29 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar (2026): New Prices & Tips

Planning your Zanzibar trip for 2026? This tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania offers far more than just white-sand beaches. From snorkeling vibrant coral reefs to exploring the winding alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar is bursting with unforgettable experiences. You can even go on a safari. This guide lists all the top things to do in Zanzibar to help you plan a memorable trip. For an overview of the island’s regions, beaches, and practical travel tips, check out my Zanzibar Travel Guide.

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What’s New in Zanzibar for 2026?

If you haven’t visited in a couple of years, here are the major changes and events you need to know for your Zanzibar 2026 itinerary:

Sauti za Busara 2026: The Big Move

Zanzibar’s most famous music festival (held February 5–8, 2026) officially moved from the Old Fort to the Mnazi Mmoja Grounds. This new venue is much larger, offering better airflow and more space for the Busara Bazaar. If you’re visiting in February, expect a 45-minute carnival parade starting at Forodhani Gardens and ending at the new grounds.

The Rise of Sports Tourism

2026 marked a shift for the island with the launch of the Zanzibar International Sports Festival (June 19–23). If you are an active traveler, June is now a prime time to visit for open-water swimming competitions in Kendwa and cycling tours through Nungwi.

High-End Resort Openings

New Stay Options: 2026 saw the opening of several major luxury spots, including the adults-only Riu Palace Swahili in Nungwi and the high-end Diamonds Bijoux luxury resort.

Zanzibar 2026 Budget & Logistics

Category	2026 Estimated Cost	Tip
Azam Marine Ferry	To Dar es Salaam: $35 (Economy) – $60 (VIP) – $100 (Royal) To Pemba: $35 (Economy) – $40 (First Class)	Book online via the official portal 48 hours early to secure a seat.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)	$150 – $250 per day	This covers a boutique hotel, two nice meals, and one excursion.
Zanzibar Pizza	8,000 – 12,000 TZS	Still a staple! Stick to the busy stalls at Forodhani for the freshest ingredients.
Visa Fee (US Citizens)	$100 USD	Most other nationalities pay $50. Apply for your e-visa at least 1 week before.

FYI: In early 2026, the exchange rate is roughly 2,500 TZS to $1 USD. While USD is accepted at major resorts, you will get much better rates at local restaurants if you pay in Shillings.

Beaches & Relaxation

1. Nungwi Beach

Swim in calm, turquoise waters at all tides.
Short strolls along the beach reveal small bars and cafes for a refreshing drink.
Take a sunset dhow cruise for a magical evening on the water.

2. Kendwa Beach

Enjoy quiet stretches of sand and minimal seaweed.
Kendwa Rocks resort is one of the main spots to rent a sun bed and order food.

3. Paje & Jambiani Beach

Soft, long beaches perfect for relaxed walks or early morning yoga.
Watch the tidal flats and local fishermen in action. With optional cocktails.

4. Michamvi, Bwejuu, and Matemwe

More secluded and peaceful, these beaches are ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking privacy and quiet.
Michamvi is the best spot on the east coast for watching sunsets.

For more on beaches and where to stay, see my post: Where to Stay in Zanzibar: Best Areas and Resorts Based on Your Travel Style.

Water Activities

5. Safari Blue Day Trip

Explore remote islands, snorkel, and enjoy a seafood barbecue on a sandbank.
Ideal for combining adventure, relaxation, and local cuisine.
This top-rated option for a full-day sea trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided snorkeling with quality kit, dhow sailing, stops at a sandbank, a blue lagoon, and an island, swimming in a mangrove lagoon, a delicious seafood meal, Zanzibar seasonal tropical fruits, and soft drinks.

6. Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll

Also called the “African Maldives”, Mnemba featutes one of East Africa’s most vibrant coral reefs with crystal-clear waters.
Keep an eye out for colorful tropical fish, turtles, and dolphins.
This boat trip to Mnemba features pick up and drop off, guided snorkeling with gear included, tropical fruits, and an optional sea food lunch.

7. Scuba Diving

Dive centers in Nungwi and Kendwa offer trips for beginners and advanced divers.
Explore coral walls, shipwrecks, and reef formations.

8. Nakupenda Sandbank Trip

A boat excursion to a sandbank that appears at low tide.
Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a fresh seafood lunch.
Nakupenda is often combined with a visit to Prison Island (see below) for a full-day excursion. On this popular boat trip you can see the famous giant land tortoises, snorkel and sunbathe, then savor a buffet lunch of seafood and seasonal fruits.

things to do in zanzibar — Nakupenda Sandbank

9. Sunset Dhow Cruise

Sail along the coast in a traditional dhow.
Music, drinks, and the golden hour make it a must-do experience.
This sunset dhow cruise departing from Nungwi, Matemwe, Kiwengwa, Pwani Mchangani, or Kendwa includes fresh tropical fruits and optional drinks.

10. Kitesurfing in Paje

Zanzibar is one of Africa’s top kitesurfing destinations.
Paje offers beginner lessons and gear rentals.

11. Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Best in the mornings when waters are calm.
Many resorts along the east coast offer rentals and lessons.

12. Dolphin Tour in Kizimkazi

An ethical tour allows you to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.
Book in advance and choose an operator with strong conservation practices.

Culture & History

13. Stone Town Walking Tour

Explore winding alleys, historic doors, and the former slave market on a guided walking tour.
Visit the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the bustling Darajani Market filled with fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.

For smooth interactions with locals in this more conservative part of the island, you may want to have a look at my guide on cultural etiquette and traditions in Tanzania.

14. Prison Island / Changuu

Short boat ride from Stone Town.
Meet the famous giant Aldabra land tortoises and learn the island’s fascinating history.
Prison Island is often combined with a visit to Nakupenda sandbank (see above) for a full day of exploring. This popular boat trip includes both sights, and time to snorkel and sunbathe, then savor a buffet lunch of seafood and seasonal fruits.

15. Spice Farm Tour

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island.”
Tour local farms and learn how cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon are grown and traditionally used in cuisine and medicine.
This top-rated culinary journey at a Zanzibari spice merchant includes a meal and dessert as well as spice coffee/tea, concluding at the dream setting of Arnoldi’s on the Cliff bar.

16. Cultural Immersion

On this guided visit to Nungwi village, you can immerse yourself in local culture, visit traditional dhow-building sites, and learn to prepare some of Zanzibar’s most beloved dishes in a culinary class.
Or learn about Maasai culture, history, and traditions, on a guided visit to Maasai World.

17. Jozani Forest National Park

Walk among mangroves and spot the rare Red Colobus monkeys.
Learn about local conservation efforts and forest ecology.
This beautiful day trip includes a visit to Jozani forest, where you will track monkeys and see the jungle, Mangrove trees and black crabs, as well as a visit to the sea turtle conservation area at Salaam Cave.

Festivals & Events

18. Sauti za Busara (February)

Zanzibar’s iconic music festival celebrating African music and culture. Held annually in Stone Town, this festival showcases artists from all over the African continent. In 2026, it was held February 5–8 at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds. Check next year’s dates and lineup on the festival’s website.
The vibes here are just incredible, and it’s an amazing place to discover new artists. I remember being swept away by Msaki when I first saw her perform at Sauti.

19. Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)

One of East Africa’s largest cultural events, showcasing films, art, and live performances, and an awesome way to learn more about African culture. Check out this year’s programme on the festival’s website.

Food & Drink

20. Forodhani Gardens Night Market

Street food heaven in Stone Town. Try Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood, and sugarcane juice.
Best visited in the evening when vendors set up along the promenade.

21. Swahili Cooking Class

Take a hands-on class to learn traditional dishes like pilau (my personal favorite), samaki wa kupaka, and chapati.
Experiences often include trips to local markets for ingredients.
This 3-hour guided tour combines a visit to an organic spice farm with a cooking class.

22. Dining in Stone Town

Try sunset meals at Emerson Spice or other rooftop restaurants. Combines history, views, and culinary delights.
Try traditional Swahili food at local favorite Lukmaan.
Enjoy the delicious Cape Town Fish Market, one of my all time favorites.

23. Drinks and Bites in Paje

Paje has some surprisingly nice bars and restaurants. I find the vibes comparable to Bali and like them more than other parts of Tanzania! Oddly enough for a small beach town, it just feels more cosmopolitan than many other places in this country. One of my latest favorites is Shanga restaurant, right on the beach.
Don’t miss Bento Food Court, a hip sandy venue where you can order different foods and drinks without much of a wait. Ideal when you’re with a group of friends or family with different preferences.

24. Sunset at Michamvi & Dining at The Rock

The Michamvi Peninsula is the only place on the East Coast where you can watch the sunset over the water. It’s also home to the world-famous The Rock Restaurant. Built on a natural coral outcrop, the restaurant is famous for its magical transformation with the tides: at low tide, you can walk across the sand to reach the stairs, but at high tide, it becomes a tiny, sea-locked island accessible only by a short wooden boat ride.

2026 Insider Tip: You now need a $10 USD non-refundable deposit per person to book a table (deducted from your bill). Bookings for drinks only are no longer allowed, you must dine to get a table.
The Logistics: The boat ride during high tide is provided for free by the restaurant staff.

25. Dance the Night Away

Zanzibar has vibrant nightlife, with parties on set nights most days of the week. I especially like the Paje and Jambiani area for going out. Enquire when you are there what is happening on specific evenings.
Venues in Paje area that regularly host parties at night include B4 Beach Club, New Jambo Bungalows and, right opposite, Why Not Club.
In the Nungwi/Kendwa area, Kendwa Rocks resort hosts popular full moon parties every month. Coccobello is another popular club.

Adventure

26. Quad Bike Adventure

Explore Zanzibar in a fun way on this quad adventure departing from Nungwi or Kendwa (transport from other areas is available).
You will visit 2 beautiful beaches, enjoying magnificent views, and also meet the locals of a village and discover their culture, lifestyle and crafts.

27. Jetski with Drone Images

Ride a jetski along Zanzibar’s beautiful coast, while a drone captures your best moments.
This tour offers pick up and drop off in the Nungwi and Kendwa area.

28. Beach Horseback Ride

Ride along Zanzibar’s white sand beaches on horseback.
This experience offers the option of going for a swim with your horse.

Unique Experiences

29. Safari Day Trip

What if you mainly want to spend your time on Zanzibar, but still would like to have a taste of Tanzania’s famous safaris? It’s possible to do a day trip to Mikumi National Park or Nyerere National Park (Selous), flying straight to the park on a small plane, and returning to Zanzibar the same afternoon.
These two parks are part of Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, which is closer to Zanzibar than the northern circuit most people visit. It is also less crowded and you can see all the animals: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, antilopes, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, monkeys, hippos, various birds, and many more.

2026 Practical Planning Tips

⚠️ Zanzibar Insurance: On arrival, you must have your ZIC Insurance QR code ready on your phone (or printed) before you reach the immigration desk. It costs $44 for adults and $22 for children (3–17). Buy it at the official Visit Zanzibar portal. Read more in Tanzania Visa Requirements and Entry Regulations for 2026.
Sauti za Busara 2026: If you’re here in February (5–8), remember the festival has moved to Mnazi Mmoja Grounds. Don’t go to the Old Fort!
Cash vs. card: While more Paje cafes are starting to accept cards in 2026, cash is still king. ATMs in Stone Town may run out on weekends so stock up before heading to the east coast.
Tipping Culture: In 2026, a standard tip for a half-day boat trip (like Safari Blue) is around 15,000–25,000 TZS per group.
Data & SIMs: Grab a Zantel SIM at the airport. It has the best 2026 coverage for the beaches compared to Vodacom or Airtel.

Pro-tip: Don’t book an activity on the other side of the island! Taxis are pricey, so I recommend matching your tours to your location. Check out my guide on where to stay in Zanzibar to ensure you’re based near the action. For a deep dive into the island’s culture, food, and essential 2026 arrival tips, make sure to read my full Zanzibar Travel Guide.

Got Your Complete Activities Planning?

I hope this guide of top things to do in Zanzibar in 2026 helps inspire your perfect itinerary. Don’t forget to check out my other posts for deeper insights into the best beaches, local experiences, and practical travel tips! ⬇⬇⬇

More useful guides for planning your Tanzania trip:

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