What to do in Zanzibar, which excursions to take and how to get a better price than what is offered by local agencies and tour operators, here is a post to shed some light.
Excursions a Zanzibar they are offered by many local operators and above all by the "beach boys", local boys who offer excursions at lower prices and are still very organized, certainly more "adventurous".
I beach boys, even in the name, they are found on the beaches of the island in front of the villages. The prices of the excursions vary according to the program of your day and also by your "companions". An advice? If you rely on the beach boys negotiate on the price and if you are a small group, it will be easier to agree on a super honest cost ranging from 15-20 euros per person to go up.
Zanzibar is rest, but some excursions are necessary for the sake of your eyes, you are in an enchanting place. Experience the island, its flavors and traditions. You will not regret it. These are the 5 recommended and most famous excursions on the island.
Blue Safari (internal day)
This excursion is completely dedicated to the sea and the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. On board a local boat, dhow, you can explore the Menai Bay where, if you are lucky, you will spot dolphins. Afterwards there is a stop at a small strip of sand and then arrive at the island of Kwale where you will be served lunch (usually grilled fish) and you can visit the wonderful centuries-old baobab.
Prison Island + Stone town (full day)
To reach Prison Island you will have to embark directly from the old port of Stone Town, in the old city. There will be a visit to the prisons where giant tortoises now live up to 100 years old and more. Lunch will be in the “Nakupenda” strip of sand and surrounded by crystal clear water you can relax or snorkel at your leisure.
Back in the city you can admire a labyrinth of alleys, in addition to the famous market you can admire buildings rich in history and culture. You can buy souvenirs in the “stone city”. In addition, it is inevitable to pass in front of the birthplace of Freddy Mercury.
Snoorkling at Mnemba Atoll (half day)
Snorkeling in this protected natural park is magnificent. After forty-five minutes of navigation you arrive around the Mnemba atoll where you can snorkel without being able to go up to the island as it is private property. About two hours to immerse yourself in this crystal clear sea and continue to another beach where lunch will be served. In this beach there will be starfish visible thanks to the low tide, you will see the sea disappear visibly, in fact, almost walk back to the boat and… backpacks on your head.
Spice tour (half day)
This excursion will catapult you into the hinterland of the island, away from the sea but still a fascinating place. You will thus be able to discover the local reality and the true flavor of Zanzibar. You will be immersed in the flavor of herbs and spices, from cinnamon to cardamom. You can taste them and buy them at the local market.
Jozani forest (half day)
This is the only forest on the island where the Colobo Rosso (small monkeys) still live today and can be observed in their natural habitat. You will dive into the wilderness with lots of plants, flowers and a very good taste of "earth".
