Dreaming of Zanzibar?
You’re not alone.
This island paradise off the coast of Tanzania is topping every traveler’s wish list — and for good reason.
Whether you’re into crystal-clear waters, spice-scented breezes, historical adventures, or laid-back beach vibes, Zanzibar has something magical for you.
But the real question is:
What’s the best place to visit in Zanzibar?
At Blue-Green Zanzibar Tours, we live here. We breathe the island air daily. We know what visitors actually love and what will leave you saying, “I wish I stayed longer.”
In this post, we’re about to show you the top places that make Zanzibar unforgettable — and help you plan the perfect trip (with zero stress).
Top 7 Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar (Handpicked by Locals)
Here’s our expertly curated list of the Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar, blending popularity + hidden magic + local secrets.
1. Mnemba Island – For Luxury & Snorkeling Dreams
Why it’s special: Think Maldives, but better, Mnemba is a private island surrounded by a marine reserve. It’s the best place in Zanzibar for snorkeling, dolphin watching, and experiencing the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
Best for: Honeymooners, luxury seekers, nature lovers
How to get there: Join our Mnemba Snorkeling Tour from Matemwe
Bonus: Swim with dolphins (the ethical way)
Pro Tip: Go early morning with our guided tour to beat the crowds and catch dolphins in action.
2. Stone Town – History, Culture, and Zanzibar Soul
Why it’s special: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural heart of Zanzibar.
Lose yourself in the maze-like alleys, visit the Freddie Mercury Museum, explore the Slave Market, and grab fresh seafood at Forodhani Gardens.
Best for: History lovers, foodies, photographers
Must-do: Our Stone Town Walking Tour with a local guide
Don’t Miss: The carved wooden doors — everyone tells a story.
Book your Stone Town Guided Tour »
3. Prison Island (Changuu) – Giant Tortoises & Ocean Views
Why it’s special: Originally built as a prison, now it’s home to giant Aldabra tortoises (some over 150 years old!).
Also offers snorkeling and jaw-dropping views of Stone Town from the water.
Best for: Families, animal lovers, short day trips
Duration: Half-day tour (perfect from Stone Town)
Bonus: Feed the tortoises!
Instagram Gold: Tortoise selfies + Indian Ocean views.
4. Nungwi – For Beaches, Parties, and Sunsets
Why it’s special: The best beach on the north coast with soft white sand, zero tide interruptions, and a lively atmosphere.
It’s great for sunset dhow cruises, scuba diving, and nightlife.
Best for: Backpackers, beach lovers, party-goers
Top activity: Sunset dhow cruise
Bonus: Bonfire parties & live music at night
Must-capture: Sunset dhow with palm trees in the foreground.
5. Paje – The Laid-back Kite Surfing Capital
Why it’s special: Located on the southeast coast, Paje is a paradise for water sports lovers.
Constant breeze + warm lagoon water = perfect kitesurfing spot. But even if you don’t surf, the beach bars and boho vibe are unforgettable.
Best for: Digital nomads, kite surfers, solo travelers
Must-try: The Blue Safari Lagoon Trip
Bonus: Fresh pineapple mojitos at Mr. Kahawa Café
IG Hotspot: Kites in the air during golden hour.
6. Jozani Forest – The Red Colobus Monkey Sanctuary
Why it’s special: The only national park in Zanzibar! Walk through mangrove forests and meet the endangered red colobus monkeys, unique to the island.
Best for: Eco-travelers, families, nature photographers
Fun fact: You can walk along the boardwalk above the mangroves
Bonus: Monkeys get very close (but don’t feed them!)
Explore Jozani Forest with a local guide »
7. The Spice Farms – Taste the Real Zanzibar
Why it’s special: Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island” for a reason. Take a guided tour to discover (and taste) cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, turmeric, lemongrass, and more — all grown organically.
Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, families
Must-try: Climbing coconut man + fresh fruits
Bonus: Take home hand-packed spices
8. Nakupenda Sandbank – Nature’s Pop-up Paradise
Why it’s special: The word Nakupenda means “I love you” in Swahili, and you’ll instantly fall in love with this temporary sandbank in the middle of the sea.
Accessible only by boat, this slice of white sand appears at low tide, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and seafood picnics.
Best for: Couples, day-trippers, adventure lovers
Must-do: Combine with the Prison Island tour for the perfect half-day combo
Bonus: Snorkel right off the sandbank!
Dream shot: Floating on clear blue water with nothing but sand around you.
Hidden Gems in Zanzibar (That Most Tourists Miss)
- Kendwa Beach – Nungwi’s quieter cousin, amazing for swimming all day (no tides!)
- Michamvi Sunset Spot – Ideal for a romantic sundowner
- The Rock Restaurant – A restaurant literally built on a rock in the ocean
- Makunduchi Village – Authentic Swahili culture, untouched by tourism
- Safari Blue – Full-day dhow trip with seafood lunch and sandbank visit
Sample 5-Day Itinerary (Fully Customizable)
Here is a sample 5-day package to explore all the best places in Zanzibar
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival + Stone Town Tour |
| Day 2 | Prison Island + Nakupenda |
| Day 3 | Jozani Forest + Spice Farm |
| Day 4 | Mnemba Snorkeling + Turtle Aquarium |
| Day 5 | Kendwa Beach + Sunset Cruise |
Want a 7-day plan? Honeymoon? Family trip? We’ll build it for you. Contact us now or explore other packages.
Ready to Discover Zanzibar’s Best Spots?
Planning a trip shouldn’t be stressful.
We’ve helped hundreds of travelers fall in love with Zanzibar — now it’s your turn.
Browse our Top Tours in Zanzibar »
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Or let’s build your custom trip here »
