Top 10 Things To Do In Zanzibar For Solo Travelers : If you are looking for a calming destination, include Zanzibar in your bucket list. The beautiful tropical beaches will make you think you are in the Caribbean. Yet, Zanzibar boasts an incredible history tracing back to the Portuguese, Arabian, and Persian rulers. If you are on a solo travel to Zanzibar, this article is for you. We will cover the top 10 things to do in Zanzibar for solo travelers.
- Explore the Stone Town
The Stone Town is an old living town in Zanzibar. This town has been an amazing trading center for centuries. The origin of this town can be associated with the British, Persians, Arabs, and Swahili traders. As a solo traveler, don’t miss to visit the streets of this amazing town.
The good news is that you can visit it alone or on a guided tour. If it is your first time there, we advise you to take a local guide who knows the hustle and bustle of this town. You can come back later to explore it on your own.
- Spice tour
The Arabs spent a long time in Zanzibar. They left spice plantations. Since then, Zanzibar has been famous for a variety of spices. A spice tour is the perfect way to learn how locals grow and process spices.
Common spices in Zanzibar include cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, and nutmeg. To make this tour remarkable, you enjoy a spiced meal. Stop by a local restaurant and order spiced rice. Enjoy the recipe.
- Visit Prison Island
The Prison Island (or Changuu Island) is just 5.6 kilometers northwest of the Stone Town of Zanzibar. This small island was once uninhabited until Arabs built a prison in the 1860s. To a surprise, the prison never held inmates. It was later used as a quarantine for sick slaves.
The Prison also hosts giant Aldabra tortoises. You can feed them or take a photo with them. The island is also a masterpiece for swimmers and snorkelers.
- Give Zanzibar food a shot
As you explore the quiet atmosphere of Zanzibar, try Zanzibar’s delicious dishes. Typical Zanzibar dishes revolve around seafood, spices, staples like ugali, meat, etc. You can have all these dishes at your hotel but eating out is unforgettable.
Forodhani Gardens is the perfect place to enjoy local cuisine, as there are many restaurants. Some of the must-try dishes include Urojo soup, Biryani and pilau, Octopus curry, Zanzibar pizza, Zanzibar chocolate, and chips mayai.
- Snorkel and dive at Mnemba Atoll
Zanzibar’s marine life is remarkably beautiful. The best way to experience such underwater beauty is snorkeling or diving. Mnemba Atoll is a haven for snorkelers and divers and you don’t probably have to miss such an opportunity.
Mnemba is private and unspoiled. Fishing is not permitted; therefore, it has rich marine species like fishes, dolphins, humpbacks, sperm whales, sharks, and more.
- Swim and lay on fine sand
The north coast of Zanzibar is home to serene low-tide beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, and Matemwe. You can enjoy swimming on these beaches. They have white powdered sand, which makes you feel great.
It doesn’t matter whether you are a first-timer or experienced, but you’ll enjoy your time on Zanzibar’s exquisite beaches. You can also visit other beaches in the west or south.
- Visit Jozani Forest
Probably you began your safari on the mainland, and have witnessed wildlife, and many other wonders. Jozani Forest is the only wildlife reserve in Zanzibar. It has a tranquil setting and diverse wildlife ranging from red colobus monkeys to reptiles, mangrove forests, and more.
- Go on a dhow cruise
A dhow cruise is one of the best things to do in Zanzibar. It usually starts from Nungwi where dhows are made. Spend 2 or 3 hours after lunch sailing the Indian Ocean powered by the sailing winds. Experience the way ancient explorers used to reach different parts of the world. You can book a private dhow tour or join the locals on theirs.
- Enjoy Zanzibar’s nightlife
While in Zanzibar, you have many options for vibrant nightlife. Nungwi and Kendwa are best known for life-changing night parties. There are other good spots too. The spots are fit for either relaxing visitors or active ones looking for somewhere to party.
From hotels throwing parties to international fairs, Zanzibar has good vibes during the night. Some interesting spots include Kendwa Rocks Beach Bar & Restaurant, Dharma Lounge, the Stone Town, etc.
- Go on a blue safari
A blue safari focuses on exploring the beauty of the Indian Ocean. Take a boat from the island of Zanzibar and tour around the beautiful coral reefs. You will discover marine species like dolphins, whales, sharks, and more.
This journey begins in the morning and ends in the evening with relaxation on a calming beach.
Whether you are a solo traveler or on a group tour, Zanzibar is an incredible destination. Its coastline is beautiful and is endowed with turquoise waters and white sand. If you are inspired to visit Zanzibar, start your plan with our Explore African Safaris.
