The Ultimate Zanzibar Itinerary: A 7 & 10 Day Blueprint for Paradise

Zanzibar
Written By Leonie Tanasic
Zanzibar Traveling Blue Print by Destinationz

Hey Destinationz family! Leonie here. So, the magical "Spice Island" of Zanzibar is calling your name – we love to hear it! As one of our absolute favorite destinations in East Africa, we know its power to enchant with its turquoise waters, rich history, and soul-stirring sunsets. But with so much to see and do, the big question we always get is: "How do I plan the perfect trip?"

Planning an itinerary for this enchanting island can feel overwhelming, but don't worry! Jasmine and I have crafted countless Zanzibar adventures for our clients. Today, we're sharing our expert blueprint – a sample itinerary for both 7 and 10 days. Think of this as your starting point, a framework of possibilities to inspire your dream vacation.

Remember, while this guide shows you what's possible, the true magic is in a seamless journey where all the logistics, trusted guides, and perfect accommodations are handled for you. (Hint: That's where we come in!)

Zanzibar Island Beauty

Before You Go: Key Zanzibar Planning Tips

A great trip starts with great planning!

  • Best Time to Visit: The main dry seasons (June to October and mid-December to February) are ideal for enjoying the beaches. The rainy season months often have lower prices but expect showers.

  • Visas & Logistics: Before booking international flights, check the latest Tanzanian visa requirements for your nationality. Most visitors can get a visa on arrival, but it's always best to be sure. We also highly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance.

  • Fees & Currency: Be prepared to pay park fees or entrance fees for sites like Jozani Forest or historical landmarks, often in USD or Tanzanian Shillings.

Zanzibar 7-Day Itinerary - Luxury Tour Tips

The 7-Day Zanzibar Itinerary: A Perfect Blend of Culture & Coast

This itinerary gives you a fantastic taste of everything that makes Zanzibar island special, from historic streets to pristine beaches.

Stone Town, Zanzibar

Day 1-2: Arrival & Immersion in Historic Stone Town

  • The Vibe: Arrive at Zanzibar's airport, where your pre-arranged transfer whisks you away to Zanzibar City'shistoric heart: Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a captivating labyrinth of narrow alleyways (some still used by donkey carts!), intricately carved doors, bustling markets, and echoes of a rich past.

  • What to Explore: Spend your first two days getting lost in the best way possible. We recommend one of the many excellent walking tours to truly understand the stories behind sites like the Old Fort and the former Old Slave Market at the site of the Anglican Cathedral.

Jozani forest Zanzibar, red colobus monkeys, Zanzibar flora fauna, nature reserve

Day 3: The Scents of the Spice Island & Nature's Wonders

  • The Vibe: Today is all about engaging your senses! A visit to Zanzibar isn't complete without a spice tour.

  • What to Explore: Tour a local spice farm to see, smell, and taste cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Afterwards, head inland to the lush Jozani Forest, the island's only national park, home to the rare and playful Red Colobus monkeys in their natural habitat.

Paje Beach, Zanzibar

Day 4-5: Bliss Out on the East Coast (Paje/Bwejuu)

  • The Vibe: It's time for some lazy days on the beach! We recommend heading to the famous east coast. This area is known for its stunningly long, white sandy beaches, vibrant turquoise sea, and a fantastic mix of relaxation and activity.

  • What to Explore: Settle into your hotel and embrace the laid-back atmosphere. Paje is famous for kite surfing, while Bwejuu offers incredible tranquility. This is the time to relax by the pool, walk for miles during low tide, or enjoy the warm Indian Ocean.

Blue Safari, Zanzibar Trip

Day 6: Ocean Adventures & Sunset Dhows

  • The Vibe: Your last full exciting day is for celebrating the magnificent Indian Ocean.

  • What to Explore: Today is perfect for an ocean excursion. Consider the famous Blue Safari, a day trip that typically includes snorkeling or even scuba diving over vibrant coral reefs, enjoying a delicious lunch on a sandbank, and sailing through mangrove forests. For a magical end to the day, take a traditional sunset dhow cruise.

Zanzibar last swim, Indian Ocean, tropical beach, farewell dip, island paradise

Day 7: Final Flavors & Departure

  • The Vibe: One last taste of paradise before you depart.

  • What to Explore: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Depending on your flight time, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Stone Town or enjoy one final swim. Head to the airport feeling refreshed, inspired, and full of unforgettable moments.

Zanzibar 10-Day Itinerary

Level Up: The 10-Day to Two Weeks Itinerary (Deeper Dive & Mainland Safari!)

Have more time? Adding three or more days allows you to either explore the island more deeply or add a truly unforgettable "bush and beach" safari experience.

Day 1-6: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary above.

Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar

Day 7: A Change of Scenery - The North Coast (Nungwi/Kendwa)

  • Instead of a dhow cruise, transfer from the southeast to the northern tip of the island. This area is famous for its stunning, swimmable beaches (less affected by tides) and arguably the best sunset views on the main island.

Tanzania Safari Adventure

Day 8: Mainland Tanzania Safari Adventure!

  • This is a true bucket list addition! Take an early morning flight from Zanzibar to a national park on the mainland, like Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous). Spend the day on a thrilling game drive, enjoying incredible game viewing of many animals in their natural environment. A Tanzania safari, even for a day, is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar

Day 9: Relax & Recharge in the North

  • After yesterday's big adventure, today is for pure relaxation on a beautiful Zanzibar beach. Enjoy Nungwi or Kendwa, relax at your resort, or indulge in a spa treatment.

Day 10: Departure

  • Enjoy a final northern sunset the night before, then head to the airport for your flight home.

Expertly planned Zanzibar trips, hassle-free travel packages, personalized vacations

Making It Yours: The Destinationz Touch

This sample itinerary is a blueprint, a taste of what's possible. It’s designed to inspire your dream vacation.

At Destinationz, we specialize in creating a personalized trip designed just for you. We offer expertly curated packages like our 5-Day Short & Sweet Getaway, our 6-Day Zanzibar Immersion, and our 7-Day Ultimate Zanzibar Adventure (which includes the mainland safari!). Each of these takes the guesswork out of planning, with all logistics, trusted guides, and fantastic hotels handled for you.

Ready to turn this blueprint into your reality?

Want to make these incredible excursions a part of your Zanzibar trip without the hassle of planning? Connect with Destinationz, and we'll arrange trusted guides and build a personalized itinerary full of amazing discoveries.

Talk with our travel consultants: [Book your free consultation call] 

Check out our existing travel packages: [Zanzibar Travel Packages]

Learn more about our other destinations: [Dubai, Thailand]

Zanzibar Blog Guide
Leonie Tanasic

Brooklyn-born, world-traveled, and passionate about curating unforgettable adventures. That's me, Leonie! With over a decade in the hospitality game, I know what it takes to create a truly luxurious getaway. But luxury shouldn't be just for the high rollers, right? That's why I'm on a mission to make those dream trips accessible to everyone.

Whether you're wanderin' through bustling markets, relaxin' on pristine beaches, or discoverin' hidden cultural gems, I'm here to craft a journey that speaks to your soul. From the vibrant streets of Dubai to the tranquil shores of Zanzibar and beyond, let's make some memories that'll last a lifetime!

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