Zanzibar, often referred as the “Spice Island” is an archipelago island off Tanzania coast, that offers turquoise waters, extensive white sand beaches, rich cultural heritage, and with unforgettable adventures. This tourist destination is more than just a beach getaway, it is a fusion of history, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you are seeking a romantic honeymoon, a family holiday, or a solo escape, Zanzibar is a great destination for you.

If you are planning a Zanzibar vacation, you are in for a treat. This ultimate guide will walk you through the top things to do in Zanzibar, and help make your vacation magical. Below are some of the top things and places to visit during your vacation in Zanzibar.

Top 10 Things to Do During Your Vacation in Zanzibar

Explore the Historic Streets of Stone Town

Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a cultural heart of Zanzibar. The town has an urban fabric but has evidence influences of Arab, Indian, and European cultures. This part of a Zanzibar is a living museum comprised of a maze of narrow stress, busy bazaars, and Arab-themed houses with ornately carved wooden doors.

Image by: UNESCO

The main highlights of Stone Town include:

• House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib): This was once a royal palace that showcases Swahili culture and history.
• The Old Fort: Built by the Omani Arabs in the 17th century and now hosts cultural events and markets.

• Darajani Market: A sensory overload of spices, fresh seafood, and vibrant fabrics.
• Freddie Mercury House: This is birthplace of the legendary Queen frontman that now museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
• Forodhani Gardens Night Market: Set on the seafront garden, this market is a foodie’s paradise where you can sample local delicacies.
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• 2.Relax on the Top-Class Beaches

Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the world’s most spectacular beach, with distinct characteristics suited for different vacation needs.

 

Among the top beach picks in Zanzibar include:

1. Nungwi and Kendwa to the North: these are renowned for their powdery white sand and dramatic tides. They are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying spectacular sunsets. The vibrant area has several beach bars restaurants, and water sports operators, making it ideal for active beach enthusiasts.
2. Paje and Jambiani to the Southeast: These vast, flat beaches are ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The consistent trade winds and the expansive shallow lagoons provide ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders.
3. Matemwe to the Northeast: This is a traditional fishing village with beautiful beach and stunning views. The area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and provides sunrise views of the extensive Indian Ocean horizon. This part is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

1. Go on a Spice Plantation Tour

Zanzibar is famously known as the “Spice Island” due to its contribution to its centuries-old spice trade. Visiting a spice plantation is a notable immersive cultural activities to engage in. The educational experiences will take you through working farms where vanilla vines climb towering trees, cinnamon bark peels is fragrant strips, and cardamon pods bursting with aromatic seeds. The knowledgeable guides will explain about the cultivation methods and offer you a chance to taste, smell, and touch several plants. The spice tours often include elaborate meals of freshly prepared dishes that demonstrates how aromatic treasures enhances local cuisine.

 

1. Snorkeling and Diving at Mnemba Atoll

Located off the Northeast coast, is Mnemba Atoll Marine Conservation Area, which is Zanzibars premier spot for underwater exploration. The area offers encounters with what sharks, manta rays, and schools of tropical fish in crystal -clear visibility. For the underwater enthusiasts, you will get a chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters with high visibility, scuba dive to explore coral walls and marine diversity, and spot pods of dolphins swimming freely.

 

 

1. Visit Prison Island

The Prison Island, also referred as Changuu Island is located on the Western Part of Zanzibar’s Island. The island is known for its history as a former quarantine station and its population of Aldabra giant tortoises. It is accessible in a 30-minutes boat ride from Stone Town. While at the Prison island, you can chill at the beach relaxing and enjoying the tranquility, snorkeling, and taking a walk at the wooden bridge that heads out to the ocean.

 

1. Explore Rare Wildlife in the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park protects Zanzibar’s last remaining indigenous forest and serves as the exclusive home to the endangered Zanzibar red Columbus Monkey. These distinctive primates are only located here and they display remarkable acrobatic abilities as they leap through the forest canopy.

The walking trails winding through diverse ecosystems experiencing other animals such as blue sykes monkeys, tiny bush babies, antelopes, and several bird species.

The park has an elevated mangrove boardwalk, offering an opportunity to get educational insights of the coastal ecosystem.

 

1. Take a Dhow Cruise at Sunset

Sailing on a traditional wooden dhow is one of the most romantic things to do while in Zanzibar’s vacation. As the wooden boat glides silently over the calm water, you get to enjoy the sky explode into hues of orange, pink, and purples. Most of these tours include opportunities to snorkel or enjoying freshly prepared seafood and fruit on board, turning the cruise into a romantic and unforgettable evening.

 

1. Explore the Mtoni Sultan’s Palace

Located on the Western beach of Zanzibar beach, the Mtoni Palace ruins served as the seat of power of Seyyid Said, a famous sultan of East Africa and Oman. It was on this place that the famous Princess Salme was born. While it currently remain in ruins, the scale of the palace is impressive. It offers beautiful and photogenic sites that sharply contrast the island’s natural beauty.

 

1. Swim with turtles at Baraka Natural Aquarium

In North of Zanzibar, is Zanzibar’s best turtles aquarium, that allows a chance to see, feed, and swim with the beautiful native animals. The turtles are brought the aquarium after they have been caught in fisherman’s net and injured and after reaching a certain size, they are released back to the Ocean. A visit to this place offers you a unique opportunity to swim with the sea turtles. You can also take snorkeling mask and dive, watching them in their natural environment.

 

1. Sample the Local Cuisine

A vacation in Zanzibar would be incomplete without a chance of tasting its flavorful Swahili cuisine. The cuisine has the influence of Indian, Arab, and African traditions that makes the food both aromatic and unique. Must-try specialties include urojo (a tangy soup with various toppings), pilau (aromatic spiced rice), and fresh grilled seafood seasoned with local spices. You can explore gems in Stone Town for street foods and experience perfected recipes that have been passed down through generations.

 

Planning Your Zanzibar Vacation: Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: The best time is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February. The long rains are experienced from March to May.

Getting Around: There are local buses (Dala-Dalas), which are cheap but chaotic. Taxis are readily available.

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZs), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Cultural Sensitivity: Zanzibar is conservative and predominantly Muslim society. When away from the beach, it may be important to dress modestly.

Final Thoughts

A Zanzibar vacation is truly a magical experience. It offers a wide range of activities creating a chance for a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and culture. As  you plan to visit Zanzibar and create memories that last a lifetime, let Explore Masters handle all the logistics for you.