The Most Beautiful Tours & Excursions in Zanzibar (2026)

Better a Local than a Mass Excursion

Almost every excursion in Zanzibar is sold by hundreds of providers – often in convoy, with full boatloads and little time. On a private tour, you're only with your group, at your pace, and your guide decides based on weather and tides when each spot is most beautiful. All prices are per person; you secure part online, and pay the rest comfortably on-site in cash.

Water, Beach & Snorkeling

The Blue Safari is the classic: a whole day on turquoise waters, dhow sailing, snorkeling at the reef, and fresh seafood on a sandbank (approx. 7–8 hrs, from €129 p.p.). A dream for couples and families is Prison Island & Nakupenda: first to the giant tortoises of Prison Island, then to the white sandbank with a seafood lunch (approx. 7 hrs, from €135 p.p.).

Early risers head out for Snorkeling & Dolphins when the day begins golden (approx. 4–5 hrs, from €99 p.p.). If you love sea turtles and want to end the day romantically, Turtles & Sunset is the right choice (approx. 7 hrs, from €69 p.p.).

Caves, Nature & Culture

Nature lovers head to Jozani Forest & Salam Cave: face to face with the rare Red Colobus monkeys, then a dip in the crystal-clear Salam Cave (approx. 7 hrs, from €99 p.p.). For something special, combine a swim in the Kuza Cave with lunch at The Rock & Kuza Cave – the famous restaurant stands in the sea at high tide (approx. 6–7 hrs, from €95 p.p.).

Pure culture is offered by Stone Town & Spice Farm: winding alleys, carved doors, and then a spice plantation to smell and taste (approx. 6–7 hrs, from €79 p.p.). Off the beaten path lies Mtende Beach & Salam Cave – a secluded natural pool in the quiet south (approx. 6–7 hrs, from €69 p.p.).

Adventure & Safari

For fishing enthusiasts, Big Game Fishing takes you out to the open sea, hunting for marlin and tuna (approx. 4–6 hrs, from €190 p.p.). And for a real safari feeling, head to the mainland: the Mikumi Day Trip shows elephants, zebras, and lions in one day (from €520 p.p.), while the 2-Day Safari with overnight stay gives more time to the savannah (from €1,490 p.p.).

All Tours at a Glance

Which Tour Suits You?

For couples: Prison Island & Nakupenda or Turtles & Sunset. For families: Jozani (monkeys!) and the turtles. For nature fans: Dolphins and Jozani. For culture enthusiasts: Stone Town & Spice Farm. If you only do one excursion, the Blue Safari is the best all-rounder. How to fit this into a harmonious week is shown in the perfect 7-day itinerary.