Exciting Experiences in Zanzibar: 15 Essential Activities to Embrace
Exciting Experiences in Zanzibar: 15 Essential Adventures to Embark On. Zanzibar’s islands offer a treasure trove for beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and savvy travelers alike.

Given that visitors contribute greatly to the yearly revenue, the region tends to be quite safe for those exploring it independently.

15 Amazing Experiences to Enjoy in Zanzibar
Make the Most of Your Time at the Beach
Zanzibar is famous for its breathtaking beaches, featuring soft white sand and crystal-clear, warm waters teeming with a diverse array of exotic marine life.

Explore our suggestions for merging thrilling safaris in Tanzania with relaxing beach getaways in Zanzibar for the perfect Tanzanian escape.

Our beloved beach in Zanzibar is just around the corner.

Nungwi Beach: Just about an hour’s drive from Zanzibar City, Nungwi beach boasts a diverse array of resorts, hostels, and hotels, catering to all budgets and comfort preferences. Unwinding with a coconut or drink in hand as you observe the dhows gracefully sailing across the water is a cherished activity for those exploring Zanzibar.

In this vibrant nation, where the culture is deeply rooted in tradition, both locals and travelers embrace a style of dress that reflects respect and modesty, often opting for long sleeves and pants that gracefully cover their knees and shoulders. It’s essential to remember this when embarking on excursions and discovering new cities. Hotels and resorts in Zanzibar usually have alcohol available, but you won’t come across it in the general stores or restaurants around here.

Discover Kendwa for Exciting Beach Activities
If you seek a destination where you can dive into the water without the constant concern of the tide, head to the northern and western beaches, like Kendwa, for an exhilarating experience. Kendwa is the perfect destination for a laid-back beach getaway on Zanzibar, where the waters invite you for a refreshing swim and the recent history is free from shark encounters.

Visitors are drawn to this part of Unguja for its laid-back holiday vibe and the presence of some of Zanzibar’s most thrilling attractions. Full moon parties at Kendwa Rocks offer an exhilarating mix of scuba diving, parasailing, and skydiving, along with other thrilling activities that attract tourists.

The months from June to October offer the perfect opportunity for an unforgettable beach getaway in Zanzibar. You can avoid the rainier seasons, yet the islands’ constant warmth draws visitors back time after time.

Indulge in Luxury on Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island, nestled off the eastern coast of Zanzibar, offers a perfect escape for honeymooners seeking solitude and intimacy.

Divers and snorkelers can explore breathtaking coral reefs off the coast of Mnemba, teeming with an array of sea life including lionfish, moray eels, stingrays, and turtles. Embark on a day trip from Nungwi or choose to stay in one of the 12 exclusive beach bandas.

Soar high above Stunning Coral Reefs
Ugunja and Pemba boast vibrant tropical marine life and stunning coral reefs, offering fantastic snorkeling opportunities all year round.

The Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve is an enchanting underwater realm teeming with a vibrant array of coral and diverse marine creatures. These delicate ecosystems whisk you away to a breathtaking underwater realm brimming with vibrant life, featuring Green Turtles, Seahorses, Trumpetfish, Moray Eels, and Napoleon Wrasse.

In Zanzibar, you can discover two fantastic spots for snorkeling: Wattabomi and West Gardens. The Kichwani Reef, the Aquarium, and the Big Wall plunge between 12 and 50 meters, creating perfect opportunities for scuba divers to explore.

The waters surrounding Stone Town invite exploration, teeming with intriguing shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs that shelter a rich variety of fish and marine life. Snorkelers exploring this area should keep an eye out for jellyfish and may want to think about donning protective gear.

The island of Changuu, often referred to as Prison Island, lies to the west of Stone Town and is a treasure trove for snorkelers, boasting untouched reefs and crystal-clear waters. Inland, at the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, visitors can step out of the water and embark on an exploration of the land’s wonders.

Embark on a journey to Misali Island for an unforgettable diving experience in East Africa.
Pemba Island in the Zanzibar archipelago is renowned for its thrilling diving experiences, offering everything from exhilarating deep-sea safaris to stunning beginner dives in crystal-clear waters. Visitors to Zanzibar seeking excitement will discover an abundance of diving opportunities, featuring more than thirty sites that provide lessons for both beginners and experienced divers.

Misali Island, situated to the west of Pemba and north of Ugunja, stands out as a remarkable destination in East Africa for scuba diving or snorkeling. The secluded waters here remain untouched by tides, nestled within the Pemba Channel Conservation Area, teeming with over 300 species of marine life and vast, vibrant coral gardens.

Adventurous souls can hop on a boat from Wesha or coordinate with a travel agency or hotel to embark on a journey to the island.

Embark on a journey aboard a classic dhow
Nungwi remains the heart of traditional dhow production, the iconic wooden boats that define East African maritime culture.

For those eager to explore beyond the sandy shores, a journey through Nungwi Village awaits, where you can witness the art of shipbuilding or embark on a dhow sail across the serene Indian Ocean, all while soaking in the breathtaking sunset.

Explore the Museums of Stone Town

The vibrant marketplaces and food stalls surrounding old Stone Town in the Zanzibar archipelago are alive with the enticing aromas of nutmeg, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, all of which are exchanged throughout the islands.

Stone Town is the oldest part of Zanzibar City, named for the coral stone predominantly used in its construction. This architecture showcases a rich tapestry of influences drawn from Arab, European, Persian, African, and Indian cultures.

Wander through the enchanting maze of narrow alleyways, where some of Zanzibar’s most remarkable landmarks await, such as the Arab Fort, Palace of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, and Palace Museum. There are numerous walking and cycling journeys that explore these captivating sights.

Castle of Marvels
The Palace of Wonders, commissioned by Sultan Barghash bin Said, stands as one of Stone Town’s most iconic landmarks, inviting exploration and discovery.

The Palace Museum
Prior to the upheaval that brought down the final sultan in 1964, the royal family lived in what is currently referred to as the palace of Sultan Seyyid Said. Many of the thrones, artwork, and furnishings from that era remain, transforming it into a captivating tourist destination.

Relax and Savor Street Food in the Forodhani Gardens
The Forodhani Gardens, established in 1936 to honor Sultan Khalifa, are nestled among these remarkable landmarks. The change of the gardens into a public park has opened up a world of activities for both tourists and locals on the island of Zanzibar.

As night falls, traders converge in the park, showcasing an array of East African, Persian, and Portuguese-inspired seafood. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of delightful Swahili and Zanzibar dishes, featuring Biryani, Mandazi, and savory Mishkaki skewers.

Prepare for Exciting Happenings at the Arab Fort
Many travelers flock to Zanzibar to explore the historic Old Fort. This building, the oldest in Zanzibar, stands as a remarkable attraction, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Omani Arabs from the 17th century. Once, it stood as a formidable castle, and later, in the late 19th century, it transformed into a prison. The Arab Fort serves as a vibrant backdrop for significant annual events, such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival held every July.

Embark on an exhilarating shopping adventure at the Darajani Market.
Darajani Bazaar, the bustling heart of the city, is nestled in the vibrant Stone Town. Swahili sellers here offer an array of foods and spices, alongside the beautiful cotton fabric called Kanga, worn by both ladies and sometimes men, as well as intricately embroidered Kofia caps.

Embark on a boat journey to uncover the hidden stories of the slave trade.
Just a short 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town, Changuu Island boasts a fascinating history as a yellow fever quarantine center. The island of Zanzibar is known for its significant involvement in the transatlantic slave trade that thrived in the 19th century. The island was originally intended to confine rebellious slaves, and today it has transformed into a sought-after spot for those in search of a darker kind of getaway. One of the most exciting experiences in Zanzibar is embarking on one of these guided excursions.

Shallow underwater safaris perfect for snorkeling adventures encircle the lush tropical forest, where giant tortoises roam and a breathtaking array of birds thrive.

Explore an Authentic Zanzibar Coffee Shop
Coffee beans cultivated in Tanzania, whether on expansive farms or intimate smallholdings, embark on journeys across the globe. As a result, Zanzibar has embraced the craft of coffee manufacturing, delighting travelers who savor a rich cup of joe.

The Zanzibar Coffee House in Stone Town is an ideal spot to relax, whether you are starting your day or winding down at its close. The hotel, nestled within a beautifully restored 19th-century building, boasts a cafe that serves authentic Arabian coffee. Whether you’re in Stone Town for the coffee or the stunning architecture and antiques, be sure to explore this authentic Arabian House, one of the oldest in the region.

Explore Artisan Shops
The vibrant streets of Zanzibar are bustling with artisan shops offering an array of unique and stunning goods, all crafted by talented local artisans. These include bags, jewelry, keychains, and beautifully crafted wooden sculptures.

Zanzibar is brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be uncovered, including Persian antiques, palm-leaf baskets and mats, natural cosmetics, health food stores, and art galleries.

Experience an unforgettable evening in Zanzibar City

As the sun dips below the horizon, Stone Town and Zanzibar City burst into vibrant life, inviting exploration and excitement. At night, Forodhani Park transforms into a vibrant market where vendors present an array of mouthwatering traditional Swahili dishes. The streets resonate with the vibrant sounds of live music, captivating both locals and travelers alike.

Starehe Club
There are numerous vibrant bars and restaurants for those who enjoy dining and socializing well into the night. Starehe Club, elevated above the bay, offers an ideal setting to relax with a beer and connect with the welcoming locals for a laid-back evening. If you are looking for something a bit more exciting, there is always Garage lub across the street. The zebra-print walls are a clear indication.

Dharma Lounge
With the air conditioning humming and afro beats pulsating, the nightlife in Zanzibar kicks off as you immerse yourself in reggae and pop tunes that carry you into the early morning, dancing freely and joyfully. A lot of the younger visitors to Dharma Lounge are drawn to the venue for its expansive dance floor.

Africa House Hotel
The Africa House Hotel has long been a favored spot for enjoying colonial-era sundowners, and it stands out among the many remarkable establishments in the city. The vast patio offers a perfect vantage point to witness the sun’s descent. One of the experiences in Zanzibar is to savor the local Shisha and reflect on the day’s escapades.

Mercury’s and 6 Degrees South
Explore Mercury’s, where you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes and take advantage of a fantastic happy hour, or head to 6 Degrees South, where you can savor a meal in the restaurant, unwind in the cocktail bar, or sip a drink on the deck while soaking in the ocean views.

Embark on a Zanzibar Spice Tour
Zanzibar is part of an archipelago known as the Spice Islands, celebrated for its rich variety of nutmeg, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves that flourish there and are exported globally.

Embark on a spice tour to connect with the locals and savor the authentic flavors of Zanzibar. Zanzibar’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife, featuring its lush fruit trees and enchanting forests, await discovery during a vacation there.