Things to Do in Zanzibar: Beaches, Culture & Island Experiences
Discover the best things to do in Zanzibar, from exploring Stone Town to enjoying beaches, snorkeling, and spice tours.
The best things to do in Zanzibar include exploring Stone Town, visiting spice farms, snorkelling in the Indian Ocean, discovering local culture, and relaxing on white-sand beaches. Visitors can also enjoy dhow cruises, explore nearby islands, and discover Zanzibar’s wildlife at Jozani Forest.
Zanzibar offers a mix of history, culture, ocean adventures, and relaxation. You can walk through Stone Town’s historic streets, learn about local spices on a guided farm tour, or spend a day swimming in clear tropical waters. Nungwi and Kendwa are popular for their beautiful beaches, while boat trips offer opportunities to explore the surrounding islands and marine life.
Whether you are planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a trip after a Tanzania safari, Zanzibar has activities for different interests and travel styles. This guide covers the best activities, places to visit, and experiences to help you plan your trip. For more information about the island, read our complete Zanzibar Travel Guide.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Zanzibar?
The best things to do in Zanzibar include exploring Stone Town, relaxing on white-sand beaches, visiting spice farms, snorkelling, scuba diving, and discovering Swahili culture. You can also enjoy sunset dhow cruises, visit Prison Island, and explore Jozani Forest.
Zanzibar offers a mix of cultural experiences, ocean adventures, and beach relaxation. Walk through Stone Town’s historic streets, taste traditional Swahili food, and learn how local spices are grown. You can also discover colourful coral reefs, swim in the Indian Ocean, or visit fishing villages to experience local traditions and daily life.
Whether you are planning a honeymoon, family holiday, or adventure, Zanzibar has something for every traveller. Couples can enjoy romantic sunset cruises, families can explore nature and local culture, and adventure seekers can try water sports and island excursions. With its tropical scenery, rich history, and beautiful coastline, Zanzibar is an excellent destination to include in your Tanzania holiday.
Explore Stone Town, Zanzibar’s Historic Centre
Exploring Stone Town is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar. Located on the western coast of Unguja Island, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its historic buildings, narrow streets, carved wooden doors, and rich Swahili heritage. Its architecture reflects African, Arab, Indian, and European influences shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange.
Stone Town grew into an important trading centre during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visit the Old Fort, built by Omani rulers, explore Forodhani Gardens, browse Darajani Market, and admire the historic waterfront. You can also shop for local crafts, taste traditional Zanzibari food, and learn about the island’s history.
A guided walking tour is a great way to discover Stone Town’s landmarks, hidden streets, and cultural history. As you explore, you can admire the beautifully carved doors, visit local shops, and learn how different cultures have influenced the island. Late afternoon is a good time to enjoy the historic atmosphere, take photographs, and explore at a relaxed pace. In the evening, head to Forodhani Gardens to sample local street food, including Zanzibar pizza and freshly prepared seafood.
Visit a Zanzibar Spice Farm
Zanzibar is famous for its rich spice-growing history, making a visit to a local spice farm a great way to discover the island’s culture and traditions. Often called the Spice Island, Zanzibar is known for producing cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other aromatic spices.
During a guided tour, you can learn how these spices grow, how farmers harvest them, and how they are used in traditional Swahili cooking. Smell fresh spices, explore tropical plants, taste seasonal fruits, and discover the important role spice farming has played in Zanzibar’s history and local communities.
A Zanzibar spice farm tour is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for travellers looking for a cultural experience beyond the beaches. It is suitable for couples, families, and curious travellers who want to learn about local farming, discover the natural aromas of the island, and understand how spices contribute to Zanzibari food and everyday life.
Snorkel or Dive at Mnemba Atoll
Explore Zanzibar’s underwater beauty at Mnemba Atoll, a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. If you are looking for exciting things to do in Zanzibar, this marine conservation area offers clear waters, colourful coral reefs, and a variety of tropical fish along the island’s northeastern coast.
During your boat trip, you can swim among tropical fish and observe marine life in its natural environment. Depending on the season and sea conditions, you may also spot sea turtles and other fascinating marine species. Snorkelling is suitable for beginners who are comfortable in the water, while scuba diving offers a closer look at the underwater world for certified divers.
Adding Mnemba Atoll to your Zanzibar itinerary is a great way to enjoy the Indian Ocean beyond the beach. Book with a responsible local tour operator, follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid touching coral or disturbing marine animals to help protect this beautiful environment.
Relax on Nungwi and Kendwa Beaches
Nungwi and Kendwa are two of the best beaches to visit when exploring things to do in Zanzibar. Located on the island’s northern coast, both beaches are known for their soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and beautiful sunsets over the Indian Ocean. They are also popular places for swimming and relaxing by the sea.
Nungwi Beach offers a lively atmosphere with beachfront restaurants, boat trips, and water activities. Nearby, Kendwa Beach is known for its wide sandy shoreline, relaxed daytime setting, and spectacular sunset views. Both beaches are excellent choices for couples, families, and travellers looking to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastline.
Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, enjoy a beachside meal, or watch the sun set over the ocean, Nungwi and Kendwa offer memorable experiences. Add these beaches to your Zanzibar itinerary for a relaxing break between exploring the island’s cultural attractions and other outdoor activities.
Discover Zanzibar’s Wildlife at Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest is one of Zanzibar’s most important natural attractions for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the southern part of Unguja Island, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is famous for the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, a rare primate found naturally only in Zanzibar. The park protects a variety of habitats, including tropical forests, groundwater forests, and coastal mangroves. These environments support different plants and animals, making Jozani an important area for biodiversity and wildlife conservation.
During a guided walk, you can observe red colobus monkeys moving through the trees, feeding on leaves, and interacting within their groups. Experienced guides help visitors understand their behaviour, diet, and the conservation challenges facing this unique species. Forest trails also provide opportunities to discover indigenous trees, medicinal plants, butterflies, and other small wildlife. Some tours include the nearby mangrove boardwalk, where you can explore coastal wetlands and learn how mangroves provide shelter for marine life, protect shorelines, and support the surrounding ecosystem.
Visiting Jozani Forest is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for travellers who want to experience the island beyond its beaches and historic attractions. The guided excursion offers insight into Zanzibar’s natural environment and the efforts made to protect its rare wildlife and forest habitats. It is a rewarding activity for couples, families, and anyone interested in nature, photography, or conservation. You can combine a visit with other nearby attractions to make the most of your day while discovering another side of Zanzibar’s natural beauty.
Visit Prison Island and See Giant Aldabra Tortoises
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a popular attraction located a short boat ride from Stone Town. The island is famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. Visitors can observe these impressive animals up close, learn about their history, and discover the conservation efforts that help protect them.
Beyond the tortoises, Prison Island offers clear turquoise waters, beautiful coastal views, and opportunities to explore its historic buildings. The island was once associated with plans for a prison and later served as a quarantine station for people with infectious diseases. Today, visitors can walk around the island, take photographs, relax by the beach, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
A boat trip to Prison Island is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for travellers interested in wildlife, history, and ocean scenery. Guided excursions often depart from Stone Town and can be combined with snorkelling or other marine activities, depending on sea conditions and the tour package. It is a worthwhile addition to your itinerary if you want to experience Zanzibar’s history and wildlife in one trip.
Take a Safari Blue Boat Trip
A Safari Blue boat trip is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for exploring the Indian Ocean and enjoying a day on the water. Sail aboard a traditional wooden dhow across turquoise waters, admire the beautiful coastline, and discover the natural beauty of Zanzibar’s marine environment.
Snorkelling is one of the main highlights of the trip. Swim among colourful coral reefs and tropical fish while enjoying the clear waters. Depending on the tides and itinerary, you may also visit a white-sand bank, relax on the beach, or swim in a natural lagoon surrounded by mangroves.
Many Safari Blue tours include a visit to Kwale Island, where you can enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch, local Swahili dishes, and tropical fruits. The experience combines swimming, snorkelling, island exploration, and relaxation, making it a great choice for couples, families, and anyone looking to enjoy Zanzibar beyond its beaches.
Visit Nakupenda Sandbank
Nakupenda Sandbank is one of the best places in Zanzibar for swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, and enjoying the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Located off the coast of Stone Town, Nakupenda is famous for its white sand, turquoise waters, and beautiful ocean views, making it a popular destination for a day trip.
Visitors can swim in the warm ocean, snorkel among colourful fish, and take photos of the beautiful coastal scenery. At low tide, the white sandbank emerges from the turquoise water, creating a peaceful place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The clear water also makes it an excellent spot for swimming and enjoying Zanzibar’s tropical surroundings.
Many Nakupenda Sandbank tours include a boat ride from Stone Town, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and time to explore the surrounding waters. Depending on the tour, you may enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch on the sandbank while taking in the ocean views. This excursion is ideal for couples, families, and travellers looking for a memorable day trip filled with swimming, relaxation, and natural beauty during their Zanzibar holiday.
Enjoy a Sunset Dhow Cruise in Zanzibar
A sunset dhow cruise in Zanzibar is a relaxing way to enjoy the Indian Ocean and watch the sun set over the horizon. Sail aboard a traditional wooden dhow as the sky changes to beautiful shades of orange, pink, and gold.
For travellers looking for things to do in Zanzibar, a sunset dhow cruise offers a chance to enjoy the cool ocean breeze, admire Stone Town’s coastline, and take memorable photos as daylight fades. Some cruises also include refreshing drinks, light snacks, and traditional music.
This experience is ideal for couples seeking a romantic evening, families, and friends who want to enjoy Zanzibar from the sea. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or ending a day of sightseeing, a sunset dhow cruise offers a peaceful and memorable addition to your Zanzibar holiday.
Try Zanzibar’s Local Food at Forodhani Gardens
Trying local food at Forodhani Gardens is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for experiencing the island’s Swahili culture and flavours. Located along Stone Town’s waterfront, Forodhani Gardens becomes a lively evening food market where visitors can sample freshly prepared dishes while enjoying views of the Indian Ocean.
Explore the food stalls and try Zanzibar pizza, mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), urojo soup, and freshly grilled seafood. You can also enjoy sugarcane juice and other local refreshments as you walk through the market and experience the lively atmosphere.
Forodhani Gardens is a great place to discover Zanzibar’s food culture, interact with local vendors, and enjoy an affordable evening meal. Visit around sunset when the market comes alive with locals and travellers, making it a memorable stop for anyone exploring Stone Town.
Go Kitesurfing and Enjoy Water Sports in Paje
Kitesurfing in Paje is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar for adventure lovers and beach enthusiasts. Located on the southeast coast of the island, Paje Beach is famous for its white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and steady winds, making it a popular destination for kitesurfing.
Beginners can take lessons from local kitesurfing schools, while experienced riders can enjoy the open water and favourable wind conditions. Besides kitesurfing, visitors can try paddleboarding, swimming, and other water sports, depending on the tides and weather.
Even if you prefer to stay on the beach, Paje offers a relaxed atmosphere with beachfront cafés, local restaurants, and beautiful ocean views. Whether you want an active adventure or a peaceful day by the sea, Paje is a great place to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastal lifestyle.
Visit The Rock Restaurant in Michamvi
Visiting The Rock Restaurant in Michamvi is one of the most memorable things to do in Zanzibar for food lovers and travellers seeking a unique dining experience. Located on a small rock in the Indian Ocean near Michamvi Pingwe Beach, this famous restaurant offers beautiful ocean views and a distinctive setting for enjoying a meal.
The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, lobster, prawns, and other local and international dishes. At low tide, you can walk to the restaurant, while at high tide, a boat may be needed to reach it. The changing tides also create wonderful photo opportunities around the rock.
For the best experience, check availability and book your table in advance, especially during busy travel periods. Whether you are visiting as a couple, with family, or with friends, The Rock Restaurant offers a special way to enjoy Zanzibar’s coastal scenery and cuisine.
Experience Zanzibar’s Local Culture and Traditions
Discover Zanzibar’s rich culture by visiting local villages, exploring Stone Town, and learning about the Swahili traditions that shape everyday life on the island. From traditional music and local crafts to historic architecture and Swahili cuisine, Zanzibar offers plenty of opportunities to connect with its cultural heritage.
Take a walking tour of Stone Town, watch local artisans at work, sample traditional dishes, or visit a village to learn about local customs and daily activities. You can also experience taarab music and explore the island’s historic sites to understand the influences that have shaped Zanzibar over the centuries.
Exploring local culture adds a meaningful experience to your Zanzibar holiday, allowing you to meet local people, learn about their traditions, and discover a different side of the island beyond its beaches.
Where Are the Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar offers a variety of attractions, from historic landmarks and spice farms to white-sand beaches, tropical forests, and marine adventures. The best places to explore depend on your interests, whether you want to discover Swahili culture, relax by the ocean, or enjoy outdoor activities. These destinations offer a variety of things to do in Zanzibar, making it easy to combine cultural tours, beach relaxation, wildlife encounters, and ocean activities in one holiday. Consider your travel dates, interests, and available time when choosing which places to visit. .Here are some popular destinations to include in your itinerary.
- Stone Town – Discover historic buildings, carved wooden doors, local markets, and Swahili heritage.
- Nungwi Beach – Enjoy white sand, swimming, and beautiful sunset views on Zanzibar’s northern coast.
- Kendwa Beach – Relax on soft sand, swim in clear waters, and enjoy the peaceful coastal scenery.
- Paje Beach – Try kitesurfing, take lessons, or enjoy the lively beach atmosphere on the southeast coast.
- Jozani Forest – See the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys and explore tropical forest trails.
- Prison Island – Meet giant Aldabra tortoises and discover the island’s history on a short boat trip from Stone Town.
- Nakupenda Sandbank – Swim, snorkel, and relax on a white sandbank surrounded by the Indian Ocean.
- The Rock Restaurant – Enjoy seafood and ocean views at this famous restaurant off the coast of Michamvi.
- Forodhani Gardens – Taste local street food, including Zanzibar pizza and grilled seafood, in the evening.
- Safari Blue – Enjoy a traditional dhow excursion with opportunities for snorkelling and exploring coastal waters.
- Mnemba Island – Discover popular snorkelling areas and colourful marine life around the island, subject to access and sea conditions.
- Spice Farms – Learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices during a guided farm tour.
- Sunset Dhow Cruise – Sail along the coast on a traditional dhow while enjoying sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Zanzibar for Activities?
The best time to visit Zanzibar for activities is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February, when sunny weather is ideal for exploring the island, relaxing on beaches, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
June to October is a great time for swimming, snorkelling, diving, spice farm tours, and exploring Stone Town. The weather is generally cooler, with less rainfall, making it comfortable for sightseeing and beach activities.
January to February is another excellent period for enjoying Zanzibar’s warm tropical weather, boat trips, kitesurfing in Paje, and exploring the clear waters around the island. These months are also popular for beach holidays.
March to May brings the long rainy season, which can affect outdoor activities and boat excursions. November and early December may also experience short rains, although sunny periods are still possible. For the best experience, plan your visit around your preferred activities and check local weather and sea conditions before booking excursions.
How Many Days Do You Need to Explore Zanzibar?
You need around 5 to 7 days to explore Zanzibar and enjoy its main attractions, beaches, cultural experiences, and ocean activities without rushing. Three days is enough for a short visit, while a week allows you to discover more of the island, enjoy different excursions, and relax by the sea.
3 days in Zanzibar: Explore Stone Town, visit Prison Island, and spend time relaxing on the beach. This short stay is ideal if you are visiting Zanzibar after a Tanzania safari or have limited holiday time.
5 days in Zanzibar: Discover Stone Town’s history, visit a spice farm, explore Jozani Forest, and take a boat trip to Nakupenda Sandbank. You can also enjoy local Swahili food and spend time swimming or relaxing on the beach.
7 days or more in Zanzibar: Enjoy a more complete island experience by visiting Nungwi and Kendwa beaches, snorkelling around Mnemba, joining a Safari Blue excursion, or trying kitesurfing in Paje. You can also take a sunset dhow cruise, explore local villages, and enjoy the island’s coastal scenery at a relaxed pace.
The ideal length of your Zanzibar holiday depends on your interests, budget, and travel plans. If you want a balance of beaches, culture, wildlife, and ocean adventures, 5 to 7 days is a good amount of time to explore Zanzibar without trying to fit everything into a short trip.
FAQ - Things to do in Zanzibar
What unique experiences can you have in Zanzibar?
You can enjoy a traditional dhow cruise, visit local fishing villages, explore mangrove forests, take a Swahili cooking class, and discover Zanzibar’s spice-growing traditions.
Can you take a boat trip from Stone Town to Prison Island?
Yes, you can arrange a boat trip from Stone Town to Prison Island. The journey usually takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on the boat and sea conditions.
What can you do in Zanzibar besides going to the beach?
Beyond its beaches, Zanzibar offers spice farm tours, historic walking tours in Stone Town, wildlife viewing at Jozani Forest, visits to Prison Island, and local food experiences.
Is a Zanzibar spice farm tour worth it?
Yes, a spice farm tour is worthwhile if you want to learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices. Many tours include guided plantation walks, spice demonstrations, and tropical fruit tastings.
Where can you see red colobus monkeys in Zanzibar?
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the best-known place to see Zanzibar red colobus monkeys in their natural habitat. Visitors can explore the forest with a guide and learn about local conservation efforts.
Can beginners go snorkeling in Zanzibar?
Yes, beginners can enjoy snorkeling in suitable locations when the sea conditions are safe. Choose a guided trip, use properly fitted equipment, and follow your guide’s safety instructions.
What can you do in Zanzibar in the evening?
Evening activities include watching the sunset at Nungwi or Kendwa Beach, enjoying seafood at a beachfront restaurant, exploring Stone Town’s evening food scene, and taking a sunset dhow cruise.
Are there activities to do in Zanzibar when it rains?
Yes, you can explore Stone Town’s museums and historic buildings, join a Swahili cooking class, visit indoor cultural attractions, or enjoy a leisurely meal at a local restaurant. Boat trips and outdoor activities may be affected by weather conditions.
Can you combine Zanzibar sightseeing with a safari in Tanzania?
Yes, you can combine a Zanzibar beach holiday with a wildlife safari on mainland Tanzania. Popular options include Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, depending on your available time and budget.
What should you pack for activities in Zanzibar?
Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Bring modest clothing for visiting local communities and religious sites, and consider water shoes for rocky shorelines.
Plan your Trip
Ready to start planning your own incredible adventure?
We make the process stress-free and enjoyable.