3-Day Zanzibar Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Got a long weekend? Zanzibar is one of those rare destinations where three days is enough to experience the highlights, discover a couple of hidden corners, and still feel like you had a real vacation — not a sprint.

This itinerary balances iconic sights with local flavor so you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Before You Go: Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Best time to visit	June to October (dry season) and December to February
Currency	Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) and US Dollar widely accepted
Language	Swahili, English
3-day budget (mid-range)	$180
Climate	Tropical with two rainy seasons (March-May heavy rains, November-December short rains) and warm temperatures year-round

Day 1: Arrive, Settle In & First Impressions

Morning

Arrive in Zanzibar and head to your accommodation in the Stone Town — labyrinthine alleys with Arab, Indian, and Swahili architecture neighborhood — the best base for a short trip thanks to its central location and walkability. Drop your bags and grab a quick breakfast or brunch at a local cafe.

Afternoon

Start with Stone Town UNESCO old quarter, Zanzibar's most iconic landmark. Arriving in the early afternoon means you avoid the morning rush while the light is still excellent for photography. Budget about 2 hours here to explore fully.

After that, walk to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — it is close enough to reach on foot and offers a completely different experience. The contrast between these two sites captures the essence of Zanzibar.

Evening

Head to the Paje — east coast kite-surfing and boho beach vibes district for dinner. This is where locals go, and the prices reflect it. Order Zanzibar Pizza — street food crepe filled with meat, egg, and vegetables from Forodhani Gardens — it is the signature dish of Zanzibar and the perfect way to begin your culinary journey.

Day 1 budget estimate: $54

Day 2: Deep Dive Into Zanzibar

Morning

Rise early and head to Spice plantations before the crowds arrive. The first hour after opening is golden — fewer visitors, better light, and a more contemplative atmosphere.

Grab a mid-morning coffee in the Jambiani — quiet fishing village with authentic local culture area and people-watch for a while. Sometimes the best travel moments are unplanned.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore Prison Island (Changuu). This is one of Zanzibar's cultural gems and deserves at least 90 minutes of your time. If you are feeling adventurous, detour to Mtende village — quiet southeast coast settlement with barely any tourists nearby — most tourists walk right past it.

Next, stroll through the Kendwa — calm beach with no tidal issues and full moon parties neighborhood. Try Octopus Curry — tender octopus in coconut curry sauce from a street vendor — it costs a fraction of what restaurants charge and tastes just as good (arguably better).

Evening

Tonight is your splurge dinner. Find a well-reviewed restaurant in the Stone Town — labyrinthine alleys with Arab, Indian, and Swahili architecture area and order Mandazi — fried dough balls, the Swahili doughnut. A mid-range dinner with drinks will run about $18 per person.

After dinner, take an evening walk — Zanzibar has a completely different energy after dark. Forodhani Gardens — evening food market with live performances

Day 2 budget estimate: $66

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell

Morning

Use your final morning to see what most tourists miss. Head to Kizimkazi — dolphin-watching village with the oldest mosque in East Africa — a spot that rewards early risers with quiet beauty and authentic Zanzibar charm.

Pick up souvenirs at Stone Town markets — spices, kangas (wraps), and Tingatinga paintings. Skip the airport gift shops — the markup is brutal and the selection is generic.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon

End your trip with a leisurely brunch featuring Pilau — spiced rice with meat, a Swahili coast staple and a final coffee. Take a last photo from Stone Town carved wooden doors with brass studs before heading to the airport.

Day 3 budget estimate: $48

3-Day Budget Summary

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Accommodation (3 nights)	$21	$63	$240
Food (3 days)	$18	$54	$180
Activities	$12	$36	$120
Transport	$9	$27	$60
Total	$60	$180	$600

Pro Tips for a 3-Day Trip

1. Stay central. With only three days, commuting from the outskirts wastes precious hours. Stone Town — labyrinthine alleys with Arab, Indian, and Swahili architecture is your best bet.
2. Pack light. A carry-on means no baggage claim wait — you gain 30–45 minutes on arrival.
3. Pre-book the big attractions. Skip-the-line tickets for Stone Town UNESCO old quarter can save you an hour of queuing.
4. Eat one meal at a market. Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than a sit-down restaurant.
5. Do not over-schedule. Two or three activities per day is plenty. Leave room for serendipity.

Is 3 Days Enough for Zanzibar?

Three days will not cover everything, but it will cover enough to give you a genuine feel for the city. You will hit the highlights, eat the essential dishes, and — if you follow this itinerary — discover at least one spot that makes you feel like a local. For most travelers, that is the sweet spot.

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