Recommended Itinerary for the 14-Day Zanzibar Vacation Tour Package
Day 1: Arrival and Stone Town Exploration
Upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Stone Town. After a short rest, begin your journey by exploring the historical and cultural heart of Zanzibar.
On your Stone Town Exploration Tour, you will visit:
i. The House of Wonders (Beit al Ajaib): Learn about the history of Zanzibar at this grand historical museum.
ii. The Old Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral: Discover the dark history of Zanzibar’s role in the East African slave trade and visit the cathedral built on the former slave market site.
iii. The Old Fort: This 17th-century fort built by the Omanis is now a cultural center with local markets, art exhibitions, and performances.
iv. Darajani Market: Wander through this bustling local market where you can shop for spices, fresh produce, and handcrafted souvenirs.
After your tour, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local Zanzibari restaurant and return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 2: Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank
On Day 2, set out on a boat trip to Prison Island (Changuu Island), located just off the coast of Stone Town. This small island is known for its history and its giant tortoises.
At Prison Island, you’ll:
i. Discover its history: Once used as a prison and later as a quarantine station, the island is now a popular historical and wildlife site.
ii. Meet the Aldabra giant tortoises: These gentle creatures are a highlight of the island. You’ll have the opportunity to feed and photograph them.
iii. Snorkel in clear waters: Enjoy snorkeling in the waters surrounding the island, where you can spot colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
After visiting Prison Island, head to Nakupenda Sandbank, a stunning sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters.
At Nakupenda Sandbank, you can:
i. Relax on the beach: Spend your afternoon sunbathing on the soft white sands and swimming in the warm waters.
ii. Enjoy a BBQ seafood lunch: Feast on freshly grilled seafood, accompanied by tropical fruits and drinks.
iii. Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world around the sandbank.
Return to Stone Town in the evening for a relaxing night.
Day 3: Spice Farm Tour and Mangapwani Caves
On Day 3, delve into Zanzibar’s spice heritage with a visit to one of its renowned spice farms. Zanzibar has long been known as the Spice Island, and this tour will allow you to experience its aromatic treasures firsthand.
During your Spice Farm Tour, you’ll:
i. Explore the spice plantations: Walk through lush fields where spices like cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and cardamom are grown.
ii. Taste and smell fresh spices: Sample the island’s fresh spices, learning about their uses in Zanzibari cuisine, traditional medicine, and beauty products.
iii. Purchase spices to take home: Stock up on fresh spices straight from the source.
In the afternoon, visit the Mangapwani Caves, a site with a dark history linked to the slave trade.
At Mangapwani Caves, you’ll:
i. Explore the underground caves: Learn how these caves were used to hide slaves for illegal trading after the abolition of slavery.
ii. Learn about Zanzibar’s history: Your guide will provide historical insights into the role these caves played in the 19th century.
After your tour, transfer to your beach resort on Zanzibar’s northeast coast.
Day 4: Relaxation Day at Matemwe Beach
After a few busy days of exploring, Day 4 is all about unwinding. Spend a full day relaxing at Matemwe Beach, one of Zanzibar’s most serene and peaceful beaches.
At Matemwe Beach, you can:
i. Swim and sunbathe: Enjoy a day of sunbathing on the soft white sands and swimming in the calm, turquoise waters.
ii. Beachside lunch: Savor fresh seafood and tropical drinks at one of the beachfront restaurants.
iii. Optional water sports: If you’re up for some adventure, you can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling.
Matemwe is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more secluded beach experience. Return to your hotel for a peaceful evening.
Day 5: Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Trip
Day 5 takes you on an exciting Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Trip. Mnemba Atoll is a marine reserve located just off the coast of Zanzibar, known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
On your Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Tour, you’ll:
i. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters: Explore coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, starfish, sea turtles, and more.
ii. Relax on a boat: Between snorkeling sessions, unwind on the boat and enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.
iii. Optional scuba diving: For certified divers, Mnemba Atoll offers fantastic dive sites where you can explore deeper coral reefs.
After a day of marine exploration, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 6: Jozani Forest and Butterfly Centre
On Day 6, explore Zanzibar’s natural wonders with a visit to Jozani Forest, the island’s largest forest reserve and home to the rare Red Colobus Monkeys.
During your Jozani Forest Tour, you’ll:
i. See the Red Colobus Monkeys: These endangered monkeys are native to Zanzibar and are often seen swinging between the trees.
ii. Walk through the forest: Take a guided walk through the forest and mangroves, learning about the diverse wildlife and plant species that thrive here.
iii. Explore the mangrove boardwalk: Learn about the importance of mangroves in Zanzibar’s ecosystem as you stroll along the raised boardwalk.
Afterward, visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, a conservation project dedicated to protecting Zanzibar’s butterfly species.
At the Butterfly Centre, you can:
i. Learn about butterfly conservation: Discover the efforts to breed and protect butterflies native to Zanzibar.
ii. Walk through the butterfly garden: Observe hundreds of butterflies in their natural environment and learn about their life cycles.
Return to your beach hotel for the night.
Day 7: Relaxation Day and Beach Sports at Nungwi Beach
Day 7 is all about enjoying the lively atmosphere of Nungwi Beach, located on Zanzibar’s northern tip. Known for its stunning sunsets, vibrant beach scene, and clear blue waters, Nungwi is perfect for both relaxation and fun.
At Nungwi Beach, you can:
i. Swim and sunbathe: Relax on the white sands and swim in the warm, shallow waters of the Indian Ocean.
ii. Beach sports: Engage in activities such as beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
iii. Visit the local markets: Explore the nearby village and visit the local markets to shop for souvenirs and see traditional dhow boat-building.
In the evening, enjoy a romantic sunset stroll or an optional sunset dhow cruise, watching the sun set over the horizon.
Return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 8: Cultural Village Tour and Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour
On Day 8, head to the southern village of Kizimkazi for a Dolphin Tour and a cultural experience that offers insight into Zanzibar’s traditional village life.
On the Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour, you’ll:
i. Spot dolphins: Take a boat ride to see bottlenose and humpback dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.
ii. Snorkel with dolphins: If conditions allow, you can jump into the water to snorkel alongside these playful creatures.
iii. Visit the Kizimkazi Mosque: After the tour, visit one of the oldest mosques in East Africa, built in the 12th century.
In the afternoon, enjoy a Cultural Village Tour where you’ll:
i. Meet the local community: Learn about daily life in a traditional Zanzibari village and experience the culture through music, dance, and crafts.
ii. Try local dishes: Sample traditional Zanzibari cuisine prepared by villagers.
Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 9: Safari Blue Tour Adventure
On Day 9, embark on the popular Safari Blue Tour, one of Zanzibar’s top excursions, which takes you around the stunning Menai Bay Conservation Area.
During the Safari Blue Tour, you’ll:
i. Sail on a traditional dhow: Cruise through the clear blue waters of Menai Bay on a traditional wooden dhow.
ii. Snorkel in coral reefs: Discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and other marine life.
iii. Relax on a sandbank: Spend time on a remote sandbank where you can sunbathe, swim, or simply take in the breathtaking views.
iv. Enjoy a BBQ seafood lunch: Savor a delicious BBQ lunch featuring freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies.
Return to your hotel in the evening after a day of adventure.
Day 10: Hotel Relaxation and Optional Spa Day
After several days of activities, Day 10 is a day dedicated to relaxation. Enjoy a free day at your hotel to unwind and recharge.
At your hotel, you can:
i. Relax by the pool or beach: Spend the day lounging by the pool or on the beach, soaking up the sun.
ii. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment (optional): Treat yourself to a relaxing massage, facial, or full-body treatment at one of Zanzibar’s luxurious spas.
In the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel or venture out to a local restaurant for some fresh seafood.
Day 11: Full Day at Paje Beach
On Day 11, you’ll visit Paje Beach, located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. Paje is known for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, making it one of the island’s most popular beach destinations.
At Paje Beach, you can:
i. Swim and sunbathe: Relax on the beach and swim in the warm, shallow waters of the Indian Ocean.
ii. Kite surfing: Paje is famous for kite surfing, and lessons are available for beginners who want to try this thrilling sport.
iii. Explore beach cafés and restaurants: Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks at one of the many beachside restaurants.
Return to your hotel in the evening after a full day of beach fun.
Day 12: Cultural Cooking Class and Shopping in Stone Town
On Day 12, you’ll return to Stone Town for a cultural experience with a Zanzibari Cooking Class.
During the Cooking Class, you’ll:
i. Learn traditional Zanzibari recipes: Join local chefs as they teach you how to prepare popular dishes like Zanzibar pilau, coconut curries, and spiced tea.
ii. Visit a local market: Accompany your chef to a local market to shop for fresh ingredients before cooking.
iii. Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared: After the class, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared with your fellow participants.
In the afternoon, explore the markets and shops in Stone Town for souvenirs, spices, and local crafts. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 13: Relaxation at Kendwa Beach and Sunset Dhow Cruise
On your second-to-last day, enjoy a full day of relaxation at Kendwa Beach, located on the northern coast of Zanzibar. Known for its calm waters and breathtaking sunsets, Kendwa is the perfect spot for your final beach day.
At Kendwa Beach, you can:
i. Swim and sunbathe: Enjoy the clear waters and soft sands of one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful beaches.
ii. Water sports: Try out activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing.
iii. Sunset dhow cruise (optional): End the day with a romantic sunset dhow cruise, sailing along the coast as the sun sets over the horizon.
Return to your hotel for your final night in Zanzibar.
Day 14: Free Morning and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel. Take one last swim in the ocean, relax by the pool, or do some last-minute shopping before your departure.
Later, we’ll transfer you to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your flight home, marking the end of your unforgettable 14-day Zanzibar vacation.
Customization Options for Your 14-Day Zanzibar Vacation Tour Package
Our 14-Day Zanzibar Vacation Tour Package is fully customizable to suit your unique preferences. Whether you want more beach time, cultural activities, or special adventure tours, we can tailor the itinerary to fit your travel style.
Customization options include:
- Accommodation choices: Select from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious beachfront resorts.
- Private tours: Opt for private guides and exclusive tours to personalize your experience.
- Special activities: Add extra activities such as scuba diving, kite surfing, deep-sea fishing, or cultural experiences like cooking classes and village tours.
- Special occasions: Celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or special event? We can arrange romantic dinners, private sunset cruises, or even spa treatments to make your trip even more memorable.
Let us know your preferences, and we’ll create the perfect Zanzibar vacation just for you.
What’s Included in the 14-Day Zanzibar Vacation Tour Package:
- 13 nights’ accommodation at boutique hotels or beachfront resorts.
- Daily breakfast and a BBQ lunch on the Safari Blue tour.
- Guided tours of Stone Town, Prison Island, Spice Farms, Jozani Forest, Nungwi Beach, and Kizimkazi.
- All transportation, including airport transfers.
- Professional local guides for all tours and activities.
Optional Add-ons:
- Scuba diving or deep-sea fishing for those seeking adventure.
- Private sunset dhow cruises or romantic beach dinners for couples.
- Spa treatments for ultimate relaxation.
- Cultural experiences such as cooking classes or local village tours.
