5-Day Zanzibar Beach Escape with Stone Town and Prison Island

5 Days Round trip from Zanzibar Airport Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the historic streets of Stone Town
02 Visit the famous Prison Island
03 Visit aromatic spice farms
04 Unwind on Zanzibar's pristine white-sand beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean

Discover the beauty and charm of Zanzibar on this five-day escape, combining rich cultural heritage with tropical island relaxation. Explore the historic streets of Stone Town, visit the famous Prison Island and aromatic spice farms, and unwind on Zanzibar's pristine white-sand beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

City Zanzibar

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Stone Town

Arrival: Upon arrival at Zanzibar International Airport, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel in historic Stone Town.
Leisure: The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax or explore the vibrant streets at your own pace.
Overnight: Maru Maru Hotel (BB)

Day 02

Stone Town, Prison Island and Spice Farm

Meal: After breakfast
Tour: Enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Swahili culture and history.
Excursion: Take a boat excursion to Prison Island, home to the famous giant Aldabra tortoises.
Tour: Visit a traditional Spice Farm to discover why Zanzibar is known as the 'Spice Island'.
Transfer: Later, transfer to your beach resort for dinner and an overnight stay at The Loop Beach Resort (BD)

Day 03

Beach Resort Leisure Day

Leisure: Enjoy a full day at leisure at your beach resort.
Activities: Relax on the white sandy beaches, swim in the warm Indian Ocean, or take advantage of the resort's facilities.
Optional activities: Optional activities such as snorkelling, diving, or a sunset dhow cruise can be arranged at an additional cost.
Overnight: Overnight at The Loop Beach Resort (BD)

Day 04

Another Day at Leisure in Zanzibar

Leisure: Spend another day enjoying the beauty of Zanzibar at your own pace.
Optional activities: Whether you choose to unwind by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore the island through optional excursions, the day is yours to enjoy.
Overnight: Overnight at The Loop Beach Resort (BD)

Day 05

Departure from Zanzibar

Meal: After breakfast
Free time: Enjoy some free time depending on your flight schedule.
Transfer: At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your memorable island holiday to an end.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Zanzibar Airport 1 city · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport transfers in Zanzibar
Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
Meal plan as indicated
Stone Town guided tour
Prison Island excursion
Spice Farm tour
Professional English-speaking guide during excursions
All government taxes and applicable fees

What's Not Included

International and domestic flights
Zanzibar travel insurance
Visa fees (where applicable)
Drinks unless specified
Optional activities and excursions
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, telephone, etc.)
Tips and gratuities
Any items not mentioned in the inclusions

What to bring

Valid passport and travel documents.
Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate.
Modest clothing for visits to Stone Town, villages, and other cultural sites.
Swimwear and a beach cover-up.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
Flip-flops or beach sandals.
A wide-brimmed hat or cap.
Sunglasses.
Reef-safe sunscreen with a high SPF.
Insect repellent.
Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
Camera or smartphone with charger.
Waterproof bag or dry bag for boat excursions.
Reusable water bottle.
Snorkelling gear (optional, if you prefer to use your own).
A light sweater or jacket for evenings or air-conditioned areas.
Cash in small denominations (USD or Tanzanian Shillings) for tips, local markets, and personal purchases.

Know before you go

Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Most visitors require a Tanzanian visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival, depending on nationality.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers.
Currency: The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist establishments. It is advisable to carry small denomination notes for tips and local purchases.
Dress Code: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, and visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting Stone Town, villages, and other public areas. Swimwear is appropriate at beaches and resort swimming pools.
Respect Local Culture: Always ask for permission before photographing local people and be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Weather: Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate. Lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended throughout the year.
Health: Use insect repellent, particularly in the evenings, and stay well hydrated. Consult your healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention before travelling.
Electrical Supply: Electricity is 230V, 50Hz, using Type G (UK-style) plug sockets. Bringing a universal travel adapter is recommended.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. If you receive excellent service, gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and restaurant staff are always welcome.
Shopping: Local markets and souvenir shops offer handcrafted items, spices, artwork, and jewellery. Bargaining is common in local markets but should always be done respectfully.
Beach Safety: The tides in Zanzibar can vary significantly. Follow local advice when swimming and be mindful of sea urchins and coral in some areas. Water shoes are recommended on certain beaches.
Marine Conservation: Help protect Zanzibar's fragile marine ecosystem by avoiding the collection of shells and coral and by using reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkelling.
Plastic Bags: Tanzania has a nationwide ban on plastic carrier bags. Visitors are advised not to bring plastic shopping bags into the country.