Zanzibar: 8 Days Best Holiday Vacations For The Backpackers

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Price per 1 adult
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8 days Pickup availableInstant confirmationPrivate tourGuided Operated by Green Zanzibar Tours & Safari Company Limited

Why we love it?

This 8-day Zanzibar tour offers an immersive blend of cultural exploration and island relaxation across key destinations including Stone Town, Jambiani, and Kendwa Beach. Begin in Stone Town City with a stay at Mizingani Seafront Hotel, where you explore historic sites such as the Former Slave Market Site, House of Wonders, Old Arab Fort, Palace Museum, and Zanzibar Memorial Museum. A guided spice plantation walk reveals the island’s rich agricultural heritage, followed by authentic local dining at Lukmaan Restaurant. The journey continues with a boat trip to Prison Island to meet Aldabra Giant Tortoises and enjoy pristine beaches. In Jambiani, stay at Blue Oyster Hotel and experience leisure time on white sands with optional water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. The final stop at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel offers tranquil sunsets and beach relaxation. Additional highlights include visits to Maalum Cave, Jozani Forest with its Red Colobus Monkeys, the natural tidal pools in Paje, and Nungwi Fish Market. Throughout the trip, professional guides provide insight into Zanzibar’s history, culture, and natural environment, making it suitable for travelers seeking both cultural depth and coastal tranquility.

Inclusions

  • Service of Informative, friendly and Experienced Professional Tour Guide
  • Hotel Accommodations as shown in the package
  • VAT (18% charged by the Government)
  • All excursions shown in this package are part of the itinerary
  • Unlimited Portable Wi-Fi
  • All entrance and service fees are included in the package
  • Mineral Water during the tours
  • Transport Waiting Charge

Exclusions

  • Drinks & Beverages (Champagne, Spirits, Premium Brands and Cigars)
  • Visa fees (US $50 / US $100 for American or Irish Passport holders)
  • Early check-in / late checks-out is subject to availability of rooms
  • Any domestic connection flights on arrival or departure
  • Gratuities for Guide (please tip separately)
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
  • All items of a personal nature
  • Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance - Visit
  • International Flights

Itinerary

Pickup from Zanzibar Ferry Terminal or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

Day 1

Warm Welcome to Zanzibar Island - The Hidden Paradise - The Trip of Your Lifetime!

  • Upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport, you will be warmly met and greeted by our professional guide and driver, who will assist you with your luggage and provide a short orientation about your stay. You will then be comfortably transferred in a private vehicle to Mizingani Seafront Hotel, located in the historic Stone Town Area overlooking the ocean. During the drive, you will enjoy your first impressions of Zanzibar’s scenery, culture, and atmosphere as you head toward your accommodation. You will spend the night at the hotel on a Bed and Breakfast basis in comfortable and well-prepared suitable rooms designed for relaxation after your journey. The rooms offer a peaceful environment, ensuring a pleasant and restful stay before the start of your activities the following day. Friendly staff will be available to assist you, making your first evening in Zanzibar smooth, relaxing, and memorable.Accommodation: Overnight at Mizingani Seafront Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis🍽️ Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is served daily in the hotel’s seafront restaurant, offering a pleasant dining experience with views of the Indian Ocean.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM (served within restaurant operating hours starting early morning)

    Style: Buffet breakfast served at the on-site restaurant🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    The breakfast typically includes:Fresh tropical fruits and juices

    Pastries, breads, and light continental items

    Hot dishes (eggs, omelettes, pancakes, etc.)

    Selection of local and international options

    Coffee and teaGuests often describe the breakfast as varied and satisfying, with a good selection for a comfortable start to the day .

    🌊 Dining ExperienceServed in a historic seafront restaurant with ocean views

    Relaxed and authentic Stone Town atmosphere

    Suitable for both leisure travelers and short stays🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a buffet-style meal (approx. 06:00–10:00 AM) featuring continental and local dishes, enjoyed in a scenic oceanfront setting within a historic building.

Day 2
  • takes you through charming villages and lush spice plantations

    Morning, after breakfast, you will be picked up from Mizingani Seafront Hotel for a journey to [ ]. Our guided walking tour takes you through charming villages and lush spice plantations, where you can witness the local way of life and the farming process up close. As you stroll through the farms, spice farm workers will climb trees, identify specific plants, and cut various barks, allowing you to see, touch, smell, and taste the natural spices. Along the way, you will be adorned with traditional palm-leaf accessories, including ties, rings, bracelets, and even glasses, making your experience immersive and memorable. This walking tour is not only educational but also fun and interactive, giving you a deep appreciation for the island’s rich agricultural heritage. By the end of the excursion, you will have a memorable insight into Zanzibar’s spices, plants, and local culture, making it an unforgettable part of your visit.

    After exploring the spice plantations, we will head to [ ], one of Zanzibar’s most iconic destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often called the cultural arts center of East Africa. This tour takes you through the town’s historical streets, showcasing its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. You will experience the rich architectural heritage of Zanzibar, with buildings and sites that reflect centuries of history and cultural exchange. You will visit important landmarks such as the Former Slave Market Site, now the Anglican church built in 1871, the lively town market, the Zanzibar Memorial Museum, and the House of Wonders built in 1883. The itinerary also includes the Old Arab Fort, the Palace Museum, and the Old Indian Dispensary, which now serves as a cultural center. This immersive experience allows you to learn about Zanzibar’s history, culture, and architecture while exploring the vibrant streets of Stone Town.

    Then, You will enjoy a well-deserved lunch at Lukmaan Restaurant, one of Zanzibar’s most famous local eateries. Renowned for its authentic Zanzibari cuisine, the restaurant serves a variety of traditional Swahili dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests pay directly on-site, giving you the flexibility to choose from an extensive menu and savor the flavors at your own pace. The vibrant, casual atmosphere, combined with the lively energy of the bustling dining area, allows you to experience the warmth and culture of Zanzibar while enjoying your meal. Lukmaan Restaurant offers a true taste of the island, from aromatic rice dishes, rich curries, and flavorful stews to freshly grilled seafood and tropical sides, each bursting with traditional spices and flavors unique to Zanzibar. The friendly staff and welcoming environment make dining here an enjoyable and memorable experience.

    Your journey continues with a scenic 30-minute boat ride to [ ], a site with a fascinating past. Originally built in the 19th century as a detention center, the island has since transformed into a peaceful retreat and a popular destination for visitors. Here, you will have the chance to explore the Aldabra Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, home to these remarkable creatures, some of which are over 150 years old. Walking among the tortoises and observing their slow, gentle movements is both educational and memorable, offering a rare glimpse into Zanzibar’s unique wildlife. After visiting the tortoises, take time to relax on the island’s pristine white sandy beaches, swim in the coral-rich turquoise waters, and enjoy a fresh seafood meal with stunning ocean views. The combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and local cuisine creates a truly immersive experience. Once your visit is complete, you will return to Stone Town by boat and be transferred back to your hotel for the night.Accommodation: Overnight at Mizingani Seafront Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis🍽️ Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is served daily in the hotel’s seafront restaurant, offering a pleasant dining experience with views of the Indian Ocean.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM (served within restaurant operating hours starting early morning)

    Style: Buffet breakfast served at the on-site restaurant🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    The breakfast typically includes:Fresh tropical fruits and juices

    Pastries, breads, and light continental items

    Hot dishes (eggs, omelettes, pancakes, etc.)

    Selection of local and international options

    Coffee and teaGuests often describe the breakfast as varied and satisfying, with a good selection for a comfortable start to the day .

    🌊 Dining ExperienceServed in a historic seafront restaurant with ocean views

    Relaxed and authentic Stone Town atmosphere

    Suitable for both leisure travelers and short stays🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a buffet-style meal (approx. 06:00–10:00 AM) featuring continental and local dishes, enjoyed in a scenic oceanfront setting within a historic building.

Day 3

Zanzibar Adventure: Maalum Cave, Jozani Forest & The Rock Dining Experience

  • [ ] — a place

    After breakfast, check out from Mizingani Seafront Hotel and transfer to Blue Oyster Hotel, with a stop en route to [ ]. The forest, with trees older than 100 years, is a sanctuary for some very interesting animals, including the Red Collobus Monkey, the small Zanzibar Leopard, Blue Monkey, Chameleon, Mongoose, Bush Baby, Tree Hyrax, Bush Pig, Civet, and two Small Antelope species found only on Zanzibar, Zanzibar Duiker and Sunni. This trip is excellent for nature lovers who want to experience the thrilling fascination of walking through large pandanus and palm trees. Your experienced guide will lead you through the network of paths and give you some surprising information on the plant's use. The path will lead you through the mangrove habitat, where you can easily spot some fish and crabs.

    Then, we will heading to visit [ ] — a place where nature meets mystery. “Maalum” meaning “Special” in Swahili, perfectly describes this Unique Underground Swimming Pool in Paje, Zanzibar. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, you can swim in crystal-clear waters, cliff-jump, snorkel to explore its underwater charm, or simply relax in the serene surroundings. Reconnect with nature and experience the magic of this remarkable hidden treasure.

    Please note that: In exceptional cases, when the Maalum Cave is not available, we’ll visit the Salaam Cave, an equally captivating enclave that is surprisingly home to a Natural Aquarium of turquoise tones, home to dozens of Turtles.

    The last stop is [ ] - A restaurant with its own island! Of course, we will book a table for you. It is located in front of Michamvi Pingwe beach on the south-east coast of the island, the Rock sits on a rock. It promises a unique dining experience with all-natural, fresh, and passionately prepared food. A charming, exclusive restaurant that instantly became one of the icons of Zanzibar is decorated in a simple, local island style. The Rock specializes in seafood and local tastes, and it plays an important role in local fishermen and farmers' lives, especially those from the nearby village of Michamvi, as the restaurant's needs directly benefit their community.Accommodation: Overnight at Blue Oyster Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis🍽️ Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel

    Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel is served in a scenic upstairs sea-view restaurant, offering a relaxed and fresh start to the day.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: 07:30 AM – 10:00 AM

    Style: Buffet breakfast served daily with made-to-order elements🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    The breakfast offers a varied and fresh selection, including:Fresh tropical fruit salad & daily exotic juices (mango, passion, watermelon, etc.)

    Pastries, breads, cakes, and homemade granola

    Yoghurt station with seeds, oats, nuts, and local honey

    Hot buffet items such as sausages, pancakes, beans, and rotating daily dishes

    Eggs cooked to order (omelette, scrambled, fried, etc.)

    Freshly brewed coffee (Kilimanjaro) and Tanzanian tea🌊 Dining ExperienceServed in a sea-view restaurant with panoramic ocean views

    Relaxed, boutique atmosphere in a small family-run hotel

    Focus on fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel is a buffet-style experience (07:30–10:00 AM) featuring fresh fruits, made-to-order eggs, pastries, and local specialties, served in a beautiful ocean-view setting for a calm and enjoyable morning.

Day 4

Safari Blue Experience: Coral Reefs, Ancient Baobab & Lagoon Swim

  • Menai Bay

    Morning after breakfast pick-up from Blue Oyster Hotel to Fumba Village then [ ] by a comfortable Traditional Wooden Dhow. You will explore the Menai Bay where Dolphins are often sighted. When dropping the anchor at Kwale SandBank where you can snorkeling the coral reefs. Kwale Island - a great place to explore and climb an Ancient Baobab Tree, which fallen down hundreds years ago but still standing tall. You’ll be served a buffet of grilled fish, lobster, calamari, chickens and coconut rice. The boat sails to a stunning natural lagoon where there is opportunity to swim. This full-day trip to Kwale Island is a perfect chance to see Zanzibar at its most pristine, traveling under sail for a truly authentic island experience. After tours, you will be dropped off at your hotel for overnight (BB).Accommodation: Overnight at Blue Oyster Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis🍽️ Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel

    Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel is served in a scenic upstairs sea-view restaurant, offering a relaxed and fresh start to the day.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: 07:30 AM – 10:00 AM

    Style: Buffet breakfast served daily with made-to-order elements🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    The breakfast offers a varied and fresh selection, including:Fresh tropical fruit salad & daily exotic juices (mango, passion, watermelon, etc.)

    Pastries, breads, cakes, and homemade granola

    Yoghurt station with seeds, oats, nuts, and local honey

    Hot buffet items such as sausages, pancakes, beans, and rotating daily dishes

    Eggs cooked to order (omelette, scrambled, fried, etc.)

    Freshly brewed coffee (Kilimanjaro) and Tanzanian tea🌊 Dining ExperienceServed in a sea-view restaurant with panoramic ocean views

    Relaxed, boutique atmosphere in a small family-run hotel

    Focus on fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Blue Oyster Hotel is a buffet-style experience (07:30–10:00 AM) featuring fresh fruits, made-to-order eggs, pastries, and local specialties, served in a beautiful ocean-view setting for a calm and enjoyable morning.

Day 5
  • Spend your day in leisure at the exquisite Blue Oyster Hotel, where pristine white sands meet turquoise waters. Swim in the calm Indian Ocean, lounge on the beach, or simply soak up the sun amid tranquil surroundings. Jambiani provides an idyllic tropical escape, perfect for unwinding and embracing the serene beauty of Zanzibar. For those seeking adventure, the day remains flexible to arrange optional activities such as Snorkeling in the Crystal-clear Waters, Kayaking along the serene coastline, PaddleBoarding or exploring the nearby village to Experience Local Culture and Vibrant Life. These options provide an exciting way to make the most of your day in beautiful Jambiani (BB).Accommodation: Overnight at Mizingani Seafront Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis🍽️ Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is served daily in the hotel’s Seafront Restaurant, offering a pleasant dining experience with views of the Indian Ocean.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM (served within restaurant operating hours starting early morning)

    Style: Buffet breakfast served at the on-site restaurant🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    The breakfast typically includes:Fresh tropical fruits and juices

    Pastries, breads, and light continental items

    Hot dishes (eggs, omelettes, pancakes, etc.)

    Selection of local and international options

    Coffee and teaGuests often describe the breakfast as varied and satisfying, with a good selection for a comfortable start to the day .

    🌊 Dining ExperienceServed in a historic seafront restaurant with ocean views

    Relaxed and authentic Stone Town atmosphere

    Suitable for both leisure travelers and short stays🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Mizingani Seafront Hotel is a buffet-style meal (approx. 06:00–10:00 AM) featuring continental and local dishes, enjoyed in a scenic oceanfront setting within a historic building.

Day 6

Experience The Vibes of Nungwi - The Must Visit Places

  • Baraka Natural Aquarium

    After breakfast, check out from Blue Oyster Hotel and transfer to Nungwi on Zanzibar’s Northern Coast. Upon arrival at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel, check in and settle into your room, designed for comfort and relaxation with stunning ocean views. Stroll along the pristine white sandy beaches, explore the resort’s facilities, or simply unwind by the turquoise waters and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

    In the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel for a [ ]. Begin at Baraka Natural Aquarium, a marine sanctuary where you can swim alongside endangered sea turtles, feed them by hand, or snorkel to observe them in their natural habitat. Continue to Nungwi’s Bustling Fish Market, where fishermen bring in fresh catches such as tuna, kingfish, and octopus, offering an authentic glimpse into Zanzibar’s Coastal Life. Conclude your experience at the Nungwi Boat Yard, where skilled craftsmen hand-build traditional wooden dhows, preserving a centuries-old maritime heritage (BB).Accommodation: Overnight at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis.🍽️ Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is served daily in a relaxed beachfront setting, offering a simple yet satisfying start to the day.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 07:00 AM – 09:30/10:00 AM (may vary slightly depending on occupancy)

    Venue: Sunset Restaurant (beachfront)

    Style: Typically continental / light buffet, with optional cooked items🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    Breakfast generally includes:Fresh tropical fruits and fruit juice

    Bread, toast, and simple pastries

    Tea and coffee

    Eggs (optional or cooked on request, sometimes at extra cost)

    Light continental selections (basic but filling)🍽️ Dining ExperienceServed directly by the beach, often with ocean views

    Relaxed and casual atmosphere

    Focus on simple, fresh, and sufficient offerings rather than a large buffet🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is a light continental-style meal (approx. 07:00–09:30/10:00 AM) served at the beachfront Sunset Restaurant, offering fruits, bread, hot drinks, and optional eggs in a relaxed seaside environment.

Day 7
  • local village

    Spend your day at leisure at the beautiful Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel, where soft white sands and turquoise waters stretch right in front of the hotel. Take a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean, relax on the beach, or simply soak up the sun in this idyllic tropical setting. With its calm waters and vibrant atmosphere, Nungwi is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Zanzibar. For those seeking adventure, the day remains flexible to arrange optional activities such as Snorkeling, Diving, Deep-Sea Fishing, or a Sunset Dhow Cruise. You may also explore the local village, discover cultural experiences, or indulge in wellness treatments at the resort. Whether you prefer relaxation or adventure, your day in Nungwi promises the perfect balance of freedom and unforgettable moments.Accommodation: Overnight at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel offering charming, comfortable rooms on a Bed & BreakFast basis.🍽️ Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is served daily in a relaxed beachfront setting, offering a simple yet satisfying start to the day.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 07:00 AM – 09:30/10:00 AM (may vary slightly depending on occupancy)

    Venue: Sunset Restaurant (beachfront)

    Style: Typically continental / light buffet, with optional cooked items🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    Breakfast generally includes:Fresh tropical fruits and fruit juice

    Bread, toast, and simple pastries

    Tea and coffee

    Eggs (optional or cooked on request, sometimes at extra cost)

    Light continental selections (basic but filling)🍽️ Dining ExperienceServed directly by the beach, often with ocean views

    Relaxed and casual atmosphere

    Focus on simple, fresh, and sufficient offerings rather than a large buffet🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is a light continental-style meal (approx. 07:00–09:30/10:00 AM) served at the beachfront Sunset Restaurant, offering fruits, bread, hot drinks, and optional eggs in a relaxed seaside environment.

Day 8
  • Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before spending some leisure time swimming or relaxing at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel. Take advantage of the hotel’s facilities and soak in the peaceful atmosphere as you prepare for your departure. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool, stroll through the gardens, or simply unwind in your room, the morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace. When it’s time, you’ll be transferred to Zanzibar Airport based on your flight schedule. Please note that late check-out may be available but will incur an additional charge depending on room availability. This flexible option allows you to make the most of your final hours on the island while ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

    🍽️ Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is served daily in a relaxed beachfront setting, offering a simple yet satisfying start to the day.

    🥐 Breakfast Details & TimingTime: Approximately 07:00 AM – 09:30/10:00 AM (may vary slightly depending on occupancy)

    Venue: Sunset Restaurant (beachfront)

    Style: Typically continental / light buffet, with optional cooked items🍽️ Menu Inclusions

    Breakfast generally includes:Fresh tropical fruits and fruit juice

    Bread, toast, and simple pastries

    Tea and coffee

    Eggs (optional or cooked on request, sometimes at extra cost)

    Light continental selections (basic but filling)🍽️ Dining ExperienceServed directly by the beach, often with ocean views

    Relaxed and casual atmosphere

    Focus on simple, fresh, and sufficient offerings rather than a large buffet🧾 Summary

    Breakfast at Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel is a light continental-style meal (approx. 07:00–09:30/10:00 AM) served at the beachfront Sunset Restaurant, offering fruits, bread, hot drinks, and optional eggs in a relaxed seaside environment.

Please Note

  • Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so please check in advance for entry into Tanzania (Zanzibar).
  • Health & Vaccinations
  • Travelers are advised to check recommended vaccinations prior to arrival. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if traveling from certain countries.
  • Booking & Payment Policy
  • A deposit may be required to secure your reservation, with full payment due prior to arrival. Cancellation and refund policies vary—please review the terms carefully before confirming your booking.
  • Accommodation & Inclusions
  • This package includes accommodation at Mizingani Seafront Hotel, Blue Oyster Hotel and Sunset Kendwa Beach Hotel, each offering charming and comfortable rooms on a Bed & Breakfast basis, including daily breakfast. Additional services such as lunch, dinner, beverages, spa treatments, and excursions may incur extra charges.
  • Transfers & Transportation
  • Private airport transfers are included. Please provide your flight details in advance to ensure smooth arrangements.
  • Excursions & Activities
  • The , , , , , , and are included. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and light clothing are recommended.
  • Weather & Packing
  • Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate. Lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and insect repellent are essential. Occasional rain showers may occur depending on the season.
  • Special Requests
  • Dietary requirements, celebrations, or special arrangements should be communicated in advance. While every effort will be made to accommodate requests, they cannot always be guaranteed.
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory Requirement)
  • All travelers visiting Zanzibar are required to obtain issued by the Zanzibar authoritie s prior to arrival. This insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and other travel-related risks during your stay.
  • Please note that this mandatory insurance must be purchased separately and is required for entry into Zanzibar. Travelers are also strongly advised to have additional comprehensive travel insurance to cover trip cancellations, delays, personal belongings, and extended medical needs not included in the mandatory policy.
  • NOTE:
  • Please note that this mandatory insurance must be purchased separately and is required for entry into Zanzibar. Travelers are also strongly advised to have additional comprehensive travel insurance to cover trip cancellations, delays, personal belongings, and extended medical needs not included in the mandatory policy.