Zanzibar seriously exceeded every expectation I had. When I first walked through the narrow alleys of Stone Town, with its massive carved doorways and the smell of spices wafting through the air, I felt like I’d stepped into another world entirely. The fact that this same island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen, like the powder-white sand of Paje, still blows my mind.
These are my favorite things to do in Zanzibar, an island that completely stole my heart. From getting lost in Stone Town’s maze of streets to watching local fishermen bring in their catches at sunset along Forodhani Gardens, this place is pure magic. After spending a week exploring here, I totally understand why people come from all over the world to experience this incredible slice of East Africa.
Best Things to Do in Zanzibar
Visiting Zanzibar? Spend the day diving into the crystal-clear waters of Mnemba Atoll, explore the rich history and culture of Stone Town, or encounter the rare Zanzibar Red Colobus at Jozani Forest. For a more tranquil experience, visit Kizimkazi and enjoy the serene coastal beauty. Whether you’re into marine adventures, history, or wildlife, Zanzibar has plenty to offer.
1. Mnemba Atoll
If you’re into snorkeling or diving, Mnemba Atoll is the kind of spot that makes you forget the rest of the world. This private island off Zanzibar’s northeast coast has some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen, with reef walls that drop into deep blue. I joined a half-day snorkeling trip from Nungwi Beach, and within minutes, we were surrounded by schools of colorful fish and a few curious dolphins.
The atoll is protected, so marine life thrives here—expect to spot green sea turtles, angelfish, and maybe even a moray eel or two. The crew on our boat also offered fresh pineapple and watermelon between swims, which was a nice touch.
Even if you’ve snorkeled before, Mnemba feels special. It’s peaceful, bright, and untouched in a way that’s hard to find. Whether you dive in or just float with a mask, this is a Zanzibar highlight you shouldn’t miss.
2. Stone Town
Wandering through Stone Town feels like stepping into a real-life maze where every alley leads to something fascinating. The narrow streets are lined with carved wooden doors, spice shops, and local kids playing football against coral-stone walls. I spent hours just exploring without a map, and honestly, that’s the best way to do it. You’ll stumble upon hidden cafés, tiny mosques, and old buildings that echo Zanzibar’s layered history.
Make time for the Darajani Market, where the colors and smells hit you all at once. If you love architecture, check out the Old Fort and House of Wonders. But the real charm is in the everyday rhythm—locals chatting on stoops, the call to prayer drifting through the air, the occasional rooster crossing your path.
Stone Town isn’t polished, but that’s part of its magic. You’ll walk in curious and leave completely hooked.
3. Zanzibar Red Colobus at Jozani Forest
You don’t need to be a wildlife expert to enjoy Jozani Forest, but if you’re into animals, it’s even better. The main draw? The Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, which are only found here. They’re not shy, so you’ll often see them lounging in trees or casually hopping across the trail. I didn’t expect to be so charmed by monkeys, but watching them interact up close was a highlight of my trip.
The forest also has a raised mangrove boardwalk that gives you a cool look at the swamp ecosystem. You’ll see fiddler crabs, towering mahogany trees, and tons of birdlife. The guided tours here are short, informative, and relaxed—perfect if you’re not looking for a long hike.
Jozani offers a peaceful change of pace from the beach scene, and it’s one of those low-key gems that ends up being way more memorable than you expect.
4. Kizimkazi
If swimming with wild dolphins is on your bucket list, Kizimkazi is the place to make it happen. I joined a small boat tour at sunrise, and by the time we got out to sea, dolphins were everywhere. It’s not guaranteed, but sightings are pretty common. We slipped into the water and watched them glide beneath us—completely surreal.
Besides the dolphins, Kizimkazi is just a chill, authentic fishing village. After the tour, I grabbed a coconut from a local vendor and wandered over to see the 12th-century mosque—one of the oldest in East Africa. The vibe here is quiet and welcoming, without any big crowds or beach clubs.
If you’re looking for a genuine slice of Zanzibar, this is it. It’s got wildlife, history, and laid-back charm all wrapped into one coastal stop.
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5. Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Beach is where you go when you want sunset views and beach vibes without the crowds of Nungwi. The water here stays calm all day, even during high tide, so you can actually swim without getting knocked around. I spent a lazy afternoon here stretched out on the sand with a grilled seafood skewer from a nearby stall—zero regrets.
By early evening, the beach totally transforms. Locals come out to play drums, tourists join in barefoot dances, and fire performers light up the shoreline. There’s a casual energy that feels more like a celebration than a tourist show. If you’re traveling solo, it’s one of the easiest places to meet people.
Whether you stay nearby or just drop in for the day, Kendwa Beach is that rare mix of relaxed and electric—go for the sunset, stay for the vibe.
6. Chwaka Bay
For something quieter than the main beaches, head to Chwaka Bay. It’s not your typical sunbathing spot—it’s better for kayaking, birdwatching, and soaking up nature. I rented a kayak here and paddled through the mangroves with a local guide who knew every twist in the channels. It was calm, scenic, and unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of Zanzibar.
The bay is part of the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, so you’re likely to spot rare birds, tiny fish darting beneath the surface, and even monkeys hanging out in the distance. It’s peaceful in a way most tourist spots aren’t.
There’s also a strong community connection here, and many guides come from nearby villages. If you want to escape the crowds and see a wilder side of the island, this is where to go.
7. Kidichi Spice Farm
Just outside Stone Town, the Kidichi Spice Farm is where you’ll finally learn the difference between nutmeg and mace (I sure did). It’s a hands-on, smell-everything kind of tour, guided by locals who know their plants inside and out. I crushed a clove leaf between my fingers and instantly recognized the scent from chai back home—little sensory moments like that stick with you.
You’ll see cinnamon bark being peeled, vanilla orchids blooming, and fresh turmeric being pulled straight from the ground. They even offer a mini tasting at the end, with teas and fruit that make the visit feel like a farm-to-table snack break.
The farm is simple but full of personality, and it gives you a deeper appreciation for the spices that define Zanzibari cuisine. If you’re even a little curious about food, this one’s worth doing.
8. Nungwi Beach
Nungwi Beach has everything you want in a tropical getaway—powdery sand, clear turquoise water, and tons of beachside cafés. It’s livelier than Paje or Kendwa, but still chill enough to unwind. I stayed near Mnarani Aquarium, where you can feed rescued sea turtles and wade into the water with them—super cool, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
There’s great snorkeling right off the shore, and sunset cruises leave daily from the beach. I joined a dhow boat at the last minute, and the combo of music, drinks, and golden hour lighting was unbeatable.
The village nearby adds another layer, with friendly locals, souvenir stalls, and fresh seafood grilling all afternoon. If you only visit one beach in Zanzibar, Nungwi’s a solid pick—it’s got beauty, culture, and just enough buzz to keep things interesting.
9. Paje Beach
If you’ve ever wanted to try kitesurfing, head straight to Paje Beach. The breeze here is perfect for beginners and pros alike. I took a lesson on my second day in Zanzibar—fell a bunch, laughed even more, and eventually managed to stay upright for a solid minute. It was chaotic and awesome.
Even if you don’t get on a board, Paje has a laid-back vibe that’s easy to love. There are juice bars and beach cafés lining the sand, and plenty of travelers lounging with books or playing beach volleyball.
When the tide rolls in, the sky and water start to blur into one unreal shade of blue. Stick around for sunset and you’ll see bonfires, music, and maybe even a pop-up party. Paje is the kind of place where one beach day turns into three without even trying.
10. Makunduchi Festival in Southern Zanzibar
The Makunduchi Festival in southern Zanzibar isn’t your average cultural show—it’s a full-on community gathering. Held every New Year, it features music, dancing, and ancient rituals like the symbolic throwing of corn flour. I went not knowing what to expect, and left with my face painted, my hands full of snacks, and my phone loaded with videos of local drumming performances.
The vibe is festive but genuine. This isn’t just for tourists—it’s a tradition deeply rooted in the local Swahili and Shirazi culture. You’ll see families in traditional clothing, kids chasing each other between stalls, and elders leading the ceremony with pride. Some parts feel spiritual, others are just plain fun.
If you’re in Zanzibar during this time, it’s one of the best ways to connect with the island beyond the beaches. You’ll leave with more than photos—you’ll leave with stories.
11. Prison Island
Despite the name, Prison Island is surprisingly peaceful. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, the island is known for its giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. Feeding these slow-moving giants was more entertaining than I expected—especially when one tried to follow me for more papaya.
Beyond the tortoises, there’s a small beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I brought my gear and saw schools of fish right off the shore, no tour needed. The old prison building itself is still standing too. It was never actually used for prisoners but was later a quarantine site—creepy in a cool way.
The island’s mix of history, wildlife, and nature makes it a great half-day trip from Stone Town. Plus, the boat ride over gives you one of the best skyline views of the city.
12. Cheetah’s Rock
If you’re into animals and want more than a photo op, Cheetah’s Rock offers a rare kind of experience. This wildlife sanctuary near Zanzibar’s west coast lets you get up close to rescued animals—from lemurs and zebras to a fully grown cheetah. I wasn’t expecting to feed a bush baby or have a hyena literally laugh next to me, but here we are.
What makes it special is how hands-on but respectful everything is. The staff walks you through each encounter and shares the animals’ rescue stories. It’s small-group only, so you’re never rushed or crowded. You’ll learn a lot and laugh a lot—especially when the monkeys start showing off.
If you want something that’s ethical, educational, and still a total thrill, book a tour in advance. It’s one of the most memorable things I did in Zanzibar—and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
