Zanzibar is an archipelago off Tanzania's coast, with Unguja as its main tourist island. It combines Indian Ocean beaches with Stone Town's narrow streets, historic buildings and Swahili culture. You come for warm seas, spice-growing traditions, seafood and a distinctive blend of African, Arab, Indian and European influences.
The island has two quite different rhythms. Stone Town is dense, lively and best explored on foot, while the coast is slower and shaped by the tides. Zanzibar is a good choice when you want both cultural sightseeing and beach time, provided you account for the distances between different parts of the island.
How many days: 6
Spend one or two days in Stone Town, visiting historic sites, wandering through the lanes and trying local food. A guided walk can help explain the island's complex trading history and the legacy of slavery.
Move to a beach area for the remaining days. Nungwi and Kendwa suit those prioritising beach swimming, while the east coast has broad tidal landscapes and watersports. Include a spice farm or forest excursion if you want a break from the beach. Six days offers a balanced introduction.
What to do in Zanzibar
- Explore Stone Town
- Wander through the UNESCO-listed historic centre, with carved doors, narrow lanes and layered architectural influences. A knowledgeable local guide adds valuable context.
- Visit the Old Slave Market site
- Learn about Zanzibar's involvement in the Indian Ocean slave trade at a significant memorial and historical site. Approach the subject with appropriate time and respect.
- See the Old Fort
- Visit a historic fortification near Stone Town's waterfront. It offers a glimpse of the island's changing political history.
- Explore a spice farm
- Learn how cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and other spices grow. It is a useful way to connect Zanzibar's cuisine with its agricultural history.
- Visit Jozani Forest
- Walk through protected forest habitat known for Zanzibar red colobus monkeys. Keep your distance and avoid feeding wildlife.
- Relax on Nungwi Beach
- Spend time on the northern coast, where beach conditions can be less dramatically affected by low tide than on parts of the east coast.
- Discover Kendwa Beach
- Enjoy a broad sandy beach with views over the Indian Ocean. Check currents and conditions before entering the water.
- Explore Paje Beach
- Visit the east coast for expansive tidal flats and kitesurfing conditions when winds are suitable.
- Take a traditional dhow excursion
- Experience the coastline from a wooden sailing boat on a properly organised trip. Confirm safety equipment and weather conditions.
- Snorkel near Mnemba Atoll
- Join a responsible marine excursion to suitable snorkelling areas near the atoll. Access to protected or private areas may be restricted.
What to eat and drink
- Try Zanzibar biryani
- Enjoy fragrant rice with spices, meat or vegetables, reflecting the island's Indian Ocean trading connections.
- Eat grilled seafood
- Try fish, octopus or prawns with lime, chilli and local seasoning. Confirm preparation and pricing before ordering.
- Sample Zanzibar pizza
- Try a street-food speciality made with thin dough folded around savoury or sweet fillings and cooked on a hot surface.
- Have urojo soup
- Taste a tangy, spiced soup with a mixture of crunchy toppings and savoury ingredients.
- Try coconut-based Swahili cooking
- Look for fish, beans or vegetables simmered with coconut milk and spices. These flavours are central to coastal cuisine.
- Drink fresh sugarcane juice
- Try freshly pressed sugarcane, often served with citrus or ginger. Choose a stall with clean equipment and safe ice.
Getting around
Stone Town is best explored on foot because its narrow lanes are difficult for vehicles. Taxis and arranged drivers are the easiest option for travelling between Stone Town, the airport and coastal resorts. Local shared minibuses, known as dala-dalas, are available but can be crowded and less convenient with luggage.
Beach areas are spread around the island, and travel times can be longer than expected. A driver is useful for combining Jozani Forest and a spice farm with a transfer. Boats are used for marine excursions, but choose operators carefully and avoid travelling in unsafe conditions.
Good to know
- Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Dress modestly in Stone Town and villages, particularly away from beaches.
- Tides dramatically change swimming conditions on much of the east coast. Check the local tide pattern.
- Malaria and other mosquito-borne illnesses are relevant travel health considerations. Seek current medical advice before departure.
- Tourist entry, insurance and health requirements can change. Check official Tanzanian and Zanzibar guidance before travelling.
- Be cautious with valuables and avoid isolated beaches or poorly lit streets after dark.
- Respect marine wildlife, avoid touching coral and choose excursions that do not harass dolphins or other animals.