Zanzibar, the enchanting island off the coast of Tanzania, is a tropical paradise known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural history. If you’re planning a five-day getaway, this guide covers the best accommodations, culinary experiences, and top attractions to make the most of your trip.
Day 1: Arrival & Stone Town Exploration
Start your adventure in Zanzibar’s historical heart—Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and a blend of African, Arabic, and European influences.
Things to Do:
- Visit the House of Wonders, the largest and most iconic building in Stone Town.
- Explore the Old Fort, built in the 17th century by the Omanis.
- Stroll through Darajani Market, where you can sample exotic fruits and spices.
- Walk along Forodhani Gardens and try Zanzibar’s famous street food at the night market.
Things to do in Stone town: https://gyg.me/CKTt9UvP
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Featuring a seafront location in Zanzibar City, Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers an outdoor pool and a restaurant. This air-conditioned hotel comes with free WiFi access and has a spa and wellness centre. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Private bathrooms comprise a bathtub, free toiletries, a hairdryer and a bidet. Views are provided from all rooms. Guest staying at Park Hyatt Zanzibar are also offered a fitness centre, a tour desk and a luggage storage. Activites like snorkeling, diving, golf and various other can be enjoyed on site or in the surrounding area. The Hotel is 43 km away from Jozani Chwaka National Park and 11 km from Masingini Forest. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is 8Km from Park Hyatt Zanzibar. Zanzibar Ferry Terminal is 1 km away.
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Book a room in Park Hyatt Zanzibar: https://buff.ly/3Qo348Q
- Mid-range: Emerson on Hurumzi
Featuring a terrace, restaurant and views of city, Emerson on Hurumzi is located in Zanzibar City, 300 metres from Stone Town Beach. The property is close to Cinema Afrique, Hamamni Persian Baths and St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi. The units at the hotel are equipped with a seating area. Each room comes with a private bathroom with free toiletries, while certain rooms include a balcony and others also offer sea views. Guest rooms at Emerson on Hurumzi include air conditioning and a desk. An à la carte, continental or vegetarian breakfast is available at the property. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Peace Memorial Museum, Sultan’s Palace, Zanzibar and Old Dispensary. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is 8 km away.
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Book a room in Emerson on Hurumzi: https://buff.ly/3D44Dpe
- Budget: Zanzibar Coffee House
Located in Zanzibar City, the unique and historical Zanzibar Coffee House offers individually designed rooms and suites. It features a coffee shop and a roof top terrace, overlooking Stone Town. The rooms combine old-world charm and antique details with modern conveniences. Each room is fitted with a ceiling fan and a four-poster bed, draped with a mosquito net. Free WiFi is available. Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace. The hotel’s café is situated downstairs and offers a variety of coffees, prepared by trained baristas. Guests can also indulge in cakes or order meals and snacks. Zanzibar Coffee House has a 24-hour front desk, concierge and laundry services. Zanzibar Airport is 8 km away and airport transfers can be arranged for a surcharge.
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Book a room in Zanzibar Coffee House: https://buff.ly/4k3IhEX
Where to Eat:
- The Tea House Restaurant – Rooftop dining with a stunning view.
- Lukmaan – A popular spot for authentic Swahili cuisine.
- Forodhani Night Market – Sample Zanzibari pizza and fresh seafood.
Day 2: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank
Take a boat trip to Prison Island, famous for its giant tortoises and colonial history. Afterward, head to Nakupenda Sandbank, a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Things to Do:
- Feed and interact with Aldabra giant tortoises on Prison Island.
- Snorkel around Nakupenda Sandbank and enjoy a seafood picnic.
- Relax on the sandbank with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Where to Eat:
- The Rock Restaurant – A world-famous eatery on a rock in the middle of the ocean.
Perched on a rock in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, The Rock Restaurant is one of Zanzibar’s most iconic dining spots. Located near Michamvi Pingwe beach, this unique restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views, an intimate atmosphere, and a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Accessible by foot at low tide or by boat when the tide is high, The Rock serves a fusion of fresh seafood and local Swahili flavors with an Italian twist. Dishes like grilled lobster, octopus salad, and homemade pasta highlight the menu, all prepared with the freshest ingredients sourced from the island.
Whether you’re savoring a meal with your feet in the sand or enjoying a sunset cocktail with the ocean breeze, The Rock Restaurant is a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind dining adventure in Zanzibar.
- Cape Town Fish Market – Great seafood and cocktails by the beach.
Located in the heart of Zanzibar, Cape Town Fish Market offers a vibrant dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, sushi, and international cuisine. With its stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, this restaurant combines the flavors of the ocean with a touch of South African influence, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including expertly prepared sushi, grilled seafood platters, and premium steaks. Guests can also enjoy an extensive selection of wines and cocktails while taking in stunning ocean views. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a lively night out, Cape Town Fish Market delivers top-quality food, exceptional service, and a memorable dining experience in Zanzibar.
Day 3: Spice Farm & Jozani Forest
Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” so a visit to a local spice farm is a must. Later, explore Jozani Forest, home to the endangered Red Colobus monkeys.
Things to Do:
- Join a spice tour and learn about the island’s history of clove, vanilla, and nutmeg production.
- Visit Jozani Forest and spot the rare Red Colobus monkeys.
- Walk along the Mangrove Boardwalk, a beautiful wooden path through Zanzibar’s coastal ecosystem.
Where to Eat:
- Emerson Spice Tea House – Fusion of Zanzibari flavors in a historic setting.
- Fisherman’s Grill – Fresh seafood with an ocean view.
Day 4: Nungwi Beach & Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
Head north to Nungwi Beach, one of the best beach destinations in Zanzibar. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Spend the afternoon snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, one of the top snorkeling and diving spots in the region.
Things to Do:
- Relax on Nungwi Beach and soak up the sun.
- Take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.
- Snorkel or dive at Mnemba Atoll, home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Mnemba Dolphin and snorkeling tour: https://gyg.me/LrWiHV7Y
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Zuri Zanzibar
Situated in the Kendwa Beach district of Kendwa, Zuri Zanzibar offers accommodation with a private beach area and free WiFi. The property boasts an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace and a bar. All the rooms have air conditioning and are fitted with a wardrobe, a desk and a flat screen TV. All the units also have a seating area while some have pool views and a garden view. Zuri Zanzibar serves a continental breakfast daily. Maischa Restaurant that is located within the property specializes in Middle Eastern cuisines. Snorkelling is among the activities that guests can enjoy near Zuri Zanzibar. Coral Reefs Snorkel is a 9-minute walk from the resort.
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Book a room in Zuri Zanzibar: https://buff.ly/3EVoh7m
- Mid-range: Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel
Located on Kendwa Beach and surrounded by lush gardens, Kendwa Rocks Hotel offers rooms and suites with views of the Indian Ocean or the garden. Zanzibar Town is 1 hour drive away. Featuring local furnishings, all rooms and suites are equipped with air conditioning, a fan, en-suite bathroom, digital safe box and mosquito nets. The double and twin rooms are located upstairs and offer balconies, looking towards the sea. The more spacious suites have a seating area and a verandah with sea views. There are also some rooms with a view to the garden. The bathrooms are fitted with a shower and free toiletries. Breakfast is served in the morning. Kendwa Rocks also has a restaurant serving Swahili and International cuisine. A variety of exotic cocktails and refreshments can be enjoyed at the Mermaid Bar. On selected evenings, the hotel offers live music and evening entertainment. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including diving, volleyball, snorkelling and canoeing. Kisauni Airport is 60 km away and airport shuttles can be arranged on request for a fee. We host one of the biggest party on island called Full moon party for the dates kindly contact hotel.
Book a room in Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel: https://buff.ly/416uyoa
- Budget: Warere Beach Hotel
Warere Beach is located in Nungwi, within 1.2 km of Ras Nungwi Lighthouse (Hog Point) and 1.2 km of Mnarani Aquarium (Marine Turtles Conservation Pond). Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a private beach area, this property is set near attractions such as Nungwi Beach, Supermarket and Baobab Tree. Staff on site can arrange airport transfers. All units in the hotel are fitted with a kettle. Rooms are complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower, while some rooms are fitted with a balcony. The units include a desk. A continental or buffet breakfast is available every morning at the property. There is an in-house restaurant, which serves African cuisine and also offers halal and vegetarian options. Warere Beach offers a terrace. Speaking English and French, staff are willing to help at any time of the day at the reception. East Africa Divers is 2.1 km from the accommodation, while World Wide Supermarket is 2.2 km away.
Book a room in Warere Beach Hotel: https://buff.ly/41koPN7
Where to Eat:
- Kendwa Rocks Restaurant – Great seafood with live music.
- Mama Mia – Italian restaurant with beachfront views.
Day 5: Relaxation & Farewell
Spend your last day unwinding on one of Zanzibar’s serene beaches or indulging in a luxury spa experience before your departure.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy a Swahili massage at a beachfront spa.
- Take a yoga session by the sea.
- Visit Paje Beach, a paradise for kite surfers and laid-back beach lovers.
Where to Eat:
- Upendo Beach Zanzibar – Stylish beach club with amazing cocktails.
- Bahari Restaurant – Freshly grilled seafood right on the beach.
Final Tips for Your Zanzibar Trip:
Get your free Luggage tags: https://buff.ly/4aekjm2
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD is widely accepted.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) or December to February.
- Local Customs: Dress modestly in Stone Town and villages out of respect for local culture.
Zanzibar is a dream destination that combines history, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a beach lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, this five-day itinerary ensures an unforgettable island escape.
