Zanzibar, Tanzania-6-day-itinerary
6-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Zanzibar, Tanzania
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation in Stone Town
- Morning: Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
- Transfer to your hotel using a pre-arranged taxi or shuttle service (approximately $20-$30 USD)
- Check-in at the Dhow Palace Hotel or similar ( approx. $80-$100 USD per night)
- Afternoon: Explore Stone Town, a historic trading city with narrow alleys and bustling markets
- Visit the House of Wonders, a 19th-century building that showcases Zanzibar’s rich history
- Walk through the Forodhani Night Market for a taste of local food and shopping (evening)
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Tandoori Nights, a popular restaurant serving Indian cuisine ( approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
Day 2: Prison Island and Beach Time
- Morning: Take a ferry to Changuu Island (also known as Prison Island), a beautiful island with a historic prison and a chance to see dolphins
- Snorkel or swim at the nearby beach, Kivikini Beach, for a relaxing morning ( approx. $20-$30 USD per person, including lunch)
- Afternoon: Head back to Stone Town and visit the Old Fort (also known as Ngome Kongwe), a 17th-century fortification with stunning views of the sea
- Relax at your hotel or explore the local market for souvenirs
- Evening: Dine at Al Frash, a cozy restaurant serving Zanzibari cuisine ( approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
Day 3: Nungwi Beach and Sunset
- Morning: Transfer to Nungwi (approximately 1 hour, $20-$30 USD), a picturesque fishing village on the northern tip of Zanzibar
- Enjoy snorkeling or swimming at Nungwi Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets
- Afternoon: Take a sunset cruise around the nearby islands ( approx. $50-$70 USD per person)
- Watch the sunset from the beach, a truly unforgettable experience
Day 4: Mnemba Island and Snorkeling
- Morning: Visit Mnemba Island (approximately 1 hour by boat), a small island with breathtaking snorkeling opportunities
- Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters to see an incredible array of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish
- Have lunch on the island or enjoy a picnic on the beach
Day 5: Stone Town Shopping and Nightlife
- Morning: Return to Stone Town for some shopping and exploration
- Visit the Spice Market, where you can learn about the various spices and herbs used in Zanzibari cuisine
- Explore the narrow alleys of Stone Town, discovering hidden gems and local artisans
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Zeeshan Restaurant, a popular spot for local food ( approx. $15-$25 USD per person)
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Stone Town, with its numerous bars and clubs
Day 6: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping or exploring Stone Town before departing
- Transfer back to the airport using a pre-arranged taxi or shuttle service (approximately $20-$30 USD)
- Depart from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Transportation:
- The best way to get around Zanzibar is by dala-dala (minibus), which costs approximately $1-$2 USD per ride
- Taxis and shuttles are also widely available, with prices varying depending on the distance and time of day
Tips:
- Don’t drink tap water in Zanzibar; stick to bottled or filtered water
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or interacting with locals
- Haggling is a way of life in Zanzibari markets; be prepared to negotiate prices for souvenirs
Other Things to Know:
- The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season (June-September)
- Zanzibar has a relatively high cost compared to other destinations in Tanzania, but it’s worth it for its stunning beaches and unique culture
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of Zanzibari cuisine, including dishes like Urojo and Mkate
Places to Go:
- Stone Town: A historic trading city with narrow alleys and bustling markets
- Nungwi Beach: A picturesque fishing village on the northern tip of Zanzibar known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets
- Prison Island: A beautiful island with a historic prison and a chance to see dolphins
Activities:
- Snorkeling: Explore the crystal-clear waters around Mnemba Island or Nungwi Beach
- Sunset Cruise: Take a boat ride around the nearby islands to watch the sunset
- Shopping: Visit the Spice Market or explore the narrow alleys of Stone Town for unique souvenirs