Zanzibar Town 4 Day Itinerary

Title: 4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Zanzibar Town

Day 1: Arrival & Stone Town Exploration

  • Arrival: Arrive at Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ). You can arrange a taxi or book a shuttle service to your accommodation.

  • Check-in & Rest: Check-in at your hotel in Stone Town, relax and freshen up. Recommended hotels: Emerson Spice Hotel, Park Hyatt Zanzibar, The Palace Malinda.

  • Stone Town Tour: Start exploring the historical city of Stone Town. Visit the Forodhani Gardens, Palace Museum, and the famous Spice Market. Don’t miss the chance to taste some spices!

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious Swahili dinner at Prison Island Restaurant & Bar or 6 Degrees Restaurant.

Day 2: Stone Town & Surroundings

  • Morning: Visit the Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church, House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib), and the Old Fort.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at The Rooftops Restaurant & Bar or Shulamites.

  • Afternoon: Take a spice tour or head to Jozani Forest, home to the Red Colobus Monkeys.

  • Dinner & Nightlife: Experience local music and dance at Rock Bar, or try street food at the Forodhani Night Market.

Day 3: Prison Island & Beach Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island) to see the giant tortoises.

  • Lunch: Lunch will be served on Prison Island or back at your hotel depending on your tour arrangement.

  • Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing at Kizimkazi Beach, where you can swim with dolphins (seasonal). Alternatively, visit Jambiani or Michamvi Peninsula for beautiful beaches.

  • Dinner: Dine at a beachfront restaurant like Mbweni Ruins Restaurant & Bar or Sunset Bar & Restaurant.

Day 4: Nungwi Beach & Departure

  • Morning: Travel to Nungwi Beach, the northernmost point of Zanzibar. Spend your morning relaxing on this beautiful beach.

  • Lunch: Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant like The Rock Restaurant or Jafferji’s Restaurant.

  • Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for more relaxation, snorkeling, or water sports.

  • Departure: Head back to Stone Town and catch your flight home. Don’t forget to pick up any last-minute souvenirs!

Things to Know:

  • Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, so Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) are the local currency, but US Dollars are widely accepted.
  • Bargaining is common in markets and with taxi drivers.
  • Mosquito repellent is essential as malaria prevention.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink, so always use bottled water.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are readily available in Stone Town, but negotiate the price before you start your journey.
  • Boat trips to Prison Island and other islands can be arranged through tour operators or hotels.
  • Renting a bike or scooter is another option for getting around the island. Always wear a helmet!

Tips:

  • Learn a few Swahili phrases, as it’s appreciated by locals.
  • Support local businesses whenever possible.
  • Remember to take plenty of photos but be respectful and ask permission before taking pictures of people.

Enjoy your trip to Zanzibar!