Things to Do in Zanzibar City, Tanzania: Island Magic with History, Spice, and Sea
With its colorful markets, historic alleyways, and proximity to serene beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Zanzibar city is where rich Swahili heritage meets laid-back island vibes.
AFRICA
5/1/20252 min read
🕌 Explore Stone Town on a Walking Tour
There’s no better way to understand the soul of Zanzibar than with a guided walking tour through Stone Town. You'll wind through narrow alleyways, past beautifully carved doors and historic mosques, discovering stories etched into every stone. You will see the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the former slave market; this is a must-do to kickstart your Zanzibar adventure.
👉 Book the Stone Town Walking Tour
🌿 Spice Farm Tour with Local Tasting
Zanzibar’s nickname, “The Spice Island,” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a way of life. On a spice farm tour, you’ll walk through lush plantations and discover how cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, and cinnamon are grown and harvested. The tour isn’t just informative—it’s interactive. You’ll smell, touch, and taste fresh spices, and in many cases, watch as locals demonstrate how they’re used in Swahili cooking. It’s a sensory experience that connects you directly to the island’s agricultural roots.
👉 Visit a Spice Farm with a Local Guide
🐢 Visit Prison Island & Giant Tortoise Sanctuary
Just a short boat ride from Stone Town lies Prison Island, a fascinating blend of history and nature. Originally built as a quarantine station, it’s now best known for its giant Aldabra tortoises—some over 100 years old! You can walk among these gentle giants, feed them, and learn about conservation efforts. Afterward, enjoy some snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters or relax on the small but serene beach.
👉 Book the Prison Island Boat Trip
⛵ Traditional Dhow Sunset Cruise
There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon from a traditional dhow boat. This sailing experience offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean as the sky turns gold and pink. You’ll cruise gently along the coast of Stone Town with a local crew, sipping drinks and enjoying light snacks. The combination of peaceful waters, the sound of the wind in the sails, and the ambiance of live taarab music (on some cruises) creates an unforgettable evening. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
🐠 Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll
If you're craving a slice of underwater paradise, head to Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar’s top snorkeling and diving spots. The coral reefs here are teeming with tropical fish, and lucky visitors might even spot dolphins or sea turtles. Most tours include hotel pickup, boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and fresh fruit or lunch on the beach. It’s a full day of sun, sea, and snorkeling, perfect for nature lovers and water adventurers.
👉 Go Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll
🧘 Swahili Cooking Class & Cultural Experience
One of the most memorable ways to experience Zanzibar is through its flavors. Join a Swahili cooking class where a local chef will guide you through the preparation of dishes like coconut curry, pilau rice, and chapati. You'll visit a market, learn about traditional spices, and then get hands-on in a family kitchen or community space. Sharing stories and a meal with your hosts adds a warm cultural touch that turns this into more than just a class—it’s a connection.
👉 Join a Traditional Cooking Class
Zanzibar City offers the kind of experiences that linger long after your trip ends—from tasting fresh cloves on a spice farm to sailing into a fiery sunset on a traditional dhow. These hand-picked activities will help you dive deeper into the island's history, culture, and natural beauty. So go ahead—click, book, and let your Zanzibar story begin! 🌴✨