Overview

  • Duration:7 days 6 nights
  • Travelers:1 - 15 guests
This 7-day itinerary takes you through Zanzibar’s untouched natural landscapes, secret islands, ancient ruins, and authentic cultural villages. You will explore tidal roads, canoe across mangrove channels, walk through sacred forests, and swim in crystal-clear caves. Designed for explorers, photographers, and culture lovers, this journey reveals a side of Zanzibar that only locals know—far from the busy tourist routes
Read more

Highlights

  • Access Uzi Island through its famous tidal mud road
  • Canoe through one of Zanzibar’s most untouched mangrove systems
  • Experience the deep Swahili traditions of Makunduchi Village
  • Walk the Pete Mangrove Boardwalk and spot rare wildlife
  • Relax at Mtende Beach, a dramatic beach framed by cliffs
  • Discover the pristine marine world of Chumbe Island
  • Explore the ancient forests of the Jozani Quiet Zone
  • Enter Fukuchani Caves for swimming in natural pools
  • Enjoy a peaceful day at Pongwe Beach

Includes/Excludes

  • Accommodation (mid-range hotels / eco-lodges)
  • Daily breakfast + drinking water
  • All land transportation with a private driver
  • All entrance & conservation fees
  • Local guides in all destinations
  • Boat transfers (Uzi, Chumbe, Tumbatu)
  • Snorkeling gear for Chumbe
  • Mangrove canoeing at Uzi
  • International flights
  • Tipping
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Lunches and dinners not mentioned
  • Optional activities (diving, massages, etc.)

Itinerary

DAY 1 – Arrival in Zanzibar + Kidichi Persian Baths + Evening in Pongwe

Upon arrival you are welcomed by your guide and transferred toward the spice region of Zanzibar. Your first stop is the Kidichi Persian Baths, where you learn about the early Omani royal influence on the island. After exploring the baths and gardens, you continue to Pongwe Beach, famous for its untouched shoreline and calm ambiance. Spend the evening relaxing at your beachfront lodge with the sound of the waves around you.

DAY 2 – Uzi Island Tidal Adventure + Mangrove Canoeing

Your day begins with a drive over the tidal road to Uzi Island, a dramatic journey that can only be done during low tide. On arrival you meet local guides who take you on a traditional canoe ride through narrow mangrove channels. You visit small fishing villages, learn about local lifestyles, and enjoy fresh coconuts under palm trees. After the canoe experience, you return to your hotel for a relaxed afternoon.

DAY 3 – Pete Mangrove Walk + Jozani Quiet Zone

This morning you head to Pete Village, where the wooden mangrove boardwalk winds through a forest alive with mud crabs, egrets, and mangrove roots. The walk is peaceful, photogenic, and filled with nature sounds. From there you move deeper into the Jozani Quiet Zone, a lesser-visited section of the forest with enormous trees, butterflies, and calm forest paths. The afternoon is free for rest at your lodge.

DAY 4 – Makunduchi Cultural Experience + Sunset at Mtende Beach

Makunduchi Village offers a genuine look into Zanzibar’s rural culture. You spend the morning with local families, storytellers, and fishermen, learning about Swahili traditions, herbal medicine, and village architecture.
In the afternoon you continue south to Mtende Beach, one of Zanzibar’s most dramatic hidden beaches. With its cliffs, clear waters, and giant rock formations, Mtende is perfect for slow exploration and sunset photography.

DAY 5 – Full Day on Chumbe Island (Marine Sanctuary)

Today you board a boat to Chumbe Island, a protected eco-island known for some of the best coral reefs in East Africa. You snorkel in warm, clear waters full of colorful reef life, walk forest trails guided by rangers, and enjoy a well-prepared eco-lunch on the island. Chumbe’s natural beauty and tranquility make this one of the most memorable days of the trip.

DAY 6 – Fukuchani Ruins & Caves + Optional Nungwi Evening

Your morning begins at Fukuchani, where ancient coral stone structures blend with coastal landscapes. You descend into the cool caves for a refreshing swim in the natural pools. After exploring the ruins, you may choose to return to Pongwe for relaxation, or visit Nungwi for a livelier evening with shops and restaurants. The day ends at your lodge.

DAY 7 – Tumbatu Island Sacred Visit + Departure

Your final adventure takes you to Tumbatu Island, a culturally reserved community with ancient Islamic ruins, skilled artisans, and unspoiled landscapes. A local representative accompanies you and guides you through the villages, respecting the traditions and privacy of the island. After the cultural exploration, you return to the main island and transfer to the airport for your departure.

Frequently asked questions

Is this itinerary family-friendly?

Yes, although some activities like cave swimming and canoeing are better suited for older children.

Can the itinerary run in any season?

Yes, but Chumbe excursions depend on weather. Your guide will adjust when needed.

Is Tumbatu difficult to visit?

Access is controlled by village leaders, but your tour operator arranges all permissions in advance.

What should I expect at Uzi Island?

It is remote, calm, and local. No big hotels—just authentic island life, mangroves, tidal paths, and canoe channels.

Are vegetarian or halal meals available?

Yes, Zanzibar cuisine naturally includes halal and vegetable-based meals.