Zanzibar Island is that one place on Earth that embodies the idea of paradise – with tons of activities! With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, the Spice Island in the Indian Ocean is a dream destination.
In this two-week Zanzibar itinerary and guide, I’ll share with you my favorite activities in Zanzibar, from visiting beaches, and UNESCO sites to must-visit spots like Paje, Jambiani but also Stone Town, and Kiwengwa. I’ll also share my best picks for accommodation in Zanzibar that you don’t want to miss. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Zanzibar adventure!
(Updated Jan 2025)
Zanzibar Island Most Asked Questions:
Is Zanzibar Cheap or Expensive?
Zanzibar honestly can be both affordable and relatively expensive. You can find very affordable guesthouses for $18 a night but also high-end luxury hotels starting at $200+. One thing to consider is definitely the day trips and activities that won’t come cheap. On the lower end you can get by for $35 for a single person.
What is Zanzibar famous for?
Zanzibar is often referred to as the “Spice Island” due to its historical importance in the spice trade. Zanzibar’s lush spice farms produce a variety of aromatic spices, including cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper.
Do You Need a Visa for Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is visa-free for about 40 countries. Most nationalities, including citizens of most Western countries, can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport in Zanzibar or when entering Tanzania. This is typically a tourist visa that allows for a stay of up to 90 days and costs 50$ for a single entry.
There is the option of applying for an e-visa which I did. The process is straightforward and can save you time when arriving. Head to the official website here: Immigration Tanzania.
New Zanzibar Entry Requirement
Since October 2024, it’s now compulsory for every traveller to obtain the mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance when visiting Zanzibar. It will be valid for a stay of 90 days and costs 44 US per person. With that being said, you can get it on arrival at the airport or ferry or you can apply & pay online at the official Visit Zanzibar website.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season from June to October. This period offers sunny weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports.. The wet season from November to April brings occasional heavy rain but lush landscapes. Avoid the holiday season December/January as its packed and extremely hot and humid.
What’s the Currency in Zanzibar?
The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling, abbreviated as TZS. It is the official currency used for transactions throughout the country. While some tourist areas and businesses may accept US dollars or Euros, it’s best to have Tanzanian Shillings for day-to-day expenses and transactions. I’d suggest signing up for a prepaid Wise card to withdraw money abroad and save of additional costs.
20+ Best Things to See & Activities in Zanzibar + 2 Week Itinerary
Day 1-3 Explore Paje, Zanzibar Island
You will likely arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Stone Town Zanzibar. When you are at the arrival area of the airport in Zanzibar, go outside the terminal and you find a few shops that sell SIM cards. I have opted for Tigo (now Yas) but Vodacom is also great! However, if you want to plan ahead and have greater freedom, I suggest looking into buying an eSIM Card!
From there find your driver or talk to one of the taxi drivers to take you to Paje. Make sure to haggle for the price but expect to pay around $40-$60 per car.
Your drive to Paje takes approximately 1.15 hours.
1. Kitesurfing
Paje is famous for its excellent kitesurfing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kitesurfer, you can take lessons or rent equipment to ride the waves and enjoy the thrill of this popular water sport. Kitesurfing is truly one of the prime activities in Zanzibar! Prices for kitesurfing lessons start at $40 per hour, including equipment rental.
2. Relax on Paje Beach
Spend your days relaxing on the beautiful Paje Beach. The powdery white sand and clear blue waters provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing and long walks. For me it’s the best beach in Zanzibar, way more relaxed than Nungwi and despite needing to take the tides into consideration – it’s a stunner!
If you’re more into an active beach experience, I suggest going for this full-day Zanzibar Starfish Adventure Tour. Besides visiting the Blue Lagoon, you’ll stop at the popular Starfish beach, go for a snorkeling session and also stop at ‘The Rock Restaurant’. All in all, you’ll spend the day in the sun and on the prettiest beaches in Zanzibar!
3. Browse the Maasai Shops
During the day you can explore small shops in Paje that sell locally made crafts, jewelry, clothing, stunning paintings and Maasai souvenirs. Just browsing through is one of the best activities and a must when in Zanzibar. It’s one of these unique opportunities to pick up unique gifts to bring home.
4. Dine at “The Rock” Restaurant
Head up the coast to “The Rock” restaurant, perched on a coral rock in the Indian Ocean. It’s probably one of the most iconic dining spots and offers stunning sea views and a unique experience. Grab some fresh seafood and watch the tides change around you. Prices at The Rock start at $30 per person, so be sure to make a reservation for this extraordinary culinary adventure.
If you want to combine a visit to the Rock Restaurant and explore beyond, I recommend this traveler-approved wildlife & nature tour, Here you’ll explore the Jozani Forest with endemic Colobus Monkeys, Paje Beach, Caves and have lunch at the famous The Rock!
Paje: Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
Mlango Paje Villa Boutique was my favorite place to stay. Nestled close to the beach, the guesthouse only has a few rooms and a wonderful common area where breakfast is served. The rooms are lovingly decorated with Zanzibar deco and the staff was fantastic!
Paje Emerald Escapes is a new luxury villa right in Bali style. The individual chalets are stylishly designed, each with their own swimming pool and right in Paje’s center. The chalets are well-equipped to cater for you and your friends!
Book The Best Paje Accommodation in Zanzibar
Paje Best Restaurants
Mr. Kahawa Cafe – This cozy cafe in Paje serves excellent coffee and a variety of dishes, including breakfast options, sandwiches, and smoothies. It’s a popular spot for a casual meal and a caffeine fix.
Head to Lekker Lekker for a truly local dinner experience. This unassuming spot boasts some of the town’s best and most affordable food, with prices starting at $5 per person.
Nightlife in Paje
Paje offers a vibrant nightlife scene any day of the week. Don’t miss Jambo, the place to be for African music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere on Friday. If you’re seeking nighttime entertainment on other days, Africana offers a diverse crowd, live sports on TV, and affordable food.
Day 4-6: Jambiani, Zanzibar East Coast
Transitioning from Paje to the tranquil coastal haven of Jambiani is a breeze. A short taxi ride, costing approximately $20, will take you there. For a more local experience, consider a Boda-Boda ride, which may charge around 7000 Tzs or 2$.
Jambiani, on the east coast of Zanzibar, is a tranquil village known for its authentic and laid-back atmosphere.
5. Visit Jambiani Beach & the Seaweed Farms
After settling in, you have to visit the beautiful Jambiani Beach – definitely more quiet than Paje. This part was my favorite for a longer beach walk, as it’s wider and just more pretty.
During low tide, you will have the best chance to see the local women heading out to their seaweed farms. Often you can also find them looking for little mussles for a soup dish. Observing the local women and spending time on this beach is one of the best activities you can have in Zanzibar.
6. Explore Jambiani Village
Immerse yourself in Jambiani’s authentic atmosphere as you wander through its sandy streets. Here, time slows down, allowing you to connect with friendly locals and experience the traditional way of life preserved in this charming village. There are also some nice Maasai shops in town.
7. Dhow Boat Sailing
Mornings and afternoons are great to go on a journey aboard a traditional Dhow boat. These wooden vessels offer a unique opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and see Zanzibar from a different perspective. Dhow boat sailing is without a doubt one of the must-do activities when in Zanzibar!
Prices for 2 hours I believe start at around 20$, and 30$ with snorkeling.
If you’re in Stone Town, I recommend reserving this private sunset dhow cruise. Seeing the UNESCO Old Town from the sea and having an unobstructed view of the sunset makes for a special Zanzibar activity!
8. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park Zanzibar Island
Venture into the captivating Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, where you can encounter the playful Red Colobus Monkeys, unique to Zanzibar. Explore enchanting mangrove forests, adding a touch of wildlife wonder to your journey. As you make your way back to Stone Town, consider this worthwhile stopover. Entry fees are $12 for adults and $6 for children.
If you love to explore the Jozani Forest with a group of like-minded traveller, consider booking this half-day Jozani Forest & Nature Tour. Besides learning more about the endemic Colobus Monkey, you’ll learn more about medicinal plants and enjoy a leisurely stroll across the Mangrove boardwalk!
In Jambiani, the bustling nightlife and vibrant parties may be absent, but what you’ll uncover is a serene slice of Zanzibari paradise, providing a truly authentic and peaceful vacation experience!
Jambiani: Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
The Loop Beach Resort: Discover this enchanting beachfront resort nestled in Jambiani village’s heart. What sets The Loop apart is its harmonious blend of water sports activities, unique art pieces and tropical relaxation.
La Luna Suite Apartments within Mwezi Boutique Resort. These apartments redefine luxury with eco-conscious design. Designed by architect Sandro Gurioli, they embrace green building principles with Nordic fir wood. It’s an eco-friendly retreat offering privacy, independence, and resort services, including in-suite dining by their chefs.
Book The Top Jambiani Accommodation in Zanzibar
Jambiani Best Restaurants
Coco Jambo in Jambiani is known for its delicious seafood dishes and Swahili cuisine. It’s a great place to enjoy fresh catches of the day and traditional Zanzibari flavors while watching the waves.
LOST SOLES for a relaxed restaurant with local food and great prices! If you want to leave your old flip-flops behind, this place will make it part of their decoration, preventing it from ending up in the ocean!
Yellow Card Cafe for the best coffee in Jambiani plus they’ve got a great variety of local dishes at cheap prices.
Have you liked the Tanzania itinerary so far? Head over to my Instagram @christintheilig for more East Africa inspo and tips!
Day 7-11: Exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar
Depart from Jambiani and journey to the historic heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town. For a comfortable and picturesque ride, I recommend booking a spacious taxi
Stone Town, often regarded as the heart of Zanzibar, welcomes you with its captivating and seemingly timeless allure. Its maze-like alleys, adorned with historic architecture and bustling markets, fill the air with the enchanting aroma of spices. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a treasure trove of cultural heritage and rich history.
9. Explore UNESCO Stown Town
Take a leisurely stroll to discover the essence of Stone Town. This part of town is renowned for its ornate carved wooden doors, each a work of art and a cultural relic. These doors, adorning historic buildings, are steeped in history, each telling a unique story. They showcase the owner’s status, heritage, and beliefs through intricate designs.
For the ultimate Stone Town experience, I recommend booking a private half-day Stone Town City Tour. Your local Swahili guide will show you all the hidden spots and can shed more light on the city’s history.
From Arabic inscriptions to Indian and Swahili patterns, these doors are a testament to Zanzibar’s diverse influences and rich architectural heritage.
As you explore the winding alleys and bustling markets of Stone Town, you’ll find that losing your way often leads to delightful new discoveries.
10. Unwind at Jaws Corner
Once you made it to Jaws Corner you have arrived in the center of Stone Town. It’s the spot where locals gather to chat, sip on spiced tea, and play board games while watching football. It’s a great place to observe daily life in Stone Town and connect with the people!
11. Visit Daranjani Market
As one of your morning activities, I’d recommend visiting the lively Daranjani Market of Zanzibar. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling hub of commerce. Wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, exotic spices, seafood, textiles, and local crafts. Immerse yourself in the lively market scene and interact with friendly vendors.
During the slave era in Zanzibar Island, Daranjani Market served as a central hub for the transatlantic slave trade. The market was a bustling place where goods, including human beings, were bought and sold. The market’s grim history is a haunting reminder of the suffering endured by countless individuals during this dark chapter in Zanzibar’s past.
12. Explore the Anglican Cathedral
Explore the impressive Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church, which was constructed on the site of the former slave market. Inside, you’ll find a memorial to David Livingstone, the famous explorer.
13. Visit The Old Slave Market Museum
This museum is located at the site of the former slave market, which was one of the largest and most notorious slave markets in East Africa during the 19th century. The museum serves as a poignant reminder of Zanzibar’s history in the transatlantic slave trade and aims to educate visitors about the horrors of this dark period.
If you’re a culture and history buff, this is one of the activities you might enjoy most when in Zanzibar and Stown Town!
14. Dine on Rooftop at Emerson Hotel
Head to Emerson Spice Tea House for a delightful rooftop lunch. This charming restaurant offers a fusion of Swahili, Persian, and Indian flavors. The rooftop setting provides panoramic views of Stone Town.
15. Tour the Old Fort
Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later used by the Omanis, the Old Fort is an iconic Stone Town landmark. It often hosts cultural events and has a lovely courtyard, which shows lots of pretty souvenirs, Maasai art and other designs.
16. Food Journey Through Forodhani Gardens
In the evening, stroll over to the nearby Forodhani Gardens, a scenic waterfront park. These gardens are a great place to enjoy local street food, relax under the palm trees, and watch the Dhows sailing in the distance. Make sure to haggle about the price when you get food there!
17. Visit Prison Island & Tortoises
Embark on a captivating Prison Island Tour to explore the history and natural beauty of this unique Zanzibar destination. Originally intended as a detention center, the island now serves as a sanctuary for Aldabra giant tortoises. It’s the best opportunity to get up close to these majestic creatures, some of which are over a century old, and learn about conservation efforts. If you’re an animal lover this is one of the best activities I recommend on Zanzibar!
The island is also home to several historic buildings, including a former quarantine station and a prison that was never used as originally intended. You can explore these structures and learn about their history.
You can start a tour for as little as $10 by negotiating with boat captains at the harbor or book a relaxed Stone Town & Half Day Prison Island Tour. This is one of the best time-saving tours and is Z
18. Spice Tours
While Stone Town itself isn’t known for spice farms, I recommend you book this sensory-rich Zanzibar Spice Tour to explore the aromatic plantations. The tour provides a true insight into Zanzibar’s spice industry. Learning about the spices, tasting your way through the markets and more is one of the top activities you should consider doing in Zanzibar!
Stone Town Best Restaurants
Zanzibar Coffee House is my top tip when it comes to coffee. The place is very authentic, has a stunning rooftop you can visit as outside guests and is always buzzing.
Travelers Cafe for sunset! This beloved establishment offers a delectable culinary journey paired with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
Lukmaan is your best bet when it comes to affordable and tasty local food, any time of day!
Stone Town: Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
Kholle House is a stunning boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar, with a rich history dating back to 1860. This meticulously restored property showcases Princess Kholle’s cherished artifacts and offers a haven for guests seeking sophistication and charm. It features eleven individually designed rooms, blending Swahili and French-Creole influences – and has a swimming pool for these hot summer days!
Shoki Shoki House is a wonderful boutique hotel near Freddy Mercuries House. Nestled in a small lane, the traditional Swahili house is lovingly decorated with local interior and has a charming terrace. For the budget option, you have Shoki Shoki Hostel just a few lanes down.
Book The Best Stone Town Accommodation in Zanzibar
Day 12-14: Kiwengwa
Kiwengwa is known for its serene and unspoiled beaches, making it a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist areas of Zanzibar Island. The long coastline and clear waters are perfect for relaxation and water activities. It offers a blend of natural beauty and water adventures, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil beach getaway with a touch of adventure.
19. Kiwengwa Beach
Start your day by simply unwinding on the stunning Kiwengwa Beach. The soft, powdery white sand and the turquoise waters are perfect for a peaceful morning walk or sunbathing.
20. Windfoiling Course
Windfoiling, also known as foil windsurfing or windfoil, is an exciting and relatively new development in the world of windsurfing. It combines traditional windsurfing with hydrofoil technology to offer a unique and exhilarating riding experience. Whether you’re an experienced windsurfer looking for a new challenge or a newcomer to the sport, windfoiling is worth exploring
Kiwengwa also offers opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and traditional dhow boat rides. Again of the best places to participate in water activities when in Zanzibar!
Kiwengwa Best Restaurant
Upendo Zanzibar offers a delightful beachfront dining experience. The restaurant specializes in seafood and international cuisine, and you can enjoy your meal with your feet in the sand.
The Beach Lounge is the ideal place for dinner, a snack or just to watch the kitesurfers. The food is varied and tasty – some of the most stylish places on the East Coast!
Kiwengwa: Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
Mvuvi Boutique Resort: Mvuvi is an exclusive boutique hotel located on the pristine white sand beach of Kiwengwa. With only eight rooms, it offers a private and secluded retreat for travelers seeking tranquility. This oasis is immersed in lush greenery and deeply rooted in Swahili culture, creating a warm and serene atmosphere surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Book The Top Kiwengwa Accommodation in Zanzibar
Zanzibar Itinerary Extention: 1-2 Days Nungwi
If you have an itch to explore the North of Zanzibar and visit the popular Nungwi and Kendwa area – this is for you. Both Nungwi and Kendwa are considered the most touristy places on Zanzibar, catering to package holidays and people looking for party.
It’s also one of the only places in Zanzibar where you can catch the sunset!
21. Nungwi Sunset Dhow Cruise
Every day at around 4 PM, those traditional shows start leaving the beaches for a relaxing sunset cruise. If you’re into sunsets and a true local experience, I recommend booking this laidback sunset dhow cruise tour. You’ll be joined by a Tanzanian drum group that accompanies the journey while you sail from Nungwi towards Kendwa having the most unobstructed views of the sunset. You can jump off the boat, sit on top of the roof and make new friends while ending the day.
22. Swim with Horses
If you’re a horse lover, this Zanzibar activity is something you’ll love. Every afternoon, you can head out to the beach and will swim for about 30 minutes in the turquoise water. It looked stunning from the coast and this is certainly one of the only places in Zanzibar (and beyond) I’ve seen this. To book the experience, head here to the Zanzibar Horse Club and be sure to take lots of pictures!
Nungwi: Best Accommodation in Zanzibar
Maisha Boutique Hotel is a fabulous luxury option right in the tip of Zanzibar and Nungwi. Situated right by the beach, it features two swimming pools, a restaurant with sea view and regular events with live music.
Makofi Guesthouse is a fabulous place with a great vibe and bar. They have single rooms but also a few new dorm rooms if you want to meet fellow traveller. I can highly recommend their events especially Christmas BBQs and New Year’s Eve Dinner – especially if you’re a solo traveller.
Book The Top Nungwi Beach Accommodation in Zanzibar
When I visited over the Christmas and New Year period, I felt the whole area to be a hassle. Especially as a solo female traveller, you’ll get bothered all day long and a simple ‘no’ isn’t enough. I was honestly exhausted after my time and can only say: Paje over Nungwi any time!
I hope this post gave you a better idea of all the activities in Zanzibar so you can plan your best possible adventure.
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Women Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without
Travel Insurance
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Travel Money Card
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