A 6-Day Itinerary to Zanzibar

Zanzibar, located off the coast of Tanzania, is known for its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and rich Swahili heritage. Often called the "Spice Island," it’s a major producer of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla, adding a unique flavor to its cultural identity. The island offers a mix of relaxation and exploration, from historic Stone Town and spice farm tours to snorkeling and enjoying its beautiful coastline.

Day 1: Arrival - Stone Town

Afternoon

Take a walking tour through the narrow alleys of Stone Town:

House of Wonders: A former palace displaying Zanzibar's cultural and historical significance.

Freddie Mercury House: The birthplace of the Queen frontman.

Darajani Market: The local market where you can sample fresh spices and local snacks.

Evening

Dinner at Emerson Spice. Enjoy traditional Swahili-inspired cuisine at the rooftop restaurant featuring spices such as cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric, which Zanzibar is famous for.

Accommodation: Stone Town

Day 2: Spice Farm & Jozani Forest

Morning

Breakfast at Zanzibar Coffee House. Spend the morning touring a spice farm, where you'll learn about the history of Zanzibar's spice trade and smell the intoxicating aromas of the island’s produce.

Afternoon

Head to the Jozani Forest, home to the rare and endangered red colobus monkey. Take a guided nature walk through the mangrove boardwalk, offering a scenic way to explore the wetland habitat.

Evening

Taste local street food along the waterfront at the Forodhani Night Market. Try freshly grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza, samosas, and the signature nyama choma (grilled meat).

Accommodation: Stone Town

Day 3: Prison Island - Nungwi

Morning

A local favorite, Lukmaan is a casual, family-run restaurant serving an authentic Zanzibar-style breakfast. After, take a boat trip to Prison Island. Once used as a quarantine station for enslaved people, the island now houses giant Aldabra tortoises—some over 100 years old. You can also snorkel in the clear waters surrounding the island or visit the remains of the old prison.

Afternoon

Drive 1-1/2 hours to Nungwi, located on the northern tip of Zanzibar and known for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Evening

Head to Passion & Thyme for dinner, a highly-rated restaurant with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Day 4: Nungwi Beach & Baraka Aquarium

Morning

Spend the day lounging on the beach, soaking in the sun, or swimming in the Indian ocean. Nungwi’s beach is known for being calm and shallow, perfect for swimming. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.

Afternoon

Visit the Baraka Natural Aquarium to interact with sea turtles at this conservation site. Feed and swim with them while learning about local efforts to protect marine life.

Evening

Sail along the coastline in a traditional Sunset Dhow Cruise, complete with drinks and snacks. Afterwards, head to the highly-rated restaurant Passion & Thyme.

Day 5: Mnemba Atoll & Nungwi Village

Morning

Located an hour away from Nungwi by boat, take a half or full-day tour to Mnemba Atoll - a small, private island surrounded by a coral reef, ideal for snorkeling or diving.

Afternoon

Explore Nungwi village to experience local culture, including Swahili cooking, basket weaving, and visiting local artisans.

Evening

Enjoy a beachfront dinner at one of Nungwi’s seaside restaurants, Fisherman's Grill. After dinner, join a beach bonfire or live music event at one of the beachfront bars, such as Kendwa Rocks, for a lively end to your stay.

Day 6: Nungwi Beach - Departure

Spend your final morning enjoying the beach before taking the 1 1/2 hour drive back to the International Airport for your departure.