Common Wildlife

Whales, dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, colobus monkeys, dik diks, Mozambique cobras, Pemba flying foxes, and many different bird species.

Park Size

2460.49 sq. km. (950 sq. mi.)

Driving Distance

‍Short domestic flight or ferry from Dar es Salam

Zanzibar Island
What to Know

Zanzibar Island

 Overview

The Tanzanian paradise of Zanzibar has been the goal of explorers for hundreds of years. Off the coast of mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar offers plenty of scenic vistas, vivacious marine life, gorgeous white-sand beaches, and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

About Zanzibar

What better way to wind down and relax than to spread out on white sand beaches with crystal clear water? Zanzibar offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Due to the Indian Ocean's high salt content, you won't even need an inflatable to float around in the water. However, scenic vistas are just a taste of all that Zanzibar has to offer! Try taking an all-day lagoon boat ride or steep yourself in deep cultural significance. Due to its strategic location as a hub for trade, the island has been influenced by Arab, Indian, Iranian, Portuguese, and British culture.

What to Do

Sights & Activities for Your trip

Stone Town Tour

A former spice and slave port, Stone Town in Zanzibar is a piece of living history. Explore its ancient streets, visit local shops, and admire the town's colonial architecture. One of Stone Town's most popular attractions is the childhood home of the legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury.

Spice Island Tour

Once of Zanzibar's most popular attractions, a Spice Island tour gives visitors the opportunity to see spice farms and learn about the history of the spice trade. Spices grown in the archipelago include cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, ginger root, vanilla pods, cocoa, licorice, breadfruit, saffron, iodine, ylang ylang, lemongrass, and every form of pepper you can think of.

Blue Safari

The blue safari sea excursion is an unmissable day tour of the protected waters around the islands of Zanzibar. Set out on an adventure into the idyllic archipelago's waters in a traditional wooden "dhow" boat.

Swim with Sea Turtles

In the north of Zanzibar, at the Baraka Natural Aquarium on Nugwi Beach, you’ll find an incredible natural lagoon full of sea turtles. This aquarium is actually a small natural pond (called a grotto), which serves as a sanctuary for the turtles.

Scuba

With over 30 dive sites — including reef, wall and wreck diving — Zanzibar is more than just a relaxation station.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling gear will be provided! Submerge yourself in the crystal clear waters and enjoy snorkeling around ancient coral reefs, admiring colorful fish, and searching for picturesque seashells.

Prison Island

In 1893, the former British Prime Minister of Zanzibar purchased the island to build a prison complex on it. However, Prison Island is a bit of a misnomer, as the island never served its intended purpose! Instead, it was used as a quarantine station for yellow fever cases. Today, you can explore this beautiful island by walking along its spotless beaches or simply relaxing by the shore.

East African Slave Trade Museum

The East Africa Slave Trade Exhibit features a series of detailed informative panels to commemorate the abolition of slavery and preserve the legacy of the individuals who were brought there and sold.

Where to Stay

Our Lodging Recommendations

We recommended these lodging options for Zanzibar Island. More lodging options are available, and you're welcome to choose your own on your adventure with us.

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