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Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey to Zanzibar, where history, culture, and relaxation blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure in the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its labyrinthine streets and historic landmarks like the former Slave Market and the House of Wonders. Delve into the island's rich spice heritage with a guided tour of local plantations, and savor the flavors during a Swahili cookery lesson. Transition to the serene beaches of Jambiani, where azure waters and white sands invite you to unwind. For the adventurous, snorkeling, scuba diving, and traditional dhow cruises offer glimpses of vibrant marine life and untouched islands. Discover the rare Kirk's Red Colobus Monkey in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, or simply bask in the sun's warmth. With private transfers and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable escape to the enchanting Spice Island. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Zanzibar
Location: Zanzibar
Accommodation Name: Stone Town
Arrive into Zanzibar Airport/Harbour. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the heart of Stone Town where your hotel is located.
Zanzibar has a rich history and it became a centre of trade once it was settled by the Portuguese in the 16th and 17th Century. Zanzibar once held the title of being Africa's major hub of trade before the mainland became more settled and tamed (if Africa could ever be considered tamed). Zanzibar is also known as the 'Spice Island' due to this period when spice was its major trade followed closely by the slave trade and ivory. Zanzibar still today flourishes with the trade of spices, its most common exports being cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper.
UNESCO listed Stone Town is rich in history and culture, with a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling bazaars and ancient buildings. The architecture is a fascinating mix of Swahili, Arab, Persian, European and African styles, testament to the influence that trade brought to the region. ...more ...less
Day 2: Stone Town & Spice Tour
Location: Stone Town
Accommodation Name: Jambiani
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning you will be met by a local guide and taken on a guided tour of historic Stone Town and a spice plantation en-route to the beach.
Follow the trail of the sultans, slaves and explorers through the winding streets of Stone Town and learn about events which shaped Zanzibar, while walking through the buildings where it all happened. These historic buildings include the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, the Sultans’ Palace Museum, and the Old Arab Fort and Dispensary. You will also have the opportunity to explore the markets and residential areas, with the opportunity to stop for a rest at The Zanzibar Coffee House.
Then visit a spice plantation and see the process involved in harvesting these perfumed ingredients. Today we take spices for granted but they were once as precious as gems or gold with pirates often cruising the coast pilfering ships for their precious spice cargo. On the tour of the spice farm you can feel, smell and taste different spices and tropical fruit. These spices and fruit include vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, and many others. Then shop for spices at a local market and partake in a Swahili cookery lesson from skilled chefs.
After the guided tour transfer to your beach hotel near Jambiani, on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. Jambiani is a tiny fishing village which serves as a quiet retreat for travellers looking for a relaxing island getaway. The village sits on an idyllic stretch of white sand beach lined with palm trees. Once you've checked into your hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure and perhaps enjoy a dip in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Day 3-4: Relax on the beach
Location: Zanzibar
Accommodation Name: Jambiani
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Spend the next two days at leisure, relaxing on one of Zanzibar's beautiful white sands and soaking up the sunshine.
For those feeling active, there's a wide range of excursions available. Perhaps opt for a spot of snorkelling or scuba diving to see the incredible coral reefs teeming with exotic fish and perhaps the odd dolphin in the azure waters. Other activities in or above the water include fishing, windsurfing or various boat trips. Traditional dhow cruises are offered by the locals and are a great way to see the local lifestyle or island hop to some of the smaller uninhabited islands. Also consider a day trip to Jozani Chwaka Bay national Park - home to the rare Kirk's Red Colobus Monkey, Syke's Monkey and Ader's Duiker.
Day 5: Zanzibar
Location: Zanzibar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning you will be met by your driver and driven to Zanzibar Airport for your flight home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Superior -
Spice and Stone Town tour
A guided tour of Spice Plantations and Stone Town with an English-speaking guide, including entrance fees, is included.
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Private transfers and transportation
Private transfers and transportation are provided as per the itinerary.
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Zanzibar Airport transfers
Transfers from and to Zanzibar Airport are included.
What's Not Included
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Flights and visas
Flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Tipping
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Drinks and personal items
Drinks and items of a personal nature are not included in the tour package.
Age Policy
Any age welcome
Mode of Transport
Private transfers and transportation are provided as per the itinerary, including arrival and departure transfers from Zanzibar Airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in 4-star hotels with an option to upgrade to 5-star accommodations, staying in the heart of historic Stone Town and the serene beachside village of Jambiani.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights in 4-star hotels, with an option to upgrade to 5-star accommodations. You will stay in the heart of historic Stone Town and the serene beachside village of Jambiani.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, private transfers and transportation are provided as per the itinerary, including arrival and departure transfers from Zanzibar Airport.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 4 breakfasts and 3 dinners.
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What activities are available during the leisure days on the beach?
During the leisure days, you can relax on the beach or choose from a variety of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, windsurfing, and traditional dhow cruises. You can also consider a day trip to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park.
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Is there a guided tour included in the itinerary?
Yes, there is a guided tour of historic Stone Town and a spice plantation with an English-speaking guide, including entrance fees.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to historic Stone Town, where you can explore the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, and other significant sites. You will also have the opportunity to partake in a Swahili cookery lesson.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Simply Zanzibar - 5 days
5 Days Starting and ending in Zanzibar, Tanzania
Visiting: Zanzibar, Stone Town
Tour operator:
Tour code:
702/SZ
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
Any age welcome
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
