Things To Do in Zanzibar this season : Zanzibar! A semi-autonomous island located off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise with a rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture.
Zanzibar is an archipelago of 25 islands, with Unguja (also known as Zanzibar Island) being the largest. The island has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.
Zanzibar has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the 1st century AD. The island was a major trading center, with influences from Arab, Portuguese, British, and African cultures. Zanzibar is home to the famous Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic landmarks like the Old Fort and the House of Wonders.
Zanzibar is famous for its stunning beaches, like Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, and Paje Beach. The island offers a range of water activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow sailboat or a luxury yacht to explore the island’s coastline.
Zanzibar is famous for its seafood, with fresh fish, lobster, and prawns available at many restaurants. Try local dishes like urojo (a spicy soup), nyama choma (roasted meat), and mandazi (fried doughnuts). Sample local spices and teas, like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, at the markets in Stone Town.
Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) receives flights from major airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to your accommodation. Use local transportation like buses, taxis, or bicycles to get around the island.
Zanzibar offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Stay in Stone Town for easy access to historic landmarks and markets. Choose a beachfront resort for stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach.
The official languages of Zanzibar are Swahili and English. The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the local currency, although US dollars and euros are widely accepted.
Zanzibar is generally a safe destination but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Be mindful of your health, especially when eating from street vendors or drinking tap water. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or temples.
Zanzibar is the perfect vacation and holiday destination with several activities you can do while you stay there, from cultural and beach experiences, adventure and wildlife, food and drink activities among others. here is a breakdown of these activities.

Cultural Experiences
- Stone Town Tour: Explore the narrow streets and bustling markets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Prison Island Tour: Visit the former prison island, now a nature reserve and home to giant tortoises.
- Spice Tour: Discover Zanzibar’s famous spice plantations and learn about the history of the spice trade.
- Dhow Cruise: Take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow sailboat and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline.
Beach Experiences
- Nungwi Beach: Relax on this picturesque beach, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Kendwa Beach: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the calm waters of Kendwa Beach.
- Paje Beach: Visit this laid-back beach, popular with kitesurfers and beach volleyball players.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore Zanzibar’s stunning coral reefs and marine life, including the famous Blue Hole.
Adventure and Wildlife
- Jozani Forest National Park: Explore the only national park in Zanzibar, home to the endemic red colobus monkey.
- Butterfly Center: Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, a tropical garden with a variety of butterfly species.
- Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour: Take a boat tour to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Horseback riding: Explore Zanzibar’s countryside on horseback, offering a unique perspective on the island’s landscapes.
Food and Drink
- Try local cuisine: Sample traditional Zanzibari dishes like urojo (a spicy soup), nyama choma (roasted meat), and mandazi (fried doughnuts).
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Spice markets: Visit the spice markets in Stone Town to sample local spices and teas.
- Coffee and tea: Relax with a cup of coffee or tea at one of the many cafes in Stone Town.
While in Zanzibar your dress code should be modest and respectful to the local traditions, especially when visiting mosques or temples. Be mindful of your belongings: Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas. The place is quite hot and some humid weather so drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration, especially when exploring the island.
Most of all enjoy yourself while in Zanzibar.
