Looking for the best excursions in Zanzibar? This tropical island is full of unforgettable activities for every type of traveler. Whether you're exploring the rich culture of Stone Town, relaxing on the pristine sandbanks of Paje, or snorkeling with dolphins near Nungwi, we’ve carefully selected the top-rated excursions across Zanzibar. Discover the most popular tours, day trips, and adventures all in one place.
Zanzibar’s Top Excursions
Day Trips & Tours
What Kind of Excursions Are Available in Zanzibar?
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Zanzibar has something for everyone. Here are the most popular types of tours you can enjoy:
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Historical & Cultural Tours:
Learn about Zanzibar’s rich Swahili-Arab heritage with walking tours in Stone Town, visits to the Old Slave Market, and immersive spice farm experiences.
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Beach & Water Excursions:
Discover sandbanks, go island-hopping, or snorkel coral reefs. Top options include Mnemba Atoll, Nakupenda Sandbank, and the iconic Safari Blue tour.
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Adventure & Nature Activities:
Swim in hidden caves like Kuza and Maalum, go kitesurfing in Paje, or take a one-day fly-in safari to Mikumi National Park on the mainland.
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Family-Friendly Tours:
Visit the turtle sanctuary in Nungwi, take a calm dhow cruise, or join a cooking class to learn traditional Zanzibari dishes.
Top Places to Base Yourself for Excursions
Zanzibar may be a small island, but where you stay can make a big difference in the types of excursions easily accessible to you. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, water activities, or total beach relaxation, choosing the right base helps you save both time and money. By staying near the area where your favorite excursions take place, you can often avoid long travel times and cut down on transport costs. The most popular zones for excursions are Stone Town, Paje (East Coast), and Nungwi (North Coast) each offering unique experiences and easy access to specific types of tours.
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Stone Town
Stone Town is the historic and cultural center of Zanzibar, known for its winding alleys, ancient architecture, and vibrant street life. It’s the best base for travelers interested in Zanzibari heritage, food tours, and markets. From here, it’s easy to join walking tours, visit the Slave Market Memorial, or take a short boat trip to nearby Prison Island or Nakupenda Sandbank. Spice farm tours also depart nearby, making Stone Town a convenient starting point for many inland and coastal experiences.
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Paje & Jambiani (East Coast)
Paje and Jambiani offer a more relaxed, nature-focused vibe with stunning white sand beaches and shallow turquoise waters. This part of the island is a hotspot for kitesurfing, and visits to natural swimming caves like Kuza and Maalum. It’s ideal for travelers looking for outdoor adventures with fewer crowds. Many lagoon, snorkeling, and boat excursions also depart from this area, and the calm beach town setting makes it great for digital nomads or slow travelers.
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Nungwi & Kendwa (North Coast)
Nungwi and Kendwa are the go-to spots for crystal-clear waters, lively beach scenes, and some of the best marine excursions on the island. Located close to the famous Mnemba Atoll, this area is perfect for full-day snorkeling trips, dolphin-watching, jet ski rides, and sunset cruises. The beaches here are swimmable at all tides, and the area is also known for its restaurants, resorts, and nightlife. If you want action-packed beach days, this is the place.
Excursion Taxi Price Estimator
Plan Your Zanzibar Transfers
Planning your Zanzibar adventures has never been easier! Our Zanzibar Excursion Transfer Calculator is designed to simplify your travel experience by helping you estimate the cost of transportation to and from your favorite excursions. Whether you're exploring the pristine beaches of Nungwi, snorkeling at Mnemba Island, or visiting the historic Prison Island, this tool ensures you stay in control of your budget and schedule.