7 things to do in Zanzibar
Life can get pretty hectic and overwhelming every once in a while, its times like these when you should just take a breather and relax and unwind. There are tons of activities you can do that will accomplish those goals but if you want something like a tour to an exotic location, then Zanzibar is the place. Zanzibar is said to be known as an island paradise as it’s actually a whole group of islands, two large one by the names of Ungoja and Pemba and the rest are the small ones. It is one of the places you should absolutely visit, and here are 7 things to do in Zanzibar:
Stone Town in Zanzibar
The heart and soul of the place, you can temporarily lose yourself in the spectacular combination of winding alleys and old Arabic style buildings. Enjoy the local culture by sipping a cup of coffee from a local vendor, or alternatively just keep on wandering through the streets where you can discover unique little spots at every turn.

Jozani Forest in Zanzibar
Get in touch with nature in the Jozani Forest. It is a vast and scenic spread of green, and also the last indigenous forest left on Zanzibar. Its located inland from the Chwaka Bay where the area often floods, but it’s not that bad as it luckily nurtures a unique swamp forest of many amazing looking trees and ferns.

Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar
Next up we have this village, which can be found on Zanzibar’s North West tip. This place is very unique, as its popular but not yet overrun by tourists. It is also one of the beaches in Zanzibar where the tide doesn’t head out too far. This is a great beach, if you want to soak up some sun and dip your toes in the sea water.

Get a bite to eat at the Forodhani Market
Treat your tastebuds at the Forodhani Market, a spectacular night time food market that opens up in the late afternoon in Stone Town. You will find the buzz and energy of place are spectacular, and you can easily find fresh local produce along with freshly grilled fish, meat and vegetables. The seafood options are by far the most popular and the fish is served with fried potato balls, naan bread and samosas.

Palace Museum, Zanzibar
A museum is a great way to catch up on the place’s history, and you will have a double treat at this place. Commonly known as the Sultan’s Palace, The Palace Museum is perhaps the most historic building in Stone Town and is a must-see for any tourist. The Palace Museum is located on the waterfront, overlooking the ocean, and was built in the 19th century as a home for the Sultan and his family. After the 1964 revolution, the site was used as a Government building and was renamed as The People’s Palace. Today it serves as a museum that showcases relics of the past Sultan family.

Spice Tour:
Zanzibar is pretty famous for its spice trade, and now you can have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture than learning about its wealthiest and most profitable industry. Go on a Spice Tour and learn all about it in detail. Tourists can choose from a variety of tours and explore the winding streets with expert tour guides who will inform you of the origins of the industry, as well as teaching guests about the wide variety of spices that Zanzibar produces and trades in.

The Old Fort:
They say that old is gold, and what better way to end our trip with the oldest building in Zanzibar? The Old Fort is located on the seafront, right in front of the famous Forodhani Gardens. Originally built in the 17th century with the purpose of defending the island from attacks from the Portuguese, nowadays the Old Fort is one of Stone Town’s main sights. Visitors can admire the remains of the former fort and amble around the courtyard in the centre, where sellers have local produce for sale. An old amphitheatre still hosts events and functions in the fort.

Of course, there are lots of other things to do in Zanzibar and this hasn’t scratched the surface. What are your favourite things to do in Zanzibar? share with me in the comments.
A great list Kevin, thanks for sharing. I was just looking at Zanzibar for next year to end a safari. Did you fly to Zanzibar or catch the ferry? Thank you
Thank You, I was on a tour around Africa and caught the ferry over from Tanzania. It is a great place to visit and you’re going to have an amazing time. Any questions just ask me 🙂 happy travels.
I dream of the day I get to visit Zanzibar. I’ve heard it is like the Maldives but cheaper?
Zanzibar is a beautiful place full of cutral towns and long beaches, in some sense it is like the Maldives and yes it is certainly alot cheaper, easy to do on a budget.
Hi Kevin,
How incredibly cool.
Zanzibar is one of those spots that seems hyper mysterious to me. I recall seeing it noted in a few movies – Gladiator, maybe – but had rarely seen modern day Zanzibar.
Definitely off the tourist beaten path.
I’d laze by that crystal clear sea for a few hours, easy. The water reminds me of the same pristine waters I enjoyed in Savusavu, Fiji, that other worldly tint that makes you pinch yourself. Postcard-worthy stuff here.
Thanks for the share Kevin and for commenting on my blog.
Ryan
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Hi Ryan, thank you.
Some parts of Zanzibar are just like that, speaking “Stone Town” that is definitely stuck and not seen modern day life, and I think that is what makes it so beautiful.
Those Crystal clear waters and pristine beaches is where you could find me most morning, it was the perfect place to relax before I started my day.
Recommended to everyone 🙂
You’re welcome
Kevin
I know you do kitesurfing so thought I’d ask if you know if kitesurfing is an option in Zanzibar. Thanks kevin
Hi Jack, I love kitesurfing too but I didn’t do kitesurfing when I visited. However, I have heard that it is doable. I dont remember seeing any out there but again I wasn’t looking (like I would now) a few buddies of mine have been over there and I can ask them if you need more help.
Regards
Kevin
Was just looking for things to do in Zanzibar and came across your site. Great site and keep up the good work. It has been very helpful
Thank you Penny, I’m glad it has been useful to you.
Regards
Kevin