Top Things to Do in Zanzibar Beyond the Beach

Zanzibar — a name that evokes turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and luxurious beach resorts. But beyond its idyllic coastline lies a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, nature, and adventure that is equally captivating. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature enthusiast, or culture seeker, Zanzibar has so much to offer once you step away from the shoreline.

Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Zanzibar beyond the beach — experiences that will help you explore the soul of this fascinating island.

1. Wander the Stone Town Streets

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living museum of Swahili culture. A labyrinth of narrow alleys, coral-stone buildings, bustling markets, and ornately carved wooden doors, Stone Town invites you to get lost — literally and metaphorically.

Explore the old fort, visit the House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib), and step into the Sultan’s Palace Museum. Don’t miss the Old Slave Market site, where you can learn about the island’s harrowing past and its role in the Indian Ocean slave trade.

Tip: Hire a local guide to bring the town’s rich history and stories to life.

2. Visit a Spice Plantation

Zanzibar is nicknamed the “Spice Island” — and for good reason. Take a guided tour through one of its many spice farms to see, smell, and taste exotic spices such as cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom in their natural setting.

These tours are not only aromatic and interactive but also educational. You’ll gain insight into the island’s agricultural economy and get to try fresh tropical fruits straight from the tree.

Bonus: Many spice tours end with a Swahili lunch flavored with the very spices you just saw growing.

3. Explore Jozani Forest

Nature lovers will be enchanted by Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, the only national park on Zanzibar Island. This lush forest is home to the rare and endemic red colobus monkey, found only in Zanzibar.

As you walk along the forest trails and raised boardwalks, keep an eye out for other wildlife such as Sykes’ monkeys, bush babies, butterflies, and over 40 species of birds.

Eco Insight: Jozani Forest is part of a vital conservation effort, and visiting helps fund ongoing protection of this unique habitat.

4. Learn About Swahili Culture in a Local Village

To truly understand Zanzibar, you need to connect with its people. Village tours offer authentic cultural experiences where you can engage with locals, learn traditional skills like weaving or cooking, and witness daily life in a rural Swahili community.

Visit the village of Muyuni or Jambiani and gain insight into the island’s social structure, family traditions, and local sustainability efforts.

Respect tip: Always seek permission before taking photographs and go with a reputable guide who promotes responsible tourism.

5. Take a Dhow Sunset Cruise

While this activity starts on the beach, it’s far from your typical seaside experience. Hop aboard a traditional wooden dhow boat and sail along the Indian Ocean at sunset. The rhythm of the waves, the glow of the fading sun, and the soft Swahili music in the background create a magical atmosphere.

Some cruises offer fresh seafood snacks, drinks, and live performances, making it a romantic and memorable way to end your day.

6. Discover the Ruins of Mbweni and Maruhubi

History enthusiasts will appreciate Zanzibar’s lesser-known ruins — remnants of a powerful era. The Mbweni Ruins, once the site of a missionary school for freed slave girls, and the Maruhubi Palace Ruins, built by Sultan Barghash for his harem, offer a glimpse into Zanzibar’s complex past.

Surrounded by mangroves, coral stones, and fig trees, these sites exude a melancholic beauty that contrasts with the island’s tropical exuberance.

7. Feast at the Forodhani Night Market

Every evening, Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town comes alive with food stalls offering Zanzibar’s best street eats. From grilled seafood skewers to Zanzibar pizza (a savory stuffed pancake), the aromas and flavors here are irresistible.

You’ll also find sugarcane juice, meat kebabs, samosas, and sweet treats. It’s the perfect place to sample authentic Zanzibari cuisine in a lively, social setting.

Local favorite: Try the urojo soup — a tangy mix of potatoes, fritters, mango, and spicy broth.

8. Visit Prison Island (Changuu)

Although known for its turquoise waters and snorkeling, Prison Island also has a compelling history. Originally built as a prison for rebellious slaves, it later became a quarantine station for yellow fever. Today, it’s home to a sanctuary of giant Aldabra tortoises — some over 150 years old.

Walk through the historical buildings, interact with the tortoises, and explore the short forest trail before enjoying optional snorkeling in the shallow reefs.

9. Dive into Zanzibari Art and Craft

Zanzibar has a thriving community of artisans. Visit local workshops and galleries to witness traditional crafts like Tinga Tinga painting, wood carving, and dhow model building. In Stone Town, places like the Memories of Zanzibar store or Hurumzi Henna Art Gallery showcase the island’s creative flair.

Take a piece of the island home with handwoven baskets, beaded jewelry, or colorful fabrics known as kanga and kitenge, often printed with Swahili proverbs.

10. Go on a Safari Blue Adventure

Although technically water-based, Safari Blue is more than a beach trip — it’s a full-day marine and cultural experience. Starting from Fumba village, you’ll sail on a traditional dhow to explore the Menai Bay Conservation Area.

You’ll visit uninhabited sandbanks, snorkel in coral reefs, enjoy a seafood buffet on a remote island, and maybe even spot dolphins. What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on local community involvement and environmental sustainability.

11. Experience Traditional Zanzibar Music and Dance

Swahili music is an essential part of Zanzibar’s identity. Attend a performance of Taarab, the island’s traditional music that blends Arabic, Indian, and African influences. These shows are often accompanied by dancers in colorful attire and storytelling performances.

The Dhow Countries Music Academy in Stone Town regularly hosts concerts and is a great place to explore the musical traditions of the Indian Ocean region.

12. Taste Local Coffee at a Zanzibari Café

Zanzibar has a blossoming coffee culture influenced by Arab and African roots. Skip the generic lattes and visit a traditional café where you can sip Kahawa chungu — a spiced black coffee served with dates or nuts.

Popular spots include Café Foro, Puzzle Coffee Shop, and Zanzibar Coffee House, where you can enjoy scenic rooftop views and fresh brews prepared with care.

Final Thoughts

Zanzibar may be famous for its beaches, but it’s the stories, flavors, and cultures that make this island unforgettable. From ancient alleyways and spice-scented fields to forest treks and sunset dhows, the real magic of Zanzibar lies beyond the waves.

So next time you visit, venture inland and embrace the full spectrum of experiences that this East African gem has to offer.