With its evocative name, Zanzibar conjures images of sultans’ palaces, idyllic beaches, and winding alleys leading to spice-laden markets. This archipelago, located 23 miles off the Tanzanian coast and commonly known as the Spice Islands, preserves many elements from its storied past as a vital trading hub. Stone Town—where you’ll find narrow streets lined with weathered buildings, the melodic chimes of Hindu temple bells, and men engrossed in the traditional game of bao—once served as the capital of the Omani sultanate.
Zanzibar’s pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees are major attractions, but the island’s true essence is found in exploring its rich cultural and historical heritage. Zanzibar offers a unique blend of past and present, making every visit to this East African paradise unforgettable.
Here are the best things to do and see in beautiful Zanzibar.
1. Wander the Maze of Stone Town
A visit to Zanzibar should start in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that vividly introduces the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. As the commercial and socio-cultural centre of the Zanzibar Archipelago, Stone Town invites exploration through its narrow alleys and rooftops, offering a sense of stepping back in time.
Discover a fascinating blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influences through intricately carved wooden doors and vibrant bazaars. Key landmarks, such as the ancient slave market, the Sultan’s Palace, the House of Wonders, and The Old Dispensary, provide deep insights into Zanzibar’s storied past and architectural heritage. Enjoy local cafes, eclectic shops, and the lively atmosphere that makes Stone Town truly unforgettable.
2. Watch Acrobatics and Capoeira on the Beach
On some evenings, you may catch a spellbinding display of local acrobats and capoeira performers outside the Livingstone Beach Restaurant in Stone Town. This vibrant beachside performance combines traditional acrobatic skills with the rhythm of capoeira, a Brazilian dance-fight art. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, this unique cultural fusion offers a dynamic and memorable evening, blending local entertainment with Zanzibar’s stunning natural scenery.
3. Buy Spices, Food and Fabrics at Darajani Market
Darajani Market (or bazaar), located in Stone Town, is a bustling hub where you can dive into Zanzibar’s vibrant market culture. The market is a sensory feast with exotic spices, traditional fabrics, and handcrafted goods. The rich aromas of cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon reflect Zanzibar’s spice trade history, while the colourful fabrics showcase the island’s cultural diversity.
4. Eat Zanzibar Pizza at Forodhani Gardens
Every evening, Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town transforms into a vibrant street food market, and Zanzibar pizza is one of its culinary highlights. This local specialty resembles a savoury crepe more than a traditional pizza and is a favourite among the bustling night market’s offerings.
Crafted from a ball of dough flattened and filled with ingredients like chicken or beef, onions, capsicum, an egg, cheese, mayonnaise, and optional chilli sauce, the pizza is folded into a square and fried until crispy. Cut into bite-sized pieces and served with a toothpick, it’s a delicious way to experience Zanzibar’s inventive street food culture, all against the backdrop of the lively market and stunning ocean views.
5. Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Discover a range of unique souvenirs in Stone Town and across Zanzibar that capture the island’s cultural essence. Browse lively markets and quaint shops to find intricately carved Zanzibari chests, vibrant Maasai jewellery, and colourful kanga fabrics. Each handcrafted piece reflects Zanzibar’s artistic traditions and provides a meaningful connection to the island’s history.
6. Dine at a Rooftop Restaurant
Enjoy a meal with panoramic views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean at rooftop restaurants like Emerson on Hurumzi and the Tea House Restaurant. The romantic setting and stunning sunsets create an unforgettable dining experience. The combination of historic architecture and breathtaking vistas offers a uniquely atmospheric and romantic way to savour Zanzibar’s gourmet offerings.
7. Learn About the Slave Trade
Explore the Old Slave Market, Slave Monument, and the House of David Livingstone in Stone Town to gain a profound understanding of Zanzibar’s historical role in the transatlantic slave trade. These sites provide a poignant exploration of the island’s past and impact on global history, offering historical context and personal stories that enrich your visit.
8. Ride a Dala Dala
Experience Zanzibar like a local by taking a dala dala, the island’s vibrant communal minibus. This informal form of public transport provides an authentic glimpse into everyday life, allowing you to interact with locals and experience the island’s bustling energy.
9. Enjoy Sundowners at Africa House Hotel
The terrace at Africa House Hotel in Stone Town offers a spectacular setting for sundowners. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the terrace provides stunning sunset views and a serene atmosphere. Relax with a cocktail as you watch the day turn to night, appreciating the blend of historic charm and natural beauty.
10. Swim in the Maalum Cave
Located near Paje, the Maalum Cave features a natural pool surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Couples can enjoy a tranquil swim in this secluded spot, offering a peaceful retreat from more crowded beach areas. The cave’s serene environment makes it a unique and refreshing escape within Zanzibar’s diverse landscape.
11. Take a Village Tour
Book a village tour in Zanzibar’s rural areas, such as Jambiani, to dive deep into the island’s unique cultural landscape. Here, you’ll witness traditional practices like seaweed farming, a vital part of Zanzibar’s coastal economy, and have the chance to share meals with local families. This immersive experience offers rare insights into the island’s distinctive way of life and fosters genuine connections with its people, which will help enrich your travel experience and allow you to enjoy a deeper connection to Zanzibar’s heritage in a way that few other activities can offer.
12. Admire the Beautiful Zanzibari Doors
Explore the intricately carved Zanzibari doors throughout Stone Town for a visual feast of artistic craftsmanship. Each door, adorned with elaborate designs, reflects Zanzibar’s historical influences and artistic traditions, offering a glimpse into the island’s architectural heritage. Not to mention, they provide the perfect backdrop for the obligatory Instagram holiday post!
13. Attend a Local Festival
Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s cultural vibrancy by attending local festivals such as Sauti za Busara and the Zanzibar International Film Festival. These events showcase local music, film, and art, providing a lively and engaging way to celebrate Zanzibar’s contemporary creative scene.
14. Be Adventurous and Eat Local Foods
Experience Zanzibar’s diverse cuisine by sampling dishes at street food stalls and local restaurants. Try specialities like urojo soup, mishkaki, and kashata, highlighting the island’s fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences and cultural diversity.
Related article: A complete travel guide for couples visiting Zanzibar
15. Relax on Nungwi Beach
The northern tip of Zanzibar, particularly around Nungwi, is a bustling hub of activity. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Nungwi attracts many tourists looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere, including energetic full-moon beach parties. However, if you prefer a quieter retreat, heading east along the coast reveals a more tranquil side of Nungwi, ideal for relaxation.
Nungwi is renowned for its stunning beach, featuring pale sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rock formations. The beach is home to a turtle sanctuary and is less affected by tides, making it excellent for swimming throughout the day. While some areas of Zanzibar can be troubled by seaweed, Nungwi generally remains clear. The beach area comprises two distinct sections: one lively with hotels, bars, and restaurants, which can be noisy and commercialised, and a quieter zone where you can find a more peaceful experience if you choose the right accommodation.
16. Visit Jozani Forest Reserve
Explore Jozani Forest Reserve, situated centrally in Zanzibar, to see the island’s native flora and fauna. The reserve is home to the endangered red colobus monkeys and various bird species and plant life. A walk through the lush greenery provides a peaceful and immersive nature experience, showcasing Zanzibar’s rich biodiversity.
17. Explore Prison Island
Prison Island, or Changuu Island, is a short boat ride from Stone Town and features historical ruins and a sanctuary for giant tortoises. Couples can explore colonial-era prison buildings, snorkel in the clear waters, and interact with the resident tortoises. The island’s historical significance and natural beauty make for a unique and enriching excursion.
18. Visit Spice Farms
Tours of Zanzibar’s spice farms offer an engaging and educational experience. Walk through spice plantations where you can see and smell various spices like cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla. This visit highlights Zanzibar’s historical role in the spice trade and provides insights into the cultivation and uses of these aromatic plants.
19. Discover the Rock Restaurant
The Rock Restaurant, perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean, provides a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Accessible by boat or foot during low tide, the restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a menu of fresh seafood. The unique location and picturesque setting make dining at The Rock Restaurant a memorable and romantic experience.
20. Enjoy Water Sports and Sunsets at Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Beach, on Zanzibar’s northern coast, is renowned for its serene waters and excellent conditions for water sports. The beach’s minimal seaweed and a selection of bars, restaurants, and dive centres create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The sunsets here are exceptionally breathtaking.
However, if you’re seeking complete peace, be aware that Kendwa can come alive during full moon parties featuring vibrant celebrations and local dancing. While these events can be great fun, they might not suit everyone, so it’s wise to check the lunar calendar before your visit. Though Kendwa does have its share of beach vendors, they are generally less frequent than those in Nungwi.
21. Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
Discover the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre in Matembwe, a vibrant community development project that combines conservation with local economic support. Set within a lush tropical garden enclosed by netted walls and roofs, the centre allows visitors to witness the fascinating lifecycle of Zanzibar’s native butterflies, from delicate cocoons to vibrant adults. Your entry fee helps fund local farmers who supply the cocoons—many of which are destined for museums around the world—and supports forest preservation efforts.
Guided tours conclude with a visit to an enchanting enclosure teeming with colourful butterflies and some charming chameleons. Conveniently located on the main road between Zanzibar Town and Paje, near the village of Pete, the centre is just 2km west of the clearly marked entrance to Jozani-Chwaka National Park.
