Zanzibar Tours & Activities
Your perfect getaway, tailored just for you.
Spice Tours, Snorkeling & More
Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s culture with our curated experiences: spice tours, snorkeling, dhow cruises, and more
Spice Tours
Explore the famous spice farms of Zanzibar.
Just a short drive from Stone Town, the spice farms in Kizimbani offer a unique and memorable experience. It’s a great way to explore the lush interior of Zanzibar and get a glimpse into local village life. Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring mosquito repellent to stay protected during your visit.
Duration
Half day
Departure time
At guests’ discretion
Highlights
Discover why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island on this guided tour through the Kizimbani spice plantations. The island’s spice story began in 1818, when Omani Arabs recognized its ideal climate and soil for growing cloves. Over time, other spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger were introduced, turning Zanzibar into a key player in the global spice trade.
Though its economic role has shifted, spices remain an important part of daily life — used in traditional cooking, medicine, and cultural ceremonies. During the tour, you’ll see, touch, and taste a variety of spices including clove, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, pepper, ginger, and ylang-ylang, while learning about their many uses from your guide.
At the end of the tour, you’ll have a chance to buy fresh spices and receive a small souvenir made from palm leaves — a fragrant reminder of your visit.
Stone Town History Walks
Discover winding alleys, markets, and rich heritage.
Stone Town is one of East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlements and the cultural heart of Zanzibar. Once a small fishing village, it grew into a bustling town influenced by centuries of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and European presence.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, Stone Town is known for its narrow alleys, historic mosques, lively markets, and beautifully carved wooden doors. Despite modern changes, much of its charm and architecture has remained untouched for over 200 years. Set on the edge of the Indian Ocean, it’s a fascinating place to explore on foot and soak up Zanzibar’s rich history.
Duration
Half day or full day
Departure time
At guests discretion – approximately 1.5 hour guided tour and 3 hours drive time.
If you’d like to explore the old city after the tour, with time for shopping or a relaxed lunch, we can happily arrange that for you.
Highlights
HOUSE OF WONDERS (BEIT-AL AJAIB) – Currently Under Renovation
Built in 1883, the House of Wonders is one of Zanzibar’s most iconic landmarks. Originally used for ceremonial purposes, it was later occupied briefly by the British. It earned its nickname as the “House of Wonders” for being the first building in Zanzibar to have electricity — and the only one in East Africa at the time with an elevator. Today, it stands as a museum dedicated to Zanzibari history and culture, though it is currently undergoing renovation.
THE SLAVE CHAMBERS & ANGLICAN CATHEDRAL
A powerful and moving site, the former slave chambers offer a glimpse into the dark history of the slave trade in Zanzibar. Slaves were once held here in cramped conditions before being brought out, chained, and sold publicly. Thanks to the efforts of abolitionist David Livingstone, slavery was eventually abolished by the British, and the land was later used to build the Anglican Cathedral — a symbol of hope and resilience.
FORODHANI GARDEN
Located along the waterfront, Forodhani Garden is a lively gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Renovated in 2009, it features a charming promenade, shady benches, and a small café. As the sun sets, the garden transforms into a vibrant night market, where you can sample delicious local street food with a stunning view of the Indian Ocean.
DARAJANI MARKET
Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Zanzibar’s busiest local market. Darajani is a bustling hub where vendors sell fresh fish, meat, spices, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Your guide will lead you through the colorful stalls — don’t miss the chance to try some of the island’s seasonal fruits! Just a heads-up: the fish and meat section can be a bit pungent for sensitive noses.
SHOPPING IN STONE TOWN
Wander through the winding streets and alleys of Stone Town, where you’ll find a wide variety of souvenirs — from handmade crafts and textiles to spices and jewellery. Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and with a bit of bargaining, you might just score a great deal!
Snorkelling & Diving
Swim with dolphins, turtles, and colourful reefs.
Our favourite snorkelling spot is just a 5-minute taxi ride away in Pingwe. Your driver will drop you at Pweza Beach, where a short walk brings you to the snorkelling boat. The ride to the reef takes about 20 minutes.
Guests can order drinks from the beach bar (at their own cost) before departure, and fresh fruit is served on board.
Duration
Approx. 3 hours
Departure time
1 hour before low tide
When to snorkel
New to snorkelling? We offer poolside introductory lessons — just ask at reception to book.
The best time to snorkel is during low tide, when the water is calm and visibility is at its best. Your guide will lead you through the reef, pointing out a variety of marine life — like moorish idols, clownfish, pufferfish, lionfish, parrotfish, and more.
Don’t worry if you’re nervous — the reef is sheltered from waves, making for a relaxed and peaceful underwater experience.
Sunset Dhow Cruises
Sail into the horizon with breath-taking views.
Guests meet at the bar at 17:00. Depending on the tide, a short walk will bring you to the waiting ngalawa — a traditional local sailing boat with outriggers. Drinks are not included but can be pre-ordered at the bar; a cooler box will be provided for anything you’d like to bring along.
Duration
Approx. 1½ hour
Departure time
17h00
Highlights
With good wind, the ngalawa sails swiftly across the bay to a sandbank near the mangroves. There, a local guide will introduce you to the different mangrove species, and if the tide allows, you can wade through the warm shallows and explore the unique ecosystem.
After the tour, you’ll sail back — wind permitting, with sails hoisted.
It’s a simple, authentic experience that supports local Zanzibari communities — and one not to be missed!
Cultural Experiences
Traditional cooking classes, village visits, and local festivals.
Michamvi Kae is a small village of about 400 residents, home to a mosque, a school, and a local administrative office. Just eight years ago, the paved road ended in Paje — access to Michamvi was only possible via a rough dirt track.
Duration
Approx. 1½ hour
Departure time
Times are flexible
Highlights
Your guide will meet you at reception and begin the tour with a walk to the village mosque, easily spotted by the speakers on its roof. Along the way, you’ll notice many unfinished houses in various stages of construction. Some are simple makuti houses made entirely from braided coconut leaves, while others are built from coral rock, plaster, or bricks — the most expensive option. Due to limited access to micro-financing, many homes remain incomplete.
Next, you’ll head to the mangrove forest on the village’s north side. These protected mangroves play a vital role in preventing coastal erosion and may not be cut down.
A small path then leads to Michamvi’s local school, where 20 teachers educate around 308 students, from kindergarten to Standard 7. A teacher will guide you through the library, science lab, and a new building intended for future exams. The school marks the end of your village tour.