
Zanzibar & Pemba Island - 7 Days
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Experience one of the true gems of the Indian Ocean with a visit to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. Over seven days, you'll enjoy this island's famed white-sand beaches plus discover its rich culture and cuisine on tours of its historic center. Finish the trip on the unspoiled island of Pemba for some snorkeling, fishing, and communing with nature far from the stress of the modern world.
Highlights
- Laze on Zanzibar's famous white-sand beaches
- Tour the historic center of Stone Town
- Enjoy delicious Swahili cuisine
- Go snorkeling in the clear waters off Pemba Island
Brief Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Zanzibar | Stone Town Zanzibar |
Day 2 | Stone Town Tour | Stone Town Zanzibar |
Day 3 | Zanzibar to Pemba Island | Pemba Island |
Days 4-6 | Pemba Optional Activities | Pemba Island |
Day 7 | Pemba to Arusha, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Zanzibar

Day 2: Stone Town Tour

Today you'll immerse yourself in the medieval history of Zanzibar and cap the day with a traditional Swahili dinner. The activities begin after breakfast with a guided walking tour of Stone Town. This is the city's historic center and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
Stone Town is a lively mix of Arabic, African, Indian, and European cultures, all living side by side on its labyrinthine streets. This warren of alleyways, shops, bazaars, and mosques is home to some of Zanzibar's oldest and most historic buildings. One standout you'll visit is the Arab Fort, a defensive fortification built in the 17th century. You'll also see the 19th-century Sultan's Palace and Anglican Cathedral, as well as the solemn site of a former slave market.
Afterward, stimulate your senses with a visit to a countryside spice farm. This island has a long history of spice production dating to the 16th century, when it was a strategic trading post between Arabia and India. Zanzibar built massive wealth in the 19th century as a major producer of cloves (harvested by enslaved people) and today retains its nickname "Spice Island." You'll sample cloves and other aromatics on a farm tour like cinnamon and nutmeg. You'll also learn about the traditional uses of these spices, which are found in everything from incense to perfume. Then sit down to a farm-fresh lunch.
There's more delicious fun in store when you return to the city in time for a traditional dinner. Swahili cuisine is truly something special—a mix of Portuguese, Indian, and Arab influences seasoned to perfection with many of the same spices that have made Zanzibar famous. Carnivores will love the famous Swahili grilled meats and chicken samosas, while vegetarians can rejoice in the bean stews and spiced rice dishes.
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Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Tonight's authentic dining experience takes place in the trendy west end of Stone Town. The restaurant is in a historic building with rooftop seating overlooking a quaint square and the Anglican Cathedral. The meal you'll enjoy is an exceptional 5-course "taste safari" menu of seafood dishes prepared by Zanzibari Chefs. All ingredients are fresh and locally sourced.
Day 3: Zanzibar to Pemba Island

This jewel was dubbed El Huthera or "The Green" by early Omani sailors. Ever since, Pemba has managed to retain its laid-back charm and even today remains unspoiled by modern civilization. There are very few modes of transport and limited accommodations here, so expect the very definition of a rustic, barefoot beach holiday. You'll want to enjoy an aquatic activity. Pemba is one of Tanzania's top diving and snorkeling destinations, making it a playground for water lovers. For example, the Pemba Canal is located between Pemba and mainland Tanzania, which is 6,561-feet (2,000 m) deep and home to diverse sea life like barracuda, tuna, sharks, and even whales.
Pemba's pristine nature is another highlight. The white-sand beaches here are just as beautiful as they are on Zanzibar's main island. Also, the lack of infrastructure on Pemba, combined with the many clove, mango, and coconut groves lining green hills and fertile valleys, make this a huge draw for spiritualists and traditional healers.
Days 4-6: Pemba Optional Activities

Kayaking is another great way to explore the coast around Pemba. Hop in a one or two-person kayak and paddle leisurely along the stunning white beaches. Or get on a stand-up paddleboard and traverse the waters with an expert guide alongside you. This area is also great for fishing. The Zanzibar-Pemba channel is home to six different types of billfish, plus you can reel in trophies such as yellowfin tuna, wahoo, king mackerel, barracuda, and marlin.
Other activities include visiting the Mkame Ndume Ruins (an abandoned 15th-century palace) and traveling around local villages to experience traditional Swahili culture. Here you can meet local fishers and participate in activities like football games with kids. Or take a cooking class and learn the secrets to preparing traditional Zanzibari cuisine, which combines the flavors of Africa, India, and the Middle East. As a reward, you'll sit down and enjoy the meal you've cooked after the class.
There's also the option for a sunset cruise, which is a great activity whether you're traveling solo or with that special someone. Hop in a traditional dhow (wooden sailboat) in the late afternoon and sail around the tranquil waters with a glass of champagne as you enjoy the gorgeous vermillion sunset. Often, these tours stop at idyllic little islands where you can go ashore and stroll the white-sand beaches amid ancient baobab trees. Be on the lookout for dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
There's also the option for a sunset cruise, which is a great activity whether you're traveling solo or with that special someone. Hop in a traditional dhow (wooden sailboat) in the late afternoon and sail around the tranquil waters with a glass of champagne as you enjoy the gorgeous vermillion sunset. Often, these tours stop at idyllic little islands where you can go ashore and stroll the white-sand beaches amid ancient baobab trees. Be on the lookout for dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
Of course, one of the most memorable ways to pass the time in Pemba is to lie under a blanket of stars as the scent of clove carries in the ocean breeze and the sounds of tropical birds lull you to sleep.
Day 7: Pemba to Arusha, Depart

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