Planning a trip to Zanzibar? We’re here to help!
Zanzibar is both beautiful and culturally rich, with a layered history and some of the most amazing food we’ve ever had! At first, we thought we might not end up doing much while we vacationed here, but once we started looking into all the fun activities and how long it takes to get from one part of the island to another, we began to feel a bit overwhelmed.
So now, after exploring all over Zanzibar, we’ve put together a 5-day itinerary that covers the highlights and includes plenty of beach time. Ready to explore this island gem? Let’s get into it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Mnemba Island dolphin snorkeling tour! We spotted dolphins, snorkeled in crystal-clear water, and ended on a tiny sandbank surrounded by turquoise ocean. It felt like we had the whole place to ourselves!
Itinerary Overview
Visiting Zanzibar is all about balancing culture, coastline, and adventure. This itinerary starts in Stone Town for a hearty dose of history and delicious local food, and then from there, you’ll head north to Nungwi for swimming and beach time. Finally, we’ll wrap things up around Kendwa, one of the best spots on the island for sunset.
Getting around Zanzibar is pretty straightforward, but it does require a bit of planning. The most common way to get around is by taxi or hiring a private driver for the day, which is often more convenient if you’re heading between different areas. Just be sure to agree on the price before getting in, as meters aren’t typically used!
For shorter distances, you can hop in a Bajaji (tuk-tuk), which is quick, cheap, and easy to find. Dala-dalas, the local minibusses, are the most budget-friendly option, but they can be crowded and a bit confusing if it’s your first time on the island. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt do work in Stone Town, but you won’t find them as reliably elsewhere, so we don’t recommend relying on them outside the city.
Day 1: Arrive in Stone Town and dive straight into Zanzibar’s culture with a full-day tour covering Prison Island, a spice farm, and the highlights of Stone Town. In the evening, explore the lively night food market and enjoy a beachfront dinner.
Day 2: Head out on a full-day adventure along the southeast coast, visiting Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave, and the beaches of Paje, with a stop at the iconic Rock Restaurant. Wrap up the day with rooftop drinks and a memorable dinner back in Stone Town.
Day 3: Spend the morning exploring a bit more of Stone Town before making your way north to Nungwi. Take some time to settle in and enjoy a relaxed beachside lunch, then end the day with a sunset dhow cruise.
Day 4: Start the day with a snorkeling and dolphin tour around Mnemba Island, then enjoy a laid-back afternoon on Nungwi Beach. In the evening, treat yourself to a nice seafood dinner and a relaxed night by the water.
Day 5: Choose between an adrenaline-filled morning like skydiving or a quad bike adventure, then head over to Kendwa for beach time and a final dinner to wrap up your trip.
Day 1
Breakfast – Breadfruit Restaurant and Café
While your tour includes hotel pickup, you’ll probably have a bit of time beforehand, so we recommend heading out for breakfast first. Breadfruit Restaurant and Café opens at 7 am, which gives you plenty of time to eat before your day gets going.
It’s an easy walk if you’re staying in Stone Town, and we love its chic, tropical vibe. The menu has a good mix of options, including vegetarian and pescatarian dishes, plus classics like a full English breakfast and avocado toast. The coffee is also really good, which, as I’m sure you’ll agree, is essential before a big day of exploring!
Full day – See Zanzibar’s highlights: Stone Town, Prison Island, and a spice tour
Today is all about getting a proper introduction to Zanzibar, and this tour is the easiest way to do it. It combines history, culture, food, and wildlife into one full day, so you’ll cover a lot without having to plan each stop yourself. It’s ideal for a shorter trip! Book the 9:30 am to 5:30 pm option for a well-paced day, or go for the 8 am start if you’d prefer to get going earlier.
The day starts with a tour of Stone Town’s narrow streets to learn more about the island’s past. Having a guide here makes a big difference, as you get context behind key landmarks like the Old Slave Market and the Anglican Cathedral, rather than just passing by them.
Next, you’ll head to a local spice farm, which is one of the most memorable parts of the day. Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” and this is where it all comes to life! You’ll see how cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg are grown, and we loved how interactive this experience was. Our guide even climbed a tree to get fresh coconuts for us to drink!
The final stop is Prison Island, where you’ll meet the resident giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel alongside them. I was amazed to learn that some of the tortoises were over 150 years old! This was a true bucket list experience for me, and it’s easy to see why this tour has so many five-star reviews!
Book this private Zanzibar tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
Evening – Wander through the Forodhani Gardens Night Food Market
Our favorite time of day in Stone Town is 6 pm because that’s when the Forodhani Gardens transform into an epic food market right by the water! It’s one of the best places to get a feel for the local food scene, with rows of food stalls and plenty of chaos going on all around you – but I mean that in a good way.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try some local street food snacks, but we do have dinner after this, so treat this as a starter, if you will. I recommend trying a Zanzibar pizza, as they’re pretty small, and some fresh sugarcane juice. But if you’d rather save your appetite, it’s still worth taking a walk through to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere.
Afterward, take a stroll over to the Old Fort. In the evenings, there are often dance performances or small cultural events happening, which makes it a great place to hang out for a bit before heading to dinner.
Dinner – Beach House Zanzibar
For dinner, head to the Beach House, a gorgeous seafront spot set right on the water. It’s the perfect place to unwind at the end of a busy first day and enjoy the ocean air, as well as plenty of seafood. The menu here is all about seafood, and it’s one of the best places in Stone Town for it. If you’re hoping for a table with a clear view of the beach and sunset, it’s definitely worth making a reservation on their website here in advance to lock in a good spot!
Day 2
Full-day – South Coast adventure: Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave, and Paje Beach
Today is all about seeing a completely different side of Zanzibar, and we think that this private tour is the best way to explore the southeast coast without having to figure out logistics on your own! It packs a lot into one really fun day, with hotel pickup from 8:30 am in Stone Town and drop-off at around 4:30 pm. Be sure to grab breakfast at or near your hotel before heading out, as you’ll need some fuel for the day!
The first major stop is Jozani Forest, which is home to the rare red colobus monkeys. These monkeys are only found in Zanzibar, so seeing them up close is a pretty special experience. It’s easily one of the highlights of the day and gives you a look at a side of the island you wouldn’t see otherwise.
Next, you’ll visit Kuza Cave for a swim. It’s a natural limestone cave filled with clear water, and it’s a refreshing break from the heat. If you have water shoes, it’s worth bringing them, as the rocks can be a bit slippery.
You’ll also stop at Paje Beach, which has a completely different feel from the north. It’s known for its wide shoreline and kitesurfing scene, so it’s a great place to pause and take it all in.
One of the must-see stops along the way is The Rock Restaurant, which is quite literally situated on a rock out at sea. It’s one of the most iconic spots on the island, and even if you’re just stopping for photos, it’s worth it. If you do want to eat here, be sure to make a reservation in advance, as it books up quickly.
Book this private Zanzibar adventure tour here and get a taste of the island’s variety!
Evening – Grab rooftop drinks at 6 degrees South
Today was another long one, so take some time to rest and relax at your hotel before heading out for the evening. We LOVED having sunset drinks at 6 degrees South – you won’t find a better view in Stone Town than here!
The sunset time in Zanzibar barely changes throughout the year as it’s so close to the equator. We recommend arriving around 5:30 or 5:45 pm to ensure you see the spectacle.
They have a food menu here, but we just came for drinks. We’ve got dinner lined up somewhere really special after this, but they do have bar snacks like mini mandazi or olives available if you’re peckish.
Dinner – The Secret Garden at Emerson Spice
For dinner, head over to this beautiful courtyard restaurant tucked inside a historic building in Stone Town. It really does feel like a hidden treasure, with palm trees everywhere and dilapidated stone walls adorned with lights.
The food here is amazing, too, and it’s a great place to try Zanzibar classics like chicken in coconut and turmeric sauce, as well as authentic island curries. The menu is pretty small, but that’s a good thing, as it means everything is fresh and made with love!
Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as this spot fills up quickly and you won’t want to miss it. It’s about a 12-minute walk or a quick 4-minute drive from your drinks spot, so it’s an easy transition into dinner.
Day 3
Breakfast – Stone Town Cafe
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Stone Town Cafe, which is right next to the Freddie Mercury museum. It’s a super convenient stop before your morning plans. Aim to get here around 9 am, so you’ve got plenty of time to eat without rushing.
This is a nice, relaxed spot to start the day, and it’s an indoor/outdoor cafe, so you’ll have views of the charming, historic street all around you as you eat. They offer several hearty cooked breakfast options, but my personal favorite is the toasted coconut bread – yum!
Morning – Freddie Mercury Museum
After breakfast, head over to the Freddie Mercury Museum when it opens at 10 am. Tickets are just $10 USD, and you won’t need a ton of time here – around 30 minutes to an hour is plenty – but it’s definitely worth popping in! This is the house in which the Queen frontman was actually born, and while your Stone Town tour likely passed by it yesterday, this gives you the chance to actually go inside and learn more about his life.
When we visited, we saw handwritten lyrics from Freddie himself, along with childhood photos and personal stories that gave a bit more insight into his early years. It’s a quick stop, but an interesting one, especially if you’re a fan.
Mid-morning – Transfer to Nungwi
After breakfast and your museum visit, check out of your hotel and get ready to head north to Nungwi. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the easiest way to get there is by taxi or a private driver. Expect to pay somewhere between $25 and $35 USD, and your hotel can usually help arrange this for you. This way, you’ll probably arrive sometime between 12:30 and 1 pm, which gives you plenty of time to check into your new hotel and get settled before the afternoon.
If you’re trying to keep costs down, you can take a local minibus. However, it will be more crowded and take quite a bit longer, especially if you’re traveling with luggage. The dala dalas also don’t exactly run on a tight time schedule, so you may end up waiting around for a while.
Afternoon/lunch – Get settled in Nungwi
You won’t have a ton of time between arriving and heading out again later, but there’s still enough to get a feel for the area. For lunch, we recommend stopping by Fish Market Local Restaurant. It’s right on Nungwi Beach, so you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with a view and enjoy the scenery in this new part of Zanzibar.
Afterward, enjoy some free time! You can take a short walk along the beach, where you’ll also see some local food stalls selling seafood snacks, so you can grab a few more bites to eat if you’re still hungry. Just keep an eye on the time and head back to your hotel by around 4 pm so you’re ready for your 4:30 pm pickup.
Evening/dinner – Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on a traditional Dhow boat
Watching the sunset in Zanzibar is already a pretty special experience, but experiencing it from a traditional dhow takes it to another level. This private sunset dinner sail along the north coast is an epic experience from start to finish, with delicious food and gorgeous views all the way!
You’ll be picked up from your hotel at around 4:30 pm and set off from Kendwa Beach, then cruise past the coastline towards Nungwi Beach as the light turns that perfect golden color! There’s beer and wine included with the cruise, as well as fresh coconuts, so you can just chill out with a drink in hand and just soak in those beautiful vistas.
A fresh seafood BBQ is prepared right on board while you relax, and it’s easily some of the best food you’ll have on the island. Options include lobster and calamari, as well as Zanzibari specialties like samosas and fresh local food – yum!
Oh, and did I mention that this is a private experience? Yup, you’ll have the dhow all to yourself, so you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out – no cramming in like sardines! Plus, you can also jump into the water for a sunset swim, which makes the whole experience even more magical. You’ll get back at around 8:30 pm, ready for some chill time or an early night.
Book this sunset dinner sail here, with free cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 4
Morning – Snorkel and swim with dolphins on Mnemba Island
Ready to spot some dolphins? Of course you are!
You can either meet this morning’s tour at Mama Mia at 8:30 am, or opt for free hotel pickup, which starts about 40 minutes earlier. It’s an early start, so plan on grabbing breakfast at your hotel beforehand. Then, the tour wraps up around 12:30 pm, so you’ll be back in Nungwi in time for lunch.
This was definitely one of the most fun experiences we had in Zanzibar! The morning started off pretty relaxed as we headed out towards Mnemba Island, and the ocean became more and more shockingly blue the further out we got.
Once we first spotted dolphins, things picked up pretty quickly! We just had to snap our snorkel masks on and jump straight into the water. It’s not a slow, gentle swim alongside them, and sightings below the water are quite brief. It’s very exciting, though, and we managed to see dolphins quite a few times!
After that, the tour slowed down again, and we enjoyed a more relaxed snorkeling experience closer to Mnemba. The water was super clear, and it was nice to just float around and spot colorful fish around the reef after all the hectic jumping on and off the boat earlier on.
Then, we finished the tour on a high note with a visit to a sandbank, where we found ourselves standing in the middle of the ocean with nothing around us but shallow turquoise water. It was a pinch-me moment for sure—and clearly one of the highlights people can’t stop talking about, based on the hundreds of five-star reviews!
Book our FAVORITE Zanzibar tour here, with free 24-hour cancellation!
Lunch – Mama Mia
Your tour wraps up right near Mama Mia, so this is an easy and well-placed stop for lunch – oh, and it’s really good! It’s a laid-back Italian spot right by the beach, so it’s perfect for a midday break. We got a table overlooking the water and took our time here, which was really nice after a busy morning. I had a zucchini and red onion pizza, and I think it tasted even better with the bright blue shock of the water in the background – bliss!
Afternoon – Relax on Nungwi Beach
After lunch, you can either head back to your hotel to freshen up or go straight down to the beach. Nungwi Beach is one of the most popular spots on the island, and for good reason. The water here stays swimmable throughout the day since the tides don’t shift as dramatically as they do in other parts of Zanzibar, which makes it ideal for a long, leisurely afternoon by the ocean.
The vibe is relaxed and local, with a mix of visitors, vendors, and small food stalls lining the beach. You’ll likely be approached by “beach boys” selling souvenirs or offering tours. They can be persistent sometimes, but usually a simple “no thank you” is enough for them to move on.
If you want a bit more comfort, many of the beachfront hotels and restaurants offer loungers and shade as long as you order a drink or something to eat. Otherwise, it’s a public beach, so you can always just bring a towel and find your own spot on the sand.
Spend the afternoon however you like. Go for a swim, take a walk along the shoreline, or just lie back and enjoy the sun. And if you feel like doing something a little different, there’s a Turtle Conservation Pond just a few minutes away where you can learn more about local marine life and even get in the water with them.
Dinner – Sexy Fish
For dinner, head to the upscale Sexy Fish for a bit of a change of pace. It’s a super stylish overwater restaurant, and it’s certainly one of the nicest dining options in Nungwi! It has that glamorous, beach club feel and serves beautifully plated seafood dishes that really do look like works of art.
They open at 6:30 pm, so it’s a good idea to plan your evening around that, especially if you want to get a good table. Reservations are recommended here, particularly in peak season, but even if you do have a booking, arriving early will help you secure a great spot. This is an ideal spot to get a bit dressed up and treat yourself!
Day 5
Breakfast – MAHI MAHI Beach Bar & Restaurant
Since your plans start a bit later this morning, you’ve got time to head out for a proper breakfast and coffee at MAHI MAHI. It’s a rustic beach bar with Robinson Crusoe vibes, and I can’t think of a more beautiful spot to sip your morning coffee!
It opens at 7:30 am, so you can take your time here before whichever tour you choose. Of course, you don’t have to arrive bang on 7:30 am, but do make sure to give yourself enough time to get back to your hotel or the meeting point for your activity. This is a nice, slow start before a more active day.
Option 1: Go skydiving
If you’re going to skydive anywhere, this is the place to do it. Zanzibar is ridiculously beautiful from above, and this experience is just as much about the views as it is the adrenaline.
This is one of the highest-rated tours on the island, and while it’s definitely a splurge, it’s such a stunning setting that it really does feel worth it. You’re not just jumping for the thrill here. Between the bright blue water and white sand beaches, the view really does feel a bit surreal!
It’s a tandem skydive, so you’ll be securely attached to a professional instructor the entire time. That makes it a lot more approachable, especially if it’s your first time. You still get the full adrenaline rush, just with the reassurance that everything is handled for you.
And of course, one of the standout moments is the landing. You’ll come down right onto the beach near Kendwa, which isn’t something you get to do in many places.
The exact start time is confirmed when booking, but aim for around 10 am. The full experience takes about 2 hours and meets in Nungwi, so you’ll have plenty of time for breakfast first.
Read 950+ 5-star reviews and book this tandem skydive here!
Option 2: Explore the island on a quad bike adventure
If skydiving isn’t quite your thing, this ATV tour is a great alternative that still delivers plenty of adrenaline! It’s perfect if you want to see more of Zanzibar beyond the beaches and resorts, while still having a lot of fun along the way.
Hotel pickup is offered from Nungwi, but the tour itself is based in Kendwa, which works perfectly since that’s where you’ll be heading later anyway. Book the 9 am option, because it wraps up around 1 pm and fits nicely into the rest of your day.
What makes this experience stand out is that you’re constantly on the move. Instead of staying in one place, you’ll drive through quieter parts of the island, passing local homes and stretches of coastline that most visitors never see. It gives you a much better sense of what everyday life looks like here, which is something we always appreciate.
Of course, the quad biking itself is a big part of the fun, but it’s the mix of scenery and local experiences that really makes it memorable. You’ll stop along the way at beaches and viewpoints, and even spend a bit of time in a village, which adds a lot more depth than a typical adventure tour.
Just keep in mind that you will get dusty and probably pretty dirty, so don’t wear anything you care too much about. That’s all part of the fun, though!
Grab your spot on this exciting ATV tour here before it sells out!
Lunch – Tam Tam
After a busy morning, Tam Tam is a great spot to sit down and refuel with some really good local food. It’s a casual place with a fun, welcoming atmosphere, and lunch here was actually one of our favorite meals in Nungwi!
The menu leans into Zanzibari dishes, with a few standout options worth trying. The octopus is one of the best we had on the island, and the sizzling plates are a must! They’re packed with flavor, and the portions are generous enough to share.
The staff here really adds to the experience. Everyone is friendly and upbeat, which makes the whole place feel lively without being over the top. Prices are very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, so it’s a great value for money as well. What’s not to love?
Afternoon – Your choice!
This afternoon, we’re heading over to Kendwa for a bit of a change of scenery. Plan to spend the rest of the day here and stick around for sunset, it’s one of the best spots on the island for it.
Here are a few ways you can spend your afternoon:
- Walk from Nungwi to Kendwa – If you’re up for it, this is a really nice coastal walk that takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It’s a great way to take things at your own pace and see a bit more of the area along the way. And if you’d rather skip the walk, a quick taxi will get you there in just a few minutes!
- Relax on Kendwa Beach – This is one of the best beaches in Zanzibar, especially for a blissful afternoon. The sand is soft, and the water is calm, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before sunset.
- Try some water sports – If you’re feeling more active, there’s plenty to choose from here. You can rent jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, or snorkel gear right from the beach. There’s also a spot called Splash Paradise with inflatable obstacle courses, which is so much fun!
- Grab a beachfront drink – The beach is lined with casual bars, so it’s easy to find somewhere to sit down with a cold drink. It’s your last full day, so this is the perfect time to slow things down and just enjoy the view.
Sunset – Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Beach is one of the best places on the entire island to catch the sunset, so as the afternoon winds down, find a good spot along the beach and make yourself comfortable! We grabbed a drink from one of the vendors here and relaxed on the sand, enjoying the wide-open views, which were truly spectacular as the sun began to sink lower in the sky.
There’s usually a nicely relaxed buzz in the air at this time of day, with people gathering along the shoreline. There will usually be music playing from either a nearby stall or some fellow beachgoers’ speakers, so the vibes are really fun and lively. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your time in Zanzibar, so take your time and just enjoy it.
Dinner – Gold Beach Restaurant
After you’ve marveled at the sunset, head to Gold Beach Restaurant to end your time in Zanzibar with an upscale but authentic dinner. The traditional Swahili-style arches give the space a really nice indoor-outdoor feel, with views of the beach on one side and the central swimming pool on the other. It’s so beautiful!
The restaurant is just behind Kendwa Beach, so you can just walk over when you’re ready, although we do recommend making a reservation. As for the menu, it’s a lot of seafood, including octopus and the most amazing seared tuna pasta!
Evening – Kendwa Rocks or back to Nungwi
For your final evening, you’ve got a couple of good options depending on your mood. If you’re up for something a bit more lively, stick around in Kendwa and head to Kendwa Rocks. It’s one of the best-known nightlife spots on the island, and if your timing lines up with a full moon party, it can get pretty crazy!
If you’d rather keep things more low-key, you can always grab a taxi back to Nungwi and enjoy a quieter evening near your hotel. After a full few days, a relaxed night might be exactly what you need before heading home.
Related Read: For even more great ideas for your trip, check out our full guide on the best things to do in Zanzibar here. It’s packed with can’t-miss tours, hidden gems, and extra experiences to add to your trip!
Where to Stay in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is bigger than it looks, and getting between areas can take over an hour—so where you stay really matters! For this itinerary, we recommend splitting your time between Stone Town and Nungwi.
Start with 2 nights in Stone Town so you can easily explore the history, food, and cultural highlights. Then, move north to Nungwi for 2–3 nights, where you’ll find the best beaches, swimming conditions, and easy access to tours like snorkeling and sunset cruises. Kendwa is just a short drive away from Nungwi, so you can visit without needing to switch hotels again.
Just keep in mind that the best hotels in both areas can book up quickly. If you find availability for your dates, it’s worth locking it in early! Here are three great options for every budget in each area:
Stone Town
The Neela Boutique Hotel – $$$
The Neela Boutique Hotel is a stylish and intimate stay located right in the heart of Stone Town, making it a great base for exploring the area on foot. The design blends historic charm with modern touches, and the overall feel is more boutique and personal than some of the larger hotels in town.
Rooms are thoughtfully designed with a clean, contemporary look, while still reflecting the character of the surrounding area. Rooms here typically start from around $500 USD per night. Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!
Bellissimo Boutique Hotel – $$
Bellissimo Boutique Hotel is a charming mid-range stay tucked away in the winding streets of Stone Town. It has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and its central location makes it easy to explore the city on foot, yet it also feels like a hidden gem!
The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and there’s a gorgeous rooftop where you can gaze out over the city and the ocean beyond. Rooms typically start from around $175 USD per night. Find the best prices and book your stay here!
Mizingani Seafront Hotel – $
Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a budget-friendly stay set right on the waterfront in Stone Town, with a prime location for exploring the historic center. The building itself has a traditional feel, with classic Zanzibari design elements that add to the overall charm.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many offer views over the ocean or inner courtyard. Prices here usually start from around $100 USD per night, including breakfast. Check availability and book your stay here!
Nungwi
Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort – $$$
Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort is a beautiful beachfront property located between Nungwi and Kendwa, with direct access to one of the best stretches of sand on the island. The setting offers total vacation vibes, with palm trees and big swimming pools, as well as unobstructed views across the turquoise ocean – bliss!
The rooms are comfortable and generously sized, and the all-inclusive setup means you don’t have to worry about budgeting for meals and activities. Rooms here typically start from around $450 per night. See room options and secure your stay here!
My Blue Hotel Zanzibar – $$
My Blue Hotel Zanzibar is a well-located resort right on Nungwi Beach, making it a great base if you want to be close to everything. You can step straight onto the sand, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and tour operators within easy walking distance.
The hotel has a laid-back feel, with a pool overlooking the ocean and a mix of standard rooms and bungalows set among tropical gardens. Rooms typically start from around $225 per night. Find the best prices and book your stay here!
Mnarani Beach Cottages – $
Mnarani Beach Cottages is a budget-friendly stay located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, just outside the main Nungwi Beach area. The setting is quieter and more low-key, which makes it a good choice if you want to avoid the busier parts of town.
The cottages are simple but comfortable, set within a garden right next to the beach, and there’s a pool and small restaurant on-site. Prices here usually start from around $100 per night. Read the reviews and book your stay here!
Related Read: For a more in-depth breakdown of the best areas, plus more hotel options for every budget, check out our full guide on where to stay in Zanzibar here!
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Zanzibar had way more to offer than we expected, and this itinerary really shows off the best of it—from the culture and history of Stone Town to the beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back vibes up north. Five days gives you a great mix of adventure and downtime, but don’t be surprised if you leave wishing you had longer!
Before you go, check out the rest of our Africa travel guides for more inspiration. We’ve got plenty of itineraries, hotel tips, and can’t-miss experiences to help you plan your next trip. Or dive right into some of our most popular blogs below! Happy travels!
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