Things to Do in Zanzibar with Phonex Expeditions Africa
Explore the best of Zanzibar with Phonex Expeditions Africa. From lush forests and turquoise waters to rich cultural heritage and thrilling adventures, we offer a wide range of excursions to make your island experience unforgettable.
1: Nature & Wildlife Excursions
Jozani Forest Tour
Discover the magic of Zanzibar’s only national park — Jozani-Chwaka Bay. Walk through tropical forest trails and encounter the rare, endemic Red Colobus monkeys. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
· Location: Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, southeast Zanzibar.
· Highlights:
· See the rare and endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys.
· Walk along nature trails through tropical forest and mangroves.
· Learn about unique flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
· Duration: Half-day (around 3–4 hours).
· Good For: Families, nature lovers, wildlife photography.
Dolphin Tour
Join us on a boat ride from Kizimkazi to watch playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Early morning tours offer the best sightings and a chance to swim alongside them, responsibly and ethically.
· Location: Kizimkazi village (southern coast).
· Highlights:
· Boat ride to spot and possibly swim with wild dolphins.
· Early morning tours offer better chances of sightings.
· Note: Ethical concerns around dolphin chasing – choose a responsible operator.
· Duration: 2–3 hours.
· Good For: Adventure seekers, marine wildlife enthusiasts.
Prison Island Tour
Visit historic Changuu Island, once used as a prison and quarantine center. Today, it’s home to giant Aldabra tortoises and a great spot for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
· Also Known As: Changuu Island.
· Highlights:
· Visit the historical prison ruins built in the late 1800s.
· Meet giant Aldabra tortoises (some over 150 years old!).
· Opportunity for snorkeling in clear waters.
· Duration: Half-day.
· Good For: Families, history buffs, casual snorkeling.
Mnemba Island Snorkeling
Embark on a boat trip to the stunning Mnemba Atoll, a protected marine reserve known for its colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. One of the best snorkeling spots in Zanzibar.
· Location: Northeast coast, near Matemwe.
· Highlights:
· Boat trip to Mnemba Atoll, a marine conservation area.
· Exceptional snorkeling visibility, with vibrant coral and tropical fish.
· Note: The island itself is private – guests stay on the boat or snorkel nearby.
· Duration: Half-day to full-day.
· Good For: Snorkeling lovers, underwater photographers.
Cheetah's Rock
Get up close with rescued wildlife at Cheetah’s Rock, a unique conservation center on Zanzibar’s west coast. Learn about animal welfare while interacting safely with cheetahs, zebras, and more.
· Location: Near Kama village, West Zanzibar.
· Highlights:
· Interactive experience with rescued wild animals under supervision.
· Get close to cheetahs, zebras, monkeys, and more.
· Emphasis on education and conservation.
· Duration: 3–4 hours (afternoon sessions).
· Good For: Animal lovers, families, small groups.
2: Cultural & Historical Excursions
Stone Town Tour
Explore the rich history and Swahili culture of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through narrow alleys and visit iconic sites like the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and the Slave Market Memorial.
· UNESCO World Heritage Site
· Highlights:
· Explore winding alleys, bazaars, and architecture blending African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.
· Key stops: Old Fort, House of Wonders, Freddie Mercury House, Darajani Market, and Slave Market Memorial.
· Optional Add-ons: Combine with a spice tour or sunset cruise.
· Duration: Half-day walking tour.
· Good For: History enthusiasts, culture lovers, photographers.
Spice Farm Tour
Smell, taste, and learn about the spices that gave Zanzibar its nickname, "The Spice Island." Our guided farm tour lets you discover cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and many more straight from the source.
· Location: Rural areas outside Stone Town (e.g., Kizimbani).
· Highlights:
· Discover Zanzibar’s nickname: "The Spice Island".
· See how cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, turmeric, and others grow.
· Interactive – smell, touch, and taste spices fresh from the source.
· Duration: 2–3 hours.
· Good For: Foodies, culture lovers, kids.
Sunset Dhow Cruise
Sail along the coastline in a traditional Zanzibari dhow as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. A romantic and relaxing way to end your day, often accompanied by music and refreshments.
· Location: Typically, from Stone Town or Nungwi/Kendwa.
· Highlights:
· Relax on a traditional wooden dhow boat.
· Live music, snacks, and drinks may be included.
· Gorgeous views of the sun setting over the Indian Ocean.
· Duration: 1.5–2 hours (late afternoon to sunset).
· Good For: Couples, photographers, relaxation.
3: Water-Based Adventures
Safari Blue
A full-day marine adventure starting from Fumba village. Enjoy snorkeling, a visit to Kwale Island, a natural lagoon swim, and a delicious seafood BBQ aboard a traditional dhow.
· Location: Fumba Village departure (southwest coast).
· Highlights:
· Full-day sailing experience on a traditional dhow.
· Snorkeling, swimming in a natural lagoon, seafood BBQ on Kwale Island.
· See dolphins and explore sandbanks.
· Duration: Full day.
· Good For: Everyone – families, couples, groups.
Nakupenda Sandbank Tour
Visit the idyllic Nakupenda Sandbank, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood. Often paired with a stop at Prison Island for a full day of fun.
· “Nakupenda” means “I love you” in Swahili
· Highlights:
· Visit a stunning white sandbank near Stone Town.
· Swim, sunbathe, and enjoy seafood lunch.
· Often combined with Prison Island.
· Duration: Half-day.
· Good For: Beach lovers, couples, snorkeling fans.
Scuba Diving & Water Sports
Whether you're an experienced diver or a beginner, Zanzibar offers excellent scuba sites like Mnemba Atoll and Leven Bank. We also offer jet skiing, parasailing, kite surfing, and more.
· Locations: Nungwi, Kendwa, Matemwe, Paje, and more.
· Activities Available:
· Scuba diving (PADI/SSI centers available).
· Jet skiing, parasailing, kite surfing, stand-up paddleboarding.
· Good Dive Sites: Mnemba Atoll, Leven Bank, Tumbatu Island.
· Good For: Water sports enthusiasts, certified divers, adrenaline seekers.
Other Excursions
Quad Bike Tours
Explore Zanzibar’s scenic backroads on a thrilling quad bike adventure. Ride through villages, plantations, and local landscapes while connecting with the island's rural charm.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Set off from Nungwi or Kendwa with experienced skippers for a half- or full-day fishing trip. Try your luck with marlin, barracuda, kingfish, and more — all gear included.
The Rock Restaurant Visit
Dine at one of the world’s most iconic restaurants – The Rock, perched in the middle of the ocean near Michamvi. Accessible by foot or boat depending on the tide, this is a must-visit for food lovers and photo enthusiasts.
📞 Book Your Zanzibar Adventure Today!
With Phonex Expeditions Africa, every excursion is carefully curated to offer authenticity, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation — Zanzibar has it all, and we’ll take you there.
Contact :
bookings@phonexexpeditions.com
customercare@phonexexpeditions.com