How many days do you need in Zanzibar?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Zanzibar, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Zanzibar?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Zanzibar. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Affordable Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in Zanzibar

Day 1: Explore Stone Town

Stone Town, Zanzibar

8:00AM

Breakfast at Forodhani Gardens

Start your day with a delicious Zanzibari breakfast of uji (porridge) and mandazi (fried dough) while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Forodhani Gardens.

USD5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the House of Wonders

Explore the largest and most beautiful building in Zanzibar, housing a museum that unveils the rich history of the island.

USD2, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

Wander through the charm of the ancient fort, offering beautiful views of the sea and many art shops.

USD1, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Lukmaan Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes like biryani and grilled fish at this popular local eatery, renowned for its authentic flavors.

USD8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Slave Market Museum

Learn about the harrowing history of the slave trade in Zanzibar at this poignant museum.

USD4, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Nungwi Beach

Transition to Nungwi for the rest of the day to enjoy the stunning beach, swimming, and diving if budget allows.

USD3, Rest of the day

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset at this beautiful seaside restaurant.

USD10, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Stone Town

Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Jozani Forest, Zanzibar

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Have a light breakfast with local fruits and coffee to start another adventure-filled day.

USD3, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Jozani Forest

Head south to Jozani Forest, famous for its Red Colobus monkeys, on a shared taxi.

USD5, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Guided tour of Jozani Forest

Embark on a guided nature walk through the lush forest, learning about its unique ecosystem.

USD6, 2 hours

11:30AM

Return to Nungwi Beach

Travel back to Nungwi to enjoy some relaxation by the beach.

USD5, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Zanzi Resort

Enjoy a cheap yet ample buffet for lunch featuring local cuisine.

USD7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Beach activities and relaxation

Spend the rest of the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing on pristine beaches.

Free, Rest of the day

6:00PM

Dinner at Mama Mia

Enjoy a delightful Italian meal with local influences right by the beach.

USD10, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Jozani Forest

Day 3: Beach Relaxation

Nungwi, Zanzibar

9:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a simple continental breakfast with coffee in your peaceful setting.

USD3, 1 hour

10:00AM

Sunbathing and swimming

Spend the morning soaking in the sun and taking refreshing dips in the azure waters of Nungwi Beach.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Red Monkey

Enjoy grilled fish and rice at this local favorite in Nungwi's vibrant local dining scene.

USD7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit a local craft market

Discover unique handmade crafts and souvenirs at the local market, supporting local artisans.

Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at your accommodation

Spend a few hours resting and preparing for a beachside dinner.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ziggys Beach Club

Enjoy delicious pizza and cocktails while mingling with fellow travelers at this lively beach club.

USD12, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Nungwi

Day 4: Next Beach Stop

Kendwa, Zanzibar

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up with pancakes and fresh tropical juice to energize for the day.

USD3, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kendwa

Take a short daladala ride to Kendwa, enjoying the beautiful coastal views en route.

USD2, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Beach day at Kendwa

Spend the day relaxing on the famous white sands of Kendwa Beach, sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the shore.

Free, Rest of the day

1:00PM

Lunch at Kendwa Rocks

Savor freshly caught seafood while enjoying the lively beach atmosphere at this popular spot.

USD10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Kendwa village

Take a walk through the local village to interact with locals and appreciate the culture of Zanzibar.

Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Kendwa Beach

Relax on the beach while watching fishermen preparing for their evening activities.

Free, Rest of the day

7:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Restaurant

Indulge in a fresh seafood dinner while taking in vivid sunset views over the ocean.

USD15, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Kendwa

Day 5: Kitesurf Paradise

Paje, Zanzibar

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast of eggs and toast before heading to Paje.

USD3, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Paje

Take a daladala to Paje, known as a kitesurfing haven.

USD3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Kitesurfing Lesson

Join a budget-friendly kitesurfing lesson for travelers looking to try something new.

USD30, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Abdul's Place

Taste a selection of local Zanzibari dishes while enjoying the beachfront view.

USD7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Paje Beach

Kick back on Paje's stunning beach, soaking in the sun or taking a swim.

Free, Rest of the day

6:00PM

Dinner at The Waterfront

Indulge in local seafood with a unique twist at this popular restaurant overlooking the ocean.

USD12, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Paje

Day 6: Coastal Serenity

Jambiani, Zanzibar

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start the day with local fresh fruit and coffee.

USD3, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Jambiani

Head south to the tranquil village of Jambiani, known for its serene beach.

USD2, 20 minutes

9:30AM

Relax at Jambiani Beach

Enjoy a peaceful day on the beach, swimming and unwinding in this less touristy destination.

Free, Rest of the day

12:30PM

Lunch at The Lobster Shack

Taste the freshest lobster and seafood dishes in a relaxed beach vibe.

USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cultural village walk

Engage with locals on a walking tour to learn about the local way of life and customs.

USD5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to the beach

Finish the afternoon with more beach time, soaking in the tranquility of Jambiani.

Free, Rest of the day

6:00PM

Dinner at Villa de Coco

Enjoy a fine dining experience with local flavors at this charming restaurant by the sea.

USD15, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Jambiani

Day 7: Return to Stone Town

Stone Town, Zanzibar

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy your last breakfast of coffee and pastries before departure.

USD3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Stone Town

Head back to Stone Town to conclude your adventure.

USD3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore more of Stone Town

Revisit your favorite spots or shop for last-minute souvenirs to take home.

Varies, Rest of the day

12:30PM

Lunch at one of the Spice Markets

Enjoy local dishes in a bustling market atmosphere as your final meal in Zanzibar.

USD5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Purchase last-minute souvenirs

Pick up some spices, crafts, or textiles to remember your journey.

Varies, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Head to the Airport

Conclude your adventure with time to spare for your flight back.

USD15, 30 minutes

Find Hotels in Stone Town

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Affordable Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in Zanzibar

Day 1: Explore Stone Town

8:00AM

9:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

7:00AM

8:30AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Beach Relaxation

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 4: Next Beach Stop

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Kitesurf Paradise

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:30AM

2:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Coastal Serenity

8:00AM

9:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Return to Stone Town

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

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