Zanzibar
Things to do in Zanzibar: ten experiences worth the trip
Many people come to Zanzibar for the beach and are surprised by everything else. These are the ten experiences we would put first, from the reef at Mnemba to the spice gardens inland.
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In short: what should you do in Zanzibar?
If you only have time for three things, snorkel at Mnemba Atoll, get lost in Stone Town and see the red monkeys in Jozani Forest. All three work as day trips wherever you stay. Tulia in Pongwe, halfway down the east coast, is a good base for trips both north and south.
Our first choice for day trips: Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort in Pongwe. Check availability and prices
Picolo has been to Zanzibar several times. This list is what we would put first on a return trip.
Ten things to do in Zanzibar
1. Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll
Off the north-east coast lies Mnemba, a protected coral reef with sea turtles and large shoals of fish. Boats leave from Matemwe and Nungwi. The reef is popular, so choose an early trip and an operator that respects the protected zone.
2. The lanes of Stone Town
The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and deserves at least a full day. Read our guide to Stone Town for what to see and where to stay.
3. Jozani Forest and the red colobus
Jozani Chwaka Bay is Zanzibar's only national park. It is home to the red colobus, a monkey found only on the island, and a boardwalk takes you out into the mangroves. Go with a park guide and you will find the monkeys.
4. A spice tour inland
Zanzibar is called the Spice Island, and on the farms inland you see how cloves, cinnamon and vanilla grow. The tour often ends with lunch cooked with the spices you have just tasted. It is a good plan for a day when it rains on the beach.
The coral cliffs
In Kizimkazi in the south the coral cliffs drop straight into clear water.
5. Safari Blue in Menai Bay
Safari Blue is a full-day dhow trip from Fumba on the south-west coast. The day mixes snorkelling with a seafood lunch on a small island. The bay is a marine conservation area, and the trip suits the whole family.
6. The giant tortoises of Prison Island
A short boat ride from Stone Town lies Changuu, better known as Prison Island. It is home to a group of giant tortoises, and you can swim from the beach before heading back.
7. Dinner at The Rock
The Rock restaurant near Michamvi sits on a rock in the sea. At low tide you walk out with dry feet, at high tide you take a boat. Tables are few, so book well ahead.
8. Kitesurfing in Paje
Paje on the east coast is one of the best-known kite spots in East Africa, with shallow water inside the reef. The kite schools run courses for beginners. The wind is best in the seasons described in our guide to the best time to visit Zanzibar.
9. Dolphins at Kizimkazi
Boats leave Kizimkazi in the south to look for dolphins. Be choosy: many boats chase the pods. Pick a small operator that keeps its distance, and do not jump into the water on top of the animals.
10. Kuza Cave in Jambiani
In Jambiani you will find a limestone cave with a natural freshwater pool. It is a cool, quiet break from the beach and a good goal for an afternoon on the east coast.
Kizimkazi
The beach at The Residence in Kizimkazi, where the dolphin boats set out from.
Where to stay close to the experiences
Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
Tulia stands on the beach at Pongwe, halfway down the east coast. Guests rate it 10 out of 10 from more than a hundred reviews and especially praise the room service. Breakfast is included. Best for a calm base with day trips in both directions.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
The Residence Zanzibar
The Residence is in Kizimkazi on the south-west coast, a short way from the dolphin boats. Its villas are spread through a large park running down to a white beach, and breakfast is included. It is rated 9.0. Best for couples who want space and calm between excursions.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
Fruit & Spice Wellness Resort
Fruit & Spice is also in Kizimkazi, on the coral cliffs above a clear sea. The resort leans towards wellness, and guests rate it 8.8, praising the helpful staff. Best if you want to combine excursions with yoga and quiet.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices
If you would rather swim all day between trips, you will find the northern hotels in our guide to Zanzibar hotels.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Zanzibar
What is the best thing to do in Zanzibar?
Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll, a day in Stone Town and Jozani Forest are the three experiences we would put first. All of them work as day trips.
What is Safari Blue?
Safari Blue is a full-day trip by traditional dhow from Fumba in Menai Bay. The day includes snorkelling and a seafood lunch on a small island.
Can you see dolphins in Zanzibar?
Yes, boats from Kizimkazi in the south take you out to the dolphins. Choose an operator that keeps its distance from the animals.
Where is the best snorkelling in Zanzibar?
Mnemba Atoll off the north-east coast is the best spot. Menai Bay in the south-west is also good, especially on a Safari Blue trip.
Is there rainforest in Zanzibar?
Yes. Jozani Forest in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a tropical forest with mangroves, and home to the rare red colobus monkey.