51 Places to Visit In Zanzibar

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1. Stone Town

1 km from city center

Sightseeing

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,562

4.1 /5

50 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹3,330

Great For Family Outing 4.1 /5

25 km from city center

National Park

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 f (Read More)orest in Zanzibar, including a large mangrove swamp.

Tours starting from
₹6,490

4.3 /5

6 km from city center

Island

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

Zanzibar Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

9 Nights / 10 Days

10 Days Tanzania Honeymoon Luxury Safari & Zanzibar Beach Escape

Arusha(1N) → Tarangire National Park(1N) → Ngorongoro Conservatio...

Sold By: Lights On Africa ...(5.0 )

$6,200/person

5 Nights / 6 Days

5-Night Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire Honeymoon Escape

Serengeti National Park(2N) → Arusha(1N) → Tarangire National Par...

Sold By: Classic Wild Escapes(4.9 )

$ 4,500

44% off

$2,500/person

13 Nights / 14 Days

Ultimate Kenya and Tanzania Big 5 and Migration Safari Tour

Aberdare National Park(1N) → Samburu National Reserve(2N) → Ol Pe...

$6,221/person

11 Nights / 12 Days

12-Day Wildlife and Beach Holiday in Kenya

Amboseli National Park(2N) → Lake Nakuru National Park(1N) → Masa...

$5,687/person

1 Nights / 2 Days

2-Day Serengeti Safari Fly in and out from Zanzibar

Serengeti National Park(1N)

$1,601/person

2 Nights / 3 Days

3 Day Serengeti tour fly in from Zanzibar

Serengeti National Park(2N)

$1,954/person

View All Packages For Zanzibar

5. Kendwa Beach

4.3 /5

47 km from city center

Beach

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 (Read More) moon.

Tours starting from
₹3,330

4.3 /5

1 km from city center

Historical Site

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,306

7. Nakupenda Beach

Great For Couples 4.3 /5

8 km from city center

Beach

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 (Read More)this picturesque destination.

Tours starting from
₹4,304

4.5 /5

43 km from city center

Diving & Snorkeling

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 visito (Read More)rs can spot a variety of marine life along with green sea turtles and dolphins.

Tours starting from
₹4,227

Kitesurfing and Scuba diving in Paje Beach

4.4 /5

39 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹5,722

4.1 /5

1 km from city center

Street Food & Drinks

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,562

4.2 /5

1 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,306

Top Things To Do 4.8 /5

13 km from city center

Farms & Plantations

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 th (Read More)e spices grown on the island.

Tours starting from
₹2,562

13. People's Palace Museum

4.0 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

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.

Tours starting from
₹3,757

Hidden Gem 4.1 /5

42 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

4.4 /5

28 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

4.4 /5

31 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,184

4.0 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,306

4.1 /5

1 km from city center

Shopping Market

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.

Tours starting from
₹1,763

4.2 /5

1 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

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.

38 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

Great For Couples

21 km from city center

Boating & Cruises

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

Top Things To Do

6 km from city center

Water Sports

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

6 km from city center

Water Sports

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.

Tours starting from
₹9,650

Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond

Great For Family Outing 4.0 /5

51 km from city center

Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in : Nungwi

The Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond occupies a natural tidal lagoon behind Nungwi Beach and has been rehabilitating green and hawksbill turtles injured by fishing nets and boat strikes for more than thirty years, releasing recovered animals at an event each February. Visitors can feed the turtles seaweed and pay extra to swim in the lagoon with them, though handling wild turtles is best k (Read More)ept to a minimum. Note that two other turtle attractions operate within a few minutes' walk in Nungwi, so check which one a driver or tout is actually taking you to.

Tours starting from
₹5,722

Instagram Worthy 4.4 /5

35 km from city center

Restaurant

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.

Tours starting from
₹6,405

Hidden Gem 4.1 /5

40 km from city center

Cave

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 f (Read More)or a guided tour and a brief but informative lecture about the cave.

Tours starting from
₹6,832

4.1 /5

39 km from city center

Cave

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.

Tours starting from
₹8,540

Hidden Gem 4.2 /5

13 km from city center

Wildlife Sanctuary

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

26 km from city center

Beach

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, (Read More) kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

4.5 /5

12 km from city center

Wildlife Sanctuary

Cheetah's Rock is a privately run animal centre on Zanzibar's west coast, home to cheetahs, lions, leopards, zebras, otters and birds, many of which the centre describes as rescues. Tours are small, pre-booked well in advance and expensive. Note that the visit is built around close hands-on contact with the animals, big cats included, and direct physical contact with captive big cats is widely con (Read More)sidered unethical by animal welfare organisations. Read what the tour actually involves before booking.

Tours starting from
₹7,686

26 km from city center

Beach

Uroa Bay is a quiet fishing village and beach destination located on the central east coast of Zanzibar. Unlike the more commercial northern beaches, Uroa retains a laid-back, authentic vibe with calm turquoise waters, a long stretch of sandy shoreline, and a slower pace of life. It’s a great spot if you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and enjoy the simplicity of local coastal life.

3.8 /5

1 km from city center

Historical Site

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.

3.6 /5

1 km from city center

Historical Site

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,306

3.7 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

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.

3.8 /5

4 km from city center

Historical Site

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.

Tours starting from
₹2,562

Great For Family Outing 3.7 /5

27 km from city center

Butterfly Park

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.

Tours starting from
₹6,832

21 km from city center

Water Sports

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.

Popular among Locals

43 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

Popular among Locals 4.3 /5

50 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹5,722

8 km from city center

Island

Bawe Island is a small, uninhabited tropical paradise located just a short boat ride from Stone Town. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying secluded beach time away from Zanzibar’s busier coastlines. The island’s untouched nature and quiet atmosphere make it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility.

Hidden Gem

33 km from city center

Island

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 bea (Read More)utiful white sand beaches.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

Hidden Gem 3.8 /5

39 km from city center

Island

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

4.3 /5

43 km from city center

Beach

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,270

4.3 /5

18 km from city center

Farms & Plantations

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.

Tours starting from
₹5,124

3.5 /5

39 km from city center

Historical Site

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.

Tours starting from
₹8,540

4.0 /5

3 km from city center

Shopping Market

Mwanakwerekwe Market, located in the heart of Zanzibar's Unguja Island, is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the region. Known for its bustling atmosphere, the market offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, local spices, seafood, textiles, and handcrafted items. Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions as they explore the colorful stalls, interact with (Read More) vendors, and sample traditional Zanzibari foods.

6 km from city center

Surfing

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 km from city center

Fishing & Angling

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.

Tours starting from
₹4,560

4.5 /5

28 km from city center

Wildlife Sanctuary

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.

Tours starting from
₹5,722

Great For Family Outing 4.3 /5

50 km from city center

Zoo

Located in : Nungwi

Zanzibar Kilosas Conservation in Nungwi is a small private zoo started by Kilosa Haji Kilosa in the 1980s, holding monkeys, reptiles, turtles, ostriches, crocodiles and small antelope, and presented as a refuge for animals found injured or orphaned on the island. Entry is cheap and the tour is short. Some of the monkeys are loose and will climb on visitors, and they can bite, so keep children clos (Read More)e and do not encourage contact.

Tours starting from
₹5,397

Great For Family Outing 3.9 /5

30 km from city center

Wildlife Sanctuary

Zanzibar Land Animals Park, known as ZALA, is a small reptile-focused animal park about 5 kilometres from Jozani forest, set up to teach local schoolchildren about the island's endangered wildlife. Visitors are shown snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, hyrax and small antelope in open-air enclosures, and handling the animals is part of the standard tour, which is worth knowing if you would rather (Read More) not. We have not been able to confirm that it is still operating, so check locally before making the trip.

Tours starting from
₹12,468