On this 10-day Best of Zanzibar Safari, you’ll get the chance to unwind along the pristine white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, dive into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, and be treated to phenomenal tropical sunsets.
This safari involves tours of Prison/Changuu Island, spice tours, relaxation on one of the most beautiful beaches, tours of Stone Town to explore the different historical sites, and also interact with the local Zanzibari people to learn about their unique way of life.
Detailed Best of Zanzibar Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the spectacular Zanzibar Island
This is the day you arrive on Zanzibar Island via Abeid Amani Karume International Airport or the Zanzibar seaport, where you will be received by our professional guide for a transfer to the booked hotel in Stone Town for meals and rest.
Day 2: Guided Tours of Stone Town & Changuu Island
Following a hearty breakfast at the hotel in Stone Town, embark on a guided walk through this ancient city.
You will explore several outstanding historical sites, including the House of Wonders, the Old Dispensary, Old Fort, several former slave chambers, Palace Museum, as well as Christ Church and Anglican Church, which not only serve as places of worship but also used to act as slave torture or holding chambers.
Walk through the network of narrow streets while interacting with the locals before returning to the hotel for lunch.
In the afternoon, sail to Changuu (Prison) Island, originally serving as a prison for slaves but later turned into a quarantine center for yellow fever patients. Now it is a popular home to giant Aldabra Tortoises.
In the evening, enjoy nightlife at Forodhani Gardens, where you can savor local dishes such as Zanzibar Pizza.
Day 3: Thrilling Spice Tours
On the third day, leave Stone Town and visit a local-owned spice farm where you will enjoy the sweet aroma of the many spices of Zanzibar, such as vanilla, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and many others.
Identify, taste, and even purchase the numerous spices that attracted ships from as far as Europe to dock at Zanzibar Harbour to purchase and export large quantities of spices to foreign markets.
These tours will also involve learning about the different ways these spices are used in the preparation of traditional dishes, medicine, and perfumes.
Most of these spices were brought from Oman, Arabia, and rulers from across the world. Lunch (prepared from local ingredients and spices) will be enjoyed at one of the local farms.
Afterwards, proceed to the magnificent Nungwi Beach for our next adventure.
Day 4: All-day relaxation at Nungwi Beach
Your fourth day will be spent leisurely at Nungwi Beach, relaxing and rejuvenating after hectic tours of Stone Town, day trips to Prison Island, and spice tours, before continuing for more thrilling excursions on Zanzibar Island.
Day 5: Incredible Dolphin Tours at Kizimkazi Village, Southern Edge of Zanzibar Island
Start the day with breakfast and then head to Kizimkazi village on the southern edge of Zanzibar Island for a chance to see high concentrations of Humpback and bottle-nosed dolphins.
While here, you can choose to swim with these peaceful creatures and later be transferred to your accommodation facility at Nungwi Beach for a late lunch and refreshments. Spend the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Dinner and overnight will be at the same beach resort.
Day 6: Day Trips to Jozani Forest
After an amazing breakfast at the beach resort, head out for a guided tour through Jozani Forest to see some of the island’s spectacular animals, such as Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, Zanzibar leopards, Ader’s duikers, and many others.
Also, explore the unique bird species in the mangrove swamps and forests. With the spectacular and well-maintained nature trails through Jozani Forest, you will see extraordinary flora and fauna, which are the highlight of this Zanzibar safari.
Day 7: Guided Village Tours
On your guided village tours, leave the beach resort after breakfast and head to the beautiful villages of Jambiani, Kizimkazi, Paje, or Nungwi for a chance to interact with the local people, learn about their daily lives, and be entertained with interesting cultural dances and traditions that make this island unique.
During our visit to the fishing villages of Paje or Kizimkazi, we shall witness local women diligently harvesting seaweeds, oyster shells, and local men engaging in deep-sea fishing and selling their day’s catch.
Travelers fortunate enough might also experience traditional wedding ceremonies (usually conducted on Fridays), enjoy traditional dishes, and retire to the beach resort in the evening.
Day 8 & 9: Unwinding at Nungwi Beach
The 8th and 9th days will be dedicated to unwinding at the tranquil Nungwi Beach, with a variety of activities organized.
Enjoy adventurous water sports such as scuba diving with marine creatures, paragliding, jet skiing, snorkeling, and relaxing beach sports like soccer and volleyball. Options include feasting on buffet seafood, enjoying magnificent sunsets, and concluding the riveting Nungwi Beach tours with bonfires.
Day 10: Return to Zanzibar Airport and Departure
On the last day of your 10-day Zanzibar Safari, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then drive back to Zanzibar Airport for scheduled flights back home or to proceed to our next planned safari destination.
