7 Top Things to Do in Zanzibar

Do you conjure up images of fascinating architecture, sugary-white sandy beaches, pristine turquoise waters, and tropical palm-tree-like ambiance?

There are quite a few places in the world that can actually turn your imagination into reality. And the main island in the Tanzanian archipelago of Zanzibar is one of them.

Whether you want to get drenched in its rich history as a trading outpost or are looking for an immaculate sandy beach to relax after climbing Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, packs a whole lot of punch for myriad things to see and do.

If you are excited about a beach vacation (post-COVID), Zanzibar has everything in store for you. Check this travel guide to find the top things to do in Zanzibar.

 7 Top Things to See & Do in Zanzibar

 Located off the Eastern coast of Africa, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, flourished with exoticism and is blessed with pristine beaches and Omani imperial architecture. Looking for ways to spend quality time with family? You will have the following extraordinary ideas waiting to be explored!

The ancient part of Zanzibar, Stone Town, also known as Mji Mkongwe, dates back to medieval times. The beautiful town saw the Portuguese making the first stone building towards the end of the seventeenth century.

1. Walk through the streets of Stone Town:

Later, it grew exponentially and became the hub of trade in spices and slaves. Massive changes took place when the British occupied the region, thus leaving a mark in their architecture, which perfectly depicts the influences of Islamic, Swahili, and British (Europe).

Today, you can just wander through the streets admiring the elegant stone buildings, goring on fresh fish dinners laced with coconut, sipping tea and coffee from on-road vendors, and what not!

2. Spot Rare Red Colobus Monkey at Jozani Forest:

There’s nothing to hide – visitors to Jozani Forest come in hopes to spot colobus monkey. This is a rare sight to behold if you happen to witness this simian specimen with vibrant coasts and distinct hues. You may also catch the sight of the endangered Zanzibar servaline genet.

The only national park of Zanzibar, Jozani Forest is a low-lying sanctuary dotted with saltwater mangroves and tropical forest. While the main attraction, for many visitors, remains the forest nature trail, you may want to spend more time on a raised boardwalk, exploring the saltwater mangroves.

Wildlife lovers will always find ways to keep an eye out for bushbabies, monkeys, leopards, cats, duiker antelope, and 40 different avian species.

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3. Sink Your Toes into Coral Sands of Nungwi and Kendwa:

Relish the gorgeous sandy beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa and sink your toes into the beautiful coral sands if you aren’t sure where to start.

Most Zanzibar beaches promise a considerable distance to walk. If you don’t like that (just for a change), you may head north to relish in picture-perfect swathes of sugary white sand lapped by clean, crystal-clear turquoise waters.

The beaches are spectacular, teeming with beach vendors and plenty of sunshine. Apart from watching the enthusiastic beachcombers, you can just lie and bask in the sun if you fancy a more tranquil, peaceful, and serene beach atmosphere.

4. Visit Palace Museum and Immerse in Rich History:

Also known as the Sultan’s Palace, the Palace Museum is one of the main historical buildings in Zanzibar. It is a three-story building with merlon-adorned white walls. The museum dates back to 1883 when Sayyid Sir Barghash bin Said Al-Busaid began the construction work. Today, the museum is a fine “confection of coral stone, silver fittings, and acres of marble underfoot.”

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5. House of Wonders – The Landmark Building:

Once East Africa’s most modern building, the House of Wonders was the first building to possess the luxury of an elevator and electricity.

This iconic building offers a potpourri of elements of Zanzibar tradition and European style, which can be witnessed in its cast-iron columns, open central courtyards, coral rag, sophisticated door carvings, and mangrove ceilings.

6. The East Coast Beaches and Their Best Kitesurfing Destinations:

If soaking up the sun on the Kendwa and Nungwi beaches is not your cup of tea, head to the East Coast to try your hands at kitesurfing.

Zanzibar is also known for the beaches like Jambiani, Paje, Kiwengwa, Dongwe, and Pwani Mchangani that ensure you have a rewarding experience. If you like kitesurfing, ensure you visit Zanzibar from June to October and from mid-December to March. These are the times when the East Coast beaches experience the strongest winds.

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7.                 Romance on Mind? Visit Nakupenda Beach:

Swahili for I Love You, Nakupenda, off the coast of Stone Town, entices couples and honeymooners with its crystal clear waters and sand as soft and white as baby powder, exuding its romantic vibes.

Apart from getting lost in each other’s eyes, you can plunge into the calm water to swim, snorkel, and keep cool under the hot African sun.

Conclusion

If you want your vacation to be filled with relaxing beach activities, history, and top things to see, Zanzibar will surely ring the bell. It is a one-of-a-kind destination that will ensure you get a deserving break from the maddening city life.

 Check out our complete list of top things to do in Zanzibar and plan a perfect trip with family.