Zanzibar is paradise with white sands, turquoise waters, and unforgettable culture – but planning the perfect 2 week itinerary can be overwhelming. In this guide, I’ll show you the best beaches, must-see towns, and insider accommodation picks so you can book your ideal stay in minutes and experience Zanzibar stress-free.
I’ll share with you my favorite activities in Zanzibar, from visiting beaches and UNESCO sites to must-visit spots like Paje, Jambiani and Stone Town. I’ll also share my best picks for hotels in Zanzibar that you don’t want to miss.
I spent nearly two months traveling solo in Zanzibar, and this itinerary reflects the places that felt safe, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable on your own.
Essentials to Know For Your 2 Week Zanzibar Itinerary
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 $35 for a single person.
Do You Need a Visa for Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is visa-free for about 40 countries. Most nationalities, including citizens of most Western countries, can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport in Zanzibar or when entering Tanzania. This is typically a tourist visa that allows for a stay of up to 90 days and costs 50$ 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.
If you want to be connected and online from the get-go, make sure to buy an eSIM Card for 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.
Two Weeks Zanzibar Map
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season from June to October. The wet season from November to April brings occasional heavy rain but lush landscapes.
2 Week Zanzibar Itinerary: Best Things to Se & Do
Day 1-3 Paje, Zanzibar Island
You will likely arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
To get to Paje easily, book a private transfer from the airport to Paje. It’s stress-free, comfortable, and lets you start your Zanzibar adventure right away
Paje is a vibrant beach town with soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back vibe. Perfect for kitesurfing, strolling along the shore, or discovering local crafts.
Where to Stay in Paje for Beach & Lively Vibes
Staying in Paje is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, friends who love water sports, or solo travelers wanting a lively but chill beach town. You’re close to kitesurfing schools, beachfront restaurants, and local craft shops, so you can wake up, step onto the sand, and dive straight into the island experience.
Steps from the turquoise waters of Zanzibar’s east coast, Kisiwa on the Beach offers stylish, oceanfront rooms with private terraces. Perfect for relaxing beach mornings and sunset views.
Samawa Living is a boutique eco-lodge blending modern comfort with authentic Zanzibari design. Enjoy a serene retreat, personalized service, and easy access to local beaches and village life.
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.
Book The Best Paje Accommodation in Zanzibar
Explore Paje & Surroundings
If you love nature and local culture, kick off your Zanzibar journey by booking a full-day Adventure & Beach tour. This one lets you wander Jozani Forest, explore Kuza Cave, relax along Paje Beach, and enjoy a meal at The Rock Restaurant. Ideal for first-time visitors and anyone wanting a mix of wildlife, scenery, and iconic dining.
Unwind on Paje Beach
The powdery white sand and clear blue waters on Paje Beach provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing and long walks. For me, it’s the best beach in Zanzibar, way more relaxed than Nungwi!
Dine at “The Rock” Restaurant
The tour will finish up the coast at “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.
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 on any 2 week Zanzibar itinerary! Prices for kitesurfing lessons start at $40 per hour, including equipment rental.
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. Shopping in the Maasai market has to be part of your 2 week Zanzibar itinerary. It’s one of these unique opportunities to pick up unique gifts to bring home.
Day 4-6: Jambiani, Zanzibar East Coast
Jambiani, on the east coast of Zanzibar, is a tranquil village known for its authentic and laid-back atmosphere. Jambiani, just a short ride down the coast, offers a quieter, more authentic village vibe.
It’s perfect if you’re looking to slow down, enjoy long walks along pristine beaches, and connect with local life, with fewer tourists and a more laid-back pace.
Where to Stay in Jambiani for a Quiet Beach Escape
Jambiani is the East Coast’s serene escape, ideal if you like a slower pace, long walks on quiet beaches, and an authentic village atmosphere. It’s a peaceful retreat while still being close to local culture and the turquoise waters!
Be Zanzibar Hotel is a stylish, modern rooms with beachfront access, friendly staff, and easy connections to local attractions. Great for those who want comfort, convenience, and a bit of luxury without losing the village charm. Very in demand!
The Loop Beach Resort is a vibrant beachfront hideaway combining tropical relaxation with water sports and art-inspired décor. Ideal for a mix of adventure and chill days
Mwezi Boutique Resort – eco-luxury meets independence. Private suites with Nordic-inspired interiors and resort services like in-suite dining, perfect for couples or small groups.
Book your favourite room early, places in Jambiani sell out fast!
Visit Jambiani Beach & the Seaweed Farms
After settling in, you have to visit the beautiful Jambiani Beach – definitely quieter than Paje. This part was my favorite for a longer beach walk, as it’s wider and just prettier.
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 mussels for a soup dish. Observing the local women and spending time on this beach is a must on this 2 week Zanzibar itinerary.
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.
Dhow Boat Sailing
Mornings and afternoons are great for going 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 on your 2 week Zanzibar itinerary!
Day 7-11: Exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar
Depart from Jambiani and journey to the historic heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town. For a comfortable and hassle-free ride, reserve a private transfer to Stone Town here.
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.
Where to Stay in Stone Town for City Walks & Island Trips
Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar and the best place to stay if you care about history, architecture, and local life. It suits culture lovers, photographers, and travelers who want depth, not just pool days – ideal for any 2 week Zanzibar itinerary!
Emerson Spice Hotel is a historic boutique hotel in the heart of Stone Town, known for its atmospheric rooms and iconic rooftop restaurant. Best for travelers who want character, culture, and a memorable dining experience just steps from their room.
An elegant heritage hotel, Jafferji House features spacious rooms and refined interiors, making this a great choice for couples or travelers who want comfort and authenticity in a central Stone Town location.
Kholle House is a beautifully restored heritage hotel dating back to 1860, right in the heart of Stone Town. Expect elegant Swahili and French-Creole design, a peaceful courtyard, and a pool to cool off after exploring the city. Ideal for couples and travelers who want character and comfort.
Shoki Shoki House is a wonderful boutique hotel I have stayed in many times. A great option for travelers who want to be central without the hotel feeling impersonal.
Book The Best Stone Town Accommodation in Zanzibar
Explore UNESCO Stown Town & Prison Island
If you only book one experience in Stone Town, this is it. Start with a guided walk through the UNESCO old town, where a local guide explains the history behind the carved doors, markets, and former slave sites. From there, continue by boat to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises and historic ruins. You can book this Stone Town walking tour with Prison Island here, and cover the essentials in a relaxed half day without overplanning.
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.
Unwind at Jaws Corner
Once you make 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!
Visit Daranjani Market
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.
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.
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.
Visit Prison Island & Tortoises
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 must-visit place on your 2 week Zanzibar itinerary!
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!
Optional North Zanzibar Add-On: Nungwi (1–2 days max)
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 a party.
It’s also one of the only places in Zanzibar where you can catch the sunset!
Nungwi Full-Day Snorkeling & Beach Experience
If you head north, this is the one experience worth planning around. You’ll spend a full day exploring some of Zanzibar’s best spots, including snorkeling around Mnemba Island, see sea turtles up close, and relaxing on quieter, hidden beaches near Nungwi.
The day ends with sunset time by the ocean and a seafood BBQ, which makes it feel complete without rushing. You can read more and book the Zanzibar full-day private tour here, and cover snorkeling, wildlife, and beaches in one go instead of piecing it together yourself.
Nungwi Sunset Dhow Cruise
Every day at around 4 PM, traditional dhows start leaving the beaches for a relaxing sunset cruise. 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.
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!
Where to Stay in Nungwi
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!
Zanzibar is an island that rewards slowing down and choosing your bases carefully. After spending nearly two months here, I found that fewer stops on a 2 week Zanzibar itinerary and the right locations make all the difference, from relaxed beach days in Paje and Jambiani to the cultural depth of Stone Town and a short, purposeful trip north to Nungwi.
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