Experience the best of Zanzibar on a 7-day beach and cultural holiday combining historic Stone Town, spice farms, tropical beaches, marine adventures and the island’s unique Swahili culture.
This itinerary is ideal for couples, families, honeymooners and travelers looking for a relaxing tropical getaway with a mixture of sightseeing and adventure. You will explore the historic streets of Stone Town, discover Zanzibar’s famous spice-growing traditions, visit Jozani Forest and enjoy several days relaxing on the beautiful northern or eastern beaches.
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Destination: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tour Type: Beach, Culture & Adventure
Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury hotels/lodges
Starting Point: Zanzibar Airport or Ferry Terminal
Ending Point: Zanzibar Airport or Ferry Terminal
Best For: Couples, families, honeymooners, beach lovers and cultural travelers
Arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport or Zanzibar Ferry Terminal, where you will meet your driver and transfer to your hotel in Stone Town.
After check-in and some time to relax, begin a gentle introduction to Zanzibar with a short walk through the historic streets of Stone Town.
Explore the narrow alleys, traditional carved wooden doors, local shops and historic buildings while getting your first impression of Zanzibar's unique culture.
In the evening, you can visit Forodhani Gardens, where local food vendors serve popular Zanzibari dishes and seafood.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Stone Town hotel
After breakfast, begin a guided walking tour of historic Stone Town.
Visit the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Sultan's Palace and the historic Anglican Cathedral. Your guide will explain the history of Zanzibar and the influence of African, Arab, Indian and European cultures on the island.
Continue to Darajani Market, where you can see local traders selling spices, fruits, vegetables, seafood and other products.
After lunch, explore more of Stone Town's historic streets and discover the area's famous carved wooden doors.
You will also have an opportunity to visit locations associated with Freddie Mercury, who was born in Zanzibar.
Return to your hotel in the evening.
After breakfast, check out and begin your journey towards the beach area.
Your first stop is a traditional spice farm, where you will learn about Zanzibar's famous spices, including cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, cardamom and nutmeg.
Enjoy a guided walk through the plantation and learn how different spices and tropical fruits are grown and traditionally used.
Continue to Jozani Forest, Zanzibar's largest protected forest area. Explore the forest with a guide and look for the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey and other wildlife.
After the tour, continue to your beach resort for check-in and relaxation.
Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the beach or swimming in the Indian Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Beach resort
Enjoy a relaxed day at your beach resort.
After breakfast, spend the morning swimming, sunbathing or walking along the beach. You can also participate in optional activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding or snorkeling.
After lunch, continue enjoying the tropical surroundings or relax by the pool.
In the evening, enjoy a beautiful Zanzibar sunset from the beach.
Optional: Traditional dhow sunset cruise.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Beach resort
After an early breakfast, depart for a marine adventure around Mnemba Island.
Take a boat trip into the Indian Ocean and enjoy opportunities for snorkeling in clear tropical waters. Depending on sea and weather conditions, you may encounter colorful fish, coral reefs and other marine life.
Enjoy time swimming and relaxing before returning to the mainland.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at your beach resort.
Note: Marine wildlife sightings, including dolphins, cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Beach resort
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by a cultural experience designed to introduce you to local Zanzibar life.
Depending on your interests, the day can include a visit to a local village, traditional cooking experience, handicraft workshop or a local community activity.
Enjoy lunch and then return to the beach for a relaxed afternoon.
In the evening, enjoy your final Zanzibar sunset and dinner at the resort.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Beach resort
Enjoy breakfast and your final morning on the island.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend some time relaxing on the beach, swimming or shopping for souvenirs.
Check out and meet your driver for transfer to Zanzibar International Airport or the ferry terminal for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included