five numbers in order (1-2-3-4-5 or 2-3-4-5-6)

6. Three of a Kind: Three dice show the same number

7. Two Pairs: Two sets of two matching numbers

8. One Pair: Two matching numbers

9. High Dice: Nothing else, the total value of the dice determines the rank

Scoring the Game

Option 1: Points System

• Zanzibar = 10 points

• Five of a kind = 9 points

• Four of a kind = 8 points

• Full house = 7 points

• Straight = 6 points

• Three of a kind = 5 points

• Two pairs = 4 points

• One pair = 3 points

• High dice = 1 or 2 points depending on total

Option 2: Round Winners

Play in rounds. Whoever has the best hand in each round gets 1 point. First to 10 points wins!

Example Turn

Let’s say you roll: 6 - 6 - 6 - 2 - 4
Boom, that’s a Zanzibar! Highest hand possible. Instant win for the round!

Another player rolls: 2 - 2 - 2 - 5 - 5
That’s a Full House. Still good, but not enough to beat Zanzibar.

Fun Variations to Spice Things Up

1. Reroll Rule

Allow players up to two rerolls per turn (like in Yahtzee). This adds a little strategy and gives players a chance to improve a weak hand.

2. Drinking Game Version

• Lowest hand in the round takes a sip.

• Zanzibar? Everyone else drinks!

• Five of a kind? Choose who drinks.
  (Play responsibly!)

3. Speed Zanzibar

Set a timer for each player (e.g. 10 seconds to roll). Keeps the game fast and chaotic!

60-Minute Countdown6 Pack Multi-Function Electronic TimersDigital Timer

4. Double Zanzibar Bonus

Roll two Zanzibars in a game? That’s a bonus 5 points.

Tips and Strategies

• Go big or go home: Always aim for Zanzibar or at least a Full House.

• Know your odds: Three of a kind is more likely than a Straight, so weigh your options if you’re rerolling.

• Bluff (if your group allows it): Some house rules allow bluffing! Pretend you rolled a Zanzibar and watch your friends panic.

• Track high rollers: If playing over many rounds, keep an eye on who’s consistently scoring.

Why You'll Love Zanzibar

• It’s easy to teach and quick to pick up

• Rounds are short and sweet

• You only need five dice

• Great for all ages (you can totally play it with kids without the drinking rules!)

• Perfect as a travel game, camping game, or icebreaker

The Zanzibar Dice Game has all the ingredients of a winning group game: it’s simple, engaging, and always good for a laugh or a cheer when someone rolls the magical Zanzibar. Whether you're playing with friends, family, or a group of new acquaintances, this game is bound to bring the fun.

So grab five dice, gather your crew, and roll your way to Zanzibar glory. Just don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to game night favorite!