Zanzibar, Tanzania 6 Day Itinerary

Zanzibar, Tanzania: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Stone Town Exploration

  • Arrive at Zanzibar International Airport. You can arrange for a taxi or book a private transfer in advance.
  • Check into your hotel (recommendations: Hotel Rostad, Emerson Spice Hotel, or Zanzibar Serena Hotel).

Activities:

  • Visit the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its narrow alleys filled with historic buildings, bazaars, and local shops.
  • Check out the Palace Museum, House of Wonders, and Old Fort.
  • Enjoy a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar’s famous spices at Prison Island Spice Farm or Kizimkazi Spice Farm.
  • Have dinner at The Rock Restaurant, an iconic eatery built on a small island accessible only during low tide.

Tips:

  • Haggle for prices in the local markets.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

Day 2: Jambiani and Nungwi Beach

  • Travel to Jambiani (approx. 1 hour drive) for a morning visit to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to see the Red Colobus Monkeys and other wildlife.
  • Continue to Nungwi (approx. 1-hour drive), check into your hotel, and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beautiful white sand beach.

Activities:

  • Take a sunset dhow sailing trip in Nungwi.
  • Visit Kendwa Rocks for a unique dining experience at The Beach House.

Day 3: Snorkeling and Prison Island

  • Spend the day exploring the coral reefs off the coast of Nungwi by snorkeling or taking a glass-bottom boat tour.
  • In the afternoon, visit Prison Island, where you can swim with giant tortoises, explore the island, and relax on its beautiful beaches.

Day 4: Spice Farm and Blue Lagoon

  • Return to Stone Town and spend the morning at a local spice farm (e.g., Kizimkazi Spice Farm or Matlai Spices) for a guided tour and cooking demonstration.
  • After lunch, head to Jambiani, visit the Blue Lagoon, and relax on its crystal clear waters.

Day 5: Dolphin Watching and Relaxation

  • Take a morning boat trip to Kizimkazi for dolphin watching (best during December to March).
  • Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing on the beach or exploring local villages.

Day 6: Departure

  • Check out from your hotel and transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight.

Things to Know:

  • Bartering is expected in markets and shops.
  • The official currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD is widely accepted.
  • The local language is Swahili, although English is also widely spoken.
  • Always carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat during your travels.
  • Respect local customs, particularly when it comes to dressing modestly in Stone Town.