Zanzibar, Tanzania-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Stone Town

  • Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
  • Transfer to your accommodation in Stone Town (approx. $20-$30 USD)
  • Check-in at a local hotel or guesthouse, such as:
    • Tembo Hotel (+255 242 250 3333) - around $80-$100 USD per night
    • Al-Mashtab Guest House (+255 782 511 111) - around $40-$60 USD per night
  • Visit the Stone Town Market for a taste of local life and to buy some snacks or souvenirs (be prepared to haggle)
  • Head to Forodhani Night Market for dinner, where you can find a wide variety of seafood and traditional Zanzibari cuisine

Things to know:

  • The official currency is Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), but USD is widely accepted
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, as petty theft can be a problem
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites

Day 2: Stone Town

  • Visit the Zanzibar Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture (approx. $10-$15 USD)
  • Explore the narrow alleys and bustling streets of Stone Town, taking in the sights and sounds of local life
  • Stop by the Old Slave Market for a glimpse into the island’s complex past
  • Grab lunch at one of the many local cafes or restaurants, such as:
    • Jamii Cafe (+255 783 111 111) - around $10-$15 USD per meal
    • Tandoori Nights Restaurant (+255 242 250 3333) - around $20-$30 USD per meal

Transportation:

  • Most hotels and guesthouses offer airport transfers or can arrange for a taxi to be waiting for you (approx. $20-$30 USD)
  • To get around Stone Town, use the local dala-dalas (minibuses) or walk
  • For longer trips, consider renting a car or hiring a driver/guide

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in Stone Town, especially during peak season
  • Don’t drink tap water and avoid eating from street vendors
  • Haggling is part of the local culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices when shopping or dining out

Day 3: Prison Island

  • Take a morning ferry (approx. $10-$15 USD) to Changuu Island, also known as Prison Island
  • Visit the former prison and see the giant tortoises in their natural habitat
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the island or bring a picnic with you

Accommodation:

  • If you’re staying overnight on the island, consider booking a room at the Changuu Beach Hotel (around $100-$150 USD per night)
  • Alternatively, head back to Stone Town and check-in at your original accommodation

Day 4: Kendwa Beach

  • Transfer to Kendwa Beach (approx. $20-$30 USD) and spend the day relaxing on the beach
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or bring a picnic with you
  • Take a sunset cruise around Stone Town for breathtaking views of the island (approx. $50-$70 USD per person)

Day 5: Matemwe Beach

  • Head to Matemwe Beach (approx. $30-$40 USD) and spend the day relaxing in a beachfront resort or guesthouse
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or bring a picnic with you
  • Take a snorkeling trip to the nearby coral reefs for a glimpse into the underwater world

Day 6: Mnemba Island

  • Transfer to Mnemba Island (approx. $60-$80 USD) and spend the day relaxing on this secluded island paradise
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or bring a picnic with you
  • Take a snorkeling trip around the island for breathtaking views of the coral reefs

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Transfer to the airport (approx. $20-$30 USD) and depart Zanzibar