Things to do in Zanzibar Archipelago

2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island is located in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Tanzania and is known as the Spice Island due to its historical abundance of spices like cloves. Since ancient times, it has been an important transit point for African, Arab, Indian, and Persian merchants traveling across the Indian Ocean, where diverse cultures have converged and blended over centuries to form the unique Swahili culture. The island's core historical area is Stone Town, where winding, narrow coral stone alleys resemble a labyrinth, lined on both sides with intricately carved wooden doors and ancient buildings with ornate balconies. These wooden doors, known as Zanzibar doors, are carved from hardwood, with facades that blend Arab motifs and Indian spike decorations, serving as a microcosm of the multicultural fusion in Stone Town. The city is also dotted with historical landmarks such as the Old Fort and the Palace Museum. In addition to its profound history and culture, the coastline here is equally impressive. Palm-fringed white sand beaches stretch for several km, and the surrounding waters feature well-preserved coral reefs, making them popular spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. The island is also home to Jozani Forest, which is inhabited by the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, making it a great destination for travelers who enjoy natural ecosystems.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Tanzania

Stone Town

Stone Town is located on a headland jutting into the Indian Ocean on the west coast of Zanzibar Island and is a well-preserved ancient trading town on the Swahili Coast of Eastern Africa. Over a thousand years of monsoon trade have layered the cultures of Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe into this district: old houses built of coral stone, Arab stone bench terraces, and Indian carved wooden balconies with veranda-style facades often stand side by side in the same narrow alley. The old town still has hundreds of carved wooden doors, studded with brass nails and engraved with intricate patterns, known as Zanzibar doors. Walking around and looking up to spot these doors is a joy in itself when exploring Stone Town. During the day, it is perfect for wandering into the alleys, where the scent of cloves and cardamom from spice shops, the chatter of old men playing chess, and the dazzling array of craft shops make up the fabric of life in the old town; after dark, the seaside Forodhani Gardens turn into a lively open-air night market, filled with the aroma of grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza, and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Zanzibar Island

Nungwi Beach

Nungwi Beach is located at the northern tip of Zanzibar Island. Its long stretch of white coral sand and clear turquoise waters make it a popular vacation beach in Zanzibar. Unlike many beaches on the east coast, it is less affected by tides, allowing for swimming during most of the day. In the evening, you can also enjoy the sunset view of fishermen returning to port in dhows. Nungwi village, where the beach is located, is a traditional dhow-building center in Zanzibar. It still preserves the craft of hand-building wooden dhows, and you can watch artisans at work in the village's boatyards to experience the fishing village's maritime traditions. There are also many options for excursions: during the day, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving, where you have the chance to encounter sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of tropical fish in the nearshore coral reefs. Some dive centers also offer night dives, allowing you to see a different side of the coral reefs at night. In the evening, you can join a sunset dhow cruise to look back at the entire beach from the sea.

No. 2 of Cool Water Escapes in West

Nakupenda Beach

Located on Pemba Island in Tanzania, I Love You Beach is an ideal tourist destination named for its romantic atmosphere and natural beauty. The white sand and clear waters attract tourists who are looking for tranquility and relaxation. The beach gets its name from its romantic setting and is a popular choice for couples and newlyweds. Here, visitors can sunbathe or take a dip in the warm Indian Ocean. Due to the clear water, this is also an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, where visitors can explore the rich marine life and coral reefs. It is recommended to bring snorkeling equipment to better experience the underwater world. There are small restaurants and bars near the beach, serving fresh seafood and local specialties, making it a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner. It is recommended to try the local coconut water and tropical fruits to experience the authentic Tanzanian flavor.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Kusini

Jambiani Beach

On the southeast coast of Zanzibar Island, Tanzania, there is a pure beach forgotten by time - Jambiani Beach. This 2-kilometer-long white sand beach has become an ideal destination for travelers seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle with its pristine natural scenery, quiet rural atmosphere and unique tidal landscape. Jambiani Beach is eye-catching for its snow-white and delicate sand and colorful sea water. The sand is as fine and soft as flour, and the underwater landscape is rich and diverse. Jambiani Beach represents the authentic side of Zanzibar Island and even the East African coast. Here, time seems to slow down, giving visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature, experience different cultural rhythms, and find inner peace. For those who are tired of commercial beach resorts and desire a real travel experience, Jambiani Beach is undoubtedly a hidden paradise worth exploring.

Nungwi Marine Turtles Mnarani

Cheetah's Rock

Wondering what to do in Zanzibar?Cheetah's Rockoffers a unique and ethical wildlife experience. For those looking for meaningful attractions and activities, it provides a memorable opportunity to connect with remarkable animals in a respectful and carefully managed environment. Cheetah's Rock is aCITES-recognized wildlife conservation and rescue center. Here, visitors meet animals such as cheetahs, lemurs, zebras, and otters and learn about their natural behaviour, their individual personalities, and the importance of wildlife conservation. The experience also shares the individual stories of the animals and how they came to Cheetah's Rock. The project is dedicated to the long-term well-being of the animals in its care. For travelers exploring things to do in Zanzibar, Cheetah's Rock offers the chance to spend time with wildlife while gaining deeper insight into conservation. Cheetah encounters are part of the experience and take place in a way that respects the animals and their natural behaviour. The VIP Otter Swim may also be available.

Kendwa Beach

Mnemba Island

Paje Beach

Paje Beach is located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar Island, Tanzania, in the Kusini district (southern Unguja), and is a pristine, charming white sand beach on the Indian Ocean. Its white sand blends with the shallow, turquoise waters, and when the tide recedes, wide sandbars are revealed as the water slowly retreats to form shallow bays, making it perfect for walking, taking photos, or observing marine life. Paje Beach has stable wind conditions with breezes blowing year-round, making it a famous kitesurfing destination that attracts both beginners and experts. Numerous kitesurfing schools and equipment rental shops line the coast, making it easy for water sports enthusiasts to get started. In addition to kitesurfing, Paje Beach is also well-suited for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking due to its calm waters. At low tide, visitors can also see seaweed farms and the daily lives of local fishermen, a unique cultural experience that brings people closer to the traditional lifestyle of Zanzibar.