5 Days / 4 Nights in Zanzibar

With five days in Zanzibar, you have ample time to explore the island’s diverse attractions, from its historic Stone Town to its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Here’s a suggested itinerary for making the most of your time:

5 Days / 4 Nights in Zanzibar itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Stone Town

Morning: Arrive in Zanzibar and transfer to your accommodation in Stone Town.
Afternoon: Explore Stone Town’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and cultural sites. Visit attractions such as the Old Fort, House of Wonders, and Sultan’s Palace Museum. Don’t miss the bustling markets and artisan workshops.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant, sampling traditional Swahili cuisine while enjoying views of the Indian Ocean.

Day 2: Spice Tour and Cultural Immersion

Morning: Embark on a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar’s spice trade history. Visit a spice farm to see, smell, and taste various spices and tropical fruits.
Afternoon: Explore more of Stone Town, delving deeper into its rich history and culture. Visit sites like the Old Slave Market, Freddie Mercury House, and the Anglican Cathedral.
Evening: Attend a traditional Taarab music performance or dine at a local restaurant specializing in Swahili dishes.

Day 3: Beach Day in the North

Morning: Head to the northern beaches of Nungwi or Kendwa, known for their pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
Afternoon: Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, sunbathing, or participating in water sports like snorkeling, diving, or sailing.
Evening: Enjoy a beachfront dinner featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.

Day 4: Beach Day in the East

Morning: Explore the beaches of the east coast, such as Paje or Jambiani, known for their laid-back vibe and stunning sunrises.
Afternoon: Relax on the beach, try kiteboarding or windsurfing, or take a stroll along the shore.
Evening: Experience a beach bonfire or dine at a beachside restaurant, savoring the flavors of Zanzibari cuisine.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning in Zanzibar at leisure. Take a final swim in the ocean or enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Afternoon: Check out of your accommodation and explore any remaining sights or shops in Stone Town.
Departure: Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your onward journey or continue your travels in Tanzania.

Optional Activities:

Visit Prison Island (Changuu Island) to see giant tortoises and enjoy snorkeling.
Explore Jozani Forest to see rare red colobus monkeys and other wildlife.
Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare Swahili dishes.
Visit a local village to experience Zanzibar’s culture and traditions firsthand.

This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Zanzibar, from its vibrant culture and history to its idyllic beaches and natural beauty, while also providing opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and preferences.

Jon B

2024-03-22

Machame Route to the summit of Kilimanjaro We did the 7 day Machame route through GMExpeditions and they were fantastic. Our group numbered 14 in total and we were accompanied by a staff of 9 guides and 50 porters. The staff were very accommodating, friendly, and supportive. Thank you for everything! I would highly recommend this company.

jimmcgowan18

2024-03-22

A wonderful adventure with GM Expeditions While summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro is a wonderful, individual accomplishment, it is never done alone. For our February 2023 climb, our group of 14 hikers were supported by a talented and hardworking team of guides, cooks and porters from GM Expeditions. Before the climb, I mentioned to owner Godlisten Moshi that I was fascinated to see how this was all going to work, how you move a team of climbers up (and down) a mountain for seven days. And it IS amazing! From first-thing-in-the-morning “breakfast tea” to morning singing before hiking to the sight of our bright yellow tents waiting for us at every new camp, I marveled at GM Expedition’s efficiency and thoughtfulness. First we had a a wonderful group of knowledgable and supportive guides who helped us hike deliberately yet safely and slowly (pole pole!) Second, the resourceful cooks and humorous serving staff kept us well-fed and well-entertained with a constantly changing menu that helped us overcome our altitude-induced lack of appetite. And finally the porters! Strong and sure-footed, they ensured that every camp - despite the ever-changing weather - was a welcoming respite after a long day on the mountain. We were a group ranging in ability and age (24 to 76), yet GM Expeditions amazingly made it possible for us to all summit together. The satisfaction I feel when I look at the photo of our team and guides in front of the iconic summit signage is a testament to GM Expedition’s skill at leading groups up Kili. I am forever grateful.

Str Sol

2024-03-15

Mt. Kilimanjaro with Safari I went on a trek to Mt. Kilimanjaro with a group. Our local guide company, GM Expeditions, more than met my expectations in our attempt to summit Uhuru Peak on Mt. Kilimanjaro. The accommodations on this adventure were luxurious for a backpack and the food was excellent and more than enough. Most importantly, Godlisten and his crew of porters and guides, left a major impact with their thoughtful and caring actions throughout. With them, this challenging hike became an enjoyable and fun experience. Especially, Emmanuel Temba, who without his help and support, I couldn't have gone as far as I did. I will be forever grateful for his and their kindness. A few of us continued on a safari to Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti NP with a driver and guide from GM Expeditions, Ezekiel. Not only was he a great driver, he knew the parks' secrets and we saw every animal imaginable. He was also flexible in honoring requests to shop and visit the Maasai tribe. Again, lodging was beautiful and the food and service were excellent, including our packed lunches. All in all, a wonderful and exciting experience!

Jens H

2024-02-19

Ein unvergessliches Abenteuer auf dem Kilimandscharo mit der Lemocho Route Ich bin Ende Januar mit GMExpeditions auf den Kilimandscharo gestiegen. Ich habe diese Informationen vor meiner Reise vermisst und hoffe, dass sie euch bei eurer Planung helfen werden: 1. Wenn ihr plant, den Berg zu besteigen, kann ich euch empfehlen, einen lokalen Veranstalter wie GMExpeditions zu wählen, anstatt eines internationalen wie Zara. Lokale Veranstalter haben ein besseres Netzwerk zu Guides, Trägern und Köchen. Die Guides verfügen über viel Erfahrung und können gesundheitliche Probleme, insbesondere in Bezug auf die Höhe, besser einschätzen. Sie wissen auch, wie sie deine Leistungsfähigkeit bewerten und können dir hilfreiche Auskünfte geben. Die Köche bereiten eine Vielzahl von schmackhaften Speisen zu, was besonders in der Höhe wichtig ist, wenn der Appetit nachlässt. Schließlich tragen die zuverlässigen Helfer zum gesamten Erlebnis bei. Sie sind schnell am Camp, bauen die Zelte an den besten Plätzen auf und fallen nur sehr selten aus. 2. Wenn ihr auf den Berg geht, empfehle ich euch, ein Wasserfiltersystem mitzunehmen. Das Trinkwasser wird aus Bächen gewonnen und obwohl es abgekocht wird, geschieht dies nicht immer bei 100°C und auch nicht besonders lange. Zur Desinfektion werden Chlortabletten verwendet, aber ich persönlich fand den Geschmack kaum zu ertragen.Für wenig mehr Geld gibt es mechanische Wasserfiltersysteme, die bereits viele Keime ausfiltern können. 3. Ihr könnt die Reise ruhig alleine antreten, habt keine Angst davor: Es ist nicht immer leicht jemanden zu finden, der mit einem den Berg besteigen möchte. Viele Bergsteiger reisen alleine und es bilden sich hier oft tolle Freundschaften. Gerade größere Gruppen orientieren sich häufig am Tempo der langsamsten Teilnehmer. Das kann bei den langen täglichen Touren mitunter sehr anstrengend werden.

vicki h

2024-02-13

An unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. Our trip was amazing. Our drivers/guides (Musa & Ezekeal) were extremely knowledgeable and enjoyable. We did the 6 day safari. All of our accommodations were exceptional and the food was great. We saw over 30 lions with many baby cubs, a leopard and a couple of cheetahs. Water Buffalo, giraffes, elephants, zebras (just to name a few. Too much to name) that were right outside our vehicle. We will remember this trip with family forever. Thank you for making this trip unforgettable. Steve & Vicki Humphreys

Nancy P

2024-01-21

Kili and Serengeti National Park Great and memorable experience! Thank you everyone for making my first time in Africa safe and enjoyable. Very professional guides takes you to the Kili and make your hike enjoyable. The amazing guides and porters are always ready to support and to take care of you. Kind and friendly people at the Mgunga Tend Lodge. The service was excellent and the food was delicious, too. Incredible view. Definitely an experience that I want to repeat. Thank you Godlisten!!! :)

Agnieszka G

2023-10-22

Highly recommend GM Expeditions for Kili climb and safari. GM Expeditions is a local outfit that does a great job taking care of the tourists and taking care of the mountain and its employees. Ethical, practical, expert guide service and safari too. Very impressed.

Leigh H

2023-10-10

GM Expeditions to summit Kilimangaro The guides and porters were great, they were always there to support. We went with a group of 6 friends and we all summited with their help.

boendgend

2023-10-07

Immer wieder mit Euch Es war wunderbar. Organisation, Porter,Guide und Küchenzelt alles toll. Keine Sorge, wenn Euch beim Abstieg und überhaupt die Höhenkrankheit erwischen sollte Ihr seid in besten Händen. Wenn noch mal dann mit Euch.

Miriam L

2023-10-05

This is who you want o take you to the top of Africa!!! Especially as a senior Every interaction with hogue company was wonderful. Absolutely loved the crew of 25 that got us to the top of Kilimonjaro. Chichibaba was our team leader and guide. He spoke excellent English and couldn’t have more caring and helpful. Th e whole crew was superb! I don’t think we would have been successful without them. Loved The singing and dancing to motivate us. I’m 66 and my husband is 68 years young. And afterward Godlisten organized a wonderful three day Safari for us. Mussla was a great guide. All the hotels between times were so wonderful as well