Zanzibar Town 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Stone Town

Morning

  • Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in Stone Town (~15-20 minutes, ~$10-$20)

Afternoon

  • Check-in at Mtoni Palace Hotel or similar (from $80 per night)
  • Visit the Zanzibar Museum (~1 hour, free admission) to learn about the island’s history and culture
  • Explore the narrow alleys of Stone Town, taking in the Arabic-inspired architecture and bustling markets

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Africa House Restaurant (from $15 per meal)
  • Relax with a sunset view at the Forodhani Gardens, a scenic waterfront park

Transportation

  • Taxi: ~$10-$20 from airport to Stone Town
  • Walking: explore Stone Town on foot, but be mindful of narrow alleys and uneven pavement

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Stone Town’s markets
  • Haggle politely when shopping at local markets
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or historical sites

Day 2: Prison Island and Sunset Cruise

Morning

  • Take a short ferry ride (~30 minutes, ~$5-$10 return) to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island
  • Explore the island’s historic prison, now converted into a tourist attraction
  • Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island (equipment rental available)

Afternoon

  • Return to Stone Town and visit the Old Fort (~1 hour, ~$5 admission), a 17th-century fortification with stunning sea views
  • Browse the local handicrafts at the Darajani Market

Evening

  • Embark on a romantic Sunset Cruise (~2 hours, ~$30-$50 per person) around Zanzibar’s coastline
  • Enjoy dinner at The Tea House Restaurant (from $15 per meal)

Transportation

  • Ferry: ~$5-$10 return to Prison Island
  • Taxi or walking: explore Stone Town and its surroundings

Tips

  • Book your sunset cruise in advance to ensure availability
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for the island’s strong sun

Day 3: Spice Tour and Nungwi

Morning

  • Take a guided Spice Tour (~3 hours, ~$30-$50 per person) to learn about Zanzibar’s famous spice production
  • Visit local farms and plantations, sampling various spices and fruits

Afternoon

  • Head to the northern coastal town of Nungwi (~1 hour, ~$20-$30 by taxi or private car)
  • Relax on Nungwi’s picturesque beaches, known for their crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand
  • Visit the Nungwi Aquarium (~1 hour, ~$5 admission) to see a variety of marine life

Evening

Transportation

  • Taxi or private car: ~$20-$30 to Nungwi
  • Walking: explore Nungwi’s beaches and town on foot

Tips

  • Book your spice tour in advance to ensure availability
  • Be respectful of local farmers and their property during the spice tour

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend a few hours shopping for souvenirs or exploring Stone Town’s markets
  • Visit the Zanzibar Curio Shop for unique local handicrafts

Afternoon

  • Check-out of your accommodation and head to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (~15-20 minutes, ~$10-$20 by taxi)
  • Depart from Zanzibar with unforgettable memories!

Transportation

  • Taxi: ~$10-$20 to airport
  • Shuttle: book in advance with your accommodation provider (if available)

Tips

  • Double-check your flight details and departure time
  • Leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and local purchases!