Zanzibar Excursions

Zanzibar, an enchanting island off the coast of Tanzania, offers far more than just picturesque beaches and turquoise waters. Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar boasts a vibrant history, diverse culture, and some of the finest excursions in East Africa. Visitors are spoilt for choice with activities ranging from historical explorations and wildlife encounters to adventure sports and culinary tours. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or in search of relaxation, Zanzibar has excursions for everyone. These trips not only reveal the stunning beauty of the island but also connect visitors to its rich culture and friendly people. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 Zanzibar excursions, each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s wonders.

A guided tour of Stone Town is an essential Zanzibar excursion. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, bustling bazaars, and vibrant mosques. A typical tour covers important sites like the former Slave Market, the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the Sultan’s Palace. Walking through Stone Town immerses you in the blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences that have shaped Zanzibar for centuries. Local guides share fascinating stories about Stone Town’s past as a sultanate, a major slave trading center, and its modern transformation. Visitors can admire intricate wooden doors, taste local snacks, and browse colorful markets. The Stone Town tour is more than sightseeing; it’s a journey through history, culture, and community, all set within the evocative aroma of clove and spices. This excursion is best taken with an experienced guide to make the most of the town’s hidden gems and insightful legends.

Zanzibar is renowned as the “Spice Island,” and a visit to a local spice farm is a truly sensory experience. These tours take visitors through lush plantations where spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and black pepper are grown. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll see, touch, and taste a variety of spices and tropical fruits while learning about their uses in cooking and traditional medicine. Spice farm tours are interactive, often offering demonstrations of how spices are harvested and processed. You can also discover the origins of Zanzibar’s historical spice trade, which has influenced the island’s cuisine and culture. The tour usually ends with a meal flavored with the very spices found on the farm, providing a delicious finale. Ideal for families, foodies, and anyone with a curious mind, the Spice Farm Tour is essential for better appreciating Zanzibar’s unique culinary traditions and agricultural heritage.

Located a short boat ride from Stone Town, Prison Island—or Changuu Island—is a fascinating sanctum that combines history, wildlife, and beautiful beaches. Originally built as a prison for rebellious slaves in the late 19th century, the island later served as a quarantine station. Today, Prison Island is best known for its colony of giant Aldabra tortoises, some over a century old. Visitors are welcome to feed and photograph these gentle creatures while learning about conservation efforts. The island also offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life just offshore. Wander the historical buildings, relax on the white sandy beaches, or take a dip in the clear waters. This excursion uniquely blends history, wildlife encounters, and watersport activities, making it a favorite among couples, families, and history enthusiasts alike. Read More

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is Zanzibar’s only national park and an ecological treasure trove. The forest is most famous for its population of endemic Red Colobus monkeys—one of the rarest primates in Africa—which visitors can often observe up close. Beyond monkeys, Jozani is home to other wildlife such as bush babies, duikers, and numerous bird species. Guided walks lead you through towering mahogany and eucalyptus trees, mangrove boardwalks, and medicinal plants, immersing you in the island’s rich biodiversity. Knowledgeable guides explain the delicate balance of Zanzibar’s unique ecosystem and ongoing conservation work. For nature lovers and eco-tourists, the Jozani Forest Tour is a must, offering a peaceful retreat into the island’s lush interior and an opportunity to witness some of the planet’s most unique wildlife in its natural habitat.

Kizimkazi village, located on Zanzibar’s southern coast, is a top spot for responsible dolphin watching tours. Early morning boat trips take you into the Indian Ocean with a chance to observe pods of bottlenose and humpback dolphins in their wild habitat. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, the thrill of spotting dolphins leaping beside your boat is unforgettable. Some tours offer opportunities to swim and snorkel nearby, though always in a sustainable and respectful manner to protect the dolphins and their environment. Experienced guides share insights about dolphin behavior and conservation initiatives. The tour often includes a visit to the ancient Kizimkazi Mosque, one of East Africa’s oldest Islamic buildings, adding a touch of history to the marine adventure. Perfect for families and wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Tour at Kizimkazi offers both excitement and an appreciation for Zanzibar’s stunning marine life.

The Safari Blue Adventure is considered Zanzibar’s ultimate sea excursion. This full-day trip departs from the fishing village of Fumba and explores the Menai Bay Conservation Area by traditional dhow. The journey includes stops at pristine sandbanks, snorkeling in crystal-clear turquoise waters, and exploring tiny uninhabited islands. Guides provide all necessary equipment and supervision, making it suitable for all experience levels. You’ll encounter dazzling coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and may even spot dolphins. The adventure also features a mouthwatering seafood barbecue served on an idyllic sandbank beneath swaying palm trees. There’s time for swimming, sunbathing, and sometimes even a sail on a ngalawa canoe. The Safari Blue Adventure is perfect for families, groups, and solo travelers seeking an all-in-one experience of relaxation, water sports, and culinary delights in one of Zanzibar’s most breathtaking settings.

Mnemba Island, situated off Zanzibar’s northeast coast, is considered one of the premier snorkeling and diving destinations in East Africa. The surrounding coral atoll is a marine protected area, hosting vibrant reefs and abundant marine life including turtles, dolphins, and countless colorful fish. Day trips via dhow or motorboat allow for guided snorkeling or diving excursions—gear and professional guidance provided for all experience levels. The underwater world here is spectacular, with excellent visibility, dramatic coral formations, and mesmerizing species such as angelfish, butterflyfish, and moray eels. Occasionally, lucky visitors may spot larger creatures such as whale sharks or humpback whales in season. Between dives, relax on the boat and take in the pristine scenery. Perfect for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, Mnemba excursions offer an unforgettable insight into the breathtaking biodiversity of Zanzibar’s marine realm.

Nungwi, at Zanzibar’s northern tip, is celebrated for its stunning beaches and lively fishing village atmosphere. This excursion typically starts with a village tour, where visitors learn about traditional dhow boat-building and local Swahili culture. The highlight is the visit to the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of endangered sea turtles. Guests can observe turtles of all ages up close, feed them, and learn about ongoing conservation projects. The tour promotes responsible tourism and supports vital environmental work. After the sanctuary, relax on Nungwi’s famous white-sand beaches or explore vibrant beach bars and seafood restaurants. For families, animal lovers, and those interested in local culture, the Nungwi Village and Turtle Sanctuary Tour is both educational and entertaining, underscoring the importance of sustainable tourism in Zanzibar.

For a magical end to your day in Zanzibar, a sunset dhow cruise presents a unique way to experience the island’s breathtaking coastlines. A dhow is a traditional wooden sailing vessel, and as you glide across the Indian Ocean, you’ll be treated to spectacular sunset views, often accompanied by local music and refreshments such as fresh fruit or a chilled drink. The cruise sails along the coast, capturing the golden glow of the sun as it dips below the horizon, with Stone Town or Nungwi often as picturesque backdrops. Photographers and romantics will especially love this tranquil, scenic excursion. Sunset dhow cruises are ideal for couples, groups, or anyone seeking relaxation and memorable photo opportunities on the water, blending natural beauty with the charm of traditional Zanzibari maritime heritage.

One of the most iconic experiences in Zanzibar is dining at The Rock Restaurant. Perched on a rock in the ocean near Michamvi Pingwe beach, The Rock is accessible by foot at low tide or by boat at high tide. This excursion is not only about unique cuisine but also the adventure of reaching such a remarkable location. The menu features freshly caught seafood and local flavors, all presented in an intimate setting with panoramic sea views. Reservations are essential, as the restaurant is world-famous and highly sought after. The Rock offers stunning photo opportunities and an unforgettable atmosphere — perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening. This experience blends the best of Zanzibari hospitality, gastronomy, and scenery, creating memories to last a lifetime. Beyond the meal, guests can relax on the nearby beach or explore the tidal pools and surroundings before or after dining.

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons: from June to October and from December to February. These months promise sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and low humidity, ideal for