Zanzibar is an island nation in Tanzania and it is a popular vacation destination for its white beaches, turquoise ocean, and welcoming locals. The island’s capital city is Stone Town, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What To Do In Zanzibar
If you’re looking for an exotic destination that offers a unique cultural experience, then Zanzibar is the perfect place for you! With its rich history and diverse culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this stunning island located in the Indian Ocean. From admiring the stunning coral reefs to experiencing the colorful festivals and lively nightlife, there’s plenty to do in Zanzibar! Here are five of our favorite things to do in Zanzibar:
1.explore the beautiful coral reefs: One of the main reasons why visitors come to Zanzibar is to explore its dazzling coral reefs. With their wide variety of colors and shapes, these underwater wonders are simply amazing. If you’re lucky enough to be here during high season (from May to October), make sure you take advantage of all the scuba diving opportunities available.
2. admire historical sites: While exploring the Coral Coast, be sure not to miss Stone Town – one of Zanzibar’s oldest settlements and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only is Stone Town a fascinating sight from a historical perspective, but it’s also home to some impressive architecture dating back centuries.
3. sample local food: Familiarizing yourself with some of Zanzibar’s famous cuisine – such as chai tea and ginger bread – can be a great way to round out your trip experience. Not only are these dishes delicious, but they also have interesting histories behind them!
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Looking for a relaxing getaway? Zanzibar has all you need. From sandy beaches to lush rainforest, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Zanzibar:
1. Stone Town – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to centuries-old buildings, including the historic mosque and palace complexes. The town is also known for its markets and restaurants.
2. Pemba Island – This small island is perfect for those who want to relax on the beachfront or explore its lush forests and villages. There are several resorts on the island, as well as plenty of activities available, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking.
3. Thimbiras – This hidden gem lies off the east coast of Zanzibar, just minutes from the Indian Ocean. It’s a popular spot for fishing and water sports, as well as bird watching and wildlife spotting. There are also several hotels and guesthouses available here, making it an ideal place to stay while exploring Zanzibar.
Top 10 Things to do
1. Spend a day at the Stone Town market
2. Take a walk on Pemba island
3. Visit the Sultan’s Palace
4. Trek to Mt. Kilimanjaro
5. Go diving in Zanzibar Marine National Park
6. Explore the spice islands of Zanzibar
7. Play golf or swim on the beaches of Unguja Island
8. Explore Hamish’s Village, an authentic Zanzibari village
9. Have a picnic at Ali Baba’s Cave
10. Spend time with friends and family
Best Day Trips from Zanzibar
If you’re looking for a day trip from Zanzibar, there are plenty of great options to choose from. From exploring the stunning beaches of Stone Town to checking out the wildlife in Tarangire National Park, these are some of the best day trips from Zanzibar.
Stone Town is located on the water’s edge and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Zanzibar. The town is full of brightly painted houses, many with porches overlooking the ocean. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, making it an ideal place to spend a day or two.
Tarangire National Park is home to lions, elephants, and other big animals. It’s also a great place to see some spectacular landscapes, including vast open plains and dense forests. If you have enough time, make sure to visit Lake Manyara too – it’s one of Africa’s biggest lakes and well worth a visit.
What to Wear in Zanzibar
When planning your trip to Zanzibar, one of the first things you’ll want to do is decide what to wear. Here are some tips on what to pack for a trip to the island paradise:
-Beachwear: When visiting Zanzibar, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and swim attire. The beaches are beautiful and incredibly sandy, but swimming in the Indian Ocean can be very refreshing and cool.
-Weather permitting: A great way to enjoy Zanzibar’s stunning scenery is by hiking up Mt. Kilimanjaro or going cycling around Stone Town. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you’re venturing out during the day as it can get quite hot!
-Comfortable clothing: This isn’t an exhaustive list of what you’ll need while in Zanzibar, but it’s important to keep in mind that this is an island country with a warm climate. Bring clothes that you can move easily in – think cotton garments instead of heavy fabrics – and consider packing a sarong or shawl as well if the weather turns cooler at night.
Fun things to do in Zanzibar
There are plenty of fun things to do in Zanzibar, from exploring the stunning coral reefs to catching a sunset at one of the many sandy beaches. Here are some ideas:
1. Visit Stone Town – Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Zanzibar’s most famous attractions. The town is full of narrow alleys and historical buildings, including the ruins of an ancient fort. There are also many shops and restaurants in Stone Town, making it a great place to spend a morning or afternoon.
2. Kayak or snorkel in the Coral Coast – The Coral Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline on Zanzibar Island that’s home to some of the best coral reef diving and snorkeling in East Africa. You can kayak or snorkel here from any beach on the island, making it easy to explore different areas each time you visit.
3. Take a cooking class – Zanzibar is known for its delicious seafood dishes, so why not learn how to cook them yourself? Many local cooking schools offer classes in both English and Swahili, so there’s sure to be one that fits your needs. From there, you can enjoy fresh seafood cooked just how you like it!
4. Go whale watching – Zanzibar has some of East Africa’s most impressive humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), which come into shore to feed in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot them while whale watching tours depart from Zanzibar’s many beaches.
5. Visit the Stone Town Safari – If you want to see some of Zanzibar’s wildlife up close, consider taking a safari tour in Stone Town. The safari companies offer trips that allow you to see lions, leopards, elephants, and other animals in their natural habitat.
6. Take a sunset cruise – Cruise ships stop at several different ports on Zanzibar, including Stone Town and the breathtaking coral beaches of Mwali. If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening out, take a sunset cruise and enjoy views of the sunset over the ocean while sipping on cocktails.
Spend your days doing fun things in Zanzibar.
There are so many things to do in Zanzibar that you’ll never run out of things to do. Here are some of our favorites:
1)Visit the Stone Town ruins – One of the most popular tourist destinations in Zanzibar, the Stone Town ruins are a must-see for anyone visiting Zanzibar. The stunning architecture and intricate carvings make this an incredible place to visit.
2)Kayak through the coral reefs – If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, kayaking through the coral reefs is it. You’ll be able to see some of the most beautiful fish and coral in all of Zanzibar while enjoying breathtaking views.
3)Take a hike up Mt. Kilimanjaro – Another popular tourist destination, Mt. Kilimanjaro is well worth a trip if you’re looking for an adventure. Not only will you be able to see some of Africa’s highest peaks, but you’ll also get a glimpse into its natural beauty and history.
4)Marvel at the monkeys at Ngong Forest National Park – If you’re looking for something unique and fun to do, head to Ngong Forest National Park and marvel at the monkeys! These cute little creatures will amaze you with their agility and intelligence.
What should I know if planning a trip to Zanzibar?
There are plenty of things to do in Zanzibar, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the city. Here are some tips to help make your trip easier:
1. Make a plan. Before you go, decide what you want to see and do and map out a route. This will help you avoid getting lost and maximize your time in Zanzibar.
2. Bring your passport and visa. You’ll need both if you’re planning on traveling outside the main townships.
3. Check the weather forecast. If it looks like rain or sun, bring an umbrella and sunscreen accordingly.
4. Beware of scams. Be aware of people who approach you on the street with offers of tours or goods that seem too good to be true – they’re probably not! Stick to reputable sources when booking accommodations or making other arrangements, and remember that it’s always best to ask for recommendations from friends before heading out on your own.
5. Respect local customs. Some things – like not eating with your hands – are universal, but others may be specific to Zanzibar culture so be sure to inquire about them before engaging in any activities that might require special precautions (like visiting sacred sites).
Conclusion
If you’re looking for things to do in Zanzibar, this list of 30 activities will have you covered. From cycling and hiking to snorkelling and sunbathing, there is something for everyone on this list. Whether you are travelling solo or with a group of friends, I’m confident that you’ll find something enjoyable on this list. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Zanzibar today!