Best Activities to Do in Zanzibar

Looking for the best places to visit in Zanzibar? This Indian Ocean paradise offers more than just white sands and turquoise waters. It’s a melting pot of cultures, a sanctuary for marine and wildlife lovers, and a dream for adventure seekers and romantic travelers alike. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to unforgettable snorkeling experiences, Zanzibar blends culture, history, and natural wonder in one tropical destination.

Whether you’re exploring ancient Stone Town, relaxing on palm-lined beaches, or cruising through coral reefs, Zanzibar will exceed your expectations.

1. Stone Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Why visit: Step into history in this cultural epicenter of Zanzibar, where every corner whispers stories from centuries past.

What makes it special:

Wander through narrow alleys lined with carved wooden doors and coral-stone buildings.
Visit The Old Fort, a 17th-century structure built by the Omanis.
Explore the House of Wonders, the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator.
Snap a selfie at Freddie Mercury’s House, the birthplace of the rock legend.
Taste local street food at Forodhani Gardens night market.

Experience the unique blend of Arab, Swahili, Persian, Indian, and European cultures in one city. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and history buffs.

Don’t miss: Guided walking tours that explain Zanzibar’s rich spice and slave trade history.

2. Nungwi Beach

Why visit: One of Zanzibar’s most iconic beaches, Nungwi is where powdery white sand meets crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife.

Top experiences:

Set sail on a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.
Dive or snorkel in some of the clearest waters on the island.
Enjoy a lively night with beach bars, seafood grills, and fire dancers.

Great for: Couples, groups, and sunset lovers.
Why go: Nungwi combines relaxation by day and entertainment by night. It’s the perfect place to start or end your Zanzibar journey.

3. Kendwa Beach

Why visit: If you love swimming without worrying about tides, Kendwa is your paradise.

Highlights:

Calm waters make it perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Hosts the legendary Full Moon Party—an epic monthly beach celebration with DJs, acrobats, and dancing till dawn.

Perfect for: Young travelers, honeymooners, and those seeking a quieter yet exciting beach vibe.
Why go: Kendwa is often quieter than Nungwi but just as beautiful—with luxury resorts and boutique stays nearby.

4. Jozani Forest

Why visit: This is Zanzibar’s last remaining indigenous forest and home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey.

What you’ll see:

Guided walks through lush forest paths.
Mangrove boardwalks rich with crabs, butterflies, and birds.
Up-close encounters with endemic monkey species found nowhere else on Earth.

Best for: Wildlife lovers, eco-tourists, and photographers.
Why go: It’s a breath of fresh, green air in the middle of the island—plus, your visit supports forest conservation projects.

5. Prison Island (Changuu Island)

Why visit: Once used to house rebellious slaves and later as a quarantine island, it’s now a peaceful haven with giant tortoises.

Top experiences:

Feed and photograph Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old.
Learn about the island’s haunting history through its preserved prison cells.
Snorkel in the turquoise waters surrounding the island.

Why go: A great half-day escape from Stone Town that mixes history with marine beauty.

6. Paje Beach

Why visit: With strong winds and open beaches, Paje is the kite-surfing capital of Zanzibar.

Must-do:

Take a kite-surfing lesson from a certified local school.
Hang out in boho beach cafes with hammocks and live music.
Try fresh seafood BBQs right on the sand.

Why go: This beach is buzzing with youthful energy and is a favorite among digital nomads, solo travelers, and water sports lovers.

7. Mnemba Atoll

Why visit: Known as the best snorkeling and diving spot in Zanzibar.

What to see:

Colorful coral gardens
Dolphins, sea turtles, and reef sharks
Excellent visibility and calm waters

How to visit: Take a boat tour from Nungwi or Matemwe for a half-day marine adventure.
Why go: It’s a protected marine reserve, perfect for those wanting to see Zanzibar’s underwater wonders.

8. Spice Plantations

Why visit: Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island” for a reason.

Tour perks:

Discover how cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla grow.
Taste exotic fruits and herbal teas.
Learn traditional cooking methods using local spices.

Why go: A great cultural experience that connects Zanzibar’s history to its culinary identity.

9. The Rock Restaurant

Why visit: A postcard-perfect restaurant perched on a rock in the ocean near Michamvi.

Pro tips:

Visit during high tide for a boat ride to the entrance.
Make reservations in advance—it’s world-famous.
Savor fresh seafood and wine with ocean views on all sides.

Why go: A once-in-a-lifetime dining experience that blends natural beauty with culinary excellence.

10. Matemwe Village

Why visit: A peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

What you’ll love:

Tranquil mornings with sunrise beach walks.
Reef snorkeling and dhow boat sailing.
Boutique lodges and personalized service.

Why go: Ideal for honeymooners, writers, and those seeking serenity.

11. Kizimkazi

Why visit: A traditional village known for its ethical dolphin tours.

Top experiences:

See bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
Visit Kizimkazi Mosque, dating back to the 12th century.
Learn from locals about sustainable fishing and village life.

Why go: Avoid the crowds and enjoy authentic coastal culture with a responsible tourism focus.

12. Mangapwani Slave Chambers

Why visit: A sobering site that offers insight into Zanzibar’s dark past in the East African slave trade.

Learn about:

Hidden underground chambers used to detain slaves.
The connection between Zanzibar and global slavery routes.

Why go: Important for understanding the human history behind Zanzibar’s cultural evolution.

13. Jambiani

Why visit: A laid-back beach village with authentic Swahili charm.

What to do:

Join a seaweed farming tour with local women.
Relax on quiet beaches with minimal development.
Take part in community-based tourism.

Why go: Great for solo travelers, eco-tourists, and slow travelers who want to connect deeply with local culture.

14. Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Why visit: One of Africa’s largest butterfly sanctuaries, promoting conservation and education.

Highlights:

Learn about the butterfly lifecycle.
See hundreds of native species in natural enclosures.
Support local livelihoods and environmental education.

Why go: Ideal for families, nature lovers, and educational travel.

15. Makunduchi

Why visit: Home to the Mwaka Kogwa Festival, a traditional Swahili New Year celebration in July.

Expect:

Rituals involving banana stalk battles (symbolizing conflict resolution).
Traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes.
A rare glimpse into ancient Zanzibari traditions.

Why go: Time your trip for July and witness one of East Africa’s most vibrant festivals.

Final Thoughts

The best places to visit in Zanzibar span from the cultural depths of Stone Town to the untouched beauty of Matemwe and the aquatic marvels of Mnemba Atoll. Whether you’re after adventure, romance, or deep cultural exploration, Zanzibar delivers with warmth, beauty, and authenticity.

Ready to Explore Zanzibar?

Check out our handpicked Zanzibar Tours with Kale Voyage Expedition and start planning your unforgettable island escape.

Best Activities to Do in Zanzibar