Zanzibar is one of the best tourist destinations in Africa for good reasons. The island is known for its pristine beaches (one of the best in the world), natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious meals. It is a perfect destination for those looking for cheap tropical vacations and alternatives to the Maldives with incredibly fun things to do.
Zanzibar is an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean off the northeast coast of Tanzania. This beautiful Archipelago is home to more than 40 islands, with Unguja and Pemba being the largest. Unguja is the most popular tourist destination for its beautiful sandy beaches, historic Stone Town, and abundant marine life. But, there are many other interesting places and things to do in Zanzibar.
With these in mind, here are my recommendations for the top 10 things to do in Zanzibar.
Perhaps you need more options to explore the continent, check out the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers and the best countries to visit in Africa.
10 Best Things To Do in Zanzibar
Below are the top 10 must-do activities on your visit to the Zanzibar archipelago.
1. Enjoy Warm Weather on the Sandy Beaches of Zanzibar
The weather in Zanzibar is favorable all year round making it one of the best warm places to visit in the world. Hence, one of the top things to do on your visit to Zanzibar is to enjoy the warmth of the sun at the beaches away from the harsh winter of Europe. Laze on the sandy beaches surrounded by palms and swim in the clear blue waters.
Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
There are many gorgeous beaches to choose from on Unguja Island, so don’t limit yourself to one. These are my favorite beaches on the island due to their beauty and calmness:
- Kendwa
- Nungwi
- Jambiani
- Kizimkazi
- Pongwe
- Matemwe.
If you love the nightlife, Nungwi Beach has a vibrant nightlife where you can dine and drink beside the calm waters.
2. Explore the Historic Stone Town
Street Arts along the streets of Stone Town, Zanzibar
Take a break from the beach to explore the historic center of Zanzibar city called Stone Town. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it features a great blend of African, Arab, and European influences.
The best way to explore this city of history is on foot and a guided tour. So, you can join a guided walking tour. Your guide will lead you through the narrow streets to the old buildings and vibrant markets in Stone Town. I recommend you travel with your camera because you would want to keep the memories of the sites you visit.
You can also decide to take a tour of the city by yourself. Stroll down Zanzibar’s alleys, eat some street food, and see the brilliant traditional architecture at your pace.
The People’s Palace Museum, Zanzibar
These are my top recommendations for must-visit Stone Town attractions:
- The People’s Palace Museum
- The Old Fort of Zanzibar
- Darajani Bazaar
- Darajani Fish Markets
- Old Dispensary
- Old Slave Market/Anglican Cathedral – where the slave market started in Zanzibar in the early 19th century. It was later converted to a church marking the end of the slave trade in the area around the late 19th century.
3. Visit Prison Island (Changuu Island)
Changuu Island – TOP Things To Do in Zanzibar
Another top thing to do on your visit to Zanzibar is to take a short boat ride from Stone Town to Prison Island. It is traditionally called Changuu Island. The prison constructed on the island in the 1800s was never used. Instead, the island is now known for its giant Aldabra tortoises. You are allowed to touch, feed, and even take a selfie with the tortoises.
Giant Aldabra Tortoise on the Prison Island in Zanzibar
On your ride back to Zanzibar city, take in the views of gigantic mansions along the waterfront. These buildings were erected in the 1800s to pull foreigners into the Island.
I advise that you plan your visit to Prison Island in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
4. Take a Boat Ride to Nakupenda Sandbank
Nakupenda Sandbank, Zanzibar
For a snorkeling and diving experience take a boat ride to Nakupenda Sandbank. This beautiful long trail of white sand is just off the coast of Stone Town. The name Nakupenda means “I love you” and is one of the best sandbanks in Africa. Snorkel and dive in Nakupenda Beach.
However, the most interesting part is that, after soaking in the clear waters, you can have a delicious seafood barbecue for lunch prepared by the local fishermen.
The best time to visit Nakupenda Sandbank is in the morning before the crowds arrive.
5. Go on a Spice Tour
Zanzibar is known for its spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Hence, one of the best things to do in Zanzibar is to go on a spice tour.
Spice Tour in Kizimbani Farms, Zanzibar
Visit Kizimbani Spice Farm, the largest spice farm in Zanzibar to learn about various fruits, plants, and spices. It’s an educational experience and you can also purchase spices from the spice markets on Zanzibar Island.
While on your spice tour, you can participate in a cooking class for in-depth knowledge of how the spices are used. You will also get to taste delicious meals.
6. Explore Uzi Island
Peaceful and Calm Uzi Island, Zanzibar
Uzi Island is a calm and quiet island just off the coast of Unguja. The island is suitable to escape the bustling Zanzibar city and beaches. Uzi Island offers amazing scenery of mangroves, banana plantations, and mango trees. It’s also a part of a conservation area, hence the area boasts of seaweed, corals, plant species, and several land and sea animals.
During high tides, the only way to get to the island is by boat, but at low tides, the single road to the island surfaces. I recommend you visit the island in the low tides to experience the Uzi Island Mosses Road. Then, take a canoe trip through the thick lush mangroves, see the birds, and learn a bit about seaweed farming.
In the Mangroves you will discover the hollow baobab and Champaign baobab trees, one of the most iconic African trees.
7. Watch the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey in Jozani Forest
One of the top things to do in Zanzibar is a visit to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. This is Zanzibar’s largest conservation area and the only national park situated on the island. The park houses red Colobus monkeys, bush babies, Skye’s monkeys, and more. The best way to explore the park is by going on a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide will be valuable in helping you learn about the ecosystem.
So, pick an afternoon and take a one-hour walking tour to the Jozani Forest. Watch the red Colobus monkeys in their habitats, and see the birds and other animals. Your tour guide will also lead you to see the elephant shrew.
In addition, you will get to walk around the peaceful mangroves of Chwaka Bay and take in the beautiful scenery.
Tip: If you’re on a budget, you can pay for a local guide in the area as tours are a bit expensive.
8. Snorkel with Dolphins in Zanzibar
Snorkeling with dolphins is one of my favorite things to do in Zanzibar. Zanzibar coastal waters are home to various species of dolphins such as the bottlenose dolphins and humpback dolphins.
Kizimkazi Dolphin Tours, Zanzibar
I recommend the Kizimkazi fishing village and Mnemba Island for dolphin tours. These are the best locations for swimming with dolphins in Zanzibar. However, dolphins are very sensitive animals, so it is advised not to touch or chase them. So, your boat captain will advise if it’s right to snorkel with the dolphins or just watch them from afar. If you’re lucky, you may get to swim with them. Either way, it is still a fascinating and memorable adventure you shouldn’t miss.
9. Explore Zanzibar’s Caves
On your Zanzibar holiday, ensure to add the Zanzibar’s caves to your itinerary. Explore the captivating limestone-formed caves and swim in the cool waters. Try to visit more than one cave on a day trip to maximize your Zanzibar experience.
Kuza Caves in Zanzibar
Popular caves in Zanzibar you should visit include:
- Swahili Cave – The Swahili Cave has a great ambiance as you get to wine and dine at a designated bar area.
- Kuza Cave – This is my favorite cave because of its local feel. You will be greeted by the locals with drums and beats. The highlight of this cave is the turquoise waters and vibrant local community. Plus, all profits from tourist visits go to the community.
- Maalum Cave – Although pricey, the Maalum Cave is worth visiting for its fascinating environment. You can also drink fresh juices at the bar and relax in the clean arena.
10. Visit the untouched Pemba Island
Pemba Island, Zanzibar
Visiting Pemba Island is unarguably one of the top things to do in Zanzibar. Pemba Island is the second largest island in Zanzibar known for its lush landscapes and clove plantations. It is also a peaceful island with stunning beaches to swim in, coral reefs, and abundant marine life.
First, walk around the main town of Pemba, Chake Chake, and discover the Mkama Ndume ruins, a fortification dating to the 15th century. From there, take a trip to Misali Island to swim in the calm beaches and see coral reefs. You will get to see Fischer’s turaco, a colorful rare bird on the island. The clear waters of Misali Island are equally great for diving and snorkeling.
In addition, visit Pemba Flying Fox Forest and Ngezi Forest Reserve on the same trip. Have a close-up view of Pemba Flying Fox fruit bats roost at sunset. Watch flying foxes, birds, and other wildlife in Ngezi Forest Reserve.
Top Things To Do in Zanzibar – Conclusion
Will you be visiting Zanzibar soon? If you would, endeavor to add some of the above-mentioned must-do experiences in Zanzibar to your itinerary. Might I add that a Zanzibar holiday is ideal for solo travelers and family members? Do well to write feedback from your visit in the comment section.
