Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is a tropical paradise known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural tapestry. For those contemplating things to do in Zanzibar, wandering through the narrow alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its historic buildings and bustling bazaars, and diving into the vibrant coral reefs around Mnemba Island are top activities.
The island’s Jozani Forest Reserve offers a chance to encounter the rare red colobus monkeys and explore a unique mangrove ecosystem. Nearby, the spice plantations provide a sensory journey, showcasing Zanzibar’s title as the “Spice Island” with tours that delve into the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Beyond its natural beauty and historical sites, Zanzibar is a melting pot of African, Arab, and European cultures, evident in its music, dance, and festivals. For those seeking the best places to visit in Tanzania, Zanzibar’s blend of beach relaxation, cultural richness, and historical depth makes it a must-visit destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Zanzibar, Tanzania
1. Stone Town
Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings.
Location: Situated on the west coast of Zanzibar, accessible by car, taxi, or walking if staying nearby.
Scenic Spot: Historic architecture, winding alleys, bustling bazaars, and beautiful ocean views from the seafront.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in history and culture. Some streets may be difficult for strollers or those with mobility issues.
Price: Free to explore; guided tours cost approximately $15-$30.
Travel Tip: Make sure to take a guided tour to fully understand the history and significance of the buildings and narrow streets.
2. Nungwi Beach
Nungwi Beach is located at the northern tip of Zanzibar Island. It is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It is also a great spot for water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
Location: Northern tip of Zanzibar, accessible by car, taxi, or private transport (about 1.5 hours from Stone Town).
Scenic Spot: White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere with local fishermen and boat tours.
Best Time to Visit: December to February and June to October for sunny weather and calm seas.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, including families with young children, as the waters are generally calm and safe for swimming.
Price: Free to visit; water activities like snorkeling and diving range from $30-$100.
Travel Tip: Visit the Mnarani Turtle Conservation Pond to see the efforts being made to conserve the turtle population.
3. Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest is the last indigenous forest left on Zanzibar. It is home to the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey, a species that is found only on Zanzibar. The forest also has a variety of other wildlife and plant species.
Location: Central Zanzibar, about 35 km from Stone Town, accessible by car or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: Dense rainforest, rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, and mangrove boardwalk trails.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but the trails can be uneven, making it less ideal for strollers or those with mobility issues.
Price: Entrance fee approximately $10 per person.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and insect repellent.
4. Prison Island
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, was once used as a place where slaves were detained. Today, it is a popular spot for snorkeling and has a sanctuary for giant tortoises.
Location: 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town; boat tours are available from local operators.
Scenic Spot: Beautiful white sand beaches, giant Aldabra tortoises, and clear waters perfect for snorkeling.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon before it gets too hot.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, especially animal lovers, but boat travel may not be ideal for infants or elderly with mobility issues.
Price: Boat tour costs approximately $20-$40 per person; tortoise sanctuary entrance fee is around $5.
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour from Stone Town, it’s only a 30-minute ride.
5. Spice Tour
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island and a spice tour is a must-do activity. Visitors can see, smell and taste spices and fruits like clove, lemongrass, nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, vanilla, coconuts, papaya, chili, black pepper, jackfruit, cardamom, cassava and oranges.
Location: Spice plantations around Zanzibar, typically a 30-minute drive from Stone Town, accessible by car or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: Lush tropical plantations with exotic spices like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (June to October) for comfortable touring.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for all ages, though very young children may not find it engaging.
Price: Guided tours cost around $10-$25 per person.
Travel Tip: Buy fresh spices to take home as souvenirs.
6. Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Beach is located on the northwest coast of Zanzibar. It is a beautiful beach with white sand and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It is also a great spot for water sports and has a lively nightlife.
Location: Northwest coast of Zanzibar, about an hour from Stone Town by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant beach parties.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a stunning sunset experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all; families, couples, and solo travelers alike will enjoy the serene environment.
Price: Free to visit; water sports activities start at $20.
Travel Tip: Try to stay until sunset, it’s breathtaking.
7. Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island is a private island located off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. It is surrounded by a coral reef, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
Location: About 3 km off the northeast coast of Zanzibar; accessible by boat tour.
Scenic Spot: Private island surrounded by coral reefs, making it a premier snorkeling and diving destination.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for the best water visibility and marine life spotting.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but young children and elderly travelers may find boat trips tiring.
Price: Only guests of Mnemba Island Lodge can access the island; snorkeling and diving tours around the island range from $50-$150.
Travel Tip: Only guests staying at the Mnemba Island Lodge are allowed on the island, but non-guests can still enjoy the waters around the island.
8. Kizimkazi Mosque
The Kizimkazi Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic buildings on the East African coast. It is located in the village of Kizimkazi, which is also a good spot for dolphin watching.
Location: Southern Zanzibar, approximately an hour’s drive from Stone Town, accessible by car or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: One of the oldest Islamic buildings in East Africa, near a famous dolphin-watching area.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to combine it with a dolphin tour.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though younger visitors may not find the historical aspect engaging.
Price: Free to visit; dolphin tours cost approximately $30-$50 per person.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit to the mosque with a dolphin tour.
9. Forodhani Gardens
The Forodhani Gardens are located in Stone Town along the seafront. In the evening, the gardens come alive with food stalls selling a variety of local dishes and seafood.
Location: Stone Town waterfront, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Vibrant night market with local street food, ocean views, and cultural performances.
Best Time to Visit: Evening, when the food market is at its peak.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though young children should be supervised in busy market areas.
Price: Free to enter; food prices range from $1-$5 per dish.
Travel Tip: Try the Zanzibar pizza and sugar cane juice.
10. Paje Beach
Paje Beach is located on the east coast of Zanzibar. It is a popular spot for kite surfing due to its shallow waters and consistent winds. There are also several bars and restaurants along the beach.
Location: East coast of Zanzibar, about an hour from Stone Town by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Shallow turquoise waters, a haven for kite surfing, and a lively beach scene.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for ideal kite surfing conditions.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all; however, strong winds may not be ideal for very young children.
Price: Free to visit; kite surfing lessons start at $50 per session.
Travel Tip: Take a kite surfing lesson if you are a beginner.
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Zanzibar, Tanzania: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Zanzibar: 7/10 – Zanzibar offers various family-friendly activities, including visits to the Jozani Forest to see the red colobus monkeys, the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, and the Spice Farms. The island’s beaches are safe and ideal for swimming and snorkeling, providing plenty of opportunities for children to enjoy the water.
Nightlife in Zanzibar: 6/10 – Zanzibar has a laid-back nightlife scene centered around beach bars, live music, and cultural performances. While Stone Town has a few lively spots, the overall nightlife is more relaxed compared to larger cities. Night markets and beach parties add to the island’s charm.
Sport in Zanzibar: 8/10 – Zanzibar offers a range of sports activities, particularly water sports like snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and sailing. The island also provides opportunities for beach volleyball, football, and deep-sea fishing. The diverse marine life and beautiful beaches make it a great destination for sports enthusiasts.
Culture and Attractions in Zanzibar: 9/10 – Zanzibar is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic buildings like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. Cultural tours, spice farm visits, and traditional dhow cruises add to the cultural experience.
Gastronomy in Zanzibar: 8/10 – The food scene in Zanzibar features a blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European cuisines. Must-try dishes include seafood, Zanzibar pizza, and biryani. The Forodhani Night Market offers a variety of local street food, while restaurants range from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining options.
Shopping in Zanzibar: 7/10 – Shopping in Zanzibar includes markets and shops in Stone Town where visitors can buy spices, textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. The island has a range of boutiques and local markets, offering unique products that reflect Zanzibar’s cultural heritage.
Prices in Zanzibar: 7/10 – Zanzibar is moderately priced, with a range of accommodation, dining, and activity options that cater to different budgets. The island provides good value for money, making it accessible for both budget and mid-range travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: 60-115 $
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 5-10 $
Price of a beer: 2.5-4 $
Price of a coffee: 1.5-2.5 $
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Zanzibar, Tanzania
For those looking to explore beyond the sandy shores and spice gardens, top day trips near Zanzibar offer a chance to dive into the island’s rich history and vibrant marine life. The historic Stone Town, the tranquil Prison Island, and the breathtaking Mnemba Atoll provide unique experiences that capture the essence of this island paradise.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Zanzibar accommodations range from intimate beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts along the azure waters, ensuring a serene and unforgettable stay in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zanzibar
https://www.getyourguide.com/zanzibar-l871
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