Zanzibar Island, located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, is a stunning tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich cultural heritage. If you're planning a trip to this magical destination, there are numerous places to visit in Zanzibar Island that will captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
One of the top places to visit in Zanzibar Island is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its winding alleys, vibrant markets, and historic buildings, Stone Town offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's Swahili culture and colonial past. You can explore the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the Sultan’s Palace, all within walking distance.
Nungwi Beach, located on the northern tip of the island, is another must-see. Known for its turquoise waters and spectacular sunsets, it’s one of the most relaxing places to visit in Zanzibar Island. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar Island
For nature lovers, Jozani Forest Reserve is among the best places to visit in Zanzibar Island. This lush rainforest is home to the rare red colobus monkeys and a variety of exotic flora and fauna. Walking through its scenic trails is both peaceful and educational.
The island is also famous for its spice farms. Visiting a spice plantation is one of the most unique places to visit in Zanzibar Island, where you can see, smell, and taste fresh spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
If you're into marine life, don’t miss Mnemba Atoll. It's one of the most exciting places to visit in Zanzibar Island for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs here are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins.
Kendwa Beach, with its lively atmosphere and full moon parties, is also among the top places to visit in Zanzibar Island for young travelers looking to mix relaxation with nightlife.
Other enchanting places to visit in Zanzibar Island include Prison Island with its giant tortoises, the peaceful beaches of Paje, and the historical Maruhubi Palace ruins. With so many diverse attractions, it’s easy to find multiple places to visit in Zanzibar Island that suit your travel style.
From cultural sites to natural wonders, the places to visit in Zanzibar Island offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Zanzibar Island is the perfect getaway.
1. Take a Dhow Cruise to Prison Island
Prison Island forms a big part of Zanzibar’s slave history. While it wasn’t a traditional ‘prison’, it was used by slave traders to house slaves before they were shipped to their new stations. Quite obscure, if you ask me…
Locally called Changu Island (yes, just like our beloved Balinese haven), the island is now famous for its population of giant Aldabra tortoises. Better than prisoners, wouldn’t you say? It’s a sanctuary for this unique species, one of the largest in the world. In fact, some of these tortoises are thought to be the oldest living reptiles on the planet. The oldest one is a ripe 196 years old!
A day trip to this island is more than enough time to visit the beaches, snorkel through the coral reefs, and marvel at these centuries-old creatures. But if you want more time, the island also has a resort with a restaurant and pool.
2. Dive and snorkel in the Menai Bay
If you thought the Seychelles and Mauritius were the only coral hotspots in Africa, you’d be forgiven. The Menai Bay Conservation Area, a hidden gem in Zanzibar, is the island’s premier snorkeling and diving destination. It’s filled with vibrant coral, colorful fish, and even the occasional sea turtle or reef shark. Not the scary kind – don’t worry…
Morning is usually the best time to dive into these crystal clear waters, which are usually calm and clear in the dim light – perfect for viewing the biodiverse marine life in all its glory. If you’re in Zanzibar, you’ll want to check this place out.
While you’re there, Uzi Island is a small island part of the conservation area. It is home to stunning mangrove forests, freshwater forests and seagrass beds that provide a real contrast to the tropical reef marine life. The beauty of Uzi Island lies in its tranquility. It is one of those rare places where tourism has barely left a footprint, giving an authentic look at rural Zanzibar life.
3. Visit an organic spice farm
Sometimes called the Spice Island because of its spice farms and markets, Zanzibar is essentially the spice cabinet of Africa. And let me tell you, visiting a spice farm is the best way to experience a sensory explosion. You will thank me later.
The fields are planted with rows of clove, cinnamon and cardamom trees, and you can taste the fresh fruits and seeds picked straight from the source. The guides are usually very engaging and knowledgeable, and the tours usually start in the mid-morning before it gets too hot.
On a spice tour, you’ll learn everything from growing, harvesting, and preparing spices to how they’re used in traditional Zanzibari cooking. One thing’s for sure; you’ll leave with bags of cloves and other delicious spices for your kitchen when you get home (not to mention more spice knowledge than you thought you had).
4. Wander through the historic city of Stone Town
No trip to Zanzibar is complete without a visit to Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, once a maritime hub, is now the beating heart of modern Zanzibar. Over the centuries, various nationalities have visited this trading port city, leaving it with an interesting mix of Arabian-style townhouses, European-inspired infrastructure, and Indian merchant houses and palaces.
The main attractions are the Spice Bazaar (with its own special mention later), the Old Fort and the Hamamani Persian Baths. Stroll the winding alleyways, either with a guide or on your own time. You’ll pass carved doors, shops and spas, and the Swahili Spice Bazaar. This is definitely one of the top attractions in Tanzania.
Pro tip: Join a guided tour of Stone Town to get a better idea of ​​the layout of the city. After that, wander around on your own, wandering through all the alleyways and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere on your own time.
5. Harvest, harvest, and savor for dinner with a farm-to-table cooking class
If you’re anything like me, taking a cooking class will be high on your list of must-do things to do in Zanzibar. With cultural influences from Africa, Arabia, India, and even Europe, Zanzibari cuisine offers a little bit of everything. Not to mention access to some of the world’s highest quality fresh spices.
Most cooking classes start with a visit to a local market and spice farm, where you can buy the freshest ingredients of the day before rolling up your sleeves to prepare some local dishes. The chef will take you through the layers of regional culinary heritage, explaining the significance of each spice along the way.
Of course, you get to eat what you make. Most classes run mid-morning or mid-afternoon so you can enjoy your feast for lunch or dinner. After that, you’ll be ready to impress at your next dinner party!
6. Spend the day with local artists in Zambiani Village
Zambiani is one of the most famous local villages on the island. Visiting this small village is a particularly powerful experience because of the group of women who call it home. This women-led village is known for its seaweed farming and crafts – both practices that have been passed down for generations.
During a tour, you can spend the day with these local women, learn about their sustainable seaweed farming practices and even try your hand at weaving. It’s a place where tradition, empowerment and creativity thrive. And on top of that, the easy-going vibes are contagious.
Pro tip: The Seaweed Center isn’t open year-round. If possible, plan to go during low tide, as that’s the best time to collect seaweed. Oh, and bring your beachwear because Zambiani has a beautiful palm-lined beach.
7. Snorkel over the crystal clear reefs around Tumbatu Island
I know I’ve already mentioned a few snorkeling spots, but can you blame me? The island is teeming with marine life, and Tumbatu is one of the least busy and most difficult parts of the marine biodiversity.
Much of this island remains untouched by tourism. To get to the island, you need to get permission from the local Watumbatu elders. As one of the most unusual things to do in Zanzibar, you can learn about the local traditions and ancestral history of this net-and-trap fishing village.
But for a simple day trip, tourists can explore the coral reefs that surround this remote, rural island. For those dedicated to earning their various certifications, the area is also home to some of the best dive sites in the region. It’s not too deep, and most of the reefs are protected from strong rip currents.
8. Visit the white sand beaches of Paje Village
Paje Beach is one of those places that will make you believe that paradise really exists. Expect white sand, tall swaying palm trees and clear, warm waters. The area is particularly popular with backpackers, with a relaxed atmosphere, great activities like scuba diving and kitesurfing, and some of the most affordable hostels to stay in Zanzibar.
But the highlight of this beach town is its seaweed farms. Images of women in colorful dresses and straw hats are iconic images of seaweed farms. Here, seaweed grows in rows in shallow areas and is easily one of the most unique farming scenes you’ll ever see.
Seaweed farming has become the third-largest industry in the region, as most of the castings are shipped overseas to be used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.
9. Join a cultural tour of Nungwi Village
One of the best things to do in Zanzibar is to spend an afternoon in Nungwi Village. This village on the island of Unguja is the heart of Zanzibar Dhu Bhavan. For centuries, artisans have worked on these beaches, hand-crafting these beautiful vessels.
It’s a thriving fishing village, which you’ll quickly be shown if you join a cultural tour of the island. If you’re not in the mood for a structured tour, its beautiful beaches are an easy place to spend a day.
Pro tip: Brimming with culture and history, Nungwi is one of the best places for nightlife in Zanzibar. It’s a lively area with beach resorts, hotels, bars, and restaurants, which means fun nighttime entertainment until the early hours of the morning.
10. Immerse yourself in the buzz of Darazani Market
If Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar, then Darazani Market is the pulse that fuels its energy. This fragrant spice market is where you’ll find most of the spices produced around the island, from cloves to cinnamon to cardamom and nutmeg.
The first thing I recommend doing when you first arrive in a new country or city is visiting a local market or grocery store. There are so many hidden gems to be discovered by the food and products sold at local markets, don’t you agree?
While spices are the main attraction, you can also buy fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood and even handmade crafts and textiles at this market. The Darazani Fish Market is a must-visit part of the market. It gives a real taste of daily life on the islands.
Pro tip: Cash is king in Africa. When walking through the market, make sure you carry small change in local currency (Tanzanian shillings).
11. Paddle the Nungwi-Kendwa waters on a transparent kayak
If Nungwi Beach is the bustling hub of nightlife and beach bars, then Kendwa Beach is its little brother. Kendwa is a more remote and quiet beach in the north of Zanzibar, recognized for its steady tides and resulting excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions.
One of the best things to do in Zanzibar is to travel between these two beaches in a transparent kayak. You might be thinking - this sounds like a difficult Instagram photo shoot - but I rate it as a really fun and easy activity to do with kids. You can rent a kayak for as long as you like, paddling away at a distance without a guide to get the vibe going.
Pro tip: Kendwa Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunset over the water. After sunset, you can pull the kayak onto the beach and enjoy the sunset at one of the many beach bars around Nungwi-Kendwa.
12. See the natural wonder of Kuja Caves
Kuja Caves is a freshwater lagoon in a small, hidden jungle village in Zambia. Although not for the claustrophobic, it is one of the most beautiful caves I have ever been to, with clear blue (and cool) water surrounded by ancient limestone rock formations.
Most tours will give you the chance to swim in the cave and examine some of the interesting artifacts found once inside the cave. If you are into caves, there are two other popular caves to visit on the archipelago, including Swahili Caves and Malum Caves.
The best time to visit is in the morning, when the cave is quiet and streams of light stream through the rocks, creating a magical atmosphere that will make anyone believe in the healing properties of the water.
13. Visit the Shiraz Ruins on Tumbatu Island
The Shiraz Ruins tell the story that the Shiraz were the original settlers of the island, arriving in the 12th century. The Shiraz people, aka the Persian and Iranian descendants, have always been particularly drawn to the island. If you want to know why and are looking for a great historical thing to do in Zanzibar, you might want to join a Tumbatu tour.
Tumbatu is the third largest island in Zanzibar, and is about a thirty-minute dhow trip from Nungwi or Unguja. On the southeast side of the island, the Shiraz Ruins in Makutani are believed to be the remains of one of the island’s first communities.
14. Spend the day at Starfish Beach in Blue Lagoon Atoll
If you’re traveling with young children, the shallow and sheltered coral gardens of the Blue Lagoon are one of the safest reefs to snorkel. The lake is a shallow tidal pool on the east coast of Zanzibar, famous for its incredibly bright blue waters – hence its name…
Just as the Blue Lagoon is named for its blue waters, Starfish Beach is named for its abundance of starfish. And when I say starfish, I mean the giant red, orange, and even purple starfish that hang out on the soft white sand as if they’re posing for your photo.
To reach Starfish Beach, you’ll need to take a boat along the coastline from Michamvi or Pongwe. While it’s not a very long journey, the travel time means that fewer tourists choose to visit this beach. And you know what that means - no crowds!
15. Sip Arabica Coffee at Zanzibar Coffee House
Coffee lovers, this one’s for you. Zanzibar Coffee House is a cozy, comfortable cafe in a boutique hotel. One of the best affordable things to do in Zanzibar is to sample locally grown Arabica coffee in a charming African setting, and this is definitely the place to do it.
While the aroma of roasting beans will hit you from the moment you arrive, I encourage you to take a look around and appreciate the traditional Arabian influence of this building, which is one of the oldest in Zanzibar.
Morning coffee is always best (in my opinion, at least). Enjoy your brew on the rooftop terrace as the sun rises over the rooftops of Stone Town. My recommendation is the spiced coffee.
I also recommend that any serious caffeine head make time for a traditional coffee ceremony. There are plenty of coffee shops around Stone Town that allow visitors to watch their traditional roasting process, then serve freshly brewed drinks in slim Arabian cups.
16. Indulge in fresh seafood at The Rock Restaurant
If there’s one restaurant I’d recommend in Zanzibar, it’s The Rock. Sure, it can be a little overpriced and touristy, but can you blame it? The restaurant is literally perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean and has rightfully earned recognition as a Zanzibar icon.
While you can walk to the island at low tide (barefoot of course), you may have to take a boat when the tide comes in. Trust me, that’s all part of the fun.
The seafood here is as fresh as it gets. Think grilled lobster, calamari, and shrimp, all paired with beautiful views of the water. It’s about an hour’s drive from Stone Town and easy to get to by taxi.
17. Learn about the culture with a traditional healer
Spending time with a traditional Swahili healer is a cultural experience that I highly recommend to anyone traveling to Zanzibar. Locally known as ‘manhwa’ or ‘babu’, traditional healers practice ancient healing techniques using plants, local herbs, and rituals.
Every culture has its own terminology for their traditional healers, and meeting a Swahili healer is a fascinating glimpse into the Zanzibari heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation.
Many island tours include a break with a traditional healer, but you can also arrange a private meeting with a local tour guide. This is an eye-opening experience in Zanzibar that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the local culture. Dress appropriately and come with an open mind!
18. Savor the peace and quiet of Nakupenda Sandbanks
In this world, so busy with technology and development, we rarely find places that are completely untouched and remote. That’s where Nakupenda comes in. Nakupenda Sandbanks is a pristine, unspoilt stretch of sand surrounded only by water. Every day at high tide, the water rolls over the sand and resets the sandbank for a new day – there’s something beautiful about it.
It’s a short boat ride from Stone Town and it’s one of those surreal places where you can completely disconnect from reality.
Thanks to the ebb and flow of the tides, it’s an unbeatable place to swim, sunbathe or simply sit with your thoughts. Make sure to time your trip with low tide because once the tide comes in, it’s game over until the next day.
19. Sip a cocktail (or mocktail) at Africa House Hotel
The Africa House Hotel was originally built in the 19th century as a home for a sultan. Today, it’s one of Stone Town’s most iconic landmarks.
Back in the day, the house was known as The English Club, a members-only club for expatriate English travelers. While patronage was limited back then, today, the trendy hotel is one of Zanzibar’s best places for a nightcap.
Whatever its history, sitting on the rooftop with a drink in hand watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean is unbeatable.
Budget tip: Budget travelers don’t have to book a room to enjoy the space. Just ask to go to the bar, and you can get all the sunset benefits for just a few drinks.
20. Take a Sunset Cruise on a Traditional Dhow
Sure, you can take a few dhows to get around the islands. But if I had to recommend one activity, it would be to take a deliberate cruise on a dhow at sunset.
Local fishermen have been using these handcrafted wooden boats for centuries, and a sunset cruise offers a front-row seat to the region’s maritime history (not to mention – the views).
If you charter a dhow for sunset, drinks are usually included in the rate. These trips are usually affordable and easy to book. Remember to bring a lightweight layer for when the sun goes down.
21. Take a Street Food Tour Through Stone Town
If you want to experience Zanzibar’s rich cuisine, a street food tour through Stone Town is the place to start. Walking through the narrow, winding streets, you’ll be able to sample local favorites like Zanzibari pizza, urojo soup, and freshly grilled fish.
The flavors here perfectly reflect the islands’ unique history as a crossroads of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Local guides are usually well-versed in local history and Stone Town’s food scene and will undoubtedly give you an insider’s perspective on things.
Pro tip: Bring cash and come on an empty stomach. Ask your guide to take you to lesser-known spots for the most authentic ‘taste’ of the island.
22. Take to the skies with a skydiving experience
To be honest, I haven’t done this skydiving experience myself, so I can’t call it one of the best things to do in Zanzibar. I’m afraid of heights, and if you are too, do yourself a favor and move on to the next activity…
But if you’re the type of person who wants adventure and lots of adrenaline, skydiving in Zanzibar is one of the best ways to see the coastline and islands from a bird’s eye view. Skydiving is hardly cheap, but it’s one of the more affordable places to jump out of a plane. Take what you want from it.
I’m not sure what freefalling through the sky feels like, but I’ve heard it’s an exhilarating moment of adrenaline and freedom. The experience lasts two to three hours and ends with a soft sandy landing on Nungwi Beach – not bad for a landing spot.
23. Race through local farms and villages on a quad bike
Exploring the countryside on a quad bike is a fun and adventurous way to see the lesser-known parts of the island. Quad bikes are easy to ride and generally safe, although it’s always best to follow a guide and stay on track.
Only available with a tour, quad biking adventures will take you through small local villages and open farmland. Depending on the route your guide chooses, you may pass through forests, baobab alleys, or even the famous caves. Whichever route you take, you’re guaranteed to see some incredible views.
This fun thing to do in Zanzibar lasts three to four hours and has three main stops. Taking photos is allowed (and recommended). The best part about this activity is getting off the beaten path. The second best part? The wind in your hair!
Pro tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and sunglasses. The dusty paths tend to kick up some dirt.
24. Spend the day at Chumbe Island Coral Park
This isn’t my first coral reef experience, but it’s definitely one of the best. Chumbe Island Coral Park is a protected private reserve with a strong conservation focus. I recommend it for anyone who loves the beach, but especially for those interested in marine biology or conservation.
The island is small and rarely crowded as numbers are manageable. When you’re not snorkeling on the protected reef, you can wander around the forest reserve, which is home to coconut crabs and even some rare sea turtles.
For luxury travelers, there’s a five-star lodge on the island that offers authentic Zanzibari accommodations with a commitment to sustainability.
25. Sample traditional food at Forodhani Gardens Night Market
The Forodhani Night Market is where Stone Town comes alive after dark. Located along the main waterfront, this bustling night market is famous for its diverse street food. You’ll find everything from seafood to the famous Zanzibari pizza to curry pots.
The market has deep roots in Zanzibar’s trading history, with a mix of Arab, Swahili and Indian culinary influences on full display. Aside from the food you’ll buy, it’s also a completely free thing to do in Zanzibar – score!
Head straight for the urojo soup, a thick mango soup (yes, you heard that right) served with chickpea fritters and chutney. Finish things off with a glass of hand-squeezed sugarcane juice with fresh ginger and lime.
Budget tip: If it’s not already obvious, the markets are one of the most affordable places to eat. You can enjoy a meal here with a drink and a sweet treat for under $7. Bring cash, and try a little bit of everything!
FAQ – Places to Visit in Zanzibar Island
1. What are the top places to visit in Zanzibar Island?
Some of the top places to visit in Zanzibar Island include Stone Town, Nungwi Beach, Jozani Forest, Mnemba Atoll, Kendwa Beach, and Prison Island. Each location offers a unique experience, from history and culture to nature and beach fun.
2. Is Stone Town worth visiting?
Yes, Stone Town is a must-see! As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and culture. It's one of the most popular places to visit in Zanzibar Island for those interested in local heritage.
3. Which beaches are the best on Zanzibar Island?
Nungwi and Kendwa are among the best beaches on the island. They are known for soft white sand, clear blue waters, and vibrant beach life. These are definitely top places to visit in Zanzibar Island for beach lovers.
4. Are there any nature attractions on Zanzibar Island?
Yes! Jozani Forest Reserve is one of the most famous nature spots and a highlight among the places to visit in Zanzibar Island. It’s home to the endangered red colobus monkey and beautiful mangrove boardwalks.
5. What is Mnemba Atoll known for?
Mnemba Atoll is a marine reserve famous for snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s one of the most exciting underwater places to visit in Zanzibar Island with stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
6. Can I take a spice tour in Zanzibar?
Absolutely! Spice tours are one of the unique experiences and educational places to visit in Zanzibar Island. You’ll see how spices are grown and used, and taste them fresh from the farm.
7. Is Zanzibar suitable for families?
Yes, Zanzibar is family-friendly. With safe beaches, nature parks, and fun excursions like visiting giant tortoises on Prison Island, there are plenty of places to visit in Zanzibar Island that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
8. When is the best time to visit Zanzibar Island?
The best time to explore the top places to visit in Zanzibar Island is during the dry season, from June to October, and again from December to February, when the weather is sunny and pleasant.
Conclusion
Zanzibar Island is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, cultural landmarks, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you're wandering the historical alleys of Stone Town, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, or exploring the lush greenery of Jozani Forest, the places to visit in Zanzibar Island offer something for every type of traveler. From tranquil nature escapes to vibrant beach parties, each destination on the island holds its own charm and story.
With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Zanzibar is more than just a tropical getaway—it’s an experience. No matter how long your stay, you’ll always find new places to visit in Zanzibar Island that surprise and inspire you. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Africa’s most magical destinations. Your journey to the best places to visit in Zanzibar Island awaits!