.jpg)
Zanzibar is a dream destination for many and it's no coincidence that the place's popularity is growing all the time. This has inspired us to create this detailed 10-days in Paradise - Zanzibar travel guide. Because who wouldn't want to visit paradise even for a little while?
Guaranteed entertainment, diverse food, and rich culture – all of this, whilst getting to know the African continent as you've never imagined it before. Keep reading to see how you can spend your 10 days in Zanzibar.
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome in Zanzibar
The first thing you'll feel when you land at Zanzibar Kisauni Airport is the clean air. From here, you will experience the exoticism and the blend of flavors that the 10-day trip to the paradise, called Zanzibar, will present you with.
Arrive at hotel
You can then take advantage of the airport transfer option, take a taxi or even rent a car, and drive to the hotel. Our top accommodation suggestion is the Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa Hotel, which will provide you with everything you need for an unforgettable stay in the region. If you want to find out the other top hotels in Zanzibar that you can opt for, read our article Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Zanzibar, which will give you the entire information you require.
First walk
Once you've checked in, definitely make sure to take a sunset walk. It's worth meeting the sun from the shore at the nearby beach and enjoying the atmosphere. You can listen to good music and why not grab a cocktail from the nearby bar? Have fun! Your adventure is just getting started!
Day 2: Beach time
After getting a taste of the nutritious breakfast during your first morning in Zanzibar, it's time to start your adventure. What better way to really get to know the place than by visiting one of the fabulous beaches? Some of the best you can opt for are:
- Bwejuu Beach
- Michamvi Beach
- Nungwi Beach
- Kendwa Beach
- Kizimkazi Beach
- Matemwe Beach
- Pongwe Beach
- Paje Beach
Each of these beaches can offer you a different experience. Some are suitable for relaxation, while others are perfect for underwater activities. Be sure to visit at least a few to get a taste of all the emotions Zanzibar offers.
Day 3: Visit Stone town and the surroundings
It's time for a real adventure! Day three will bring you many beautiful sights and wonderful moments that you will remember forever. Stone Town is the old town of Zanzibar and will definitely introduce you to the culture the island has to offer.
Stone Town is of great historical and cultural importance to East Africa. Its architecture, dating mostly from the 19th century, is a unique blend of the local Swahili culture and elements of Moorish, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European cultures. For this reason, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in the year 2000. Take your time and enjoy the architecture and views it offers.
Day 4: Spices tour
Day four guarantees you a new cultural experience. Spices occupy such a large part of the cultural perception of a country, especially in Zanzibar. You can't help but give them the attention they deserve.
The best way to get to know the different spices and understand their cultivation and use in the local cuisine is through a special tour that will enrich your senses. Here are some of the most popular spices in Zanzibar:
- Vanilla
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom
- Pepper
- Lemongrass
- Saffron
- Clove
Day 5: Slave market festivals
The African continent still holds the memories of its colonial past, and the consequences on all societies. Exploring this historical era is a must if you want to truly experience the atmosphere of Zanzibar.
That is why we recommend paying a visit to the Old Slave Market on day five of your stay. It is located in the center and will surprise you with the interesting facts and secrets it hides. In the area you can also explore:
- East Africa Slave Trade Exhibition
- Hamamni Persian Baths Near Maru Maru Hotel
- Darajani Bazaar
Day 6: Cuisine experience
After exploring the culture and talking about spices, on day six we recommend you indulge yourself in Zanzibar's unique cuisine. All of the upper-mentioned spices combine perfectly into a true feast for the senses that will manage to satisfy even the pickiest among you. And if you think one day is too much for this experience, then see what dishes you can try in Zanzibar:
- Zanzibar pizza
- Spice cake
- Zanzibar Doughnuts - Mandazi
- Zanzibar Polenta - Ugali Side Dish
- Zanzibar Kebabs - Mishkaki
- Spicy Urojo Soup
- Coconut Doughnuts - Vitumbua
- Filling Biryani
Day 7: Nature and wildlife
Now that we've taken care of your essential needs, it's time for a more relaxing yet very active and pleasant day. When visiting a country we can't help but explore its nature. This can be done most easily by visiting the available nature parks. The best places where you can get to know the flora and fauna of the island up close are:
- Chumbe Island Coral Park
- Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond
- Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
- Zanzibar Land Animal Park (ZALA)
- Nungwi Natural Aquarium
Day 8: A day for relaxation and beautiful moments
Day eight of our 10 Days in Paradise - Zanzibar travel guide is dedicated entirely to relaxation. Visit one of the beaches we've listed and enjoy some tranquility or try out water sports. It's all up to you.
You definitely should not miss out on taking a boat trip and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar. It's an emotion that will remain vivid for a long time. If you do it at sunset, the experience will be even more rewarding.
Day 9: Have fun for the last time
Well, the end of your holiday in paradise is just around the corner. You should spend day nine having fun. Why not visit a bar and try out as many of the great cocktails as possible? Here are a few suggestions for such places from us:
- The rock bar Zanzibar
- Cannibal Party
- Obama Beach Zanzibar
- Hi Skybar
- Red Stage by Red Monkey Beach Lodge
Day 10 Departure
Good morning! The last morning in paradise is a time to collect some final memories. Have a nutritious breakfast and vacate your hotel.
Find time for one last walk in the surrounding area and enjoy the moments you have left. It's time to depart and prepare you for your next journey. Where will it be to?
Frequently Asked Questions about а trip to Zanzibar
Q: What should I not miss out on doing in Zanzibar?
A: Be sure to visit the slave market. It is very typical of Zanzibar and is a must-see attraction when you are there.
Q: Why is Zanzibar such a popular destination for tourists?
A: Zanzibar combines tranquility and luxury tour options, along with Tanzania's authentic culture and exoticism. This is what puts the island on every tourist's wish list.
Q: What is the easiest way to get around Zanzibar?
A: Renting a car is your best bet. That way you can afford to go wherever you want. Of course, you can also rely on other public means of transport.
Q: What is the most popular type of food in Zanzibar?
A: When we talk about local cuisine in Zanzibar, Ugali is the food that you shouldn’t miss out on. You can find Ugali everywhere while in Zanzibar because it is consumed during every meal of the day.
Explore the paradise called Zanzibar
10 days in paradise may sound like something impossible or completely insufficient, but it's far from it. After reading our guide to 10 days in Paradise - Zanzibar, you've surely understood what's required of you – namely, pack your bags and book the first flight to Zanzibar.
We’ve given you some options during your stay, whilst the rest is up to you to create. Good company and big smiles are also a must before you head over to Zanzibar!
