Some say that it is the most beautiful island in the world, and we find ourselves inclined to agree. Zanzibar archipelago is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania. And as the islands are in fact impossibly beautiful, inquiring about things to do in Zanzibar Tanzania is the number one priority for anyone interested in Tanzania tourism.
If you are wondering what to do in Zanzibar, besides laying under the sun on the whisper-soft white sand that is and visiting islands in Zanzibar, we are here to help you plan your itinerary.
Here are the top Zanzibar things to do.
Check out Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Spreading over 50 square kilometers inland from Chwaka Bay, the park is a magnificent place. And a wonderful place to start your tour in Zanzibar island. It looks like an enchanted forest out of a fairy tale.
The forest is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, including the Zanzibari Red Colobus Monkey which is wild monkey unique to Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar.
The national park also houses several centers that are worth a visit, such as the Zanzibar Butterfly Center, which is an absolutely charming place, and Zala Park, which is a natural reserve for reptiles.
All hotels and travel agencies arrange tours to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, take a day trip and make a day of it, you will not regret it.
With the unbelievable greenery and giant trees emerging from a white sandy beach, the park is indeed a dreamy destination.
Visit Stone Town
The old city of Zanzibar, Stone Town is situated on the western coast of Unguja. It was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2000.
The area comprises some marvelous architecture examples that simply tell the history of the city in stone. Most buildings date back to the 19th century, and carry both Swahili and British influences.
The narrow alleys are not suitable for cars, but you should definitely take some time to stroll through them and discover the shops, bazaars and ancient buildings.
No better way to discover Zanzibar than to take a solo tour through its most ancient streets and soak up the authentic culture.
Try the street food at Forodhani Gardens
A food adventure in the heart of Zanzibar, eating local street food at Forodhani Gardens is certainly one of the top things to do in Zanzibar, especially if you are a foodie.
Located inside Stone Town, Forodhani Gardens are a nice place by day; you can sit in the garden and enjoy the lovely landscapes overlooking the beach. Come evening the though, the area transforms into the largest street food market in Zanzibar.
Even though sea food vendors are dominant there, you have to leave some room to try the local dishes and the local sugar cane and lime drink.
Just walking through the buzzing market at night provides you with a once in a lifetime experience, do not miss it.
Take a tour in a spice plantation
Zanzibar is known as Spice Island. That is mainly because the archipelago’s economy highly depends on spice trade.
However, knowing facts about spices and trying seasoned food is very different from visiting aromatic spice plantations. You can see the difference yourself if you take one of the arranged tours in Zanzibar.
The tour usually includes walking through the fragrant spice farms, learning about the medicinal value of each spice and tasting different freshly prepared local foods and tropical fruits. This is an immersive sensory experience not to be missed.
You can also take the chance to buy some fresh spices that are unlike anything you can find back home.
Go diving!
Lazing at the beach is a wonderful pastime, and so is snorkeling. However, you really need to discover the wonderful marine life beneath the surface.
Diving is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Zanzibar. You can even take a cruise and enjoy the day on the boat as a bonus.
What makes Zanzibar a world renowned diving destination is that average water temperature is 27 degrees and the visibility ranges between 20 and 60 meters. Add to that the rich marine life and the diverse diving sites and you have a perfect combo.
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