Things to see and do in Zanzibar
Places to Visit
Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar City. Its maze-like alleys are filled with historic buildings, mosques, and markets. Key attractions include the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and vibrant Darajani Market, offering a glimpse into Zanzibar’s diverse heritage.
House of Wonders
The House of Wonders is a grand 19th-century palace showcasing Zanzibar’s cultural history. Its unique architecture and museum exhibits make it a must-visit. The rooftop offers stunning views of the city and waterfront.
Old Fort
Built in the 17th century, the Old Fort is a historic landmark with thick stone walls and open courtyards. It hosts cultural events, craft markets, and offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s colonial past.
Darajani Market
This bustling market is the heartbeat of Zanzibar City, offering spices, fresh produce, and handmade goods. It’s a vibrant spot to experience local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
Forodhani Gardens
A lively waterfront park, Forodhani Gardens comes alive at night with a food market serving Swahili delicacies. Enjoy Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood, and the vibrant atmosphere by the sea.
Freddie Mercury Museum
Dedicated to the legendary Queen singer, this museum in Stone Town showcases Freddie Mercury’s life in Zanzibar. It’s a fascinating stop for music fans and history enthusiasts.
Suggested itineraries featuring Zanzibar
Tanzania Safari and Island Escape
9 Days | From $8599
Tanzania
Tribe
11 Days | From $6699
Tanzania
Zanzibar Getaway
7 Days | From $6399
TanzaniaAccommodation choices for Zanzibar
Zanzibar Serena Hotel
The Zanzibar Serena Hotel
Standard Room
The Zanzibar Serena Hotel is set in two historic sea-front buildings and has a prime sea-front location on the western side of the island. Idyllically situated on the sea-front, only 5 minutes away from Stone Town, the Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a haven of tranquillity and opulence amongst the bustle of the ancient city. The hotel is flanked by an exotic mix of sultan's palaces and bright bazaars and has been styled to represent the epitome of Swahili style, ethnic elegance and Arabic opulence.
The Zanzibar Serena Hotel comprises 51 air conditioned rooms, all of which are en suite with mini-bars, satellite TV, a balcony, a valuables safe and telephone. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel is a haven of cool and shade. With high ceilings, shuttered windows and cool white walls, rooms are constructed in the traditional Swahili manner, whereby the size is dictated by the length of the mangrove poles that make up their ceilings. Adorned with arched niches, antique plates and brass lamps; and featuring traditionally carved furniture with basket weave and ceramic inlay, the rooms are predominantly royal blue and white. Four-poster, net draped beds dominate, offset by delicate side tables, vanity units and louver doors giving onto balconies, some of which feature massive free-standing hammocks.
These rooms are decorated in traditional Swahili style, and each room has either a Kingsize bed or two twin beds with en suite bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, WiFi, television, mini-bar, room safe, tea/coffee facilities and private balcony.
The Baharia Restaurant features fretwork screens, Omani carvings, Persian rugs and bright Swahili artefacts. The Zanzibar cuisine meanwhile, blends freshly caught seafood, fresh spices, luscious fruit and delicately flavoured vegetables. On the roof of the Hotel is the exclusive open-air Terrace Restaurant, which looks out over the bay. Indoor and outdoor seating overlooks the pool terrace and adjacent to the pool, the Mdele Coffee Shop offers traditional Swahili coffee. Zanzibar Serena Hotel stands in prime position on the sea front, offering a sublime selection of wedding venues within the Hotel and around its grounds. The sumptuous Zanzibar Hotel Conference Suite is located on the ground floor of the Hotel and has been decorated in traditional Zanzibar style. It can accommodate up to 40 participants in a range of different room layouts and offers a wide range of services.
Mapenzi Beach Club
