Things to Do in Zanzibar

Arrival & Old Town Walking Tour

Start your Zanzibar adventure in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After picking up your rental car, park at one of the designated areas and explore on foot. The narrow winding streets are best experienced walking.

• House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) — The largest building in Stone Town
• Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) — Built in the 17th century by Omani Arabs
• Darajani Market — Experience local life and fresh produce

Historical Sites

Continue exploring the rich history of Zanzibar:

• Anglican Cathedral & Slave Market Memorial — A sobering reminder of the island's past
• Palace Museum — Learn about the Sultans of Zanzibar
• Tippu Tip's House — Home of the famous slave trader

Forodhani Gardens Night Market

As the sun sets, head to Forodhani Gardens for one of the best street food experiences in East Africa. Try Zanzibar pizza, fresh seafood, and sugarcane juice.

Spice Plantation Tour

Zanzibar is known as the "Spice Island" for good reason. Drive your rental car to one of the many spice farms in the Kizimbani or Kindichi areas (about 20 minutes from Stone Town).

• See cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and vanilla growing
• Learn about traditional uses of each spice
• Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch with fresh spices
• Buy fresh spices directly from the farm

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

After lunch, drive south to Jozani Forest (about 45 minutes). This is Zanzibar's only national park and home to the rare red colobus monkey found nowhere else on Earth.

• Red Colobus Monkeys — Endemic to Zanzibar, very friendly and photogenic
• Mangrove Boardwalk — A peaceful walk through the mangrove ecosystem
• Nature Trail — Spot various bird species and other wildlife

Nungwi Beach

Drive north from Stone Town (about 1 hour) to Nungwi, one of Zanzibar's most famous beaches. The roads are well-maintained, making the drive pleasant with your rental car.

• Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters
• Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond
• Watch traditional dhow boat builders at work
• Enjoy fresh seafood at beachside restaurants

Kendwa Beach

Just 15 minutes south of Nungwi, Kendwa offers:

• A beach that doesn't lose sand at low tide (unlike many Zanzibar beaches)
• Perfect for swimming all day
• Famous Full Moon Parties
• Stunning sunset views

Paje Beach & Kitesurfing

The east coast of Zanzibar offers a completely different experience. Drive to Paje (about 1 hour from Stone Town) to discover why it's called the kitesurfing capital of East Africa.

• Take a kitesurfing lesson (many schools available)
• Enjoy the shallow, warm waters
• Explore the vibrant backpacker scene
• Visit local seaweed farms

The Rock Restaurant

No trip to Zanzibar is complete without visiting The Rock Restaurant in Pingwe. This iconic restaurant sits on a rock in the Indian Ocean and offers:

• Fresh seafood and Swahili cuisine
• Stunning photo opportunities
• At low tide, you can walk to it; at high tide, take a boat

Jambiani Village

Drive south to Jambiani (15 minutes from Paje) for an authentic local experience:

• Watch local fishermen bring in their catch
• See women harvesting seaweed
• Experience a genuine Zanzibari village

Prison Island (Changuu Island)

Drive to Stone Town and catch a boat to Prison Island (30-minute ride). This former prison and quarantine station is now famous for:

• Giant Aldabra Tortoises — Some over 100 years old
• Beautiful snorkeling waters
• Historical ruins to explore
• Peaceful beaches

Mnemba Atoll (For Divers)

If you're into diving or snorkeling, arrange a trip to Mnemba Atoll, one of the best dive sites in East Africa. Boats depart from the northern beaches.

• Crystal-clear visibility
• Diverse marine life including dolphins
• Sea turtles commonly spotted
• Colorful coral reefs

Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour

Drive to Kizimkazi in the south (about 1 hour from Stone Town) for an unforgettable dolphin experience:

• Swim with wild bottlenose and humpback dolphins
• Best time: Early morning (around 6-7 AM)
• Visit the ancient Kizimkazi Mosque (one of the oldest in East Africa)

Mtende Beach

One of Zanzibar's most secluded beaches, Mtende offers:

• Virtually empty stretches of white sand
• Local fishing village atmosphere
• Excellent for those seeking peace and quiet

Kuza Cave

On your way back, stop at Kuza Cave for a unique experience:

• Underground freshwater pool perfect for swimming
• Believed to have healing properties
• Cool respite from the tropical heat

Choose Your Favorite Spot

Spend your last morning at whichever beach or location captured your heart. With your rental car, you have the flexibility to:

• Return to your favorite beach for one last swim
• Pick up last-minute souvenirs in Stone Town
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront restaurant

Return & Departure

Return your rental car at the agreed location (we offer airport drop-off for convenience) and head to the airport with amazing memories.