Things To Do In Zanzibar

5. Find out why Zanzibar is called Spice Island

Zanzibar has been a hub for spices for centuries, with traders from all over the world seeking its shores for fragrant pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon and more.

Discover the island’s rich history in spice production on tours that take you around the spice markets of Stone Town. You could also visit small organic farms where you’ll get an opportunity to touch, feel and even taste these spices. Enjoy a traditional meal infused with the island’s spices, and take some back home as a souvenir. 

6. Sail on a dhow 

The allure of the Indian Ocean is tough to resist, and the best way to experience its magic is aboard a dhow, a traditional boat. Watch the sky change colours and the sun dip into the waters as you sail gently on the ocean.

Enjoy a private dhow tour with your partner; it is one of the most memorable things to do in Zanzibar. Dhow tours are available during the day and most of them include trips to fabulous snorkelling spots along with a sumptuous lunch. 

7. Enjoy a day trip to Prison Island

Prison Island has a turbulent past. Once used to isolate troublesome enslaved people and quarantine those with yellow fever, Prison Island or Changuu Island is today a quick getaway from Zanzibar.

Take a short boat ride to its beautiful beaches and spend a few hours snorkelling and lazing on its soft sands. The star attraction here is the giant tortoises, some more than a 100 years old!

8. Dive or snorkel in the island’s iridescent waters

With crystal clear waters and numerous spots for discovering a fantastic underwater world, snorkelling is one of the most popular things to do in Zanzibar. Take a boat ride to Mnemba Atoll or Pemba Island and discover vast coral gardens and an amazing variety of sea life, including turtles, starfish, and more.

With visibility ranging between 20 and 60 metres, there are plenty of opportunities for all levels of divers too. The warm waters off Zanzibar are home to bottlenose dolphins and a handful of other dolphin species. 

9. Visit the island’s historic buildings 

Uncover Zanzibar’s rich past with a visit to some of its historic buildings. Right at the top of that list is the ‘House of Wonders’, the first building fitted with an elevator in all of East Africa, complete with electricity and modern plumbing. Built for the second sultan of Zanzibar, the building is an integral part of the island’s history, and a guided tour lets visitors in on some fascinating stories.

Nearby is the Old Fort, built in the 17th century and the oldest building in Zanzibar. Learn more about the region’s role in the troubling slave trade at the Slave Market Memorial. 

10. Dine at the Rock

One of Zanzibar’s most iconic images is that of a restaurant perched atop a large rock in the ocean. A meal at The Rock Restaurant is, quite expectedly, one of the most fun things to do in Zanzibar.

Wade out or take a boat, depending on the tide, for a unique dining experience and feast on fresh seafood with the most magical views. 

Experience a beach holiday like no other on an expert-curated trip to Zanzibar. Contact us for a tailor-made itinerary that matches your travel dreams.