Zanzibar is best experienced slowly: through its forests, spice farms, coral reefs, historic streets, sailing traditions and coastal villages. From our hotels on the South East Coast, guests can arrange classic island excursions with local guides and return to the calm of the beach by sunset.
Whether you want culture, nature, snorkeling, sailing or a glimpse into the island's Swahili heritage, our team can help you choose the right experience for your stay.
Jozani Forest is one of Zanzibar's most important natural reserves and home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey. A guided visit offers a gentle encounter with the island's biodiversity, mangroves and tropical forest landscape.
Kizimkazi, on Zanzibar's southern coast, is known for dolphin sightings and ocean excursions. Experiences should always be approached respectfully, choosing operators who understand the importance of responsible wildlife interaction and minimal disturbance.
Changuu Island, commonly known as Prison Island, is one of Zanzibar's most iconic excursions and a classic experience from Stone Town. Just a short boat ride from the old city, the island offers a beautiful combination of history, nature and Indian Ocean scenery. Guests can visit the famous giant tortoise sanctuary, home to Aldabra tortoises, some of which are remarkably old, and walk through the historical remains that tell the story of the island's past.
Surrounded by clear turquoise waters, Prison Island is also a pleasant spot for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing by the sea, especially in good tide and weather conditions. It is an ideal half-day excursion for travellers who want to combine culture, wildlife and ocean beauty in a simple, memorable experience.
Safari Blue is one of Zanzibar's most iconic full-day sea excursions and one of the most complete ways to experience the Indian Ocean. Usually departing from the south-west coast of the island, the trip combines traditional dhow sailing, snorkeling, sandbanks, turquoise lagoons, seafood and the protected marine scenery around Menai Bay.
The experience is ideal for guests who want to spend a full day at sea, moving slowly between clear waters, coral reefs and small islands. Depending on the tide and sea conditions, the excursion may include snorkeling in reef areas, swimming in natural lagoons, relaxing on a sandbank and enjoying a fresh seafood lunch prepared in a simple and authentic island style.
Stone Town is Zanzibar's cultural heart: a maze of narrow streets, carved doors, markets, mosques, old trading houses and layered Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influences. It is best visited with a knowledgeable guide who can bring its history and atmosphere to life.
You'll find everything here - from colourful piles of spices, slabs of meat, fresh fish and huge baskets full of live chickens to sandals and mobile phones, all set out in a series of covered halls and twisting alleys.
A Spice Tour connects guests with Zanzibar's identity as the Spice Island. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, vanilla and tropical fruits tell the story of the island's trade, cuisine and rural traditions. It is a simple but memorable way to understand Zanzibar beyond the beach.
