- Duration: 6 Days
- Tour Type : Daily Tour
- Group Size: Unlimited
- Languages: Africa, English
Welcome to Zanzibar, the heart of Swahili culture, where history, spices, and turquoise waters blend seamlessly. This 6-day, 5-night itinerary will take you through the charming alleys of Stone Town, pristine beaches, spice plantations, and cultural landmarks, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
You will explore Zanzibar’s rich history, including its Arab, Persian, and European influences, while enjoying breathtaking ocean views and authentic Swahili cuisine. The itinerary also offers interactive experiences such as a cooking class, dhow sunset cruise, and a visit to Jozani Forest, home to the rare Red Colobus Monkeys.
Throughout the trip, you will have time for relaxation, shopping, and optional adventures like snorkeling, diving, or horseback riding along Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches. Our program is designed for a balance of exploration, culture, and leisure, making it ideal for all types of travelers.
Itinerary
Arrival:
- Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport or Zanzibar Ferry Terminal.
- Meet and greet with your guide, then transfer to your hotel in Stone Town.
Afternoon:
- Check-in and freshen up at your hotel.
- Enjoy a welcome lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Evening:
- Begin your Stone Town Walking Tour, exploring:
- The House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) – the grandest building in Stone Town.
- The Old Fort – a historical fortress with a cultural market.
- The Sultan’s Palace Museum – showcasing Zanzibar’s royal history.
- The Old Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral – a significant historical site about the slave trade.
- Sunset drinks at 6 Degrees South or Emerson on Hurumzi rooftop restaurant, enjoying traditional taarab music.
- Dinner at Lukmaan Restaurant for authentic Zanzibari cuisine.
Overnight in Stone Town.
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Depart for a Spice Farm Tour (approx. 30 minutes from Stone Town).
- Experience the famous “Spice Island” by learning about cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch at the farm.
Afternoon:
- Return to Stone Town and take a boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island).
- Visit the giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old.
- Explore the historic prison ruins used during the slave trade era.
- Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Evening:
- Return to Stone Town and relax at your hotel.
- Dinner at The Tea House Restaurant at Emerson Spice Hotel, known for its Swahili-inspired gourmet menu.
Overnight in Stone Town
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park (~1 hour).
- Walk through the tropical Jozani Forest, home to the rare Red Colobus Monkeys.
- Explore the mangrove boardwalk and spot unique bird species.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at the famous Rock Restaurant in Pingwe, perched on a rock in the Indian Ocean.
- Relax at a nearby Paje or Jambiani Beach with options for swimming, beach walks, or kite surfing.
Evening:
- Return to Stone Town.
- Leisure time at your hotel or explore local markets for souvenirs.
- Dinner at Forodhani Night Market, enjoying street food such as Zanzibari pizza, seafood skewers, and sugarcane juice.
Overnight in Stone Town.
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Join a Zanzibari Cooking Class to learn how to prepare Swahili dishes such as pilau, chapati, and seafood curries.
- Visit Darajani Market, the largest local market, to buy fresh ingredients.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy the meal you prepared during the class.
- Free time for shopping at souvenir shops such as:
- Memories of Zanzibar (for spices, textiles, and local crafts).
- The Zanzibar Curio Shop (for antiques and jewelry).
- Cultural Arts Gallery (for local artwork).
Evening:
- Sunset Dhow Cruise along the Stone Town coastline with refreshments.
- Dinner at Zanzibar Serena Inn Restaurant for fine dining with an ocean view.
Overnight in Stone Town.
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive to Nungwi or Kendwa Beach (approx. 1.5 hours) for a relaxing day by the turquoise waters.
- Activities available:
- Snorkeling or diving at Mnemba Atoll.
- Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Center in Nungwi.
- Relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at Kendwa Rocks or Essence Restaurant in Nungwi.
- Optional Sunset Horseback Ride along the beach.
Evening:
- Return to Stone Town.
- Farewell dinner at Emerson on Hurumzi, enjoying Swahili cuisine and live music.
Overnight in Stone Town.
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Last-minute shopping or a relaxed morning walk through the narrow streets of Stone Town.
- Transfer to the airport or ferry terminal for your departure.
End of Tour – Safe Travels!
Tour Inclusions:
✔ Accommodation for 5 nights in Stone Town
✔ Daily breakfast
✔ Airport/ferry transfers
✔ Guided tours (Stone Town, Spice Farm, Prison Island, Jozani Forest)
✔ Dhow Sunset Cruise
✔ Cooking class experience
✔ Snorkeling gear for beach excursions
Tour Exclusions:
✘ International/domestic flights
✘ Visa fees (if applicable)
✘ Personal expenses & shopping
✘ Alcoholic beverages
✘ Optional activities (scuba diving, kite surfing, horseback riding)
This itinerary provides a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and relaxation to experience the best of Stone Town and Zanzibar.