Things to see and do in Zanzibar

The archipelago of Zanzibar is one of the most famous destinations in Tanzania for its incredible paradise beaches and postcard-perfect scenery. In addition, the area is famous for its rich history and the fusion of cultures resulting from the commercial activity of the islands. The two most touristy cities in Zanzibar are Nungwi and Stone Town, declared a World Heritage Site for its fascinating maze-like alleys, mosques, markets and historic buildings.

In Zanzibar we also highlight its gastronomy, which reflects the Arab, Indian and African influence in its dishes dishes with an abundance of fish, seafood and spices. And if you are a diving and snorkeling lover, you will also find incredible places with lots of marine life. As you can see, Zanzibar is an ideal destination for everyone. Read on and start organizing your next vacation.

What are the best places to visit in Zanzibar?

1. Jambiani

Jambiani is a picturesque fishing village on the east coast of Zanzibar. On the island you’ll find incredible white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters where you can snorkel and enjoy other water sports. But best of all, you’ll see local families living as they used to in traditional homes that contrast with the island’s hotels and resorts.

In Jambiani, we recommend strolling along the beach at sunrise, going to Kuza Cave, the Jozani-Chwaka Bay Lagoon or hiring a boat to take you snorkeling on the coral reef.

2. Mnemba Marine Reserve

The Mnemba Marine Reserve is one of the most famous destinations for diving and snorkeling in Zanzibar for its fantastic coral reefs with a great diversity of marine species. Its waters, completely crystal clear and with more than 20 meters of visibility, will allow you to observe hundreds of fish and dolphins.

3. Jozani Forest

The Jozani Forest is another of Zanzibar’s great natural treasures. This wildlife sanctuary is famous for being home to the well-known and rare Zanzibar red colobus, an endemic species of monkey. Following the trails you can explore mangroves and rainforests populated by hundreds of species of plants and animals, including a wide variety of birds, reptiles and butterflies.

To visit the area in the interior of the island, we recommend hiring a guide who will take you to the most beautiful corners and explain everything about the fauna and flora of the place.

4. Changgu Island or Prison Island

Less than 20 minutes away by boat is Changgu Island, also known as Prison Island as it was once used to imprison rebellious slaves and later as a quarantine center for yellow fever patients.

Nowadays, however, it has nothing to do with it, instead it turned into a natural reserve where you can see giant turtles and enjoy its paradisiacal beaches.

From Stone Town you can get there with an organized excursion or hire a boat for 20€ at the port.

5. Stone Town, Zanzibar

On your trip to Zanzibar you can not miss Stone Town, an enchanting coastal town of narrow cobblestone alleys, colorful markets, centuries-old mosques and buildings of Arab and Indian influence. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Stone Town you can explore the ancient fort, the Palace of Wonders, the Old Dispensary, the Hamammi Persian Baths and the Darajani Market, where aromas and flavors mingle in a feast for the senses.

Whether by sea or land, Stone Town will be your first stop on your trip. We recommend you dedicate at least one day to enjoy its lively atmosphere.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Zanzibar

1. Dar es Salaam, the gateway to Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam is the commercial capital and the most populous city in Tanzania, but it is also a lively destination with a great crossroads of cultures. Africans, Indians, Arabs, Germans and English have left their mark there.

In the city you will find extensive beaches, buildings of colonial and Art Deco architecture and a relaxed urban atmosphere that captivates travelers.

The city as such is not one of the most popular destinations in the country, however, it is a good strategic place to stay. There you will find a wide range of hotels and restaurants, and many agencies offering excursions to the surrounding islands.

From Dar es Salaam you can reach Zanzibar by boat (2 hours) or by plane (20 minutes). If you want to know more about this city we encourage you to visit this post: Things to see and do in Dar es Salaam Tanzania

What to see in 1 day in Zanzibar

In Zanzibar we recommend to spend at least 5 days to enjoy its incredible landscapes of tropical forests and paradisiacal beaches. Although if you wish, you can be entertained much longer exploring the corners of the archipelago.

If you’re short of time, you can always tour Stone Town, visit the nearby beaches and Prison Island on the same day, although given the price of airfare and ferry tickets, it’s worth spending more time.

Where and what to eat in Zanzibar?

We are sure that Zanzibar’s gastronomic scene will surprise you. Its cuisine is a delicious fusion of African, Arab, Indian and European influences, reflecting the commercial importance of its ports.

Among its ingredients abound fish and seafood, as well as coconut and spices. The most outstanding dishes are the “pilau” (spiced rice), the “uduguru” (coconut curry), and the “fish biryani” (a fish stew with rice).

If you want to feast, we recommend you go to these restaurants that will not disappoint you:

• Sexy Fish: This restaurant located in Ningwi has a nice terrace with the best views of the beach. There you can enjoy their cocktails and dishes that combine European and African flavors, especially in fish and seafood. Although prices are higher than average in Nungwi, the experience is worth it. The price is between 25€ and 30€ and it is recommended to book in advance.
• Fish Market: here you can try fish and seafood cooked on the grill and accompanied with rice and vegetables. You will be able to choose yourself the fish you want to have for dinner.
• Swahili Cuisine: is one of the most emblematic local cuisine restaurants on the island. We offer a variety of dishes, from meat and fish to rice, pilau, ugali, vegetables, beans and chapati. Don’t miss the traditional spinach cooked in coconut milk.

Where to stay in Zanzibar

As it is such a touristy area, you won’t have trouble finding accommodation, but keep in mind that Tanzania is not a cheap destination. Still, you will be able to choose between cheaper alternatives such as hostels or luxury options in all-inclusive hotels. Whatever your preferences are, you are sure to find the perfect place to spend your vacation. The areas with the most accommodation are Nungwi and Stone Town.

Here are a few of our favorite accommodations in the archipelago:

• Kholle House: is located in the center of Stone Town, in a beautiful house built in 1860. It offers deluxe rooms, an outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean. The rooms at the Kholle House have air conditioning, ceiling fan and mosquito netting. It is a really nice place where you can stay from 36€ with breakfast included.
• Kahawa house: This 4-star accommodation is 70 meters from Stone Town Beach and less than 1 km from the Peace Memorial Museum. The hotel features a terrace and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. But best of all is its decoration. You can stay from 50€ with breakfast included.
• Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel: this is an impressive 5-star hotel with all kinds of amenities. It has a swimming pool, gym, spa and pleasant terraces overlooking the garden. If you want to live a luxury experience, this is your hotel. The price starts at 270€ and breakfast buffet is included.

How to get to Zanzibar

Zanzibar is one of the most touristic destinations in Tanzania, which means that it is quite well connected both with the rest of the cities in the country and abroad. These are all the options of how to get to Zanzibar:

• Airplane: There is only one airport in Zanzibar, Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which receives local and international flights from nearby countries. If you are traveling from Europe, the most common way is to fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Dar es Salaam Airport, which is only a 20-minute flight away and costs between €75 and €100 each way.
• Boat: Another cheaper option is to take the ferry in Dar es Salaam for about 30€. The trip takes 2 hours.

While getting to Zanzibar is simple, getting around the archipelago is another issue. Public transport isn’t an option, so you can choose from these four options:

• Taxi: is a comfortable option but also the most expensive. It is recommended for occasional trips to inaccessible areas.
• Rental car: You can rent a car at the airport. Roads are in a good condition, but be aware that traffic regulations may vary from your home country.
• Moto: is a good option to move around the islands, but it is recommended to have a minimum of experience with this type of vehicle. The price ranges from $30 to $40 per day.
• Organized tours: this is an easy way to visit the islands. It’s not cheap, but you won’t have to worry about anything.

What should I consider before traveling to Zanzibar

• In some beaches in Zanzibar there is an entrance fee.
• The official languages in Tanzania are Swahili and English.
• A visa and passport are required for entry into Tanzania.
• The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling.
• Although in the more touristy areas it is possible to find places that accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash.
• Tanzania has a tropical climate with pleasant temperatures throughout the year. However, you should be prepared for climatic variations depending on the region you visit and the time of the year.
• Drink only bottled water and avoid consuming raw foods from untrustworthy places to avoid stomach problems.
• Hedge yourself against possible medical emergencies: travel insured.
• Tanzania is a safe destination, but we recommend you take care with your belongings and avoid going out alone at night.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen.
• The best time to travel to Zanzibar is during the dry season, between May and October.

How to prepare what to see on your trip to Zanzibar

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Get inspired by other travelers’ experiences, photos and itineraries.
• Organize your trip by the categories that suit you best: dates, number of days or typology (beach, mountain, restaurants…).
• Add your friends so they can see and modify all the plans and information of the trip.
• Create your own itinerary of your destination with everything you feel like visiting each day.
• Add the stops that interest you the most, including your accommodation, restaurants, museums…
• Book your flights, accommodations, transfers and activities through a single app.
• Save all your documents in the app to always have everything at hand: reservations, boarding passes, important documentation…
• Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip
• Share your experience with other users. Upload photos of the places you have visited on your trip to the app and inspire other travelers with your experience. In addition, you can share your own travel tips on the things to do in Zanzibar

If you have doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Zanzibar