Zanzibar Safari Activities

Zanzibar; the romantic, exotic archipelago, reminiscent of Arabian nights and Indian Ocean indolence. Only 15 minutes flight from the mainland, the wonderfully sleepy island of Zanzibar is one of East Africa's finest beach destinations, surrounded by coral reefs with idyllic beaches lined by huge sweeping palm trees. Zanzibar beaches are the obvious addition to a safari on mainland Tanzania, or should we say that a short safari is the obvious addition to your Zanzibar holiday, with the beautiful Selous less than an hour away.

Made famous for its spices and the slave trade of the 19th century, Zanzibar Island is much more than a stopping point on an itinerary, and can be seen as a destination in itself. What the island offers is a unique combination of outstanding beaches, along its eastern edge, interesting activities, such as visiting a working spice farm, and the cultural delights of Stone Town, with Arabian fortresses and minarets.

Stone Town Tour

Stone Town, also known as “Mji Mkongwe”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the old part of Zanzibar City located from the western part of Ungunja Island into the Indian Ocean. Stone Town is the former capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate and a flourishing centre of the spice trade and Indian Ocean slave trade. It is a fine example of the Swahili Trading towns of East Africa. Stone Town architecture dates back to the 19th century and reflects the diverse influence of Arab, Indian, Persian and European styles. Due to its heritage, the town is a major tourist attraction. The city's heart comprises a maze of narrow alleys lined up with shops, houses, mosques and bazaars. Visiting Stone Town, you will experience a place where the modern world meets the old world; the mix of cultures and flavours with proximity to the Indian Ocean makes Swahili Cuisine some of the best food in Africa. Fresh seafood is prepared with traditional spices from spice farms and plenty of coconuts. There are plenty of things to see and places to visit. A minimum of 2 nights is recommended when visiting this vibrant town before proceeding on your beach holiday.

Spice Tour

Zanzibar is known as a spice island because, at one time, it was the largest producer of cloves in the world. In the 8th century, Persian traders arrived in East Africa, building stone settlements. They also brought Islam to the region in 1107AD, with the first mosque built in Unguja Island. The Persians enjoyed the coastal region due to the favourable tropical climate and rich soils. They started growing a range of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Later, the Portuguese and Chinese introduced garlic, cacao and chilli. Spice production increased over the years, elevating the colonial importance of “spice Islands”.

During this time, spices were considered one of the world’s most-priced goods, even rivalling gold. Around the 15th century, Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama visited Zanzibar on the lookout for affordable and abundant spice production. He brought the tales of Zanzibar’s spice farming back to Europe. However, the production of cloves is declining, forcing the spice farmers to encourage plantation tours to stay in business. Visiting the plantation, you will learn about the island's rich history, how it got its nickname, and how to grow and harvest the spices. For instance, learn how cinnamon, the queen of spices, has many healing properties, why pepper and cloves are so valuable, and why nutmeg wrap is a unique spice.

The tour takes approximately 3 hours, and you can book the activity until 4 hours before your departure. If you change your mind, cancellation up to 24 hours applies. If you like trying new flavours, taking a spice tour, you'll gain a lot by learning how your favourite spices are grown.

Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is located in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park on the Zanzibar Island and is the only National Park in Zanzibar. The rainforest has diverse flora and fauna. It is home to about 1000+ Zanzibar Red Colobus monkeys ( unlike the black and -white colobus monkeys found in other African countries). Other animals found in the forest include the Sykes Monkeys, Bush Babies, and Tree Hyrax. The forest attracts more than 50 species of butterflies and over 40 bird species(Fischer’s Turacos, Brown-headed parrots, Mouse coloured sunbirds, Mangrove kingfishers, East coast akalats, Black-bellied starlings and Zanzibar red bishops). It is easier to find the monkeys just as well as to get lost in the forest. You are therefore advised to stay on the nature trails, which will guide you through the magical forest. Arriving early in the forest before 9:00 am is highly recommended to avoid crowding.

Zanzibar Scuba Diving

Be amused by the underwater freedom and marine paradise of Zanzibar waters, known as one of the world's best scuba diving locations, as reviewed by many pro divers. Diving in the Islands of Zanzibar depends on location, winds, visibility, and tides. The southern wind, called “Kusi”, happens between July and August, while the Northern wind “, Kaskazi”, is experienced from mid-November to early March.

Diving in Pemba Island: Pemba Island is one of Zanzibar's most unique and unexplored islands. Its pristine shallow reefs, thrilling current dives and deep drop-offs make it a top destination if you are a diving enthusiast.

Mnemba Atoll Island: Known as the capital for tropical fish in East Africa, expect to see some colourful marine life, which includes dolphins, shrimps, lobsters, butterfly fish, sharks, and turtles.

Chloe Bay in Mafia Island: The warm and safe waters of the inland bays and lagoons are perfect for novice or experienced divers. Sea life creatures include whale sharks, rays, hawksbill turtles, giant groupers, and giant clams, among other reef fish.

Leven Bank Mafia Island: Perfect for big game fishing, which includes whale sharks, moray eels, tuna, and barracuda.

If you want to access the deeper channels, the best times to dive are between November and March. The whale shark season is between October to March. These months are probably the best due to visibility, which ranges from 5 metres (16 feet) to more than 30 meters (100 feet). While diving on Chloe Bay, the visibility is better on incoming or high tide. Types of diving include wall diving, reef diving, drift diving and night diving. The highlights include The Pinnacle, Kinasi Wall, Dindini Wall North and Chloe Wall. Humpback whales and Sperm whale's migrating season is between September to October. Mantra rays and whale sharks are spotted from December to April.

Zanzibar Butterfly Center

Zanzibar Butterfly Center is located near Jozani Forest. It is a fantastic experience if you are looking for a more interactive environment loved by adults and children and a bonding time to connect with your loved ones. 40 local farmers support Butterfly Farming, and the proceeds provide a stable income for the community and environmental conservation. The guided tour around the centre takes 30 minutes.

The exibit consists of a netted tropical garden with usually hundreds of butterflies, all of which are native species to Zanzibar. The enclose is one of Africa’s largest butterfly exhibit and provides residents and tourists to Zanzibar with an interactive and visual enviroment to learn about butterflies.

At Zanzibar Butterfly Center (ZBC) it is possible to experience butterflies feeding and flying very close at hand and to witness the complete life cycle of many species. The butterflies are farmed sustainably by people from the villages around Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. The guides of the centre will greet you on arrival and during the tour will explain the background to the project and about butterfly lifecycle and ecology

Zanzibar Prison Island

Prison Island is a small Island located just 5.6km northwest of Stone Town. Previously owned by Arabs to house rebellious enslaved people in the 1800’s. However, the prison was never used. The Island is a top tourist attraction site home to the endangered Aldabra giant tortoise. Originally thought to be from the Comoros Islands and Seychelles, some of the tortoises are approximately 100 years old. Majestic and lumbering, the tortoises take the children on a ride around the prison ruins. While on the island, you can take time and enjoy snorkelling in the clear waters in search of colourful tropical fish darting through the beautiful coral reef or soak up some sun on the powdery white beach. Prison Island is a fantastic excursion which can be combined with a morning visit to Stone Town. The tour takes approximately 3 hours

Safari Blue

The Safari Blue trip is a full-day tour along Menai Bay, the largest marine conservation area with 470 square kilometres on the southwest coast of Unguja. Menai Bay is known as one of the best coral reefs in Zanzibar. Sailing in a traditional dhow boat constructed by Zanzibari artisans, you will see and feel the magic of the African Spice Island up close and personal. Main activities include visiting a naturally occurring Nakupenda Sand Bank and swimming and snorkelling in the pristine turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. You will witness countless colourful schools of fish and other marine creatures amongst the stunning coral reefs. Visit Kwale Island and see its natural green lagoon and climb baobab trees for spectacular island views. During lunchtime, you will enjoy a freshly prepared seafood barbecue, which includes lobster, octopus, calamari, and exotic fruits like bananas, watermelons, mangoes, and pineapples. The prices for the Safari Blue vary depending on the number of people and whether the boat is private or shared. The bigger the number, the less the price per person. The tour ends around 4:00 pm

Rooftop Restaurant Dining

Dining at a rooftop restaurant in Stone Town is one of the most romantic experiences in Zanzibar. The rooftop restaurants provide the perfect ambience for relaxing while enjoying sumptuous meals as you watch the sun setting over the copper-coloured rooftops. The two most popular restaurants are Emerson on Hurumuzi and Emerson Spice Hotel, which are some of the best restaurants in East Africa.

Emerson Spice Rooftop Tea House Restaurant offers an informal fine dining tasting menu of a five-course meal prepared using the freshest local seafood, creative local spices and indigenous plants. Enjoy the breathtaking views and sound of the city as you savour your meals in the company of your loved ones. Sundowners are served from around 6:00 pm before dinner, which starts at 7:00 pm. We highly recommend reserving your spot in advance due to demand.

On the other hand, Emmerson on Hurumuzi Tea House Restaurant is Zanzibar's highest tea house restaurant, offering 360° views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean. The restaurant offers a dinner set menu of 3-course meals inspired by a fusion of Oriental, Persian and Omani influences. Taarab traditional music performances from the Dhow Countries Music Academy accompany the meals. Cocktails are served at 6:00 pm, and dinner is by reservation only.

Zanzibar Dolphin Tour

Kizimkazi is home to bottle-nosed and spinner dolphins. It is a stunning beach with a beautiful coral reef and magnificent tropical fish. The beach is famous for Dolphin Tours. Board a traditional dhow boat and set sail as you explore the waters of the Indian Ocean. If you are lucky enough, you will spot the dolphins at a far distance. You can get close up to 10 metres away and enjoy these amazing creatures' sleek and grey as they jack-knife through the waters and display their unique talent for jumps and twists. The downside to this is there are no guarantees of seeing the dolphins. Otherwise, one can book a dolphin tour to Mnemba Island.

Zanzibar Sky Diving

If you are a thrill seeker and enjoy stimulating adventures, sky diving is a top-rated activity in Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar. Though it is not for the weak-hearted, it is a must-try experience. Skydive is a unique experience that anyone can undertake. A preparation of approximately 30 minutes of training is offered using qualified instructors. You do not need to have prior experience. The dives are made of tandem jumps. You will be connected to a qualified professional who will accompany you every step of the way, from the jumping to the landing, allowing you to enjoy spectacular beach views. You will board an aeroplane, proceed on a 20-minute scenic flight, and climb to 10,000 ft(3050m) before jumping. The whole experience takes about 2 hours.

The providers are licenced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Tanzania and the American Skydiving Association. Prices for Skydiving start from $445 and include professionally edited photos and video.

Zanzibar Sunset Dhow Cruise

Zanzibar Sunset Dhow Cruise should be on your list while on holiday there. Relax and enjoy the stunning views of Stone Town in the evenings as you embark on your romantic sunset cruise tour along the coastline of Zanzibar on a traditional Arabian dhow boat. Enjoy sumptuous drinks and snacks while on board as you immerse yourself in this unforgettable trip. While on board, you will be entertained with traditional coastal music performances, listen to Swahili tales and enjoy the serenity of the Indian Ocean as you listen to the ripple of water as the dhow glides swiftly through the warm and clear turquoise waters. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the African sunset on your way to Stone Town, Kendwa and Nungwi Beach. The prices are based on the number of people; in big groups, the prices are lower per person. The starting time from Kendwa and Nungwi Beach is around 4:00 p.m., and from Stone Town is approximately 5:00 p.m. You can either book a private or share a boat. Prices start from $ 35 per person. It is advisable to book one week before your arrival due to demand. The tour takes approximately 2 hours.

Zanzibar Quad Bike Tour

Quad Bike Tour is a must-try thrilling adventure while on holiday in Zanzibar. Using a quad bike, explore the picturesque island through an off-road experience in remote villages, farmlands, plantations and landscapes. It is unquestionably a unique activity as you will interact with the locals. It is an experience that everyone, including couples, friends or families, can enjoy. You can ride on your own or a shared bike for two people, with prices charged per bike and not per individual. You do not have to worry about safety since all Quad Bike Motors (ATVs)are safe, fully automatic and easy to operate. Anyone can ride; experience without prior experience as the instructors will guide you. The activity takes around 3-3.5 hours. On the day of riding, you will be picked up from your hotel, though transport is arranged separately to and from Kairo Kiwenngwa. Prices start from $130 per quad Bike. However, discounts are available to large groups. Kiwenga and Jambiani tours (tour starts at Kichakanyuki Jambiani)

Dining at the Rock Restaurant

The Rock Restaurant is a simple, charming and exclusive dining facility in front of Pingwe Beach on the island's southeast coast. The restaurant sits on a rock and promises a unique dining experience with food prepared passionately from fresh and natural ingredients. The main speciality includes seafood and local cuisine. The restaurant supports local fishermen and farmers and is committed to supporting environmental conservation by positioning the restaurant on the rock. Everyone is welcomed into the restaurant and can serve groups of up to 20 people with reservations made in advance due to public demand. Enjoy your drinks on the open-air terrace, offering a romantic evening under the stars by night and skies by day with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. During low tide, you can access the rock restaurant on foot, while a boat transfer is used during high tide to access the restaurant. You can book up to 4 hours in advance, and your stay is approximately 3 hours.

House of Wonders (Beit -El-Ajaib)

House of Wonders was built in 1883 for ceremonial purposes by Sultan Barghash, one of the six palaces built by the second Sultan of Zanzibar. It is the tallest and most famous landmark building in Zanzibar, located right at the centre of Stone Town overlooking Forodhani Gardens, besides other popular sites, which include The Old Fort, the Palace Museum, and the former Sultan’s Palace. The house is currently used as a museum of history and culture in Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast. The House of Wonders Museum was inaugurated in the early 2000s. The building is magnificent, and the museum allows visitors access for the first time in decades. The ground floor has fantastic views from the central courtyard to the top of the building. Beautiful marble tiles cover the next level; each floor has massive carved wooden doors. You can proceed to the upper balcony and walk around, enjoying the stunning views of the Stone Town and the Bay area

Short Excursions / Safari Activities

A SAFARI is an exciting and adventurous way of seeing the ‘real Africa’ because it enables you to view a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. As a result, going on a safari gives you an authentic experience of Africa. Safari activities or excursions as some may call them enables you to experience the local culture, enjoin in some of the local safari activities outside your safari itinerary. These safari activities/excursions helps you have a well grounded experience of the destiantions in which you are travelling. Meet the local people, sample local cuisines, indulge in cultural activities or even take a walk in the wild alongside the wildlife for a more intimate experience!

Get in touch with our Reservations Team

Zanzibar Safari Activities