Things to do in Zanzibar

Explore Stone Town

No visit to Zanzibar is complete without getting lost in the narrow, winding alleys of Stone Town. As one of East Africa's most significant cultural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town offers a fascinating window into Zanzibar's sultanate past, its role in the spice trade, and its vibrant Swahili heritage.

• The Old Fort (Arab Fort) – one of Zanzibar's oldest surviving buildings, now a cultural venue with artisan shops and open-air events

• House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) – the largest building in Stone Town, home to a museum of Zanzibari history

• Freddie Mercury's birthplace – the rock legend was born in Stone Town, making it a fascinating stop for music fans

• Forodhani Night Market – a lively waterfront food market, perfect for trying local street food and fresh seafood in the evenings

• Old Slave Market & Anglican Church – a powerful and important historical site that tells the story of Zanzibar's role in the East African slave trade

Tip: Explore Stone Town on foot with a local guide. Start early in the morning when the alleys are cooler and quieter. Remember to cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the local community.

Zanzibar Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar was once one of the world's leading producers of spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon – and a guided spice farm tour takes you through organic plantations where you can touch, smell, and taste these spices directly from the plants.

Where to go: Jambo Spice Farm in Dole Village is one of the top-rated options – a 3-hour immersive experience with expert guides available in English, French, German, and Spanish, finishing with a traditional Swahili lunch.

Tip: Spice farm tours cost USD 10–25 per person and take 2–3 hours. Most farms are located in the Masingini Forest area, 30–45 minutes from Stone Town. Combine it with a Stone Town walking tour for a full day of culture.

Water Sports & Ocean Activities

Diving & Snorkelling – Mnemba Atoll: Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve is East Africa's premier dive site. Expect over 600 fish species, sea turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, and pristine coral with visibility averaging 20–30 metres. Most dive centres on the island offer day trips to Mnemba.

Kitesurfing in Paje: Paje Beach on Zanzibar's east coast is the kitesurfing capital of East Africa – consistent trade winds, a wide shallow lagoon, and warm water temperatures make it ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike. Several established kite schools offer lessons and equipment rental directly on the beach.

Dhow Sunset Cruise: A traditional dhow sailing cruise is one of the most quintessentially Zanzibari experiences. Full-day sandbank excursions typically include snorkelling stops, a fresh seafood lunch, and drinks – all while sailing on the Indian Ocean.

Horseback Riding on the Beach: Available along several stretches of the island's coastline – an unforgettable experience especially at sunrise or sunset.

Fumba Cliff Swimming: In Fumba Town, experience a completely unique swim by descending a cliff ladder directly into the crystal-clear ocean – a hidden gem even many long-term residents rave about.

Wildlife Excursions

Dolphin Tour at Kizimkazi: Head to Kizimkazi on the south coast for early morning boat trips to spot spinner and bottlenose dolphins in the wild. One of the most popular Zanzibar excursions for families and first-time visitors.

Jozani Forest Reserve: Zanzibar's only national park is home to the rare and endangered red colobus monkey – found nowhere else on earth. Walking trails through the forest also pass through mangroves and salt marshes, with over 40 bird species to spot.

Prison Island (Changuu Island): A popular half-day trip from Stone Town famous for its population of giant Aldabra tortoises – you can photograph and hand-feed them – plus excellent snorkelling around the island's fringing reef. Boat trips depart from the Stone Town waterfront.

Tanzania Safaris

Often described as a smaller version of the Serengeti, Mikumi offers excellent big cat sightings as well as elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and hippos. The Mkata Floodplain is the highlight of any game drive.

Cost: approx. USD 430–450 per person including return flights, guide, park entry fees, and lunch.

Tip: July to October is peak safari season – dry conditions make wildlife easier to spot and tracks easier to navigate. January to March is a quieter second window with lower prices.

One of the most underrated things to do from Zanzibar is combining your beach holiday with a mainland wildlife safari. A short 45–60 minute flight connects Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park or Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park), where you can see lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and more – and fly back to your beach resort the same evening.

Mikumi National Park – Best for a 1-Day Safari

Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – Best for a 2-Day Safari

Selous is Africa's largest protected wildlife area and just a 45-minute flight from Zanzibar. What sets it apart is the boat safari on the Rufiji River – floating quietly past hippos, crocodiles, and elephants drinking at the bank is an experience unlike anything else in East Africa

Cost: approx. USD 800–1,200 per person for a 2-day safari including return flights, accommodation, guided game drives, Rufiji River boat safari, park entry fees, and meals.