6 Days 5 Nights zanzibar vacation

Day 1: Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar Vacation
Fly from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. You will be met by our tax driver representative at the Zanzibar Airport or Harbor to Tembo Hotel /Jafferji House Hotel which will be arranged for you. The hotel is in the heart of Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar.
You will have a chance to visit the Zanzibar’s famous Forodhani Night Market where you may happen to bump on someone you might have met before. Your favorite delicious dinner can be found here with plenty of wonderful Zanzibar plates of yummy dishes.
Meals: Bed and Breakfast.

Day 2: Exploring Stone Town – Full Day
Exploring Stone Town in Zanzibar is a fascinating experience that takes you through the historical heart of the island. Today you will have a Full Day Stone Town Tour with a range of activities as described below:
Morning Activities:
House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib): Start your tour at this iconic building, which was once the Sultan’s palace and is now a museum. Learn about Zanzibar’s history, culture, and architecture.
Forodhani Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through these gardens, known for their vibrant atmosphere and local food stalls. If you’re here in the evening, you can enjoy the night market and sample some delicious Swahili street food.
Late Morning:
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe): Explore the Old Fort, a historic structure that has served various purposes over the centuries. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Hamamni Persian Baths: Discover the ruins of the Hamamni Persian Baths, a testament to Zanzibar’s historical connections with Persia.
Lunch Break:
Forodhani Park: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the restaurants near Forodhani Gardens. Try traditional Zanzibari dishes like biryani and grilled fish.
Afternoon:
Sultan’s Palace Museum (Beit al-Sahel): Visit the museum located in the former palace of the Sultan of Zanzibar. Explore the artifacts, royal carriages, and exhibits showcasing the lives of Zanzibar’s rulers.
Slave Market Site: Gain insight into the sobering history of the slave trade at this UNESCO-listed site. Visit the Anglican Cathedral built on the former slave market and explore the poignant memorial.
Late Afternoon:
Mangapwani Slave Chamber: If time allows and you’re interested in further exploring the history of slavery, consider a trip to the Mangapwani Slave Chamber, which offers a deeper understanding of this dark period.
Evening:
Walking Tour: Spend the evening wandering through Stone Town’s maze-like alleys. Admire the unique architecture, intricately carved doors, and colorful markets. Don’t hesitate to engage with locals for insights into daily life.
Sunset Dhow Cruise: Wrap up your day with a serene sunset dhow cruise along the coastline, offering stunning views of Stone Town from the water.

Day 3: Zanzibar Spice Tour combined with Beach tour experience – Full Day
A Zanzibar spice tour combined with a beach tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and relaxation in a beautiful tropical setting. Zanzibar, known as the “Spice Island,” is famous for its aromatic spices, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s what you can expect from sucerh a combined experience with an array of different activities below.

Zanzibar Spice Tour:
Cultural Immersion: Embark on a guided tour through spice plantations and local farms, where you’ll learn about the cultivation and history of various spices such as cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Engage with local farmers and gain insights into their traditional farming methods.
Aromatic Delights: Immerse yourself in the scents of Zanzibar’s spices as you witness the harvesting, drying, and processing techniques. You might even get the chance to taste or purchase some freshly ground spices and unique spice blends.
Historical Significance: While on the spice tour, you’ll also get to learn about the historical importance of the spice trade in Zanzibar, which played a significant role in the island’s cultural and economic development.

Beach Tour:
Pristine Beaches: Zanzibar is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Relax, sunbathe, and swim at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, and Paje Beach.
Water Activities: Engage in a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and even traditional dhow sailing. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that Zanzibar’s waters have to offer.
Cultural Experiences: While relaxing on the beach, you can still experience Zanzibar’s unique culture. Visit local villages, interact with friendly residents, and perhaps even witness traditional Swahili dances and performances.
Exquisite Cuisine: Indulge in a culinary journey by trying Zanzibar’s diverse and flavorful dishes. Seafood lovers will particularly enjoy the abundance of freshly caught fish and shellfish.

Combined Experience:
Balance: Combining a spice tour with a beach tour offers a well-rounded vacation that allows you to explore both the cultural and natural beauty of Zanzibar.
Relaxation: After a day of exploring spice plantations and learning about the island’s history, unwind on the idyllic beaches, listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Photography: Capture a diverse range of memories, from vibrant spice markets to breathtaking beach sunsets, to create a comprehensive travel album.
Memorable Souvenirs: Bring back not only beautiful beach memories but also aromatic spices and handmade crafts from local markets as unique souvenirs.
Remember to plan your itinerary well to ensure a seamless transition between the spice tour and the beach tour. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking relaxation, a Zanzibar spice tour combined with a beach tour promises an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Day 4: Snorkeling and Water Activities – Full Day
Zanzibar is a paradise for snorkeling and water activities, offering clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a diverse marine ecosystem. Here are some of the top snorkeling and water activities you can enjoy in Zanzibar:

Snorkeling: Zanzibar’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making snorkeling a popular and rewarding activity. Some of the best snorkeling spots include:
Mnemba Atoll: This marine conservation area is renowned for its pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Chumbe Island Coral Park: Chumbe Island’s coral reef sanctuary offers guided snorkeling tours where you can explore the vibrant underwater world and encounter a variety of marine species.
Nungwi and Kendwa Reefs: These areas near the northern coast of Zanzibar offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with diverse coral formations and marine creatures.

Scuba Diving: For those seeking a more immersive underwater experience, scuba diving is a fantastic option. Zanzibar boasts numerous dive sites suitable for all levels of divers, including beginners and experienced divers. Some notable dive sites include:
Leven Bank: Known for its large pelagic species, this site is frequented by sharks, rays, and other big marine animals.

Menai Bay Conservation Area: Home to dolphins, humpback whales (seasonal), and a variety of fish species, this area offers unique diving experiences.
Kiwengwa Caves: Dive into underwater caves and tunnels, revealing fascinating rock formations and marine life.

Dolphin Tours: Zanzibar’s waters are inhabited by various dolphin species, and you can embark on guided boat tours to spot and even swim with these friendly creatures. Kizimkazi, located on the southern coast, is a popular area for dolphin watching.
Sailing and Kayaking: Explore the coastline and nearby islands by sailing on traditional dhows or kayaking. These activities provide a leisurely way to enjoy the sea, observe marine life, and appreciate the coastal landscapes.

Deep-Sea Fishing: Zanzibar offers opportunities for deep-sea fishing, where you can try your hand at catching big game fish such as marlin, tuna, and sailfish.
Parasailing and Jet Skiing: For thrill-seekers, parasailing and jet skiing are available at some of the busier beaches, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Sunset Dhow Cruises: Unwind on a romantic dhow cruise during the evening, watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying the tranquil waters and a picturesque setting.
Before engaging in any water activity, ensure your safety by following guidelines provided by tour operators, using appropriate gear, and being mindful of the environment to protect the delicate marine ecosystems. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a certified diver, or simply looking to enjoy the ocean, Zanzibar’s waters offer a multitude of unforgettable experiences for water enthusiasts.

Day 5: Jozani Forest and Relaxation – Full Day
Combining a visit to the Jozani Forest with relaxation in Zanzibar makes for a well-rounded and enriching experience. The Jozani Forest is a unique ecosystem, home to the rare red colobus monkeys and diverse flora and fauna. After exploring the forest, you can unwind and enjoy the idyllic beaches and serene atmosphere of Zanzibar. Here’s how you can make the most of both aspects of your trip:

Exploring Jozani Forest:
Red Colobus Monkey Viewing: The Jozani Forest is famous for its population of red colobus monkeys, an endangered species found only in Zanzibar. Take a guided tour through the forest to spot these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Nature Walks: Explore the lush vegetation and unique biodiversity of the forest. Your guide can provide insights into the various plant species, medicinal plants, and the forest’s ecological importance.
Mangrove Boardwalk: Enjoy a serene walk along the elevated boardwalk that winds through the mangrove forest. Learn about the importance of mangroves in coastal ecosystems and spot various bird species.

Visit to Zala Park: This part of Jozani Forest is home to the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, where you can observe and learn about different butterfly species and their life cycles.

Relaxing in Zanzibar:

Beach Time: After your forest exploration, head to Zanzibar’s pristine beaches to relax and soak up the sun. Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, Paje Beach, and Bwejuu Beach are some of the popular options.
Water Activities: Engage in water sports such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or simply swimming in the clear turquoise waters. The vibrant marine life and coral reefs around Zanzibar offer excellent opportunities for underwater exploration.

Spa and Wellness: Treat yourself to spa treatments and wellness activities offered by many resorts and hotels. Indulge in massages, yoga sessions, and other rejuvenating experiences by the beach.
Cultural Exploration: Take leisurely strolls through local villages, interact with friendly residents, and perhaps even witness traditional Swahili dances or visit local markets.
Sunset Cruises: Embark on a relaxing sunset cruise on a traditional dhow, savoring the beauty of the coastline as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Combined Experience:
Nature and Relaxation: Combining a visit to Jozani Forest with relaxation on the beach allows you to appreciate both the natural wonders and cultural richness of Zanzibar.
Photography Opportunities: Capture diverse memories, from the playful red colobus monkeys in the forest to the breathtaking sunsets on the beach.

Environmental Awareness: Experiencing the delicate balance between the forest ecosystem and the coastal environment highlights the importance of conservation.
Culinary Delights: Enjoy a variety of delicious seafood and Swahili dishes that Zanzibar has to offer.
By combining a visit to the Jozani Forest with relaxation on Zanzibar’s stunning beaches, you can create a well-balanced itinerary that allows you to immerse yourself in both the natural and cultural beauty of this tropical paradise.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time in the morning for last-minute activities. Check out from your accommodation and transfer to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) to catch your scheduled flight.

What is included
2 nights’ accommodation in Moshi, Kilimanjaro
All nights’ accommodation in Tents
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Solid safety management procedures
All Park fees and Rescue fees
All meals while on the Mountain
Arrival and Departure transfers
Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Hard working, team-oriented support staff
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair and ethical treatment of porters
Sleeping Mattress
1 canister of oxygen

What is not included
Tanzania Visa – $50 per person on arrival
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Optional Tours (short safari after your climb etc.)
Tips and any items of personal nature
Emergency evacuation by helicopter (upon request)
Duffle Bag and Special medical kits (upon request)
Portable flush toilet and tent – 150 USD extra (upon request)