Top Travel Places to Visit in Zanzibar

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Just off the coast of mainland Tanzania lies Zanzibar, an enchanting destination known as the Spice Island. A tropical haven with rich history, white-sand beaches, and vibrant culture, Zanzibar is especially popular among South African travelers. Thanks to its proximity and affordability (often the same price as a local flight from Johannesburg), Zanzibar makes for the perfect island getaway.Whether you’re seeking sun, spice, or a splash of history, this Zanzibar travel guide will take you through the highlights and hidden gems of this African paradise.

Island Vibes and Warm Smiles

Zanzibar’s natural, untouched beauty is enough to take your breath away. Despite being part of a relatively poor country, the people here greet visitors with radiant smiles and carefree charm. The Swahili phrase “Hakuna Matata”—meaning “no worries” or “take it easy”—perfectly sums up the relaxed lifestyle on the island. It’s a phrase you’ll hear often and one that you might remember from Disney’s “The Lion King”.

All-Inclusive Bliss at Karafuu Beach Resort

My first visit to Zanzibar came by way of a work reward—an unforgettable vacation spent soaking up the sun, sipping cocktails, and bonding with colleagues. We stayed at the Karafuu Beach Resort, a sprawling all-inclusive retreat on the east side of the island. For anyone planning a Zanzibar trip, staying at an all-inclusive resort is a smart choice, especially in more remote areas where independent dining options are limited.

The resort offered everything from luxury villas to comfortable suites, catering to all budgets. Onsite amenities included a concierge for land tours, a dive center, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing excursions

Snorkeling and Marine Life in Zanzibar

While diving was on offer, I opted for a gentler snorkeling adventure in the shallow, crystal-clear waters. The marine life in Zanzibar was nothing short of stunning. Colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and calm waters made for an unforgettable underwater experience. Unlike some reefs around the world that have suffered from bleaching and over-tourism, Zanzibar’s reefs remain impressively healthy and vibrant.
The Karafuu Beach Resort has a Padi Dive Center on location. Dives and snorkels can be conveniently booked through them.

Exploring Stone Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

For the second part of our Zanzibar vacation, we headed west to Stone Town, the historic heart of the island and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This centuries-old town was once a central hub in the spice and slave trades, and today offers a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s multicultural past.
Wandering through the maze-like alleys of Stone Town, you’ll see ornate wooden doors and architecture influenced by Persian, Arab, and Indian cultures. Key attractions include:

The Old Fort and former slave market
The Freddie Mercury Museum (yes, Queen’s frontman was born here!)
Darajani Market – great for spices, produce, and local snacks
The House of Wonders – once the grandest building in East Africa

We stayed at Tembo House Hotel, an elegant, historic beachfront hotel with antique décor and views of the Indian Ocean. Its central location made exploring on foot easy and convenient.

Spice Tours: A Feast for the Senses

A Spice Tour in Zanzibar is an absolute must. As someone who loves cooking, I was in heaven! Zanzibar is globally famous for its aromatic and potent spices—cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and vanilla, to name a few.

Visiting a spice plantation was one of the highlights of my trip. I left with bags of black pepper and fragrant vanilla, both incredibly affordable compared to prices back home. Pro tip: use Zanzibar pepper sparingly—it’s much stronger than you think!

Bonus Activities: More Things to Do in Zanzibar

Jozani Forest Reserve
Home to the rare red colobus monkeys, this lush forest is a great half-day trip and offers nature walks among mangroves and mahogany trees.

Prison Island (Changuu Island)
Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, this former prison is now a sanctuary for giant tortoises. The surrounding waters are perfect for snorkeling.

Sunset Dhow Cruise
Sail along the coast on a traditional dhow boat as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean—romantic and unforgettable.

Mnemba Atoll
A diver’s paradise known for its vibrant reef and chance encounters with dolphins and sea turtles.

Local Villages & Cultural Tours
Visit villages like Paje or Nungwi for a deeper look into Swahili culture, traditional crafts, and dhow boat building.

Freddie Mercury Museum
Visit the childhood home of Queen’s legendary frontman. The museum showcases personal artifacts, photos, and his connection to Zanzibar.

Tanzanite Shopping in Stone Town
Zanzibar is a great place to buy Tanzanite, the rare violet-blue gemstone found only in Tanzania. Visit reputable jewelry stores in Stone Town for unique, high-quality pieces at excellent prices.

Travel Tips for Zanzibar

Currency: Tanzanian Shillings are commonly used, but USD is widely accepted in tourist areas.
Visas: Most visitors require a tourist visa, which can often be obtained online or upon arrival.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar: June to October (dry season) or December to February.
Dress Modestly in Stone Town: As a predominantly Muslim region, conservative attire is appreciated in towns and villages.
Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect both your skin and Zanzibar’s precious coral reefs.
Bring Snacks or Essentials: Remote areas may lack shops, so come prepared with snacks, meds, or toiletries.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Zanzibar

Looking back at my Zanzibar trip, it’s hard not to smile. This island has a unique energy—welcoming, relaxed, and endlessly beautiful. Whether you’re floating in the ocean, haggling at a spice market, or walking through centuries of history in Stone Town, Zanzibar wraps around your soul in the best way.
Zanzibar, the Spice Island, isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. And one you’ll want to return to again and again. Hakuna Matata!