12 Best Things To Do in Zanzibar

The best things to do in Zanzibar include wandering through Stone Town’s narrow labyrinthine alleys, where ornate wooden doors tell family histories and Freddie Mercury’s birthplace stands, and drifting above pristine coral reefs at Nungwi Beach.

This UNESCO-recognized island spans just 85 kilometers at its longest point, yet it is home to over 50 spice varieties, earning its nickname “Spice Island” and infusing everything from its cuisine to its economy with aromatic distinction.

We’ve curated this guide by consulting traveler reviews and travel guides, while personally testing each experience through multiple seasons.

From swimming with endangered red colobus monkeys near Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park to tracing the island’s complex history at former slave markets and colonial outposts, our selections balance postcard-perfect relaxation with revealing the soul behind Zanzibar’s idyllic facade.

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Highlights at a Glance

Here are three popular places to stay in Zanzibar:

Luxury Hotel in Zanzibar: Essque Zalu Zanzibar offers oceanfront suites with Swahili-inspired design, three dining venues, a spa, and a range of water activities.
Mid-Range Hotel in Zanzibar: Maru Maru Hotel features locally crafted rooms, a rooftop cocktail bar with 360-degree views, and onsite Indian and buffet dining.
Budget Hotel in Zanzibar: Mizingani Seafront Hotel offers Zanzibari-style rooms, a unique restaurant, an outdoor pool, and is a short walk from the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal.

These are the top three things to do in Zanzibar:

Relax on Nungwi Beach – Considered the best beach in Zanzibar.
Explore Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park – Home to sea turtles, red colobus, tree hyrax, and more.
Go on a Stone Town walking tour – The best way to explore Zanzibar’s old town.

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Which Zanzibar adventure would make you forget about your inbox for a week?

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Best_Things_To_Do_in_Zanzibar_Explore_Jozani-Chwaka_Bay_National_Park_Red_Colobus

Explore Jozani Forest 1/5

Best_Things_To_Do_in_Zanzibar_Visit_Prison_Island

Visit Prison Island 2/5

Most Haunted Places in the World Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Stroll through Stone Town 3/5

Best_Things_To_Do_in_Zanzibar_Learn_About_Spices_at_SISI_Spice_Farm_Ginger_root

Learn spices at SISI Farm 4/5

24 Most Beautiful Beaches in The World To Visit in Your Lifetime

Chill on Nungwi Beach 5/5

Results

Explore Jozani Forest

3 5

Visit Prison Island

1 7

Stroll through Stone Town

3 5

Learn spices at SISI Farm

3 5

Chill on Nungwi Beach

2 6

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Relax on Nungwi Beach

Zanzibar is home to countless white sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters and sunny skies. However, Kendwa Beach is often considered the best.

This breathtaking powdery beach is the ultimate place to unwind in northern Zanzibar. You can spend the day lying on a sun lounger, floating on the sparkling waters, and sipping cocktails at the beachside Kibanda Beach Club. Alternatively, you can go snorkeling to find tropical fish and starfish.

Just a 10-minute drive from Nungwi Beach is another dreamy tropical beach: Kendwa Beach. Like Nungwi, this beach offers dazzling waters and soft white sand. This beach is a popular place to catch the fiery Zanzibar sunset.

Cocktails at The Z Hotel Rooftop Bar: The Z Hotel (Bar open 11:00–23:00) is my favorite for sunset cocktails on their rooftop terrace with ocean views—order the passionfruit mojito. They serve lunch and dinner, but the real highlight is watching the whole sky turn gold right from your table.
Bushbaby Lodge Dinner: Bushbaby Lodge & Restaurant
(open 12:00–22:00), just off the main beach. Try their coconut seafood curry or their house Swahili fish—it’s a low-key spot but big on flavor.

Explore Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park

Exploring Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park is one of the most exciting things wildlife enthusiasts can do in Zanzibar. This UNESCO-listed park is home to the largest area of indigenous forest on the main island. It features a diverse mix of tropical jungles, mangroves, and unique animal species.

If you’re lucky enough to spot them, one of the main highlights is the rare red colobus monkeys. Other fascinating animal species residing in the national forest include the Sykes monkey, galagos, tree hyrax, and Aders’ duiker. The best way to explore Jozani is on a guided hiking tour.

That way, you can see more and learn from an expert guide. This nature walk and wildlife tour gives you an excellent chance to spot the red colobus.

Lunch at The Rock Restaurant: The Rock Restaurant (open 12:00–22:00) is just a 40-minute drive from Jozani. It’s literally built on a rock in the ocean, and their seafood linguine and Zanzibar seafood curry are standouts. Reserve a table before your visit—sunset tables book quickly.
Cold Juice at Zuri Zanzibar Beach Bar: After your hike, I like to stop at Zuri Zanzibar Beach Bar, open 09:00–23:00, for a chilled passionfruit juice and panoramic views of the beach. It’s super relaxing after a warm forest walk.

Go On a Stone Town Walking Tour

Stone Town, also known as Mji Mkongwe, is the Old Town of Zanzibar City. It’s on the western side of Unguja (the main island) and home to many of Zanzibar’s most historic attractions. One of the most impressive sights is the 17th-century Old Fort.

The Old Fort, otherwise known as the Arab Fort, is one of Unguja’s oldest buildings. It was built by Omani Arabs when they took control of the island from the Portuguese in the late 17th century. The fortress features tall defensive walls with battlements, an open-air theater, and a courtyard with tourist stalls.

This walking tour is a fun way to explore Stone Town. You’ll visit the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the Freddie Mercury Museum.

Lunch at Lukmaan Restaurant: Lukmaan Restaurant (open 07:00–21:30) is my favorite for local Zanzibari food—try the biryani, urojo (“Zanzibar mix” soup), or the fresh grilled fish. Grab a fresh sugarcane juice, too.
Coffee at Zanzibar Coffee House: Zanzibar Coffee House (open 08:00–20:00) is perfect for a breather. I love their cardamom coffee and homemade pastries, and the rooftop terrace has a great view of Stone Town’s rooftops.

Visit Prison Island

Despite its name, Prison Island is one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful places to visit. Also known as Changuu Island, Prison Island is a small island off Unguja’s west coast. The island is well known for its tropical forest, white sand shorelines, and postcard-perfect turquoise waters.

However, Prison Island is most famous for its population of Aldabra giant tortoises. The tortoises arrived in 1919 when the British governor of the Seychelles gifted the island four tortoises. You can get close to the adorable tortoise still inhabiting the island during your visit.

Prison Island also has a dark past tied to the slave trade. In the 19th century, Arab slave traders used the island as a holding place for enslaved Africans. You can explore the island on this day tour.

Lunch at 6 Degrees South: 6 Degrees South Grill and Wine Bar (open 08:00–23:00), right by the Stone Town ferry dock, is where I go for post-island grilled seafood or a cold Kilimanjaro beer with ocean views before or after your trip.
Bring Fresh Lettuce or Greens for Tortoises: I always grab fresh lettuce from Darajani Market in the morning and bring it for the tortoises—it’s allowed and much appreciated by the gentle giants.

Spend the Day on Safari in Mikumi National Park

Zanzibar is situated off the east coast of Tanzania, a country famed for its stunning national parks and diverse wildlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to head out on safari during your Zanzibar vacation. While you might think it would be challenging to reach Tanzania and go on safari, it’s actually surprisingly easy.

For example, you could go on this Mikumi Safari Day Trip. This once-in-a-lifetime experience includes flights from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park, a bush lunch, and a game drive. All the hassle of planning your trip is taken care of for you.

All you have to do is sit back and look out for wildlife. You might spot lions, leopards, elephants, and zebras on your game drive.

Classic Sundowner at Zanzibar Serena Inn: Back in Stone Town after your safari, I always cap off the experience with a cold drink at Zanzibar Serena Inn (bar open 11:00–23:00). Their terrace has unbeatable sunset views over the water—perfect for rehashing the day’s sightings.
Packed Bush Lunch at Mbuyuni Restaurant: Most tours include a bush picnic, but if you’re spending a night or need something fast in Mikumi town, Mbuyuni Restaurant (open 07:00–21:00) is a local favorite—try the spiced beef stew with ugali.

Pay the Old Dispensary a Visit

The Old Dispensary is one of the most beautiful buildings in Zanzibar. It was constructed between 1887 and 1894 and is located on the seafront in Stone Town.

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The building served as a dispensary during the 20th century, but now it contains a small museum detailing Zanzibar’s history. The museum is well worth walking around as you’ll learn plenty about Zanzibar. However, the dispensary’s gorgeous architecture will draw you in.

The structure features a stunning design with Indian-style wooden balconies, stained glass decorations, and a European stucco finish. It’s worth noting that the Old Dispensary is free to visit.

Museum Hours and Entry: Old Dispensary is open every day from 08:00 to 18:00. Entry is free.
Great Coffee Next Door at Puzzle Coffee Shop: Puzzle Coffee Shop (open 07:00–20:00) is right by the Dispensary. I always grab a flat white here before my visit—their pastries and cakes are freshly baked, and the interior’s as stylish as the Dispensary.

Go On a Boat Tour

Hot Beach Destinations Around The World in October Zanzibar, Tanzania — © Sebastian / Adobe Stock

On a boat tour, you can relax while traveling in style, enjoying picturesque scenery, and soaking up the sun. However, this Mnemba boat trip is arguably the best. This budget-friendly tour departs from Kendwa Beach for the Mnemba conservation area.

You’ll travel by motorboat to the Mnemba Atoll, where you’ll be allowed to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. Incredibly, you might even have the chance to swim with dolphins in the wild.

Lunch at Kendwa Rocks Restaurant: Kendwa Rocks Restaurant (open 07:00–23:00) is my go-to before or after the boat trip. Their grilled prawns and coconut rice are great—and the beach seating is perfect for relaxing after your time at sea.
Bring Your Own GoPro: The guides usually have a waterproof camera, but I bring my GoPro for close-up videos of the fish, coral, and (if you’re lucky) swimming dolphins—worth it for the memories.

Learn About Spices at SISI Spice Farm

Zanzibar is widely known as the “Spice Island” due to its rich history of spice cultivation. Cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are just a handful of the spices grown on the island. You can experience the best of Zanzibar spice making by visiting SISI Spice Farm.

This unique spic farm prides itself on introducing visitors to the life and culture of the indigenous people of Zanzibar and spice making. At SISI Spice Farm, you can live among the local community, learn about the spice-making process, sample local delicacies, and attend cooking classes.

You’ll learn how to cook with delicious spices like chili, ginger, lemongrass, and black pepper. What’s not to like?

Shop for Spices and Oils: Their farm shop sells locally-grown spice packets and clove oil at honest prices. I always stock up since the freshness and quality are better than what you’ll find in town markets.
Spice Lunch at the Farm: The included homemade lunch after the tour is a highlight—my plate had cassava leaves in coconut, pilau rice, and chicken stew, all spiced with ingredients picked during the walk.

Enjoy the Sights and Smells at Darajani Bazaar

Another fantastic way to experience Zanzibar’s local life, culture, and spices is by enjoying the sights and smells at Darajani Bazaar. Darajani Bazaar is the main market in Stone Town. It’s where most locals and tourists go to buy fresh food, spices, and souvenirs.

As such, you can expect a lively atmosphere and many things to see. The best way to explore the market is to get lost among the narrow rows of stalls. That way, you can find the best-hidden gems and experience the market’s hustle and bustle.

You don’t necessarily have to buy anything from Darajani Bazaar, but we recommend picking up fresh fruit. You can also purchase a selection of spices to take home.

Pick Up Spices from Kadir Spices: Kadir Spices, a well-known stall deep inside the bazaar, is where I buy Zanzibar spiced tea blends and whole cinnamon sticks. The staff pack your spices securely for travel.
Buy Fresh Mango or Jackfruit from “Mama Mzee”: Look for the fruit lady nicknamed “Mama Mzee” (her stall is just inside the main entrance to the left). Her sliced jackfruit and juicy mangoes are the freshest and sweetest I’ve tasted in Zanzibar.

Explore the Freddie Mercury Museum

The Freddie Mercury Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Zanzibar. For those who don’t know, Freddie Mercury was the lead vocalist for Queen, one of the world’s biggest and best rock bands. He is the genius behind Bohemian Rhapsody.

Despite being a British singer and songwriter, Mercury was born in Stone Town under the name Farrokh Bulsara. As a result, Stone Town has a dedicated Freddie Mercury Museum. At this museum, which is located in his former home in Shangani, you can learn everything there is to know about Freddie’s life.

The museum features photographs, video footage, personal belongings, and more. It’s open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.

Museum Hours and Entry: Freddie Mercury Museum is open every day from 10:00 to 18:00. Entry is 21580.00 TZS (8 USD) per person. The collection covers Mercury’s early childhood in Zanzibar, Queen’s global rise, and his personal artifacts.
Lunch with a View at Tatu: Tatu Restaurant (open 12:00–00:00) is on the same block—their seafood platter and spicy grilled calamari are standouts, and the rooftop terrace offers a superb view over Shangani.

Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre features a lush garden that houses hundreds of colorful native butterfly species. On a guided tour, your children can learn about the stages of a butterfly’s life and help feed the butterflies.

They can even stand close to the butterflies with their hands out to see if they’ll land on them. Aside from having a great time, the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre educates visitors about the importance of conservation in tropical forests.

The butterfly center is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. Entrance tickets cost approximately 12,000 TZS ($4.45).

Opening Hours and Entry: Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Entry is 13487.50 TZS (5 USD) per person.
Fresh Coconut and Snacks at Shabaha Café: Shabaha Café is just outside Jozani’s entrance. It’s a great spot post-butterflies for chilled coconut water and fried cassava chips—super refreshing after a walk in the sun.

Try Your Hand at Watersports

Adrenaline junkies seeking a bigger thrill in Zanzibar must participate in watersports. There are many places to try exhilarating watersports activities on the main island, but Zanzibar Watersports offers the best experience. Based in Kendwa, this popular diving center offers many exciting activities.

Highlights include parasailing, wake surfing, waterskiing, and diving. However, that’s not all the center offers. You can also head out on memorable seafari tours, fishing trips, and dhow cruises.

The dhow cruises sound particularly interesting because you’ll explore the coast on a traditional wooden dhow. This unique tour includes a glass of wine and epic sunset views. On the seafari tour, you’ll snorkel with tropical fish at the iconic Mnemba Atoll.

Book Watersports in Advance: Some activities like diving at Mnemba or parasailing can fill up, especially on weekends—I’ve had the best luck reserving a day or two ahead, either online or in person.
Lunch at Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill: Fisherman’s Seafood & Grill (open 11:00–22:00) sits near Kendwa Watersports and is highly rated for its grilled lobster and garlic prawns, plus beachfront seating with shade.