Zanzibar is an idyllic island off the coast of Tanzania in Eastern Africa known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and diverse marine life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to unwind, there’s something for everyone on this tropical paradise. There is so much to experience – I stayed for 10 days and still feel like I could go back for another 10 days and experience a completely new set of things & places I didn’t get to on my first trip

Bonus: If you aren’t wanting to read through my entire list of Zanzibar activities – these links are all my favorite things I did when I was in Zanzibar – as an easy reference!

Visit Mnemba Island

Take a day trip to nearby Mnemba Island for snorkeling and diving: Mnemba Island is a marine reserve located off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Take a day trip from Zanzibar and explore the coral reefs, relax on the beach and spot tropical fish.

Explore the underwater world on a scuba diving tour

Speaking of activities on the water – there are some AMAZING spots to go Scuba Diving too! Zanzibar’s waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even dolphins and turtles. Join a scuba diving tour and explore the underwater world with an experienced guide.

Visit Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is a nature reserve that’s home to the rare red colobus monkey, as well as other wildlife like bush babies and Sykes’ monkeys. I visited with just a taxi driver and expected to explore on my own but they actually have guides that take you around. I was paired up with a french family and the guide took us all around looking for different wildlife. There are a bunch of things you can see here but I was most interested in the monkeys! Surprisingly we spotted monkeys within 5 minutes of walking into the forest. 

This is definitely something you should do but isn’t something you need to book ahead of time – just get a driver or taxi to take you there and back and you can pay at the gate. No reservations are needed. If you want to go to both Jozani Forest & The Rock Restaurant I WOULD book this tour – it’s about the same price as what a taxi is going to cost and includes a tour guide. 

Take a Dhow Cruise

A dhow is a traditional wooden boat used for fishing and transportation in Zanzibar. Take a sunset cruise on a dhow and watch the colors of the sky change over the Indian Ocean. It was one of my favorite relaxing things I did in Zanzibar.

You can find these cruises online for $70+ and Im here to tell you that you don’t need to pay that much. What you need to do is go walk down on Nungwi beach and find the boats – they’ll be near the Italian restaurant called Mama Mia and I only spent 20k on my cruise. Just wear a bathing suit and be prepared to get wet when getting on the boat. 

Visit Prison Island

Prison Island is a small island off the coast of Zanzibar that was once used as a detention center for slaves. Today, it’s home to giant tortoises and a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming.

This Prison Island + Stone Town Tour is the best bang for your buck plus was one of my favorite tours and it covers both Prison Island, a Spice Farm and Stone Town in one day. 

Visit the ruins of the Maruhubi Palace and learn about Zanzibar’s history of slavery

Maruhubi Palace is a historical site located on the outskirts of Stone Town. You can visit to learn about Zanzibars history of slavery. Once a palace of the Sultan of Zanzibar, it was later used as a detention center for slaves. Visit the ruins and learn about Zanzibar’s complex history of slavery. I did not do this when I visited Zanzibar but it did come highly recommended by a few people that are interested in history. I am more of a beach + island girl so it was low on my list of things to do. 

Take a yoga class on the beach

Zanzibar’s stunning beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing yoga class. Join a local yoga instructor for a session on the beach, surrounded by palm trees and turquoise waters.

Go on a traditional ngalawa boat ride and explore the coastline

Ngalawa boats are traditional wooden boats used by local fishermen. Join a guided tour and explore the coastline, stopping at secluded beaches and snorkeling spots along the way.

Visit the Darajani Market and sample local foods and spices: Darajani Market is Zanzibar’s largest market, known for its colorful stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local crafts. Take a guided tour of the market and sample traditional Zanzibari foods such as Zanzibar pizza and cassava chips.

Attend a traditional Taarab music performance at the Dhow Countries Music Academy: Taarab is a traditional form of music in Zanzibar, influenced by Arabic, Indian, and African cultures. The Dhow Countries Music Academy is a cultural center dedicated to the preservation of traditional music in Zanzibar. Attend a Taarab performance and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the island.

Explore Historic Stone Town

No trip to Zanzibar is complete without a visit to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the narrow alleys and admire the intricate architecture, then visit the House of Wonders to learn about the island’s rich culture and history. The best way to make use of your time is to combine this with a Spice Farm & Prison Island all in one day on this Full Day Tour of Stone Town + Prison Island.

Eat Local Authetic Food

You’ll find there are SO many amazing places to eat in Zanzibar but one thing you must try is the local cuisine! If you’re staying in or near Nungwi – Mama Africa. The food is AMAZING. The Chipati was my favorite but also trying Ugali here was also a treat. In Stone Town you need to try Lukaan which is swahili cuisine. Go early as its e cafeteria style so the good thigns go first for dinner. If your back is to Lukmaan and you turn left – just down the street from Lukmaan, also on New Mkunazini Road there is an amazing street food vendor called T&B BBQ Restaurant with spicy chicken and garlic naan. T&B is also a great place to eat in Stone Town!

Go on a Spice Tour

Zanzibar is famous for its spices and herbs, and a spice tour is the perfect way to learn about the island’s aromatic treasures. Visit local farms and plantations to see cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and other spices in their natural habitat. Its one of the top things to do in Zanzibar and there are many tour options but this combo tour that covers Stone Town & Prison Island should be the one you check out. 

Relax on the Beaches

Zanzibar is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and sipping cocktails under a palm tree. We only

Try Kite Surfing or Wind Surfing

Zanzibar’s clear waters and steady winds make it an ideal destination for water sports like kite surfing and wind surfing. Take a lesson from a local instructor and ride the waves like a pro.

Visit Chumbe Island Coral Park

Chumbe Island Coral Park is a marine protected area that’s home to over 400 species of fish and coral. Take a day trip to this eco-tourism hotspot for snorkeling, kayaking, and guided tours of the island’s unique ecosystem.

Explore the Old Fort and Arts and Crafts Market

The Old Fort is a historic fortification that’s now home to an arts and crafts market. Browse local goods like woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and traditional clothing, then stop for a cup of spiced tea at a nearby café.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, Zanzibar has something to offer every traveler. Make sure these top attractions are on your itinerary for an unforgettable island getaway.

Visit the House of Wonders

The House of Wonders is a must-see museum dedicated to Zanzibar’s culture and history. Explore the exhibits and artifacts, then climb to the rooftop for a stunning view of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean.

If you’re looking for more content on Zanzibar you should absolutely check out my post Tips for visiting Zanzibar!