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Domestic Tourism Safaris, P.O. Box 17, Rindi Road Moshi, Tanzania
Domestic Tourism Safaris, P.O. Box 17, Rindi Road Moshi, Tanzania
Zanzibar is full of charm, history, and natural beauty, and six must-visit places include Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich Swahili-Arab history and bustling markets; Nungwi Beach, famous for its turquoise waters, dhow boats, and vibrant sunsets; Jozani Forest, home to the endangered red colobus monkey and mangrove boardwalks; Prison Island, just off the coast, where you can visit giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel in clear waters; Paje Beach, a laid-back stretch popular with kite surfers and beach lovers; and Mnemba Atoll, a top snorkelling and diving destination with coral reefs and colourful marine life. These spots blend culture, wildlife, and beach bliss, making Zanzibar a perfect island escape.
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the cultural heartbeat of Zanzibar, where winding alleys, carved wooden doors, and historic buildings reflect centuries of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influence. Here, you can explore the iconic House of Wonders, once a grand sultan’s palace, and the Old Fort, which now hosts local artisans and cultural events. Don’t miss the Freddie Mercury House, a tribute to the Queen frontman who was born here, or the vibrant Darajani Market, buzzing with vendors selling spices, tropical fruits, seafood, and handcrafted goods. Nearby, spice farms offer guided tours where visitors can smell, touch, and taste cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and more—giving insight into why Zanzibar is famously known as the “Spice Island”.
The northern tip of Zanzibar is home to two of its most breathtaking beaches—Nungwi and Kendwa—renowned for their powdery white sand, clear blue waters, and lively coastal vibe. Nungwi is a favourite for snorkelling, scuba diving, and visiting traditional dhow-building yards, while Kendwa is known for its calmer tides and epic full-moon beach parties. Both spots offer stunning sunset views, especially when enjoyed on a dhow cruise with the ocean breeze and traditional Swahili music. From luxurious resorts to beachfront bars, these beaches cater to all types of travellers seeking relaxation or vibrant nightlife.
Just a short boat ride from Stone Town lies Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, which once served as a detention and quarantine centre. Today, it’s a serene escape with turquoise waters and fascinating history. The island is home to a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are over 150 years old and originally gifted from the Seychelles. Visitors can explore the historical ruins, sunbathe on the small beaches, or snorkel in the surrounding coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life. It’s a great half-day trip for both history enthusiasts and ocean lovers.
The southeastern coast of Zanzibar features charming beach villages like Paje, Jambiani, and Michamvi, offering a more laid-back, bohemian alternative to the north. Paje is particularly popular with kite surfers due to its steady winds and shallow lagoon, with schools offering lessons for all skill levels. In nearby Michamvi, visitors flock to The Rock Restaurant, perched on a coral outcrop in the sea—accessible by foot during low tide and boat at high tide—for a truly unique dining experience. These villages also provide chances to engage in authentic Swahili culture through guided community tours, cooking classes, and visits to seaweed farms.
Off the northeast coast of Zanzibar lies Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine reserve that offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in East Africa. The waters here are crystal clear, home to vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and even reef sharks for the more adventurous. While the atoll itself is a private island, boat tours are allowed to circle it and anchor nearby for swimming and reef exploration. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner snorkeler, Mnemba’s underwater world delivers unforgettable encounters with marine life in a pristine, serene setting.
Located in the heart of Zanzibar, Jozani Chwaka Bay is the island’s only national park and an ecological gem. It’s famously home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, a species found nowhere else in the world. Visitors can take guided forest walks under a canopy of mahogany trees and experience the park’s biodiversity, including butterflies, bush babies, and mangrove crabs. A wooden boardwalk leads through a lush mangrove swamp, offering opportunities for nature photography and bird watching. Jozani is a peaceful and educational retreat, perfect for eco-tourists and families.