How to Plan Your Private Full-Day Trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam

Are you looking for an exciting day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam? Look no further than this private full-day trip. With all the necessary conveniences included, this tour has everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable experience. Here’s how to plan your trip.

Overview

This private full-day trip provides a unique opportunity to explore Zanzibar’s beautiful island paradise. Your English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up early in the morning from your preferred location in Dar es Salaam, and you’ll make your way to the ferry terminal. A scenic ferry ride takes you across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to the island of Zanzibar, where you’ll spend the day exploring historic sites, enjoying local cuisine, and relaxing on beautiful beaches before returning to Dar es Salaam in the evening.

What’s Included

This private full-day trip includes the following conveniences:

• Bottled water
• Lunch and refreshments
• English speaking driver/guide

Please note that any items of personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, and phone calls are not included in the price of the tour. Additionally, any activities not specifically detailed in the tour itinerary are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

Your English-speaking driver/guide will pick you up from one of the following Dar es Salaam pickup points:

• City Centre Hotels
• Dar es Salaam International Airport

When booking your ticket, be sure to select your preferred pickup point.

Start Time

The private full-day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam starts at 5:00 AM, so be sure to get plenty of rest the night before.

What to Expect

You can expect a day filled with adventure and exploration on this private full-day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam. Highlights of the tour include:

• A ferry ride across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean
• A visit to the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Local cuisine for lunch
• A chance to relax on the picturesque white sandy beaches of Nungwi or Kendwa
• A swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean

Additional Info

Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking, unless you book within 1 day of travel. In that case, confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability. It’s also important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your private full-day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes to your booking must be made at least 24 hours in advance of the experience’s start time.

Book Your Private Full-Day Trip to Zanzibar

Ready to book your private full-day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam? You can book the tour online through Viator by clicking here. Don’t miss out on this exciting island adventure!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Zanzibar

Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean where visitors come to explore the rich Swahili culture infused with Arab, African, and Indian influences. The archipelago consists of two main islands, Unguja (also known as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba. Visitors can embark on a full-day private trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam to experience the charm of a bygone era in Stone Town’s narrow alleys, white-sand beaches, and turquoise-blue waters. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a tour of the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to turn your trip into a memorable adventure.

Local Attractions

Zanzibar’s charm comes from its contrasting elements of a bustling coastal town and quiet, serene beaches. Some of the top attractions that you should include in your itinerary are:

• Stone Town: As the old town of Zanzibar City, Stone Town is a UNESCO world heritage site consisting of narrow alleys, old coral buildings, and spice markets. Visitors can take a guided walking tour to explore the historic landmarks that narrate the island’s dark past of the slave trade.
• Prison Island: Also known as Changuu Island, Prison Island is a small island located off the coast of Stone Town. The island initially served as a prison for slaves but today is home to a colony of giant Aldabra tortoises that roam around the island.
• Paje Beach: Located on the south-east of Zanzibar Island, Paje Beach is an idyllic spot for visitors to unwind with pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
• Nungwi Beach: Situated on the northern tip of Unguja Island, Nungwi beach offers a wide range of water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sea turtle conservation projects.

Dining Spots

Zanzibar’s cuisine reflects its fascinating history and multicultural influences. You’ll find an explosion of flavor in its local dishes, such as biryani, pilau, and urojo. For fresh seafood and delicious dishes, check out:

• The Rock: The Rock Restaurant is located off the Michanvi Pingwe beach and offers an excellent dining experience with spectacular views of the ocean.
• Maimunah: A family-owned restaurant, Maimunah serves traditional Zanzibari dishes at an affordable price.
• Langi Langi Beach Bungalow Bar and Restaurant: Set on the beautiful Nungwi Beach, Langi Langi offers fresh seafood and cocktails for the ultimate beachside experience.

Cultural Experiences

Zanzibar’s rich history is apparent in its architecture, culture, and cuisine. Its blend of African, Arabic, and Indian cultures makes for a unique and vibrant cultural experience. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to include in your itinerary:

• Spice Tour: Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island,” and a spice tour provides visitors with an opportunity to learn the island’s history of spice cultivation and taste exotic spices and fruit.
• Taarab Music and Dance: Taarab is a popular music genre in Zanzibar that originated in Egypt in the 19th century. Listen to Taarab music and watch traditional dance performances at the Dhow Countries Music Academy.
• Zanzibar Butterfly Centre: The centre cultivates hundreds of species of butterflies that fly around visitors amidst an array of tropical flora that surrounds.

Local History

Zanzibar’s history is rich, complex, and, at times, very dark. It’s a story of merchants, slaves, and settlers, and the conflict that arose from these interactions. To learn about the island’s past and its struggle for independence, visit the following:

• Princess Salme Museum: Housed in an 18th-century building, the Princess Salme Museum tells the story of Sultan Said’s daughter, Princess Salme, who was exiled to Germany after running away with a German merchant.
• The Old Fort: The Old Fort, also known as Ngome Kongwe, is the oldest building in Zanzibar, built in the late 17th century by the Omanis. Today it’s a cultural centre with art exhibitions, craft markets, and cultural events.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re seeking to escape the tourist crowds, Zanzibar has several locations that offer a bit more solitude. Consider going to:

• Nakupenda Beach: Located on the west coast of Zanzibar Island, Nakupenda Beach is a secluded strip of white sand fringed with turquoise water, and often empty.
• Bwejuu Beach: Less crowded than Paje Beach, Bwejuu Beach offers long stretches of tranquil sand for the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
• Jozani Forest Reserve: Located in the central east region of Zanzibar Island, Jozani Forest Reserve is the home to the endemic Red Colobus Monkey and countless species of birds and butterflies.

In conclusion, Zanzibar is a fascinating destination that offers a blend of culture, history, and stunning nature. With this insider’s guide, you can explore the best of what the island has to offer and uncover hidden gems on your private full-day trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam.