Things To Do In Zanzibar

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1. Stone Town

Stone Town
Top Things To Do 4.2 /5

1 km
from city center
1 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Highlights: Old Fort of Zanzibar, Darajani Market, Zanzib (Read More)ar, Old Slave Market, Zanzibar, Christ Church Cathedral, Zanzibar, People's Palace Museum, Zanzibar, Old Dispensary, Zanzibar, Forodhani Gardens, Zanzibar, Prison Island, Zanzibar, Freddie Mercury Museum, Zanzibar, Spice Tour in Zanzibar, Zanzibar, Hamamni Persian Baths, Zanzibar, Jaws Corner, Admire the breathtaking Zanzibari Doors, Princess Salme Museum, Zanzibar

Stone Town, or Mji Mkongwe, in Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital of the Zanzibar archipelago. This historic town is perfect for history and culture enthusiasts, reflecting its rich past through architecture, markets, and museums. In the 19th century, it thrived as a hub for trading spices, silk, and slaves, blending African, Indian, Arabian, and European cultures.

2. People's Palace Museum

People's Palace Museum
4.0 /5

1 km
from city center
2 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

The People's Palace Museum (originally called the Sultan's Palace), or Beit al-Sahel, is found on Mizingani Road in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Originally the Sultan's official residence in the 19th century, this three-story building is now a museum showcasing the history and culture of the Zanzibar Sultanate. Inside, you'll discover furniture, photographs, and personal items from the royal family.

3. The Rock Restaurant, Zanzibar

The Rock Restaurant, Zanzibar
Instagram Worthy 4.4 /5

35 km
from city center
3 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

The Rock restaurant is located on Michanwi Pingwe Beach in Zanzibar, known for its exclusive charm. Its fame comes from being built on a rocky outcrop in the Indian Ocean, creating a floating illusion during high tide. Accessible by a sand path during low tide or by boat during high tide, the restaurant provides seating inside and outside with ocean views.

4. Prison Island

Prison Island
4.3 /5

6 km
from city center
4 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, Kibandiko, or Quarantine Island, is a famous tourist spot with unique features. It is home to Aldabra giant tortoises and the remains of an old prison and hospital. While it once held slaves and served as a quarantine place, today, visitors can enjoy day trips exploring its history and natural beauty.

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5. Old Fort of Zanzibar

Old Fort of Zanzibar
4.2 /5

1 km
from city center
5 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

The Old Fort of Zanzibar is one of the oldest buildings in Stone Town in Zanzibar. The historical fort's courtyard now hosts curio shops selling tinga-tinga paintings, an open-air amphitheatre for dance and music shows, a restaurant, and a tourist information desk. It is a key venue for events like the Festival of the Dhow Countries, Sauti za Busara, and Zanzibar International Film Festivals.

6. Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest
Great For Family Outing 4.1 /5

25 km
from city center
6 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Jozani Forest, also called Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, is the only national park in Zanzibar, located in the southern part of Zanzibar. It is a small national park covering 50 square kilometres. Jozani is known for being the home of the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, an endangered species found only on the island, with around 5,000 of them in the forest. Jozani also has the largest indigenous forest in Zanzibar, including a large mangrove swamp.

7. Mtende Beach

Mtende Beach
Popular among Locals 4.3 /5

50 km
from city center
7 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Mtende Beach, situated on Zanzibar's southeast coast, is a quiet and warm rocky beach surrounded by ancient trees. Positioned in a big cove between two big rock formations, it's a great spot to watch the tides change, with white sand and emerald-green water perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can enjoy a swing on the rocks and explore natural tide pools with fish and crabs.

8. Kendwa Beach

Kendwa Beach
4.3 /5

47 km
from city center
8 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Kendwa

Kendwa Beach, situated on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, tranquil waters, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can engage in various water sports and beach activities, especially snorkelling and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters. The beach is also famous for the vibrant Full Moon Parties hosted by Kendwa Rocks, lasting throughout the night of the full moon.

9. Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Beach
4.1 /5

50 km
from city center
9 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar's Nungwi village is famous for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. This makes Nungwi a major spot for water activities like swimming, diving, and snorkelling, with plenty of dive shops to explore. Local folks offer charming sunset cruises on traditional Dhow boats, and the beach comes alive at night with a lively atmosphere.

10. Spice Tour

Spice Tour
Top Attraction 4.8 /5

62 km
from city center
10 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar, known as the "Spice Island," has a rich history as a global spice producer, particularly renowned for cloves. Nowadays, it's famous for a bigger variety of spices and tropical fruits. Taking a spice tour is a fantastic way to explore the island's spice legacy. Many tours around Stone Town offer a three-hour walking tour of a spice farm, where you can see, smell, taste, and learn about the spices grown on the island.

11. Darajani Market

Darajani Market
4.1 /5

1 km
from city center
11 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Darajani Market, found on Darajani Road near the Anglican Cathedral of Christ, is the lively main bazaar in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Also called Estella Market, it has been a traditional old food market since 1904, giving a vibrant peek into Zanzibar's culture and local life. It is best visited in the mornings when the shops are busy with fresh produce and an exciting fish auction.

12. Forodhani Gardens

Forodhani Gardens
4.1 /5

1 km
from city center
12 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Forodhani Gardens, also known as Jubilee Gardens and Forodhani Park, is a small park in Stone Town, Zanzibar, with a nice view of the Zanzibar harbour. When the sun sets, it becomes a lively open-air food market, attracting both locals and tourists who come to enjoy a variety of Swahili and Zanzibari street foods.

13. Snorkelling in Zanzibar

Snorkelling in Zanzibar
Top Things To Do

6 km
from city center
13 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a top snorkelling destination with clear waters and diverse marine life. Popular spots like Mnemba Atoll and Menai Bay offer opportunities to see coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles and dolphins. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Zanzibar promises unforgettable snorkelling experiences.

14. Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

6 km
from city center
14 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Diving in Zanzibar is an exciting experience with diverse marine life like manatees, rays, whale sharks, turtles, and dolphins. Its famous coral reefs are home to over 500 marine species, making it a top dive destination. Whether you're exploring deep-sea or shallow coral reefs, wall dives, shipwrecks, or drift dives, Zanzibar offers thrilling adventures for all.

15. Kuza Caves

Kuza Caves
Hidden Gem 4.1 /5

40 km
from city center
15 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Jambiani

Kuza Caves in Jambiani on Zanzibar's southeastern coast are natural limestone formations with a rich history. It is a 50-meter round sinkhole shaped over 250,000 years by rainwater on soft limestone. The cave has a 3-meter-deep freshwater pool with clear water, and you can explore it by crossing a small bridge and descending a few stairs. Visitors can regularly visit the Kuza Cave Culture Centre for a guided tour and a brief but informative lecture about the cave.

16. Old Slave Market

Old Slave Market
Top Attraction 4.3 /5

1 km
from city center
16 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Highlights: Christ Church Cathedral, Zanzibar, Zanzibar

The Old Slave Market, located in Stone Town, holds historical significance as one of the world's largest and last open slave markets. Arab traders oversaw its operations until the British shut it down in 1873. Today, the site is occupied by The Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ. A visit here lets you learn about the gut-wrenching slave history of Zanzibar.

17. Pemba Island

Pemba Island
Hidden Gem 4.1 /5

128 km
from city center
17 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Chake Chake Town

Pemba Island is a secluded and lesser-known spot, located 50 kilometres north of Zanzibar in Chake Chake town. This hilly island, 42 miles long and 14 miles wide, features dense forests, mangrove swamps, hidden beaches, lagoons, and tidal sandbanks. Pemba’s clear waters and vibrant coral gardens make it a great spot for diving, with the added attraction of an annual whale migration in July and August.

18. Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island
Top Attraction 4.5 /5

43 km
from city center
18 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Mnemba Island is a small private island owned by andBeyond, situated 3 kilometres off Zanzibar's northeast coast. It's renowned for its rich marine life and is surrounded by the Mnemba Atoll marine reserve, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving in Zanzibar. The island boasts white sandy beaches and coral reefs in the Indian Ocean, offering a peaceful retreat where visitors can spot a variety of marine life along with green sea turtles and dolphins.

19. Sunset Dhow Cruise in Zanzibar

Sunset Dhow Cruise in Zanzibar

21 km
from city center
19 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Sunset dhow cruises are a popular activity for tourists in Zanzibar. You can enjoy watching the sunset from traditional wooden dhows as they sail along the coastline. These cruises are available in places like Stone Town, Nungwi, and Kendwa, offering a serene experience on the calm waters of Zanzibar.

20. Surfing in Zanzibar

Surfing in Zanzibar

6 km
from city center
20 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a great place for surfing, with warm waters and perfect conditions for all levels. Its uncrowded coast has some of the world's best right-hander waves, giving surfers exciting rides in the island's peaceful surroundings.

21. Cheetah's Rock

Cheetah's Rock
4.5 /5

12 km
from city center
21 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Cheetah's Rock on Zanzibar's west coast is a rescue centre for animals like cheetahs, lions, leopards, zebras, and birds as well as otters. Take a guided tour to see the animals up close, learn their stories, and understand the Centre's conservation efforts. You can even interact with some animals under supervision.

22. Jambiani Beach

Jambiani Beach
Hidden Gem 4.1 /5

42 km
from city center
22 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Jambiani Beach in Zanzibar is a relaxed and picturesque destination located in the old fishing village of Jambiani. Its soft white sand, coconut trees, clear waters, and unique coral rocks make it perfect for a laidback beach retreat. The locals embrace a slow-paced life, known as the "pole pole," and rely on fishing and seaweed farming for their livelihoods.

23. Deep-Sea Fishing in Zanzibar

Deep-Sea Fishing in Zanzibar

21 km
from city center
23 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Deep sea fishing in Zanzibar is an exciting adventure for anglers of all levels. Charter fishing boats are available for half-day or full-day trips, equipped with modern gear and experienced crews to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Pemba Island and Latham Island offer excellent deep sea fishing opportunities.

24. Nakupenda Beach

Nakupenda Beach
Great For Couples 4.3 /5

8 km
from city center
24 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Nakupenda Beach, also known as Zanzibar Sandbank or Nakupenda Island, is a stunning sandbank in the Zanzibar archipelago, just a 15-minute boat ride from Stone Town Harbour. It's celebrated for its beautiful sandbanks, vibrant birdlife, and crystal-clear waters, making it a favourite for beach lovers and romantic couples. The Swahili name "Nakupenda" means "I love you," adding a romantic touch to this picturesque destination.

25. Freddie Mercury Museum

Freddie Mercury Museum
4.0 /5

1 km
from city center
25 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Located in Shangani, Stone Town, Zanzibar, the Freddie Mercury Museum is the world's first dedicated to the iconic Freddie Mercury. The museum was his childhood home when he lived in Zanzibar. It shows stuff like memorabilia, photos, and personal items from the musician's life and career. Situated in the historical Zanzibar Gallery, the museum is a must-visit for Queen fans.

26. Christ Church Cathedral, Zanzibar

Christ Church Cathedral, Zanzibar
4.2 /5

1 km
from city center
26 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Highlights: Old Slave Market, Zanzibar

The Old Slave Market in Stone Town, Zanzibar, hosts the Anglican Cathedral, built in 1879 by British missionaries on the site of East Africa's last permanent slave market. Divided into three areas, the cathedral showcases Christian architecture and includes the Slaves Monument and Slaves Chamber, highlighting the history of the slave trade.

27. Maalum Cave

Maalum Cave
4.1 /5

39 km
from city center
27 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Maalum Cave, located in Paje on Zanzibar's southeast coast, is a special well-maintained natural swimming pool. Carved from limestone, it's a unique and relaxing spot to connect with nature, perfect for swimming and unwinding.

28. Muyuni Beach

Muyuni Beach
4.3 /5

43 km
from city center
28 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Matemwe

Muyuni Beach, a small and private haven in Matemwe, Zanzibar, is close to the village of Matemwe and surrounded by a protective coral reef. Known for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, this unspoiled beach offers a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds.

29. Kitesurfing in Zanzibar

Kitesurfing in Zanzibar

21 km
from city center
29 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Kitesurfing in Zanzibar is a thrilling adventure for water sports lovers worldwide. With its steady winds and warm, shallow waters, Zanzibar is perfect for kitesurfing all year round. Top spots like Paje, Jambiani, and Dongwe offer long sandy beaches and excellent wind conditions.

30. Kitesurfing and Scuba diving in Paje Beach

Kitesurfing and Scuba diving in Paje Beach
4.4 /5

39 km
from city center
30 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Paje Beach on Zanzibar's east coast is famous for its beautiful scenery and exciting water sports. Known as Zanzibar's kitesurfing hub, Paje Beach also provides chances for scuba diving with turtles and a diverse range of colourful fish. The beach boasts white sand and turquoise waters, offering a picturesque backdrop for both daytime activities and lively nightlife.

31. Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
Great For Family Outing 3.7 /5

27 km
from city center
31 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre (ZBC) is a butterfly conservatory and tropical garden located near Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park on Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. Inside a netted enclosure, the centre houses hundreds of native Zanzibar butterflies, providing a unique and interactive educational experience for visitors.

32. Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation

Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation
Great For Family Outing 4.3 /5

50 km
from city center
32 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Nungwi

Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation in Nungwi, Northern Zanzibar, is a small zoo with interactive tours, started by Mr. Kilosa Haji Kilosa in the 1980s. It focuses on protecting local plants and animals, including endangered species like the Zanzibar red colobus monkey and Aders' duiker, as well as various birds. The site cares for animals such as monkeys, reptiles, turtles, ostriches, deer, and crocodiles.

33. Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond

Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
Great For Family Outing 4.0 /5

51 km
from city center
33 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Nungwi

The Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, also known as Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium, is a significant tidal pool located behind Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar. It serves as a project to protect and study sea turtles. Visitors can interact with the turtles, including activities like swimming, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. In February, the pond holds an annual release event, celebrating the successful rehabilitation of injured turtles as they return to the ocean.

34. Jozani Sea Turtle Sanctuary

Jozani Sea Turtle Sanctuary
3.2 /5

28 km
from city center
34 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Situated near the road to Paje, opposite the entrance to Jozani-Chwaka National Park, the Jozani Sea Turtle Sanctuary is a community effort owned by local Jozani farm owners in Zanzibar. Their goal is to protect sea turtles and help them recover. The sanctuary features three large pools where visitors can watch sea turtles and fish-farming activities together.

35. Mtoni Palace Ruins

Mtoni Palace Ruins
3.8 /5

4 km
from city center
35 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located on Zanzibar's western beach, the Mtoni Palace Ruins, one of the island's oldest palaces, offer a glimpse into the lives of Arabian royalty from many years ago. The ruins have a historic charm and even host a living history show with a concert and dinner every Tuesday and Friday for a cultural touch.

36. Princess Salme Museum

Princess Salme Museum
3.7 /5

1 km
from city center
36 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

The Princess Salme Museum in Stone Town, Zanzibar, is a small two-room museum that focuses on the life of Princess Salme, the Sultan of Oman's daughter. Guided tours by Mr Said Al Gheity, the curator, showcase her clothes, photos, and memories. The museum offers a glimpse into Princess Salme's fascinating story and the culture of Zanzibar during her time.

37. Village Green Spice Farm, Zanzibar

Village Green Spice Farm, Zanzibar
4.3 /5

18 km
from city center
37 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Village Green Spice Farm in Zanzibar, located in Mitakawan Village on the East side, provides an authentic experience run by friendly locals. The guided spice tours offer an interactive way to learn about different spices and fruits, with the added bonus of tasting them.

38. Old Dispensary, Zanzibar

Old Dispensary, Zanzibar
3.6 /5

1 km
from city center
38 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

The Old Dispensary, also called Ithnashiri Dispensary, is a historic building in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It used to be a dispensary in the early 20th century and now serves as a symbol of the city's diverse architecture. You can visit a small museum inside to learn about Zanzibar's history, and there's also a restaurant and office for tourists to explore.

39. Chumbe Island Coral Park

Chumbe Island Coral Park
Hidden Gem 4.2 /5

13 km
from city center
39 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Chumbe Island Coral Park, located 8 km west of Unguja in Zanzibar, is a protected island dedicated to marine, forest, and wildlife conservation for over 20 years. It's famous for its amazing coral reef, making it a top spot for snorkelling in East Africa with diverse marine life. Day trips offer chances to see unique wildlife and enjoy activities like Forest Walks and Birding.

40. Fukuchani Ruins & Cave

Fukuchani Ruins & Cave
3.5 /5

39 km
from city center
40 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Fukuchani Ruins & Cave in Zanzibar's Fukuchani village is a National Monument located 12 kilometres south of Nungwi. It includes ancient house ruins and a limestone cave from the 16th century with stalactites and stalagmites. The cave has a freshwater lake for swimming and snorkelling, where you can see submerged stalagmites and coral rocks.

41. Tumbatu Island

Tumbatu Island
Hidden Gem 3.8 /5

40 km
from city center
41 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Tumbatu Island, shaped like a dagger in the Kaskazini region, stands out with the reef that separates it from the rest of Zanzibar. It's the third-largest island in the Zanzibar group, only 2 kilometres wide and 8 kilometres long. Known for its quiet beaches, diverse marine life, and lively local culture, Tumbatu Island has a rich history.

42. Pongwe Beach

Pongwe Beach
2.8 /5

26 km
from city center
42 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Pongwe Beach, located on the east coast of Zanzibar between Kiwengwa Beach and Uroa, is known for its pristine beaches, calm atmosphere, and budget-friendly accommodations. It's less crowded than other popular beaches in Zanzibar. Pongwe is ideal for a quiet, secluded, and relaxed beach vacation. It offers activities like swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.

43. Uzi Island

Uzi Island
Hidden Gem 3.4 /5

33 km
from city center
43 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Uzi Island, located in the southern part of Zanzibar, is a quiet and untouched destination. With a length of 6 kilometres, it's the second-largest among the smaller islands around Zanzibar. Home to around 6000 people, Uzi Island provides a glimpse into rural Zanzibar life, showcasing its simplistic culture and traditions. The island is lush with mangroves, banana plantations, baobab trees, and beautiful white sand beaches.

44. Kizimkazi Beach

Kizimkazi Beach
Popular among Locals 2.6 /5

43 km
from city center
44 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Kizimkazi Beach is situated in a quiet fishing village of Kizimkazi, also known as Kizimkazi Mkunguni and Kizimkazi Mtendeni, on Zanzibar's southern coast. It's a popular place for Dolphin tours and snorkelling, offering a chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The beach is a peaceful spot with the highest tide in Zanzibar, making it good for swimming.

45. Kiwengwa Beach

Kiwengwa Beach
2.8 /5

28 km
from city center
45 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Kiwengwa Beach, located on Zanzibar's northeast coast, is known for its long, sandy shores and clear turquoise waters. Palm trees surround the area, creating a peaceful setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Kiwengwa's charm lies in its dynamic nature, as the beach goes through constant changes during high and low tide, shrinking and expanding by up to 200 meters.

46. Matemwe Beach

Matemwe Beach
2.7 /5

31 km
from city center
46 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Matemwe Beach in Zanzibar's northeast is the longest beach, known for its calm and friendly vibe. The white sand beaches and turquoise clear water are perfect for relaxing, and the area is famous for its stunning coral reefs, making it great for snorkelling and scuba diving. Matemwe is also the starting point for exploring the Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine area.

47. ZALA Park, Zanzibar

ZALA Park, Zanzibar
Great For Family Outing 3.1 /5

30 km
from city center
47 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Land Animal Park (ZALA) is a small animal shelter, located just 5 kilometres from Jozani National Park. Its main purpose is to teach kids about caring for endangered animals, specifically reptiles. During a tour led by a park ranger, visitors can get up close to most animals and reptiles, kept in small open-air enclosures, and even handle them if they want.

48. Bwejuu Beach

Bwejuu Beach
2.4 /5

38 km
from city center
48 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Bwejuu Beach, located on Zanzibar's southeast coast, is a peaceful retreat known for its white sands, palm trees, and calm turquoise waters. It's a quiet spot, perfect for those seeking relaxation and privacy. While it's one of the best beaches for swimming, keep in mind that low tide makes swimming impossible.

49. Hamamni Persian Baths

Hamamni Persian Baths
3.0 /5

1 km
from city center
49 out of 49
Things To Do in Zanzibar

Located in : Stone Town

Hamamni Persian Baths, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania, were built between 1870 and 1888 under Sultan Barghash bin Said's supervision. They were initially open to the public but stopped operating in the early 20th century. Today, they are a preserved cultural site where visitors can learn about Zanzibar's history and enjoy the views of Stone Town.

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