Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar – Stone Town Exploration

Upon your arrival in Zanzibar, you’ll be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. After refreshing, you’ll head out for a guided walking tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stone Town’s winding narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets provide a rich cultural experience. You’ll visit key historical sites such as the House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib), The Old Fort, and The Sultan’s Palace, all of which offer a glimpse into the island’s complex history. A visit to the Slave Market offers a sobering look at Zanzibar’s role in the slave trade. In the evening, head to Forodhani Gardens, where the night market offers local delicacies like Zanzibar pizza and grilled seafood. This is a great spot to try the island’s famous street food and enjoy the sunset.

Overnight: Stay in a hotel or boutique guesthouse in Stone Town.

Day 2: Spice Tour and Jozani Forest

Start your day with a spice tour. Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and the spice plantations here offer a sensory journey where you’ll learn about and experience firsthand the island’s many spices like cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and cardamom. After the spice tour, you’ll head to Jozani Forest, which is home to the endangered red colobus monkeys. A guided walk through this lush forest will introduce you to Zanzibar’s unique flora and fauna, making it a fascinating nature experience. In the afternoon, head back to your resort, where you can enjoy some beach time, relax by the pool, or sip a cocktail on the shore.

Evening: Have a leisurely dinner at your hotel or a nearby beach restaurant.

Overnight: Stay in a beachfront resort or hotel.

Day 3: Relaxing on the Beaches of Zanzibar

After breakfast, take the day to fully relax on Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches. Whether you’re staying in Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje, the beaches here are ideal for unwinding. Enjoy the crystal- clear waters with some swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging under the sun. The more adventurous can indulge in activities like kite surfing or kayaking, while those seeking peace can enjoy a quiet walk along the shoreline. In the afternoon, you may opt for a dhow cruise to sail the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, giving you a different perspective of Zanzibar’s coastline and a perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Evening: Enjoy a romantic sunset dhow cruise with fresh seafood and drinks on board, creating unforgettable memories of your day.

Overnight: Stay in a beach resort along the northern or eastern coast of Zanzibar.

Day 4: Prison Island (Changuu Island) and Sandbanks

After breakfast, embark on a boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island), located just off the coast of Stone Town. The island is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old. Visitors can interact with these gentle creatures and learn about the island’s history as a former quarantine station. After touring the island, enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding clear waters, where you’ll discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish and marine life. In the afternoon, head to one of Zanzibar’s sandbanks that emerge during low tide. These isolated, pristine spots offer a peaceful environment to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the beauty of the Indian Ocean in solitude.

Evening: Return to your resort for a relaxing evening with a beachfront dinner under the stars.

Overnight: Stay at a beachfront resort.

Day 5: Departure from Zanzibar

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the serene beauty of the island. If you have time, take a stroll through Stone Town for some last-minute shopping for souvenirs, or visit the bustling Darajani Market for local handicrafts. Depending on your flight time, you may also want to visit The Spice Market or take a final walk along the beach before being transferred to the airport for your departure.

Overnight: N/A – Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your departure.