Zanzibar Town 3 Day Itinerary
Zanzibar 3-Day Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Stone Town & Jozani Forest
Morning:
- Arrival at Zanzibar Airport (Azimio la Pemba Mwanza) and transfer to Stone Town. Check-in at your hotel, such as Zanzibar Serena Hotel, for a comfortable stay.
- Breakfast at the hotel or local café like Prison Island Restaurant & Bar
- Visit the Forodhani Gardens, where you can enjoy freshly prepared local street food in the evening.
Afternoon:
- Guided tour of Stone Town, including:
- The House of Wonders, a historic building with a museum displaying Zanzibar’s history
- Palace Museum, the former Sultan’s palace
- The Old Fort, offering panoramic views of Stone Town and the sea
Evening:
- Visit the Jame Mosque (closed on Fridays) or the Christ Church if you prefer not to visit a mosque
- Explore the bustling bazaars of Stone Town, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s vibrant culture
Day 2: Jozani Forest & Prison Island
Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel or a local café
- Depart early for a guided tour of the Jozani Forest, home to the endemic Red Colobus monkeys and other unique wildlife
Afternoon:
- After lunch (opt for seafood at Karafuu Beach Hotel or Emerson Spice Restaurant & Cooking School), take a boat to Prison Island
- Visit the giant tortoise sanctuary and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island
Evening:
- Return to Stone Town, enjoy dinner at 6 Degrees Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace or Tembo House Hotel’s Restaurant
Day 3: North Coast Beaches & Departure
Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel and check-out
- Head to the north coast of Zanzibar, stopping at the picturesque Nungwi Beach or Kendwa Beach for a relaxing day by the sea
- Opt for water sports like snorkeling, diving, or kitesurfing
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a beachfront restaurant before heading back to Stone Town for your onward journey
Things to Know:
- Zanzibar is a Muslim-majority region, so dress modestly when visiting mosques and respect local customs.
- Haggle for prices in the bazaars, but be fair and polite.
- Use local transportation like dala-dalas (mini buses) or taxis for getting around Stone Town. For longer trips, consider renting a scooter or car.
- Carry cash as credit cards may not be widely accepted in some places.
- Mosquito repellent is essential as Zanzibar is home to malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
- Enjoy the local Swahili cuisine, including Zanzibar pizza, biryani and fresh seafood dishes.
Transportation:
- You can pre-arrange airport transfers with your hotel or use a local taxi service. For getting around Zanzibar, dala-dalas are the cheapest option, while taxis offer more convenience. Renting a scooter or car is ideal for exploring at your own pace.