Skip the tourist traps and head straight for the real gems in Zanzibar City. The private tours here offer incredible value, combining three must-see spots: Prison Island, with its giant tortoises; the pristine Nakupenda Beach; and the historically rich Stone Town, a UNESCO treasure. I’m especially fond of the full-day private excursion that packs in Stone Town’s winding alleys, aromatic spice farms, and wildlife encounters with playful dolphins and monkeys. All tours come with expert local guides who know their history cold, and most can handle wheelchairs.
Pro tip: Book during dry season for the best experience – the tours run rain or shine, but sunny days make a big difference.
Check out our favorite Zanzibar tours below.
Key Points
- Private guided tours offer comprehensive experiences in Zanzibar City, including visits to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, and the UNESCO-listed Stone Town.
- Stone Town tours highlight the city’s diverse cultural heritage, featuring key attractions like the former slave market, Sultan Palace, and intricate carved wooden doors.
- Full-day private tours provide opportunities to encounter dolphins and monkeys, along with visits to Stone Town and a spice farm.
- Tours are designed to accommodate wheelchair users and service animals, with private transportation and snorkeling equipment provided for comfort and accessibility.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with pay-later options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, make these guided experiences convenient for travelers.
Private Guided Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, Stone Town
The Private Guided Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, and Stone Town provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of Zanzibar’s cultural and natural highlights.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides, the tour takes guests to Prison Island to learn about its fascinating history, the stunning Nakupenda Beach for snorkeling and a seafood lunch, and the UNESCO-listed Stone Town for a guided walk through its captivating sites.
Wheelchair accessibility, snorkeling equipment, and private transportation ensure a seamless experience.
While some reviews mention weather disruptions and a rushed pace in certain areas, the tour generally earns high marks for its immersive and memorable offerings, with standout guides like Ibrahim, Amina, and Hazam.
Read our full review: Private Guided Tour to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, Stone Town Review
Book now: Check availability
Stone Town Guided Tour From Zanzibar
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Zanzibar’s UNESCO-listed Stone Town can embark on a guided half-day tour that showcases the city’s unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, Persian, and European cultural influences.
The tour takes guests to top sites, including the former slave market, Sultan Palace, and intricately carved wooden doors. During a 30-minute shopping break, travelers can browse for distinctive souvenirs.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, and a professional guide. Conservative attire is recommended, as the tour may not be wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
The tour operates with a minimum of two people per booking and offers morning or afternoon departure options.
Read our full review: Stone Town Guided Tour From Zanzibar Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Guided Private Dolphins Tour+ Monkeys + Stone Town &Spice Farm Zanzibar
This full-day guided private tour in Zanzibar allows travelers to experience the stunning natural beauty and cultural richness of the island.
Costing from $130 per person, the tour includes encounters with dolphins and monkeys, visits to Stone Town and a spice farm, and features private transportation, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
With a 4.7-star rating based on 6 reviews, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller riders, and those with service animals, though it may not be suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Private Dolphins Tour+ Monkeys + Stone Town &Spice Farm Zanzibar Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Zanzibar City offers a range of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From private tours to Prison Island, Nakupenda Beach, and Stone Town, to full-day excursions that include dolphin watching, monkey encounters, and spice farm visits, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. These guided tours provide an immersive and enriching experience, ensuring visitors make the most of their time in this captivating destination.