Rest & relaxation never felt so good
Zanzibar Extension
Overview
Zanzibar. Its name alone inspires romantic visions of mythical seafaring tales and indigo waters. Spend your days taking in the local Swahili culture and enjoying the beach: snorkel Mnemba Reef, walk a working spice farm and get lost in Stone Town.
Ask us about adding other excursions, from dhow cruises, diving and kayaking to cooking classes and a visit to Jozani Forest. Activities are booked directly through your hotel, and extra fees may apply.
Gallery
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Trip Highlights
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Snorkel Mnemba Reef
One of the island's top dive and snorkel spots is a short boat ride from the beach, with vibrant coral and abundant marine life. Book through your hotel's dive center; extra fees may apply.
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Walk a working spice farm
On the way to Stone Town you stop at a spice farm to see how cinnamon, clove and nutmeg are grown, and meet the farmers who have grown them for generations.
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Get lost in Stone Town
Stone Town's alleyways carry Arabic, African, Indian and European influence. A guided tour takes in the House of Wonders and the town's history as a slave and ivory trading hub.
Itinerary
Itinerary 1 itinerary
Day 1: Coral reefs and dhow sails on the Indian Ocean
Fly from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar and transfer to the island’s beautiful northern or eastern beaches for a relaxing tropical escape.
Discover Zanzibar’s picturesque coastline, where traditional fishing dhows sail across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Enjoy opportunities for snorkeling, diving and swimming among vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life, or simply unwind on pristine white-sand beaches.
After your safari adventure, fly to the idyllic island of Zanzibar, a tropical paradise nestled in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, transfer to the island’s stunning northern or eastern coastline, where pristine white-sand beaches, swaying palms and warm ocean breezes create the perfect setting for relaxation. Settle into the island’s laid-back atmosphere and enjoy a refreshing change of pace after your time in Tanzania’s wilderness.
Discover the natural beauty of Zanzibar’s spectacular coastline, where traditional wooden dhows glide across sparkling waters and local fishermen continue centuries-old maritime traditions. Beneath the surface, vibrant coral reefs teem with colorful marine life, offering exceptional opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Whether swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, strolling along powdery beaches or simply soaking in the tropical scenery, Zanzibar offers a delightful blend of relaxation and coastal adventure.
Popular Hotels
Zanzibar is home to many lodges to suit every style, taste, and activity preference. Below are a few examples our guests have loved; please contact us for recommendations, availability, and pricing.
Accommodations
Day 2: Snorkel, dive or unwind on the Indian Ocean
Spend a leisurely day enjoying Zanzibar’s pristine beaches and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Choose from boating, snorkeling or diving adventures to discover the island’s vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
Unwind on white-sand beaches, swim in warm tropical waters or simply relax beneath swaying palms.
Spend a leisurely day enjoying the tropical beauty of Zanzibar, where crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches and swaying palms create an idyllic island escape. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean invite exploration, with opportunities for boating, snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
For those seeking relaxation, Zanzibar’s tranquil beaches offer the perfect setting to unwind. Take a refreshing swim, stroll along the shoreline or simply lounge beneath the palms as gentle ocean breezes drift across the sand. Whether you choose adventure or relaxation, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 3: An optional boat trip to Mnemba Reef’s coral
Explore Mnemba Reef, one of Zanzibar’s premier snorkeling and diving destinations, known for its vibrant coral and abundant marine life.
Choose from optional boating, snorkeling or diving excursions to discover the beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Arrange activities through your hotel’s dive center, with schedules and availability varying and additional fees applicable.
Discover the vibrant underwater world of Zanzibar with an optional excursion to Mnemba Reef, one of the island’s premier snorkeling and diving destinations. Just a short boat ride offshore, this spectacular marine environment is home to colorful coral formations and an abundance of tropical fish, offering exceptional opportunities to explore the rich biodiversity of the Indian Ocean.
Whether you prefer snorkeling above the reef, diving beneath the surface or simply enjoying a scenic boat excursion, a variety of activities can be arranged through your hotel. Check with the dive center for available excursions and schedules, and choose an adventure that suits your interests. Additional fees may apply.
Day 4: Centuries of spice farming on the way to Stone Town
Visit a traditional Zanzibar spice farm to discover how cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and other aromatic spices are grown and harvested.
Meet local farmers and learn about Zanzibar’s centuries-old spice trade and agricultural traditions.
Explore historic Stone Town, wandering its narrow alleyways, colorful markets and distinctive architecture while discovering its diverse cultural heritage.
Discover Zanzibar’s rich agricultural heritage with a visit to a local spice farm on your way to historic Stone Town. Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar has a centuries-old tradition of cultivating aromatic spices that once drew traders from around the world. Explore the lush farm and learn how cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and other fragrant spices are grown and harvested. Meet local farmers who share their knowledge of traditional cultivation methods and the important role spices continue to play in Zanzibar’s culture and economy.
Continue to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where centuries of African, Arab, Indian and European influences have shaped a fascinating cultural landscape. Wander through a maze of narrow alleyways lined with intricately carved wooden doors, historic buildings and bustling markets. Discover the town’s complex history, including its role in the slave and ivory trades, while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable coastal community. With its distinctive architecture, rich heritage and lively streets, Stone Town offers an unforgettable glimpse into Zanzibar’s past and present.
Day 5: Discover Stone Town’s Rich Heritage & Bid Farewell to Zanzibar
Explore historic Stone Town on a guided walking tour, discovering its distinctive architecture, winding alleyways and rich cultural heritage.
Visit the House of Wonders and learn about Zanzibar’s complex history, including its role in the slave and ivory trades.
Relax in a day room at the Park Hyatt Zanzibar or Zanzibar Serena Hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Explore the fascinating history and cultural heritage of Stone Town on a guided walking tour through its winding alleyways and historic streets. Discover architectural treasures such as the House of Wonders, one of Zanzibar’s most iconic landmarks, and learn about the island’s complex past as a major center of the slave and ivory trades. Along the way, your expert guide shares stories of the diverse African, Arab, Indian and European influences that have shaped this remarkable coastal town.
After your exploration, enjoy time to relax in a day room at the Park Hyatt Zanzibar or Zanzibar Serena Hotel. Unwind in comfort, freshen up and prepare for your journey home before transferring to the airport for your departing flight.
Accommodations
Dates, Prices & Info
We recommend a 5-day stay, with prices starting at $2500 per person. Contact a Thomson Safari Specialist for details and to customize your extension.
Group Size
Extensions are custom additions to your safari itinerary. You may or may not be with other Thomson guests, but you’ll still enjoy small group travel.
What's Included
Your extension package includes all accommodations, meals, tours, services of guides and drivers, and internal air as noted in your itinerary.
Not Included
International airfare is not included.
Additional costs may include tips for your guides, drivers and staff, bar beverages, laundry service, phone calls, passport and visa fees, souvenirs, and travel insurance.
Your pre-departure packet includes visa application instructions and information on travel insurance and tipping.
Important Information
A 20% deposit is required to reserve your space. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Full payment is due 90 days prior to the first land day of the trip.
Notification of cancellation must be made in writing to Thomson Safaris. At the time we receive the cancellation, all moneys will be refunded less the following cancellation charges:
91 days or more before departure: cancellation fees equal the amount of your deposit
90 to 61 days before departure: 50% of the package price is non-refundable
60 to 46 days before departure: 65% of the package price is non-refundable
45 days or less before departure: 100% of the package price is non-refundable
No partial refunds will be given for unused meals, hotel rooms, airport transfers, etc., for any reason whatsoever. Thomson Safaris reserves the right to increase the tour price in the event of cost increases due to changes in airfares, currency fluctuations, park fee increases, fuel surcharges, taxes, etc. Accommodations are subject to change.
Travel Insurance
Thomson strongly encourages you to purchase travel insurance within two weeks of making your deposit to protect your investment, as we are not able to make changes to our cancellation policy for any reason. Travel Guard comes highly recommended by our guests.
Getting There & Getting Home
Zanzibar extensions may align best with international flights from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Julius Nyerere International Airport, or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Please check with your safari consultants or trip managers before making any flight arrangements.