The Tanzanian island of Zanzibar is a great place for tourists seeking a blend of leisure, history, and natural exploration because of its stunning beaches, UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital, and verdant national park. With its abundance of historic buildings, Stone Town’s main center is a fantastic site to experience the local way of life. The island is small enough to explore completely, even if many of Zanzibar’s attractions are found in the capital. Some of the best things to do in Zanzibar include visiting isolated beaches, conservation areas, and spice farms.
Stone Town Tours
Stone Town, the oldest neighborhood in Zanzibar City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is well-known for its fusion of Asian, Arabic, African, and European architecture, as well as its vibrant culinary scene and laid-back vibe. Every corner offers a photo opportunity, from cobbled market lanes to tall minarets and white stone homes, making this island’s historic center a must-see for any newcomer.
Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park
The only national park in Zanzibar is Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, which is frequently referred to as just the Jozani forest. Although there are many other animals in the park, such as leopards and bush babies (galagos), the opportunity to see rare red colobus monkeys is the main attraction for many tourists.
Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium and Marine Turtle Conservation Lagoon
The Marine Turtle Conservation Lagoon, a community-led initiative to protect sea turtles, is situated in Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium on Zanzibar’s northernmost beach. Learn about the marine fauna in the Indian Ocean, view hawksbill and green turtles in a tidal pool, and even participate in the center’s ongoing release program.
Nakupenda Beach
Nakupenda Beach is a sandbank off the coast of Zanzibar that is encircled by blue ocean on all sides. If you want to spend time swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking in the warmth of the tropical sea and air, this is a lovely area to come.
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)
One of Stone Town’s main attractions is the Old Fort, also known as the Arab Fort, which is the oldest structure in the area. Originally used to defend Stone Town from assault, it was eventually turned into a prison. Today, it is a well-liked venue for events and tourists.
Darajani Market (Marikiti Kuu)
For those seeking to purchase fresh seafood, veggies, and spices, Stone Town’s main market bazaar is Daranji Market (Marikiti Kuu), which serves as a one-stop shopping destination. The market is a great place to pick up souvenir spices and provides a great introduction to the ingredients used in Zanzibari cooking.
House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)
The largest and tallest structure in Stone Town is the House of Wonders, which houses the Museum of History and Culture. Constructed in 1883, the palace was the first structure in the area to have a functional elevator and the first structure on the island to have electricity. The House of Wonders has had a permanent collection of Swahili and Zanzibari cultural objects on display since the early 2000s.
Visitors can stroll the hallways, which provide a close-up view of traditional clothing, historical portraits of royalty, and antique furnishings from the homes of prior sultans, or explore the grounds, which contain a traditional Swahili boat, antique fishing implements, and well-known ships.
Mtoni Palace
Mtoni Palace was built in 1831 for Said bin Sultan, the fifth king of Oman’s Busaid dynasty. Princess Salme, the youngest daughter of the sultan and the author of Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar, spent her early years there. Despite being in ruins now, the palace is nevertheless a popular destination for tourists who want to experience 19th-century royal life.
Mwanakwerekwe Market
For a less crowded alternative to Stone Town’s Daranji Market, visit Mwanakwerekwe Market, one of the island’s biggest marketplaces. Along with a variety of apparel, crafts, and home products, you’ll find all the usual food market essentials, such as meat, fruit, and grains.
Changuu Island (Prison Island)
Changuu Island, off the coast of Zanzibar, has plenty to offer both beach and history buffs. The name “Prison Island” refers to a prison that was constructed there in the late 1800s, but it was ultimately converted into a quarantine station for yellow fever.
Kiwengwa Beach
Kiwengwa Beach, located northeast of Zanzibar City on the island’s eastern shore, is a well-liked location for swimming, water sports, snorkeling, and simply unwinding. While some visitors only stay for the day, many spend a large portion of their Zanzibar holiday at one of the many hotels and resorts in the area.
Jambiani Beach
Jambiani Beach, located on southern Zanzibar’s eastern coast, is regarded as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. It is an excellent day excursion from Zanzibar City or an overnight stay because to its white, powdery sands and crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for swimming and resting.