12 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar in 2025

1. Wander Through Stone Town’s UNESCO Heritage Sites

Explore Stone Town’s UNESCO-listed alleys, visiting landmarks like the House of Wonders and Old Fort for Swahili history.

The town earned its UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its rare 19th-century architectural blend of European, Indian, Arabian, and Persian influences that shaped the foundations of Swahili culture.

• Clothing—Wear modest, lightweight clothing (e.g., long skirts, pants, shoulder-covering tops) in neutral tones like beige or white to respect Islamic customs and avoid attracting tsetse flies, which are drawn to dark or bright colors.
• Etiquette—Ask permission before photographing locals, especially women. Avoid eating in public during Ramadan daylight hours.
• Practical—Start early (8 AM) to beat heat. Book a local guide (~$20-30) via platforms like TripAdvisor for historical insights.
• Safety—Lock valuables in your hotel safe to prevent pickpocketing in crowded alleys. Don’t walk alone after dark; ask trusted locals (e.g., hotel staff) about areas to avoid to stay safe from crime hotspots. 

2. Shop for Souvenirs and Spices in Stone Town Markets

Browse Darajani Market for crafts, fabrics, and spices like saffron. The two most popular souvenirs are the Kangas and Kikois (brightly patterned fabrics) worn by women and men in Zanzibar. 

You will find wood carvings, paintings, and Maasai jewelry in these markets, and what should you keep in the back of your mind?

• Clothing—Wear modest, neutral-colored outfits (e.g., beige long dresses) to respect vendors and avoid flies drawn to dark or bright colors.
• Etiquette—Haggle politely (aim for 50-70% of the initial price), and don’t forget to ask before photographing stalls.
• Practical—Budget ~$5-20 for souvenirs. Visit early morning for fewer crowds.
• Safety—Lock valuables in your hotel safe to avoid pickpocketing. Don’t walk alone after dark.

3. Take a Spice Tour in the Zanzibar Plantations 

Visit Shamba, an organic plantation, to taste and learn about cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper, and ginger. 

This is a sensory tour including fruit such as mangos, jackfruit, and papayas. 

You will learn the true reason why Zanzibar was called “Spice Island.” 

Here are some practical tips to know before you go.

• Clothing—Wear long, breathable clothing in neutral colors (e.g., khaki, beige) to respect rural customs, protect from the sun, and avoid tsetse flies attracted to dark or bright hues.
• Etiquette—Tip guides (~$5-10) for personalized tours. Respect farmers’ property.
• Practical—Book half-day tours (~$15-25) with lunch. Morning tours avoid heat.
• Safety—Wear closed-toe shoes for uneven terrain. Use insect repellent. 

4. Indulge in Street Food at Forodhani Gardens Night Market 

Taste Zanzibari pizza and grilled seafood at this Stone Town evening market.

Forodhani means “customs” and is close to the customs house. It is a garden laid out in 1936 in honor of the Sultan Khalifa’s silver jubilee. 

It opens at 5 or 6pm and does not have a set closing time. 

Tips to keep in mind:

• Clothing—Wear modest outfits in neutral colors (e.g., cream long skirts) to respect Islamic norms and avoid flies in crowded areas.
• Etiquette—Bargain politely (~$1-3 per dish), but don’t haggle excessively. Avoid eating while walking.
• Practical—Arrive at 6 PM for fresh food and sunset views. Carry small Tanzanian shilling notes.
• Safety—Choose busy stalls for fresher food. Don’t walk alone after dark.