Interested in visiting Zanzibar for a culturally diverse and beautifully scenic getaway?
Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, is a tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania. This East African island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Culturally, the island is a vibrant blend of Swahili, Arab, and European influences.
From swimming with sea turtles and dolphins to exploring lush spice plantations, Zanzibar unique aspects make it a dream destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.
This 5-day itinerary will provide you:
The best outline for experiencing Zanzibar Island's wildlife, culture, and community!
Recommendations on hotels, transportation and activities!
Direct links to book your activities, hotel, and transportation to make planning super easy for you!
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through Zanzibar Island's diverse wildlife and culture.
Jump To...
Day 1: Paje
Day 2: Michamvi
Day 3: Nungwi
Day 4: Nungwi
Day 5: Stonetown
NOTE
Zanzibar is a small island, so you can reach each side within a 3 hour drive. We recommend you stay in 1 or 2 hotels for the duration of your stay, because it's easy to get a driver to take you to any part of the island you want to visit. Additionally, we suggest you to stay in a hotel in Stonetown on your last night, so it's quick and easy for you to access the airport and seaport.
Hotel Recommendations in Zanzibar
The Garten | 📍 Paje
Emerson Spice Hotel | 📍 Stonetown
Sandies Baobab Beach | 📍 Nungwi
For verified, secure transportation services in Zanzibar
Day 1 - Paje
6-10AM - Take a walk to the shoreline and get a guided tour of the Seaweed Farms and Kuza Cave located on Zanzibar's coastline. You can only see this at low time in the morning, so don't sleep in!
12-3PM - Enjoy the sun and sand by lounging at the Ndame Paje Hotel. They have midday specials on drinks and food, so relax the afternoon away!
4-7PM - Grab dinner at a local favorite, ZanziBarista. Here you can find a mix of delicious Zanzibari foods and familiar dishes cooked to perfection.
Day 2 - Michamvi
12-3PM - Hike through one of Zanzibar's natural wonders before it floods for the day, the Mangroves. They lead straight to a private beach area with a gorgeous view of the Chwaka Bay.
7-11PM - Travel south to enjoy a gourmet Zanzibar Culinary Experience with Kizimkazi's top chefs. The menu includes fresh seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and classic Zanzibari dishes as sides. So delicious!!!
Day 3 - Nungwi
8-11AM - An early start will make it easy for you to swim with dolphins and other colorful marine life at Mnemba Island. If you can, try to catch a few moments on the Mnemba sandbank when the tides are low! After your swim, enjoy fresh local fruits and snacks during the boat ride back to the mainland.
2-5PM - Continue the adventures with Zanzibar's wildlife as you feed and swim with sea turtles at Baraka Natural Aquarium. The turtles are friendly, but might bite you on accident if you decide to feel them while you swim.
Day 4 - Nungwi
12-2PM - Take a tour at the Jambo Spice Farm and see how Zanzibar's most popular spice exports are grown. After all, this island is known as Spice Island.
3-5PM - Explore Zanzibar’s only national park and a haven for nature lovers, the Jozani Forest. This lush forest is home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey, bush babies, colorful butterflies, towering trees, and more.
Day 5 - Stonetown
7-11AM - Hop on a boat from Stonetown and sail to Prison Island. Learn about the unique history of it's inhabitants, including Transatlantic slaves, quarantined citizens, and now currently the home to giant Aldabra tortoises.
12-1PM - Explore the city of stone the easiest way possible - a Stonetown Walking Tour! Every street and building embodies the unique history of Stonetown's relationship with Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European culture.
8PM-12AM - Enjoy Zanzibar street food and music for locals at the Stonetown Night Market, open daily. This is great place to try traditional Zanzibari foods for cheap and see how locals spend a night out. Plus, you can find great souvenirs and gifts for home here!
Hopefully you found this 5-day itinerary helpful in planning your visit to Zanzibar Island for your next tropical getaway! 🌞 🌊
We truly hope you find the Zanzibar as amazing as we do, and if you're looking for a more support in booking your travels (like what to pack, how to get your visa, cultural tips and more) check out our customized travel consulting!
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