Zanzibar Town-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Stone Town

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start your day at the bustling Darajani Market, a marketplace selling everything from spices to souvenirs.
  • 10:00 am: Visit the House of Wonders, a historic building that once served as a museum and now stands as a symbol of Zanzibar’s rich history.

Lunch

  • Head to Forodhani Food Market for lunch. This evening market is a great place to try some local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Zanzibari dishes like urojo (a spicy soup).

Afternoon

  • 1:30 pm: Visit the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe), a 17th-century fort that now serves as a cultural center.
  • 3:00 pm: Explore the narrow streets of Stone Town and visit some of the local shops selling crafts, souvenirs, and spices.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Kokuni Restaurant, known for its traditional Zanzibari cuisine.
  • 8:00 pm: Watch the sunset at Dhow Sailboat Harbour. This is a great spot to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Stone Town.

Where to Stay

  • Recommended hotels:
    • Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Stone Town.
    • Zanzibar Palace Hotel: A comfortable hotel with stunning views of the ocean.

Transportation

  • The best way to get around Zanzibar Town is by walking or taking a taxi. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Day 2: Visit Prison Island and Spice Farms

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Take a ferry to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. This island was once used as a quarantine station for people with yellow fever.
  • 11:30 am: Return to the mainland and visit the Zanzibar Spice Farm. Learn about the production of spices, including cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Lunch

  • Have lunch at Tamarind Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and international cuisine.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 pm: Visit the Jozani Forest National Park, a protected area that is home to several species of birds and monkeys.
  • 4:00 pm: Return to Stone Town and explore some of the local shops selling crafts, souvenirs, and spices.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Jamjari Restaurant, known for its traditional Zanzibari cuisine.
  • 8:00 pm: Relax at your hotel or take a sunset cruise around Stone Town.

Day 3: Explore the Beaches

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Visit the beautiful beach of Nungwi Beach, located on the northern tip of Zanzibar Island. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand.
  • 12:00 pm: Have lunch at a local restaurant near the beach.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 pm: Visit the Tumbatu Marine Park, a protected area that is home to several species of fish, coral, and other marine life.
  • 3:30 pm: Return to Stone Town and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or spices.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Stone Town.
  • 8:00 pm: Depart for the airport or your next destination.

Things to Know

  • Zanzibar is a Muslim country, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try to learn some basic Swahili phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Don’t drink tap water or eat from street vendors that may not have proper hygiene.

Tips

  • Bargain when shopping at local markets.
  • Take a taxi instead of walking during peak hours.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak season (June-August) for better prices and smaller crowds.
  • Be prepared for the heat and humidity by packing light, breathable clothing.