17 New Activities To Do In Your Zanzibar Holidays
Step onto the sun-kissed shores of Zanzibar and prepare yourself for a vacation to remember! Your dream holiday destination offers not just breathtaking beauty, but a tapestry of experiences to enjoy yourself in.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history lover, or someone who simply wants to unwind, we’ve handpicked 33 incredible activities to make your Zanzibar holidays truly remarkable.
Get ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters, savor the mouthwatering local cuisine, and get lost in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that will make your Zanzibar holiday a memory to treasure forever.
17 Things To Do in Your Zanzibar Holidays
1 – Go Horse Riding
Memorable Ride: Explore beyond the waves with a horseback journey at Zanzibar Horse Club, featuring well-trained, friendly horses.
Scenic Routes: Traverse spectacular landscapes, showcasing the island’s natural beauty, from charming villages to serene shorelines.
Tidal Treasures: Depending on the tides, relish a unique experience—take your horse for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Off-the-Beaten Path: Immerse in local life, rural trails, and hidden gems, unveiling the heart of Zanzibar in a leisurely, authentic way.
Saddle up for a remarkable adventure that embraces both the island’s allure and its warm-hearted companions. Zanzibar’s beauty reveals itself in every step of this unforgettable journey.
2 – Visit The Kuza Cave
Beyond Ordinary: Take your swim to the next level—immerse yourself in Kuza Cave’s captivating underwater haven.
Timeless Beauty: With a circular shape, this limestone wonder holds over 250,000 years of rainwater and erosion, boasting stunningly clear waters.
Cultural Resonance: Beyond its tourist charm, the cave holds religious significance for local tribes, adding an aura of reverence.
Wildlife Encounter: As you approach, say hello to curious monkeys, bush babies, and other local creatures, making your journey even more unforgettable.
Kuza Cave, a blend of nature’s marvels and cultural heritage, welcomes you to experience the magic beneath the surface. Plunge into its crystal-clear waters and enjoy it.
3 – Go and See Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
Vivid Diversity: Immerse in the vibrant world of native butterfly species at the enchanting Zanzibar Butterfly Centre.
Lush Sanctuary: Wander through this lush green haven, observing these stunning insects up close and personal.
Educational Adventure: Discover their unique traits, habits, and conservation initiatives, gaining insights into Zanzibar’s rich biodiversity.
Cocoon Collection: Don’t miss the chance to witness a crucial stage of their life cycle with a captivating display of cocoons.
Zanzibar Butterfly Centre invites you to witness nature’s artistry, from fluttering wings to intricate cocoons. This oasis of beauty and learning promises some amazing experiences, offering a deeper connection to the island ecosystem.
4 – Dive into Adventure: Zanzibar Scuba Diving
Scuba Thrills: Elevate your aquatic adventures with scuba diving—suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Exquisite Exploration: Discover crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant reefs in prime locations like Unguja Island, Mafia Island, Tumbatu Island, and Mnemba Island.
Wildlife Encounters: Immerse in warm waters teeming with marine wonders, from colorful fish to preserved shipwrecks, offering a treasure trove of exploration.
Unveil the Depths: Delve into the depths and unveil the secrets of the underwater realm in Zanzibar’s finest diving spots.
Get ready to submerge yourself in a world of wonder where every dive holds the promise of new discoveries.
5 – Witness The Iconic Old Fort
Historic Hub: Stone Town’s Old Fort boasts a rich past as both a military stronghold and a cultural hub.
Centuries of Legacy: Standing tall for over 300 years, the fort was built in 1699 by Omani rulers to fortify against invaders.
Transformational Journey: From a military bastion to a prison in the 1800s, it evolved into a train station, theater, and social club during the 1900s.
Festive Focal Point: Today, the spacious courtyard hosts vibrant festivals and cultural events, creating an extraordinary blend of past and present.
Avant-Garde Charm: Immerse in avant-garde films and immerse yourself in history, making Old Fort an essential stop for every explorer.
Stone Town’s Old Fort stands as a living testament to the island’s dynamic history. From its resilient walls to its vibrant courtyard, it holds tales of transformation and echoes of celebrations, inviting you to be a part of its journey through time.
6 – Explore The Jozani Forest
Land Adventures: Beyond Zanzibar’s waters, Jozani Forest offers a captivating wilderness experience.
Guided Exploration: With expert guides, delve into the heart of the forest, seeking out hidden creatures and natural wonders.
Monkey Magic: Encounter lively red colobus monkeys, a rare delight in their endangered habitat.
Lush Diversity: Wander amidst eucalyptus trees, catching glimpses of lizards, insects, and the playful dance of monkeys.
Ecosystem Harmony: Jozani’s allure extends to a stunning mangrove swamp, bridging the realms of land and sea.
Abundant Wildlife: Beyond primates, duikers, birds, and a kaleidoscope of over 50 butterfly species grace this national park’s lush canvas.
Head on an exploration of Zanzibar’s only national park, uncovering the harmony between land and sea, and witnessing the vibrant tapestry of life that makes Jozani Forest a true natural treasure.
7 – Don’t Miss The Old Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral
Historic Heart: Central in Stone Town, the Old Slave Market stands as a poignant reminder of the city’s intricate history.
Dark Trade Roots: Amid Zanzibar’s trade legacy, the market played a grim role as a hub for the international slave trade until 1873.
Tragic Tales: Thousands endured the journey, destined for markets across the Indian Ocean, leaving echoes of a painful past.
Nuanced Exploration: Wander through the Old Slave Market, uncovering stories within whipping posts and captive chambers.
Eternal Tribute: Encounter a powerful monument depicting chained slaves, a moving tribute that starkly reflects the gravity of the era.
Visit Stone Town’s narrative at the Old Slave Market—a place where history’s layers converge to offer insights into a complex past.
8 – Time Travel: People’s Palace Museum.
Sultan’s Legacy: Unearth the enduring influence of Zanzibar’s Omani sultans, whose impact spanned generations.
Historical Haven: The People’s Palace Museum invites you to explore the rich heritage of the ruling class and their cultural imprint.
Regal Abode: Constructed in the late 1800s, the palace complex provided monarchs proximity to the city while maintaining privacy.
Royal Retreat: Self-contained walkways ensured secluded passage, preserving the regal distance from the public eye.
Museum Transformation: Since 1964, the palace transformed into a museum, offering a window into the royal era’s splendor.
Insightful Displays: While currently undergoing repairs, informative displays outside the Palace still unveil the captivating tale of this historical residence.
Peel back the layers of Zanzibar’s history at the People’s Palace Museum, where the legacy of Omani sultans intertwines with the island’s vibrant narrative.
9 – Go Fishing at The Deep Sea
Unpredictable Encounters: Venture beyond the shallows for an exciting deep-sea fishing experience, where surprises await in every catch.
Aquatic Diversity: Explore deeper waters teeming with large and dynamic fish species, offering a chance to encounter sought-after marine life.
Year-Round Excitement: Cast your line for barracuda, kingfish, and wahoos, providing thrilling fishing opportunities throughout the year.
Seasonal Treasures: Reels in seasonal species like marlin, yellowfin tuna, and prized sailfish, add an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.
Go on a deep-sea fishing expedition where the ocean’s mysteries unfold with every throw of the line. With each catch, you’re drawn even more in the beauty of Zanzibar.
10 – Take a Zanzibari Cooking Class
Spice Infusion: Immerse in the island’s famed spices while crafting mouthwatering dishes, a true sensory delight.
Cultural Connection: Beyond cooking, connect with locals and witness culinary traditions intertwined with culture.
Luxurious Indulgence: Elevate your experience with a luxury class, preparing meals in top-notch island cooking studios.
Mosha Cookery Studio: Master Swahili cuisine in this immersive setting, where you’ll feel like a culinary superstar.
Friendly Competition: Engage in friendly cook-offs with loved ones, adding a dash of fun to your culinary journey.
Market Exploration: Many classes include spice market visits, ensuring the freshest ingredients for your creations.
Unearth the art of Zanzibar’s cuisine, from market to plate, in a culinary journey that blends flavors, culture, and beautiful memories.
11 – Discover The Hamamni Persian Baths
Historical Oasis: Step into the past at Hamamni Persian Baths, an unassuming yet rich historical gem in Stone Town.
Soothing Retreat: From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, these baths offered relaxation for both the upper class and the public.
Architectural Insight: Although the baths are no longer operational, explore the preserved rooms, from hot and cold baths to waiting areas.
Behind-the-Scenes: Discover the stoking area where fires once roared, and admire intricate tile designs and Arab-style interiors.
Architectural Splendor: Immerse yourself in beautifully restored architecture, gaining insights into the baths’ role in the city’s history.
Embark on a journey to Hamamni Persian Baths, where history comes alive through well-preserved spaces and captivating architectural details.
12 – See The Rock Museum Of Freddie Mercury
Hidden Gem: Discover a quaint yellow building tucked away in Stone Town – Freddie Mercury’s childhood home.
Iconic Connection: Step inside to learn about the rock legend’s life and legacy through an extraordinary display.
Island Roots: Despite his UK career, Freddie grew up on the island before leaving during the 1964 revolution.
Personal Insights: The Freddie Mercury Museum, established in 2019, showcases his journey through photos and personal stories.
Local Influences: Immerse yourself in the memories of those who knew him best – from schoolmates to early bandmates.
Unveil the lesser-known chapter of Freddie Mercury’s life as you step into his childhood abode, now a museum filled with captivating snapshots and tales from his remarkable journey.
13 – Explore The Kiwengwa Caves
Natural Wonder: Explore the depths of Kiwengwa Caves nestled within the enchanting Pongwe Forest Reserve.
Underground Adventure: Embark on a journey through winding tunnels, where bat colonies, intriguing insects, and stunning stalagmites await.
Surreal Landscape: Marvel at the sight of massive tree roots intertwining through the cavern, resembling electrical wires, and showcasing a unique ecosystem.
Cultural Echoes: Delve into the cave’s rich history; in ancient times, islanders visited to pay tribute to their ancestors.
Newly Unveiled: Recently opened to the public, Kiwengwa Caves offer a rare opportunity for brag-worthy exploration.
Unearth the captivating geology and cultural tales of Kiwengwa Caves, an underground realm beneath Pongwe Forest Reserve. Navigate its winding tunnels to witness bat colonies, fascinating formations, and surreal tree roots.
14 – Turtle encounter: Baraka Natural Aquarium
Up Close with Sea Turtles: Immerse yourself in the marine world at Baraka Natural Aquarium, a haven for injured sea turtles.
Turtle Rehabilitation: Witness the compassionate care provided to these majestic creatures as they recover from injuries and entanglements in fishermen’s nets.
Swim with the Turtles: Experience a unique adventure by swimming alongside these sea turtles in the grotto’s warm waters, observing their behaviors up close.
Interactive Experience: Feed the turtles while being mindful of their sharp beaks, and learn more about their habitat and conservation efforts.
Exploration Beyond Extend your adventure by exploring Nungwi, a vibrant area famous for its lively fish market and coastal charm.
15 – Celebrate at vibrant local festivals
Year-Round Celebration: Discover a rich tapestry of festivals that add a burst of energy to Zanzibar’s allure, creating unforgettable memories.
Zanzibar Cultural Festival: Experience the island’s cultural diversity at its peak during the Zanzibar Cultural Festival in July. Immerse yourself in art, music, and dance that showcase the unique blend of influences that define the region.
Sauti za Busara Festival: In February, groove to the rhythms of the Sauti za Busara Festival, a melting pot of musical genres featuring talented performers from across Africa. Let the melodies of the continent captivate your senses.
16 – Savor Spices on a Guided Tour
Centuries of Flavor: Delve into Zanzibar’s spice-rich history, dating back almost a millennium. These flavors have shaped the island’s trade and culture.
Darajani Market: Embark on a sensory journey at Darajani Market in Stone Town. Amidst its bustling stalls, discover an array of spices, fresh produce, meats, and unique finds, reflecting the island’s diverse influences.
Spice Tours: Immerse yourself in the scents and stories of spices through guided tours. Visit local growing areas to witness firsthand the cultivation of spices like turmeric, vanilla, nutmeg, and pepper.
Zanzibar Spice Community Shop: Indulge in a selection of whole and powdered spices, along with native fruit seeds, at this vibrant shop.
Unearth the aromatic tales that have flavored Zanzibar’s history and cuisine for generations.
17 – Set sail on a Dhow Cruise
Dhows: A Time-Honored Tradition: Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard a dhow, the traditional wooden fishing boat that has graced Zanzibar’s waters for generations.
Scenic Sea Views: Set sail and take in the breathtaking coastal landscapes, capturing the essence of the island’s beauty from a unique vantage point.
Exploration Beyond the Waves: Discover more than just the sea – visit charming attractions like picturesque swimming spots and ancient baobab trees, immersing yourself in Zanzibar’s diverse offerings.
Small Island Excursions: Choose to explore lesser-known islands or head to the serene village of Jambiani. Here, witness the creation of vibrant, handcrafted treasures by local women.
Embark on a dhow voyage to experience Zanzibar’s natural wonders and cultural gems in a truly authentic and enchanting way.
As you plan your Zanzibar getaway, the promise of adventure awaits around every corner. From diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to savoring the aromatic spices that have shaped the island’s history, your journey is bound to be a tapestry of vibrant experiences.
Whether you’re exploring hidden caves, dancing to the rhythms of local festivals, or cruising on a traditional dhow, Zanzibar offers a treasure trove of new activities that will etch themselves into your memories.
So, pack your curiosity, embrace the unknown, and let Zanzibar’s charm weave its magic as you embark on these 17 captivating journeys. Your Zanzibar holiday is not just a vacation – it’s an invitation to dive deep into a world of wonder and create stories that will last a lifetime.
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