Day 1: Arrival in Stone Town
Welcome to Zanzibar! As your plane descends, you'll catch a glimpse of the island’s turquoise waters and coral reefs—just a taste of the beauty that awaits. Upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, you'll be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Stone Town, the historic heart of the island. Take the evening to relax or wander the narrow cobblestone streets lined with intricately carved doors, historic buildings, and the sweet scent of spices in the air. You’ve arrived in a place where time slows and culture lives in every corner.
Day 2: Stone Town Exploration
Today is all about getting lost in the magic of Stone Town. Start your morning with a guided walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at intricately carved wooden doors, visit the House of Wonders, and hear stories about Zanzibar’s spice trade and colonial past. Wander through bustling markets where the scent of cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon fills the air. In the evening, head to Forodhani Gardens, a lively night market, and sample local street food like Zanzibar pizza or freshly grilled seafood.
Day 3: Spice Plantation Tour
Zanzibar isn’t called the “Spice Island” for nothing. Today you’ll venture outside of town to visit a local spice farm. Get hands-on as you smell, touch, and taste exotic spices—vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, and more—straight from the source. Learn about their medicinal and culinary uses, and perhaps try your hand at making a spiced tea. The tour ends with a home-cooked Swahili lunch made using many of the spices you’ve just seen in action. It’s a fragrant, flavourful journey for the senses.
Day 4: Transfer to Nungwi
After breakfast, you’ll leave Stone Town behind and travel to the northern tip of the island—Nungwi. Known for its stunning white-sand beaches and vibrant local life, Nungwi is a beach lover’s paradise. Upon arrival, check into your beach resort and take the rest of the day to relax. Dip your toes in the warm Indian Ocean, sip a chilled drink under a palm tree, and let the rhythm of the waves set the pace for the days ahead.
Day 5: Nungwi Beach Relaxation
No alarm clocks, no plans—just pure relaxation. Start your day with a refreshing swim in the turquoise sea, or join a morning yoga class overlooking the water. Swim in crystal-clear waters, indulge in a beachfront massage, or grab a snorkel and explore nearby coral reefs. If you're feeling adventurous, visit the Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium and learn about local marine conservation efforts, especially the work being done to protect sea turtles.
Day 6: Dhow Cruise and Beach Bliss
No Zanzibar trip is complete without a traditional dhow cruise. In the late afternoon, you’ll board a handcrafted wooden dhow and sail along the coast as the sun begins to set. With the breeze in your hair and soft Swahili music in the background, this experience is pure magic. Dolphins might join you along the way, and the golden light reflecting off the sea is unforgettable. Back on shore, enjoy a romantic beach dinner under the stars.
Day 7: Jozani Forest and Mangapwani Beach
It’s time for a bit of adventure and nature. Head south to Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkeys found only in Zanzibar. Wander through lush trails and mangrove boardwalks while spotting unique flora and fauna. After your forest walk, continue to Mangapwani Beach—a peaceful, lesser-known gem. Visit the historic slave caves nearby, a somber yet important reminder of the island’s history. End your day with some quiet beach time, far from the crowds.
Day 8: Day Trip to Pemba Island
Take a short flight or boat ride to Pemba, Zanzibar’s lesser-known but breathtakingly beautiful sister island. Known for its unspoiled nature and lush clove plantations, Pemba offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Explore quaint fishing villages, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or just enjoy the tranquility of its untouched beaches. The pace here is even slower, giving you a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural beauty of the archipelago.
Day 9: Relaxation and Cultural Exploration
On your final full day, enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend your morning lounging on the beach or treating yourself to a spa session. In the afternoon, join a cultural tour where you’ll visit local villages and interact with the friendly Zanzibari people. Learn about their daily life, music, crafts, and cooking traditions. It’s a heartfelt and enriching way to end your trip.
After breakfast, take one last stroll along the beach, capturing the colours, sounds, and smells of Zanzibar in your memory. Then, transfer to the airport for your journey home, carrying with you the warm spirit of the island and stories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
