When most travelers think of Zanzibar, they think of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and barefoot relaxation. But this archipelago offers so much more; rich history, vibrant culture, unique nature, and hidden adventures. If you plan to stay a few days, here are 10 unforgettable things to do in Zanzibar beyond just lounging by the shore.
1. Explore Stone Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Wander the narrow alleys, old forts, Swahili architecture
- Visit the House of Wonders, Old Slave Market, Beit al-Ajaib
- Experience the lively Darajani market
- Enjoy local street food; Zanzibar pizza, urojo
2. Take a Spice Tour
- Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island”
- Visit working spice farms and learn about cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, etc.
- Taste fresh tropical fruits
- See how spices are processed
3. Prison Island (Changuu)
- Take a short boat ride from Stone Town
- Meet the giant Aldabra tortoises
- Swim and snorkel in calm lagoons
4. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park & Red Colobus Monkeys
- Walk through the tropical forest
- Spot the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey
- Cross the mangrove boardwalk
5. Dolphin Tour & Kizimkazi
- Head to Kizimkazi village; early morning boat ride to spot spinner dolphins
- Swim near dolphins (ethically managed)
- Visit Kizimkazi Mosque; one of East Africa’s oldest
6. Paje & Jambiani (Kiteboarding / Water Sports)
- These eastern villages are kiteboarding hubs
- Take lessons or just watch the action
- Velocity wind, shallow lagoon makes it ideal
7. Michamvi & Sunset Dhow Cruise
- Sail at sunset in a traditional dhow along the east coast
- Watch the sun dip over the Indian Ocean
- Enjoy refreshments onboard
8. Nakupenda Sandbank & Snorkeling
- A short boat ride brings you to Nakupenda, a pristine sandbank
- Swim, snorkel around coral reefs, relax
- Picnic lunch included
9. Visit Local Villages & Cultural Tours
- Participate in Swahili cooking classes
- Visit schools, local handicraft cooperatives
- Learn about dhow building, traditional fishing
10. Forest Walks & Mangrove Tours
- Mangrove kayaking tours (e.g. around Mangapwani)
- Guided forest walks in Ngezi or Kiwengwa forests
- Birdwatching, nature spotting
Conclusion
Zanzibar’s beauty lies not just in its beaches, but in its heart; culture, wildlife, spice, history. When you book a Zanzibar add-on to your safari with Wakanda Safaris, we can curate a mix of relaxing, adventurous, and cultural experiences. Be sure to spend a few nights in Stone Town or local villages so you don’t just see Zanzibar; you live it.
