10 Places to Drive to in Zanzibar -

10 Places to Drive to in Zanzibar

10 Popular Places to Drive on a visit to Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a great destination for driving

Zanzibar is a great destination for driving enthusiasts, with its scenic roads, diverse landscapes, and rich culture.

Just rent a car, a motorbike or a scooter, make sure you get a local driving permit. Don’t forget driving is on the left.

Be sure to ask your rental company if you car takes petrol or diesel as both are common. There are plenty of places to get petrol which is around Tsh 2,800, or $1.20 (USD), £1 (GBP) or €1 (EUR). There are no self-service petrol stations. You will be served on the forecourt by a Zanzibari. Just hand over the right amount of local money you want. Tsh 60-100,000 will get you a a half to a full tank depending on the size of the car you are driving.

All the following popular destinations to explore are no more than an hour’s drive away, because Zanzibar is a relatively small island. Take your time when you drive and slow down as you go through villages. Occasionally there is a speed-bump or two in the road to slow traffic down when there are a lot of pedestrians around so please keep to the speed limits (30Kph in built up locations and 60Kph on highways).

#1 Drive to Stone Town.

The historic and cultural attractions of the capital city of Zanzibar, include the Old Fort, the Old Slave Market Memorial, Freddy Mercury Museum and Forodhani Gardens.

There is a one-way system for driving around the main Stone Town city.

Some easy places to park are Vuga or on the seafront near the Old Ford or Cape Town Fish Market. You can then explore the narrow streets and alleys on foot.

Parking fees are about Tsh1,000 an hour or for all day Tsh3,000 – Tsh 2,800, or $1.00 (USD), £0.80 (GBP) or €0.85 (EUR).

For a more detailed explanation of Stone Town see our article 10 Things To See in Stone Town Zanzibar

#2 Drive to Jozani Forest.

The natural beauty of Jozani Forest is stunning and wildlife is amazing in the only national park in Zanzibar. It is home to the endangered red colobus monkeys, mangrove forests, and butterflies.

There are plenty of trails and activities to enjoy the forest, such as guided walks, cycling, or birdwatching.

Jozani Forest is the largest area of indigenous forest on Zanzibar Island and the only national park on the island ¹.
It is a lush and diverse ecosystem that hosts a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered red colobus monkeys, which are endemic to Zanzibar and can only be found here².
You can also spot other monkey species, bushbabies, duikers, and more than 40 species of birds in the forest¹.
One of the best ways to explore Jozani Forest is to join a guided walk with a park ranger, who will show you the different habitats and wildlife in the park.
You can also enjoy a boardwalk through the creek-side mangroves, where you can see crabs, fish, and birds¹.
If you are feeling more adventurous, you can rent a bike and cycle along the trails in the forest, or join a birdwatching tour to spot some of the rare and colorful species that live here³.
Jozani Forest is a must-see for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to experience the unique biodiversity of Zanzibar.

#3 Drive to Paje.

The breathtaking beach and lagoon of Paje is a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling.

Some of the local restaurants and bars here offer delicious seafood and drinks with a postcard-perfect view of the Indian ocean.

Paje is a village on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, between the villages of Bwejuu and Jambiani ¹.
It boasts a stunning beach and lagoon that are ideal for water sports enthusiasts, especially kitesurfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. The beach has a huge tidal range and often a good breeze, creating perfect conditions for these activities. You can rent equipment or take lessons from one of the many operators along the beach ².
If you prefer a more relaxing time, you can also enjoy the soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters that make Paje a paradise. For some delicious seafood and drinks with a view of the ocean, you can check out some of the local restaurants and bars that line the beachfront. Some of the popular ones are Mr Kahawa, B4 Beach Club, and Paje by Night ³.

#4 Drive to Nungwi.

Nungwi is the northernmost village of Zanzibar, known for its lively nightlife, fishing industry, and turtle sanctuary. It’s a great place to watch the sunset, dance to live music, or visit the local craftsmen and boat builders.

Although Nungwi is the northernmost village on Zanzibar Island it can be reached in as little as an hour of driving from Stone Town or the airport. Nungwi is a major tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful beach and stunning sunsets ¹.
It is also known for its fishing industry and dhow-building center, where you can see the local craftsmen and boat builders at work ².
Nungwi has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that offer live music, DJs, and dancing. Some of the popular ones are Cholo’s Bar, Gerry’s Bar, and Kendwa Rocks ³.
If you are looking for a more relaxing activity, you can visit the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, where you can see and swim with the endangered green and hawksbill turtles that are rescued and rehabilitated here ³.
Nungwi is also one of the best places to watch the sunset on Zanzibar Island, as the sky turns into a spectacular display of colors over the ocean. You can enjoy the view from the beach or from one of the many restaurants that offer delicious seafood and drinks with a view ⁴.

#5 Drive to Kizimkazi.

The charm and tranquility of this fishing village on the southern tip of Zanzibar is second to none.

Kizimkazi is where visitors can swim with dolphins, go whale watching, or visit the oldest mosque in East Africa.

Kizimkazi is a fishing village on the southern tip of Zanzibar, where you can experience the charm and tranquility of the local life and culture. It is also one of the best places to swim with dolphins, as they often come close to the shore in the early morning. You can join a boat tour that will take you to the dolphin spot and let you snorkel with these friendly creatures ¹. If you are lucky, you might also see some whales during the migration season ². Another attraction in Kizimkazi is the oldest mosque in East Africa, dating back to the 12th century. It is a historical and religious site that showcases the ancient architecture and inscriptions of the Shirazi civilization ³.
For some comfortable and cozy accommodation options in Kizimkazi, you can check out The Residence Zanzibar, a luxury resort with private villas and pools ⁴ , or Aya Beach Bungalows, a budget-friendly option with a beachfront location and a restaurant ⁵.

#6 Drive to Zanzibar’s Spice Farms.

The importance and variety of spices in Zanzibar’s history and cuisine is fascinating. Visitors can learn more about them on guided tours of spice farms. There are common and exotic spices grown in Zanzibar, such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and cardamom.

Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island for its rich history and variety of spices that have shaped its culture and cuisine.
Spices were introduced to Zanzibar by Arab and Indian traders, who made the island a major hub for the spice trade in the 19th century.
Some of the most valuable and sought-after spices were cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and cardamom, which were used for food, medicine, perfume, and rituals ¹.
Today, you can still see and smell the abundance of spices in Zanzibar’s markets, dishes, and festivals.
One of the best ways to learn more about the spices and their uses is to join a guided tour of a spice farm.
There are many spice farms around Zanzibar, such as the Tangawizi Spice Farm in Kianga Dole, the Kizimbani Farm near Zanzibar City, and the Kidichi Spice Farm in West District ².
On these tours, you will see how the spices are grown, harvested, and processed. You will also get to taste and smell different spices and fruits, such as ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, pineapple, jackfruit, and starfruit.
Some tours also include demonstrations of palm tree climbing, coconut opening, and soap making ³ ⁴ ⁵.
A spice tour is a must-do activity for anyone who wants to experience the essence of Zanzibar.

#7 Drive to Stone Town and take a boat to Prison Island.

Stone Town

Drive to Stone Town and park near the Old Fort (for Tsh3,000 all day) and take a boat tour to Prison Island. Ask your hotel to arrange the trip or use one of the many local tour companies online. When you return pop into Cape Town Fish Market for a Zanzi-beer and fish and chips or sushi.

Prison Island

There is an intriguing history that goes with this small island just off the coast of Stone Town, which was once used as a quarantine station for slaves and later as a prison.

Visitors can do on the island, such as visiting the giant tortoises, snorkeling in the coral reef, or relaxing on the beach.

Prison Island, or Changuu Island, is a small island off the coast of Stone Town, Zanzibar, that has an intriguing history and attractions. The island was originally used as a quarantine station for slaves in the 1860s by the first Sultan of Zanzibar, Majid bin Said ¹. Later, it was purchased by the British First Minister of Zanzibar, Lloyd Mathews, who built a prison complex on it in 1893 ². However, the prison was never used for its intended purpose and instead became a quarantine station for yellow fever cases from East Africa ². Today, the island is a government-owned tourist resort that offers a glimpse into its past and its natural beauty. Visitors can see the old prison buildings and hospital, as well as the ruins of a former leper colony ³. One of the main attractions of the island is the colony of giant tortoises that were brought from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. These tortoises are endangered and some of them are over 100 years old ⁴. Visitors can feed and touch them under the supervision of a guide. Another attraction of the island is the coral reef that surrounds it, which is ideal for snorkeling and swimming. The reef is home to a variety of colorful fish and marine life ⁵. The island also has a sandy beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the views of the ocean and Stone Town.

#8 Drive and take a boat to visit Chumbe Island.

If you are looking for a unique and eco-friendly destination in Zanzibar, you should definitely consider visiting Chumbe Island. Chumbe Island is a small privately owned island that is situated about 6 km west of the main island of Zanzibar and about 30 km off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa ¹. It is an award-winning nature reserve and marine park that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors who want to experience the beauty and diversity of Zanzibar’s natural environment.

Chumbe Island is accessible by boat from Zanzibar City or from Mbweni Beach. You can book your boat transfer with CHICOP when you make your reservation for your stay on Chumbe Island. The boat ride takes about 45 minutes and departs at 10 am from Zanzibar City or at 9:30 am from Mbweni Beach. The return boat departs at 8 am from Chumbe Island ².

Chumbe Island has something for everyone, whether you are interested in wildlife, culture, or relaxation.

Here are some of the things you can do on Chumbe Island:

Snorkel or dive in the coral reef sanctuary: Chumbe Island has one of the most pristine and diverse coral reefs in the world, with over 400 species of fish and 200 species of coral ².
The reef is fully protected and managed by the Chumbe Island Coral Park Ltd. (CHICOP), a non-profit organization that aims to conserve and restore the reef and its marine life.
You can join a guided snorkeling or diving tour with a marine biologist who will show you the wonders of the underwater world. You can also rent equipment or bring your own.
Explore the forest reserve: Chumbe Island also has a forest reserve that covers most of the island and hosts a variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the coconut crab, the Aders’ duiker, and the Ader’s bushbaby ². You can join a guided forest walk with a ranger who will teach you about the ecology and history of the island.
You can also visit the historical monuments on the island, such as the lighthouse, which was built by the British in 1904, and the mosque, which dates back to the 12th century ³.
Visit the education center: Chumbe Island has an education center that provides environmental education programs for local schools and communities, as well as visitors. You can learn more about the conservation efforts and challenges of CHICOP, as well as the culture and traditions of Zanzibar.
You can also see exhibits and displays on various topics related to the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Relax on the beach or in your eco-bungalow: Chumbe Island has a beautiful sandy beach where you can relax and enjoy the views of the ocean and the reef. You can also stay in one of the seven eco-bungalows that are designed to have zero impact on the environment. The bungalows are made of natural materials and use solar power, rainwater harvesting, composting toilets, and vegetative greywater filtration systems ². They also have private balconies, hammocks, and en-suite bathrooms. You can enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh seafood and local ingredients at the dining area or at your bungalow.

Chumbe Sustainable Tourism

Chumbe Island is not only a beautiful and relaxing destination, but also a model of sustainable tourism and conservation. By visiting Chumbe Island, you are supporting CHICOP’s mission to protect and restore the coral reef and forest ecosystems, as well as to provide environmental education and benefits for local people. CHICOP has won several awards and recognitions for its achievements, such as being certified as a Global Ecosphere Retreat by The Long Run Foundation, being mentioned in the UN Secretary General’s report on coral reefs protection, and being featured in National Geographic’s list of Unique Lodges of the World ².

Chumbe Island is a place where you can enjoy nature without harming it, where you can learn without being bored, where you can relax without feeling guilty. It is a place where you can have an unforgettable eco-experience that will inspire you.

#9 Drive to Matemwe.

Matemwe offers a perfect escape from the crowds and noise of other tourist areas. You can visit the seaweed farms, explore the nearby islands by boat or kayak, or relaxing in a hammock.

Matemwe is a serene and secluded beach village on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, where you can enjoy a perfect escape from the crowds and noise of other tourist areas.
Matemwe is a fishing community that lives in harmony with nature and the sea. You can witness their daily life and culture as they sail their traditional dhows, harvest seaweed, and sell their catch at the local market ¹.
Matemwe is also a gateway to the nearby islands and reefs that offer amazing opportunities for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and kayaking.
You can explore the coral gardens and marine life of Mnemba Atoll, which is one of the best diving spots in Africa ².
You can also visit the small islands of Muyuni and Mwana Wa Mwana, where you can see mangroves, birds, and monkeys ³.
Matemwe is also a place to relax and unwind in a hammock, enjoy a massage, or sip a cocktail while watching the sunset. You can choose from a range of accommodation options in Matemwe, from cozy cottages to luxurious villas, that offer comfort and privacy with stunning views of the ocean ⁴.

#10 Drive to Kendwa

Kenwa has one of the most beautiful and lively beaches in Zanzibar, where visitors can enjoy crystal clear water, soft white sand, and a variety of water sports. You can also enjoy the monthly full moon party at Kendwa Rocks if you like to party.

Kendwa is one of the most beautiful and lively beaches in Zanzibar, where visitors can enjoy crystal clear water, soft white sand, and a variety of water sports.
Kendwa is located on the northwest coast of Zanzibar, next to Nungwi village, and has a wide beach that is not affected by the tides. This means that you can swim and sunbathe at any time of the day ¹.
Kendwa is also a great place for water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing. You can rent equipment or join a tour from one of the many operators on the beach ².
Kendwa is also known for its events and parties that take place on the beach, especially during the full moon.
You can join the famous full moon party at Kendwa Rocks Hotel, where you can dance to live music and DJs until dawn ³.
Another event that attracts many visitors is the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), which takes place every July and showcases films, music, and art from Africa and beyond. You can watch screenings on the beach or at other venues around Zanzibar ⁴.
Kendwa is the perfect destination for those who want to have fun and enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar.

Conclusion:

Driving in Zanzibar is a wonderful way to explore the island’s diverse and beautiful attractions, from historic Stone Town to stunning beaches and reefs. You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing your own itinerary and pace, as well as the opportunity to interact with the local culture and people.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or romance, Zanzibar has something for everyone.
To plan your own trip to Zanzibar, you can find more information and booking options on these websites:
- Zanzibar Tourism: The official website of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, where you can find useful information on visa requirements, health and safety, transport, accommodation, activities, and events.
- Zanzibar Travel: A UK-based travel agency that specializes in tailor-made holidays to Zanzibar and Tanzania. They offer a wide range of packages and services, from flights and transfers to car rental and tours.
- Asilia Africa: A leading safari company that operates three luxury properties in Matemwe: Matemwe Lodge, Matemwe Retreat, and Matemwe Beach House. They offer exceptional service, comfort, and experiences in Zanzibar’s most pristine location.

Don’t wait any longer and book your dream holiday to Zanzibar today. You won’t regret it!

I hope you enjoyed this list of places to drive and see in Zanzibar. If you have any questions about renting a car in Zanzibar, hiring a motorbike or scooter rentals please just contact us!

Karibu and Enjoy Zanzibar! 🙂