🌴 30 Unforgettable Things to Do in Zanzibar – The Ultimate Tanzaniatrail Guide

 

1. Take a Spice Plantation & Cooking Tour Combo

Zanzibar is called The Spice Island for good reason. On this journey, you won’t just see spices—you’ll touch, smell, and taste them straight from the soil. Guided through lush plantations in Kizimbani or Dole, you’ll watch how nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves are grown and harvested. Farmers will pluck leaves for you to crush between your fingers, releasing intoxicating aromas. The adventure continues with a cooking class in a Swahili kitchen. Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll prepare dishes like coconut curry, pilau rice, or banana stew. As the aromas fill the air, you’ll share laughter, stories, and finally a feast with your hosts. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a sensory journey into Zanzibar’s soul.

 

2. Discover the History and Tortoises of Prison Island

A short wooden dhow ride from Stone Town reveals Changuu, or Prison Island. As the turquoise waters part, you’ll step onto sandy shores where century-old Aldabra tortoises roam freely. Some weigh over 200 kg and live to 150 years, moving with calm dignity as you feed them green leaves. Your guide will then walk you through colonial ruins—echoes of Zanzibar’s troubled slave trade past. For contrast, dip into the warm waters and snorkel coral gardens alive with tropical fish. End the day with a fresh seafood lunch overlooking the ocean. Prison Island isn’t just a half-day trip—it’s history, wildlife, and relaxation woven into one.

 

3. Snorkel in the Protected Waters of Menai Bay

Southwest Zanzibar hides a treasure: Menai Bay Conservation Area, 470 square kilometers of protected ocean. From Fumba village, sail in a traditional dhow as dolphins leap beside your boat. Soon you’ll anchor over coral gardens, perfect for snorkeling. Slip into warm crystal-clear waters where parrotfish flash neon colors and sea turtles glide gracefully. A sandbank stop awaits, where barefoot chefs grill lobster and fish for your lunch. Later, explore Kwale Island with its centuries-old baobab trees or stroll through Uzi’s fishing villages. Menai Bay feels untouched, a place where the sea still belongs to nature, and where your visit directly supports conservation.

4. Wander Through the Cultural Labyrinth of Stone Town

Stone Town is a living museum of Swahili culture. Lose yourself in winding alleys where carved wooden doors hide secret courtyards, and balconies overflow with jasmine. With your guide, step inside the Old Fort—now buzzing with music and art—or the grand House of Wonders, once a sultan’s palace. At the Anglican Cathedral, hear sobering stories of the slave trade, told where shackles once clanged. The markets throb with energy: Darajani’s spice piles, colorful kangas, and street food stalls. Pause at a rooftop café for spiced coffee before watching the sunset paint the harbor gold. In Stone Town, every corner tells a story, and every step connects you to centuries of trade, struggle, and triumph.

 

5. Learn Traditional Cooking in a Swahili Kitchen

Food is storytelling in Zanzibar. Begin your cooking day with a guided trip to a bustling market where vendors shout prices over piles of mangoes, coconuts, and spice bags. With ingredients in hand, you’ll head to a Swahili kitchen, often in a homestead shaded by banana trees. A local chef will show you how to grate coconuts by hand, grind spices into paste, and simmer octopus in tamarind sauce. You’ll learn not only recipes but the traditions behind them—why coconut rice is central at weddings, or how spiced tea brings families together. Finally, you’ll eat the meal you’ve cooked, shared around a low table, Swahili-style.

 

6. Empower Local Women at Jambiani Seaweed Farms

Along the southeast coast lies Jambiani village, where the tides reveal rows of seaweed farms. Here, women lead a quiet revolution—cultivating seaweed that is later turned into soaps, oils, and organic cosmetics. Join them in the shallows, tying seedlings to ropes, feeling the saltwater swirl around your ankles. Listen as they share stories of resilience and tradition. Afterwards, visit a cooperative where you’ll watch harvested seaweed being sun-dried and crafted into eco-products. By spending a morning here, you’re not just observing—you’re supporting women’s livelihoods, sustainable tourism, and Zanzibar’s future.

 

7. Dive or Snorkel at Tumbatu Island’s Secret Reefs

Tumbatu Island, mysterious and reserved, guards some of Zanzibar’s most spectacular reefs. The island itself is closed to outsiders without permission, but its waters are open for exploration. Beneath the surface, you’ll drift through coral walls teeming with lionfish, reef sharks, stingrays, and rainbow-colored parrotfish. The visibility is exceptional—perfect for underwater photography. Day trips let snorkelers glide above shallow reefs while divers descend deeper to explore untouched ecosystems. Tumbatu’s seclusion makes it feel like another world: no crowds, just you and the ocean’s rhythm.

 

8. Enjoy the Tranquil Shores of Paje Beach

On Zanzibar’s southeast coast lies Paje Beach, where white sand stretches for miles and turquoise waters shift with the tides. At low tide, walk across sandbars to discover tidal pools alive with starfish and sea urchins. At high tide, swim in calm lagoons or try stand-up paddleboarding. Paje is also East Africa’s kitesurfing capital—the steady winds attract adventurers from around the globe, and local schools welcome beginners. Away from the beach, Paje village invites you into authentic Swahili life, with cultural tours and cooking classes. By evening, sip cocktails at a beach bar as the sky fades to pink.

 

9. Discover Dhow Building and Fishing in Nungwi

Nungwi, at Zanzibar’s northern tip, is where the ocean’s heartbeat is strongest. On its beaches, master craftsmen build dhows—wooden boats shaped by hand, using techniques passed down for centuries. Watch as axes carve timbers into graceful hulls, then wander to the lively fish market where fishermen unload their daily catch. For travelers wanting more, join a fishing trip at sea, or visit the turtle conservation center nearby. Nungwi is also famed for its beaches, where calm, tide-free waters make swimming possible any time of day. When the sun sets, the coast transforms: beach bars glow, music rises, and the night belongs to laughter and dance.

 

10. Dive into the Buzz of Darajani Market

Step inside Darajani Market and feel Zanzibar’s pulse. The air swirls with the scent of ground cinnamon and cumin, mingling with the salty aroma of fresh fish. Vendors shout, women balance fruit baskets on their heads, and stalls overflow with papayas, pineapples, and jackfruit. Wander deeper and discover fabrics, housewares, and even mobile phone stalls—a reflection of modern and traditional life blending together. Adventurous travelers can sample street snacks like fried cassava or sugarcane juice spiced with ginger. Early morning is best, when fishermen unload the freshest catch and the market buzzes with energy. For photographers and food lovers, Darajani is unmissable.

 

11. Kayak Over Coral Gardens Between Kendwa and Nungwi

Few places in Zanzibar are as enchanting as the stretch between Kendwa and Nungwi. Instead of walking the beach, glide across the turquoise waters in a transparent-bottom kayak, where the ocean becomes your window. Beneath you, coral gardens bloom with vibrant life—schools of fish darting like silver arrows, sea urchins tucked into rocky crevices, and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles drifting by. Along the way, you’ll paddle past traditional dhows returning from fishing trips and secluded sandy coves perfect for a quiet break. No experience is needed—local guides provide safety tips and allow you to explore at your own rhythm. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and a gentle way to feel part of Zanzibar’s marine world without even getting wet.

 

12. Take a Dip in Kuza Cave’s Hidden Lagoon

Hidden in Jambiani’s inland forest, Kuza Cave is a natural wonder steeped in mystery. Descend a wooden staircase into the limestone cavern, and you’ll find a pool of crystal-clear, aquamarine water shimmering in the half-light. Local legend says these waters hold healing powers, once used in ancient Swahili rituals. The cave walls glisten with stalactites, while moss and vines frame the entrance like a painting. Cool off with a swim in the refreshing pool, or simply sit on the rocks and let the silence soothe you. Many tours also include a stop at the small cultural center above the cave, where you can join drumming lessons or listen to traditional storytelling. Kuza is more than a swim—it’s a portal into Zanzibar’s spiritual and natural heritage.

 

13. Step into the Past at the Shirazi Ruins

Venture back nearly 1,000 years to the time of Persian traders who first settled in Zanzibar. The Shirazi Ruins, scattered across Tumbatu Island and near Makunduchi, reveal remnants of ancient mosques, coral stone homes, and intricately inscribed graves. Walking among the ruins, you’ll feel the whispers of an early civilization that shaped Swahili culture. Though overgrown in places, the stones tell stories of maritime trade, Islam’s arrival, and generations of travelers who called Zanzibar home. A local guide brings the ruins to life, explaining rituals once performed here and the society that thrived long before European contact. For history lovers and curious travelers, it’s a powerful reminder that Zanzibar’s story began long before the spice trade.

 

14. Snorkel Among Starfish at Blue Lagoon

On the east coast near Michamvi, the Blue Lagoon is a shallow tidal pool protected by an offshore reef, making it ideal for snorkeling. At low tide, the lagoon reveals its stars—literally. Bright red, orange, and purple starfish cover the sandy floor, creating a dreamlike scene in the clear water. As you float quietly above them, parrotfish nibble on coral, clownfish dart in and out of anemones, and rays may glide past. Guides will explain the delicate balance of this ecosystem and why touching the starfish can harm them. After snorkeling, you can relax at a nearby beach café, sip fresh coconut juice, and let the gentle waves remind you why Zanzibar is paradise.

 

15. Savor Local Coffee at Zanzibar Coffee House

Coffee in Zanzibar is more than a drink—it’s a cultural ritual. At the Zanzibar Coffee House in Stone Town, you’ll step into a beautifully restored Arabic mansion filled with antique furnishings and carved balconies. The aroma of freshly roasted beans greets you as you choose between strong Arabica brews, sweet spiced coffee, or refreshing cold brews infused with cinnamon and clove. Pair your cup with Swahili pastries or tropical fruit pancakes for a perfect morning ritual. Climb up to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Stone Town’s rooftops, minarets, and the shimmering sea beyond. Some experiences even include demonstrations of traditional Swahili coffee ceremonies, giving you a cultural and sensory treat in one visit.

 

16. Dine at The Rock Restaurant

Perched on a coral outcrop off Michamvi Pingwe Beach, The Rock is one of the world’s most iconic restaurants. Accessible by foot at low tide and by boat at high tide, the journey is part of the experience. Inside, the décor is rustic yet elegant, with windows framing endless views of the Indian Ocean. The menu celebrates the sea—grilled lobster, octopus curry, coconut prawns—all caught that morning by local fishermen. Sunset bookings are magical as the sky turns pink and gold, casting reflections over the water. A meal here isn’t just dining—it’s an event, a memory, and a postcard moment all at once. Reservations are essential, as seats are limited and in high demand.

 

17. Learn from a Traditional Swahili Healer

Step into a quiet village courtyard where a mganga (traditional healer) practices centuries-old medicine. Surrounded by bundles of dried herbs, roots, and carved wooden tools, you’ll learn how natural remedies are prepared for everything from stomach aches to spiritual cleansing. The healer may demonstrate grinding bark into powders, mixing herbal teas, or burning incense for blessings. These sessions often touch on ancestral traditions, dream interpretation, and the role of spirituality in healing. Respectful curiosity is welcomed, and it’s a rare chance to witness how traditional knowledge still thrives alongside modern medicine in Zanzibar. For cultural travelers, it’s one of the most eye-opening and authentic experiences.

 

18. Lounge on the Nakupenda Sandbank

Meaning “I love you” in Swahili, Nakupenda Sandbank is Zanzibar’s most romantic hideaway. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this narrow strip of powdery white sand emerges only during low tide, surrounded entirely by turquoise water. Spend a morning here sunbathing, snorkeling nearby reefs, and savoring a seafood barbecue served on banana leaves. Imagine dining on lobster and coconut rice with nothing but the sea on all sides. As the tide rises, the sandbank slowly disappears beneath the waves—leaving only your footprints and memories. Nakupenda is fleeting, poetic, and unforgettable.

 

19. Catch a Sunset at Africa House

The Africa House Hotel in Stone Town is the perfect stage for Zanzibar’s legendary sunsets. Once a sultan’s residence and later a colonial club, it now offers a rooftop terrace where travelers gather each evening. Order a cocktail or fresh juice, sit back, and watch as dhows sail silently across the glowing horizon. Musicians often set the mood with soft Taarab or jazz tunes, while the fading light bathes the sea in shades of orange and purple. For couples, it’s romantic. For photographers, it’s gold. For everyone, it’s a memory of Zanzibar at its most enchanting.

 

20. Sail into the Sunset on a Traditional Dhow

Few experiences capture Zanzibar’s soul like a sunset dhow cruise. Climb aboard a hand-carved wooden boat, its triangular sail catching the evening breeze. The crew steers quietly as you drift past palm-fringed beaches, fishing villages, and children splashing in the shallows. Cushions are laid out for you to relax barefoot while sipping champagne, cocktails, or fresh juice. Some cruises include live Taarab music, adding rhythm to the sea’s gentle rocking. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the sky explodes in colors of gold and crimson. For couples, it’s pure romance; for families, a cultural adventure; for photographers, a timeless Zanzibar postcard.

 

21. Taste Zanzibar’s Culinary Gems on a Guided Food Tour

If you want to truly know Zanzibar, start with its food. On a guided street food tour in Stone Town, your taste buds take a journey across centuries of influences—Swahili, Arab, Indian, and Portuguese. Try the famous Zanzibar pizza (crispy and stuffed with meat, cheese, and egg), tangy urojo “mix mix” soup, smoky mishkaki skewers, sweet mandazi doughnuts, and sugarcane juice spiced with lime and ginger. Along the way, your guide explains the history of each dish, teaches Swahili food phrases, and takes you into hidden alleys where locals eat. This isn’t just a food tour—it’s a feast of culture, flavors, and stories that stay with you long after the last bite.

 

22. Skydive Over Zanzibar’s Shores

For adrenaline seekers, Zanzibar offers one of the world’s most breathtaking drop zones. After a short briefing at the Nungwi airstrip, you’ll board a small plane and soar to 10,000 feet. As the door opens, your heart races—then you jump. The freefall lasts 30 seconds, wind rushing past as you see the island’s coastline, sandbanks, and turquoise reefs spread out like a map below. Once the parachute opens, silence takes over. You’ll glide peacefully, steering gently as the sun sparkles on the ocean, landing softly on the beach. Every skydive is filmed, so you’ll relive the moment forever. This isn’t just adventure—it’s Zanzibar from a perspective few ever see.

 

23. Go Quad Biking Through Zanzibar’s Rural Trails

Step off the beaches and into the island’s wild heart. Quad biking tours take you deep into Zanzibar’s countryside, through coral paths, palm groves, and villages untouched by mass tourism. You’ll pass banana plantations, children waving by the roadside, and fishermen repairing nets beneath giant baobab trees. Local guides often stop at family homes, where you’ll taste fresh coconut or learn about traditional farming. The ride is dusty, bumpy, and exhilarating—part adventure, part cultural discovery. With no prior experience needed, it’s the perfect way for couples or groups to see the “real” Zanzibar beyond the postcards.

 

24. Visit Eco-Conscious Chumbe Island Coral Park

If paradise had a blueprint, it would be Chumbe Island. Just off Stone Town, this privately managed reserve is one of the most successful eco-tourism projects in the world. Snorkel over untouched reefs where over 400 species of fish shimmer among corals. On land, hike through rare forest home to coconut crabs and colorful birdlife. Tour the eco-lodges powered by solar panels, rainwater systems, and composting toilets—proof that sustainability can be luxurious. Every visit directly supports marine conservation and community education. At Chumbe, you don’t just enjoy nature—you help protect it.

 

25. Eat Your Way Through Forodhani Gardens Night Market

When the sun sets, Forodhani Gardens transforms into Zanzibar’s busiest open-air kitchen. Dozens of food stalls sizzle with seafood skewers, lobster tails, grilled octopus, samosas, and falafel. Chefs flip Zanzibar pizzas on flat pans, while sugarcane vendors press juice right in front of you. The air smells of spice and sea breeze, children dive off the seawall into the harbor, and locals gather with tourists on benches for a communal feast. Bring cash, come hungry, and don’t miss the mango urojo soup—a spicy, sweet, tangy bowl of Zanzibari magic. Forodhani is food, culture, and nightlife rolled into one.

 

26. Explore Jozani Forest and Encounter Red Colobus Monkeys

A visit to Zanzibar isn’t complete without meeting its most famous residents—the red colobus monkeys. Endemic and endangered, these monkeys are found only in Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park. Walk forest trails beneath mahogany and eucalyptus trees as families of colobus leap overhead. They’re surprisingly calm and can be observed at close range. The park also offers mangrove boardwalks, where you’ll stroll above tidal forests buzzing with crabs and birdlife. Guides share how mangroves protect the coast and why conservation here matters. Jozani is a paradise for nature lovers, families, and photographers alike—a reminder of Zanzibar’s wild side.

 

27. Visit the Slave Caves of Mangapwani

North of Stone Town lies one of Zanzibar’s most haunting sites—the Mangapwani Slave Caves. After slavery was officially abolished in 1873, enslaved people were still hidden here before being smuggled to ships offshore. A narrow stairway leads you underground, where damp stone chambers once held men, women, and children. Anchoring hooks, water troughs, and air vents remain as chilling reminders of the island’s dark history. Guided tours share honest, moving stories that bring this painful past to life. Though sobering, it’s an essential stop to understand Zanzibar beyond its beaches—a place of resilience and remembrance.

 

28. Try Kitesurfing in Paje’s Windy Waters

The sky above Paje Beach is alive with color—dozens of kites dancing against the turquoise sea. This is East Africa’s kitesurfing capital, where shallow lagoons and steady winds make it perfect for beginners and pros alike. Sign up for multi-day lessons with professional schools, or rent gear if you’re already experienced. Glide across the waves, try freestyle tricks, or join downwind trips to nearby Jambiani. The vibe in Paje is youthful, international, and energetic—yoga retreats, eco-lodges, and beach bars create a vibrant community. After riding, share stories around a bonfire or sip a sunset cocktail with fellow adventurers.

 

29. Discover Hidden Tranquility at Pongwe Beach

If Nungwi and Kendwa are lively, Pongwe Beach is serenity itself. Sheltered by an offshore reef, its calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With only boutique resorts scattered along its palm-fringed shore, Pongwe feels private and intimate. Couples often choose it for honeymoons, drawn by candlelit dinners under the stars and sunrise yoga sessions by the water. Hire a canoe and paddle into the lagoon at sunset, guided by a local fisherman sharing tales of the sea. For travelers seeking stillness, Pongwe is Zanzibar’s best-kept secret.

 

30. Experience Romance at Kilindi Zanzibar

More than a hotel, Kilindi Zanzibar is an experience of barefoot luxury. Originally built for a member of ABBA, this 50-acre hideaway blends Scandinavian simplicity with Middle Eastern elegance. Each domed villa has sweeping ocean views, private plunge pools, and personal butler service. Stroll through tropical gardens down to a crescent-shaped beach where the tides are calm and sunsets legendary. By day, enjoy spa treatments, private picnics, or sailing trips. By night, dine under the stars with waves as your soundtrack. Kilindi is designed for romance, privacy, and connection—making it one of the most magical stays in East Africa.

 

🌴 FAQs About Visiting Zanzibar with Tanzaniatrail

1. Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally very safe. Like any destination, it’s best to use common sense—avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night, don’t flaunt valuables, and respect local customs. Tanzaniatrail guides are always on hand to ensure your comfort and security throughout your stay.

2. When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The island is warm year-round, but the most popular months are June to October (cool, dry, perfect for beaches and sightseeing) and December to February (hot, sunny, and great for diving). The “green season” in March–May brings fewer crowds and lush landscapes—ideal if you enjoy peace and lower prices.

3. Do I need a visa to enter Zanzibar?

Yes. Most travelers require a Tanzanian visa, which can be obtained online (e-visa) or on arrival at the airport. Tanzaniatrail helps provide guidance before your trip so the process is smooth and stress-free.

4. What currency is used in Zanzibar?

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). However, US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and for tours. We recommend carrying small bills for tips, souvenirs, and local markets.

5. Are credit cards accepted in Zanzibar?

Yes, in most major hotels and restaurants. However, cash is king in smaller shops, villages, and markets. ATMs are available in Stone Town and main towns, but may not always function reliably. Carry both cash and a card for convenience.

6. Can I drink tap water in Zanzibar?

No, it’s not recommended. Always use bottled or filtered water, even for brushing your teeth. Tanzaniatrail ensures bottled water is available during your tours and stays.

7. What should I wear in Zanzibar?

On beaches and resorts, swimwear is perfectly fine. However, Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so in towns and villages it’s respectful to dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Light, breathable fabrics are best for the tropical climate.

8. What are the must-do activities in Zanzibar?

Some highlights include:

• Exploring Stone Town (a UNESCO site)

• Visiting spice plantations

• Snorkeling or diving in Mnemba Atoll or Menai Bay

• Relaxing on beaches like Nungwi, Paje, and Pongwe

• Experiencing local culture with cooking classes, seaweed farms, and traditional dhow cruises.

9. Is Zanzibar family-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the beaches, boat rides, spice tours, and wildlife encounters (like feeding tortoises on Prison Island or spotting monkeys in Jozani Forest). Tanzaniatrail tailors itineraries to be safe, fun, and engaging for all ages.

10. Do people in Zanzibar speak English?

Yes, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. The main local language is Swahili. Learning a few phrases like “Asante” (thank you) or “Karibu” (welcome) adds warmth to your interactions.

11. Can I combine Zanzibar with a Tanzania safari?

Yes, and it’s one of the most popular options! Many travelers enjoy a safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire, then fly directly to Zanzibar for relaxation. Tanzaniatrail specializes in creating seamless safari + Zanzibar packages.

12. What food is Zanzibar known for?

Zanzibar cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian flavors. Expect seafood (lobster, octopus, prawns), spice-rich curries, coconut dishes, and tropical fruits. Street food highlights include Zanzibar pizza, urojo soup, and sugarcane juice.

13. Do I need vaccinations for Zanzibar?

Check with your doctor before traveling. Yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from an affected country. It’s also recommended to take malaria precautions and bring insect repellent.

14. How do I get around Zanzibar?

Stone Town is best explored on foot. For longer distances, private transfers, taxis, or guided tours are recommended. Tanzaniatrail arranges comfortable vehicles with professional drivers, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

15. Why book Zanzibar with Tanzaniatrail?

Because we go beyond “tours”—we create experiences. From exclusive spice tours and cultural immersions to handpicked beach stays and personalized itineraries, our team ensures your journey is stress-free, meaningful, and unforgettable. With us, you’ll see Zanzibar through local eyes but with international comfort.

 

✅ Conclusion

Zanzibar is not just a destination—it’s a living story of spice, culture, adventure, and ocean magic. With Tanzaniatrail, you’ll experience it all: from floating above coral gardens and savoring Swahili flavors to uncovering centuries of history and relaxing on hidden beaches.

👉 Whether you dream of romance, adventure, culture, or family fun, we craft every journey to be unforgettable.

🌍 Start your Zanzibar story today: www.tanzaniatrail.co.tz

✨ Karibu Zanzibar—welcome to paradise with Tanzaniatrail.