Zanzibar Town 7 Day Itinerary

Zanzibar Town 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in Zanzibar Town ( approx. 10-15 minutes, $10-$20)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (free admission)
    • Explore the narrow alleys and historic buildings
    • Visit the Old Fort (free admission), a former slave trading post
  • Walk along the Seafront and enjoy the views of the Indian Ocean

Evening

  • Dine at The Tea House Restaurant, known for its Zanzibari cuisine ($15-$25 per meal)
  • Stay at Maru Maru Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of Stone Town (from $100 per night)

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Zanzibar National Museum ( approx. $5 admission), which showcases the island’s history and culture
  • Explore the Darajani Market, a bustling marketplace with local vendors

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the House of Wonders (approx. $10 admission), a historic palace turned museum
  • Visit the Hamamni Persian Baths (free admission), a well-preserved ancient bathhouse

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Africa House, offering international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients ($20-$30 per meal)
  • Relax at The Z Hotel, a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool (from $80 per night)

Day 3: Beach Day

Morning

  • Take a short ferry ride to Prison Island (approx. $5 return), also known as Changuu Island
    • Relax on the beautiful beaches
    • Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters

Afternoon

  • Visit the Changuu Island Lighthouse (free admission), with stunning views of the surrounding area

Evening

  • Dine at The Beach House Restaurant, serving seafood and international dishes ($25-$35 per meal)
  • Stay at Essque Zalu Zanzibar, a luxurious resort on the beach (from $200 per night)

Day 4: Spice Farm Tour

Morning

  • Take a guided tour of a local Spice Farm (approx. $10 admission), learning about the island’s famous spices and fruits
    • Sample some of the fresh produce

Afternoon

  • Visit a nearby Village, getting a glimpse into traditional Zanzibari life

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Night Market, offering local street food ($5-$10 per meal)
  • Stay at Mizingani Seafront Hotel, a comfortable hotel with ocean views (from $60 per night)

Day 5: Water Sports

Morning

  • Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving at one of the nearby coral reefs (approx. $50-$100 per person)
    • Discover the island’s incredible marine life

Afternoon

  • Try your hand at Kitesurfing or Windsurfing at one of the local beaches (approx. $20-$50 per hour)

Evening

  • Dine at The Waterfront Restaurant, serving seafood and international dishes ($25-$35 per meal)
  • Stay at Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel, a beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms (from $80 per night)

Day 6: Jozani Forest

Morning

  • Visit the Jozani Forest (approx. $10 admission), home to the endangered Kirk’s red colobus monkey
    • Take a guided tour of the forest and its inhabitants

Afternoon

  • Explore the nearby Pangani, a historic town with a rich cultural heritage

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Fisherman’s Restaurant, serving fresh seafood ($20-$30 per meal)
  • Stay at Matemwe Lodge, an eco-lodge with stunning views of the surrounding area (from $100 per night)

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time relaxing at your accommodation or exploring Stone Town
  • Take a taxi or bus back to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (approx. 10-15 minutes, $10-$20)

Things to Know

  • Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island; dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS), although USD is widely accepted.
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and limited internet connectivity.

Transportation

  • Taxis are readily available, but agree on a fare before departing.
  • Local buses (dalla-dallas) are a cheap and adventurous way to get around.
  • Ferry services connect Zanzibar Town to nearby islands and beaches.

Tips

  • Negotiate prices at local markets and from street vendors.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife.

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a sunset cruise or sailing trip around the island (approx. $50-$100 per person).
  • Visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, home to over 40 species of butterflies (approx. $5 admission).
  • Explore the nearby Mafia Island, known for its incredible marine life and diving opportunities.