29 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar Tanzania

Zanzibar is one of Africa’s most beautiful island destinations. It lies off the coast of Tanzania, surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Here, white-sand beaches meet turquoise seas. History blends with culture. Nature feels close. Zanzibar is more than a beach holiday. It is a place of stories, spices, and slow island life.

In Zanzibar, you can relax. You can explore. You can be active. Because there is so much to see and do, planning a Zanzibar trip can feel overwhelming. That is why we created this guide. Below, you will find the top things to do in Zanzibar. It will help you plan the perfect island escape. And if you prefer everything arranged for you, we also offer all-inclusive Zanzibar packages. That way, you can enjoy your holiday without stress.

Beach Bliss and Water Adventures in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s beaches are world-famous. Soft white sand. Clear, warm water. Palm trees swaying in the breeze. Whether you want adventure or pure relaxation, the coast delivers.

1. Full-Day Blue Safari

The Blue Safari is one of Zanzibar’s most popular excursions. It starts at Fumba Beach, in the south of the island. You board a traditional wooden dhow. Then you sail into the Menai Bay Conservation Area. This area is protected and rich in marine life. You snorkel over coral reefs. You swim in crystal-clear water. You relax on a natural sandbank in the middle of the ocean. The trip also includes a visit to Kwale Island. Here, you enjoy a fresh seafood lunch. Tropical fruits are served. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried. It is a perfect day on the water.

2. Snorkeling at Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island is one of the best snorkeling spots in Zanzibar. It lies off the northeast coast, near Matemwe. The water here is incredibly clear. The coral reefs are alive with color. You see tropical fish everywhere. If you are lucky, you may also see dolphins. They often swim nearby. Mnemba is easy to reach. It is about 40 minutes from Nungwi. About one hour from Stone Town. This is a must-do for ocean lovers.

3. Relax on Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Beach is located at the northern tip of Zanzibar. It is famous for its sunsets. The sand is soft and white. The water stays deep, even at low tide. This makes swimming easy all day. You can relax on the beach. Enjoy fresh seafood. Or join water activities like snorkeling and jet skiing. Nungwi is lively but still relaxed. It suits couples, families, and solo travelers.

4. Scuba Diving in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a great place for diving. The waters are warm year-round. Visibility is often excellent. There are many dive sites around the island. You explore coral walls and underwater gardens. You may see sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Both beginners and experienced divers are welcome. Certified dive centers are easy to find.

5. Jet Skiing Along the Coast

For a burst of adrenaline, try jet skiing. It is available at several beaches. Nungwi. Kendwa. Matemwe. Stone Town. You ride across open water. Feel the wind. Enjoy the coastline from a new angle. It is fast. Fun. And unforgettable.

6. Kite Surfing at Jambiani Beach

Jambiani Beach is known for its steady winds. This makes it perfect for kite surfing. Beginners can take lessons. Experienced riders can head straight out. If you prefer something calmer, sail on a traditional dhow. Glide quietly across the lagoon. Enjoy the view.

7. Explore Paje Beach

Paje Beach is relaxed and youthful. The beach is wide and beautiful. The water is shallow and clear. It is great for swimming. Sunbathing. Paddleboarding and kayaking. There are beach bars and cafés nearby. It is easy to spend a full day here.

8. Kae Sunset Beach Experience

Kae Sunset Beach is famous for one thing. Sunsets. Arrive around 5:00 PM. Find a seat facing the ocean. Watch the sky change color. The atmosphere is romantic and calm. Sometimes there are acrobatic performances. The food is excellent. Fresh. Locally sourced. It is ideal for couples.

9. Sunset Dhow Cruise

A sunset dhow cruise is a Zanzibar classic. It is simple. And magical. You sail as the sun sets. Soft music plays. Drinks are served. The ocean glows gold. The air cools. It is the perfect way to end a day in Zanzibar.

Culture and Wildlife Experiences in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is rich in culture. Arab. African. Indian. European. All influences meet here.

10. Explore Stone Town

Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The streets are narrow. The buildings are old. The doors are carved and beautiful. Visit markets. Historic sites. Local cafés. In the evening, the town comes alive. People gather. Coffee is shared. Stories are told.

11. Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

This small conservation project is peaceful and educational. You walk through a garden filled with butterflies. They fly freely around you. You learn about their life cycle. And their role in nature.

12. Forodhani Gardens at Night

Forodhani Gardens transform after sunset. Food stalls appear. The air fills with aromas. Try Zanzibari pizza. Grilled seafood. Sugar cane juice. It is lively. Local. And delicious.

13. Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar is called the Spice Island. A spice tour explains why. You walk through plantations. You smell cloves and cinnamon. You taste vanilla and nutmeg. You learn how spices shaped Zanzibar’s history. And you can buy fresh spices to take home.

Unique and Scenic Adventures

Zanzibar also offers experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

14. Seaweed Farms in Paje

In Paje, women harvest seaweed at low tide. It is an important local industry. You see how it is grown and dried. You learn about its uses. Nearby, visit Maalum Cave. Swim in fresh, clear water. Surrounded by rock and light.

15. Day Trip to Pemba Island

Pemba Island is quieter than Zanzibar. Greener. More traditional. Explore ruins. Snorkel untouched reefs. Relax without crowds. It is ideal for travelers seeking calm.

16. Prison Island

Prison Island lies just offshore from Stone Town. It is a short boat ride away. Meet giant tortoises. Walk along the beach. Snorkel in clear water. It is easy and rewarding.

17. Nakupenda Sandbank

Nakupenda means “I love you.” It is a pure white sandbank in the ocean. You arrive by boat. Swim. Sunbathe. Lunch is served. Fresh seafood and fruit. Simple. Perfect.

18. Jozani Forest Reserve

Jozani Forest is home to red colobus monkeys. They live only in Zanzibar. Walk through forest and mangroves. Learn about rare plants. It is peaceful and educational.

19. Mangrove Tours

Explore Zanzibar’s mangroves by canoe or paddleboard. Near Muugoni or Michamvi. The environment is calm and quiet. You see birds and marine life. It is a different side of the island.

20. Swimming with Sea Turtles

At Nungwi, you can swim with sea turtles. They are gentle and calm. Visit conservation centers like Baraka Aquarium. Learn about turtle protection. It is a special experience.

21. The Underwater Room Experience

On Pemba Island, you can sleep underwater. At The Manta Resort. Fish swim past your window. The ocean surrounds you. It is exclusive. And unforgettable.

22. Stay on Private Mnemba Island

Mnemba Island offers luxury and privacy. White beaches. Clear water. Perfect for honeymooners. Or special celebrations.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Zanzibar’s food reflects its history.

23. Traditional Swahili Dinner

Enjoy local dishes. Spiced rice. Fresh fish. Live music and stories add atmosphere.

24. Forodhani Market Food Tour

Taste many dishes in one place. Affordable. Authentic. A food lover’s paradise.

25. Cooking Class and Market Visit

Shop at Stone Towns’s Darajani Market. Cook with a local chef. Learn recipes you can recreate at home.

26. Fresh Seafood Feast

Zanzibar’s seafood is exceptional. Lobster. Prawns. Grilled fish. Often enjoyed right by the sea.

27. Zanzibari Coffee Experience

Coffee is often brewed with spices. Warm. Aromatic. Try it in local cafés.

28. Local Food Festivals

If timing allows, attend one. Taste many dishes. Meet locals.

29. The Rock Restaurant

The Rock is iconic. Built on a rock in the ocean. The view is stunning. The seafood is excellent. A Zanzibar highlight. Read more about the best restaurants in Zanzibar.

Final Thoughts

Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Beaches. Culture. Adventure. Food. Whether you stay for a few days or longer, the island leaves a lasting impression. Slow down. Explore deeply. Enjoy every moment. If you want help planning your Zanzibar holiday, we are here. Let us make it easy.