How to Enjoy Zanzibar, Tanzania Like a Local Visitor

Zanzibar is not just a name you hear on travel shows; it’s an island with warm sea, old towns, and smells that hang in the air like spices from far away lands. The islands of Zanzibar, Tanzania, feel like stepping back in time and walking through a living storybook. I spent weeks there with no big plans, just curiosity and a small backpack. What I found were places both famous and quiet, smells of cloves and cardamom, and people with smiles ready to greet you. If you want to understand what Zanzibar really means beyond pretty beaches, read on.

Getting Close to Zanzibar’s Old Town

Stone Town is Zanzibar’s beating heart. Its narrow alleys and carved wooden doors tell stories older than many countries. Walking through its maze is like meeting history in person. At dawn, fishermen push their boats into the Indian Ocean, and by afternoon, spice merchants fill the air with sweet and strong smells. One day, I met an old man peeling cloves; he said Zanzibar’s nickname “Spice Island” is no joke. The markets are chaotic, but that’s the charm. Not far from the water, you can sit at a tiny café and enjoy fresh sugarcane juice.

The House of Wonders is a grand place with a rooftop view showing the sea and rooftops below. It was the first building in East Africa with electricity and a big clock. Nearby, the Old Fort hosts local music and dancing in the evenings. These spots are popular for good reasons, but don’t stop just there. A quiet walk along the waterfront will lead you to old fishermen repairing their nets or children playing in small squares. Soak it all in slowly – Stone Town’s beauty is in its small moments.

Hidden Zanzibar Corners to Find Peace

While beaches like Nungwi and Kendwa pull crowds, I found quieter places on the east coast that felt like a secret. Pongwe Beach is one such lovely spot with soft sand and calm waters. It’s perfect if you want to hear waves and bird songs only, with few people around. The village nearby is small, and locals greet visitors with warmth. I once watched women weaving mats under a mango tree while chatting about their day. These peaceful moments show Zanzibar’s gentle pace.

Another quiet gem is Jozani Forest. A short ride from Stone Town, it holds rare red colobus monkeys, curious and quick. Walking on the soft earth under tall trees, you almost forget you are on an island famous for its beaches. The forest’s guide shared legends of spirits living in the trees-locals believe these woods are special beyond what eyes see. It’s a good place to feel nature’s quiet power away from the tourist buzz.

Where to Sleep in Zanzibar

Choosing where to stay can shape your whole day. I skipped big resorts and found homely guesthouses and small lodges that felt like putting my feet into local life. Stone Town has cozy places right in the middle of everything, where you can open your window to the sounds of the street and smell freshly baked chapati. On the coast, bungalows under palm trees make waking up to ocean breezes easy. Prices vary, but you don’t have to spend much to sleep well and meet friendly hosts.

Many homes rent rooms with clean sheets and cold water, perfect after a day in the sun. Sometimes, breakfast comes with fresh tropical fruits and stories from the hosts about their family or Zanzibar’s history. It’s a different feeling from big hotels, something more personal and grounded. If you want quiet nights, choose places a little away from main roads and tourist areas. You’ll find peace and starry skies that make you wonder about the vast ocean around.

Food and Neighborhood Flavors in Zanzibar

Food here is its own kind of adventure. In Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens at night, vendors grill fish and prepare sweet snacks. Try the Zanzibar pizza-a thin dough stuffed with cheese, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a pan. Not the usual pizza you know, but a spicy, tasty treat. Also, don’t miss urojo, a yellow soup with mango, fried potatoes, and tamarind-a snack that first confused me but soon became a favorite.

For a closer look at local eats, a walk through the small alleys of the Darajani Market is essential. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and nuts fill the stalls. On the east coast, villagers prepare coconut rice and fish stews flavored with lime and chili. Sharing a meal with a local family once ended in me being handed a huge bowl of sweetness called “mandazi”-kind of like doughnuts, but softer and not too sweet.

Moving Around Zanzibar

Getting from the airport to Stone Town is simple by bus or shared minibuses; they are busy but cheap. Once in town, most places are reachable on foot, especially if you like wandering. For longer trips, dala-dalas (small shared minibuses) run between villages and beaches. They’re lively, crowded, and fun if you’re up for a local-style ride. Don’t expect exact schedules, just show up and hop on.

There are also autoprickshaws painted in bright colors. They move quickly through the narrow roads but agree on the price before you jump in. Renting a bicycle can be another good option if you want freedom without speed; the island is flat, and the breeze cools you down. Just watch out for potholes and watch for kids playing near the road.

Customs and Local Life in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s culture is a blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences. Many people are Muslim, so dressing modestly shows respect, especially in Stone Town and villages. A light scarf to cover shoulders when walking through markets is a good idea. Greetings are important here; saying “Jambo” or “Habari” with a smile can open many doors. Also, asking permission before taking photos of people is polite-you’ll often get a smile or a story in return.

Another custom is removing shoes when entering homes or some shops. It’s a sign of respect and keeps floors clean. Keep in mind that public displays of affection are not common and can make locals uncomfortable. The pace of life can feel slow compared to cities you know, but that’s part of Zanzibar’s charm. People take their time, and you will find it easier to breathe and enjoy simple moments.

Unusual Stories and Surprises From Zanzibar

Did you know Stone Town once was part of the trade route for spices and slaves? Its walls hold secrets of times when merchants from Oman, India, and Europe met here. Walking by the old slave market site, you feel the weight of history mixed with hope for freedom. Locals tell tales of sultans and sailors, pirates and poets. One evening, I heard a story about the “Door of No Return,” a small gate once used to take slaves away from the island.

For travelers fond of unique local flavors and city charm, Prague offers delightful places and tastes, much like Zanzibar’s own special scenes. Discover more about Prague’s must-see spots and traditional treats in the Must-See Places and Local Flavors in Prague, Czech Republic.

On a lighter note, locals say Zanzibar has the biggest sea cucumbers in the world! These odd creatures live on the ocean floor, and fishermen sometimes find them as big as a loaf of bread. They’re used in Asian medicine and cooking. It’s a quirky fact you won’t see on every postcard but adds to the island’s charm. Keep your eyes open for small markets selling handmade crafts with shells and beads-you might find a souvenir with a story.

Author: Olivia Martinez

Luxury travel blogger visiting the world's most iconic hotels and resorts.