Zanzibar Island Tour: Nungwi to Paje in One Day

Five stops across Zanzibar in nine hours, from sea turtles to limestone caves to a restaurant on the ocean.

A full-day guided tour of Zanzibar covering Nungwi, Stone Town, Kuza Cave and Paje Beach, with private transportation and a multilingual guide. Start at Baraka Aquarium to see rescued sea turtles, walk Nungwi Beach to watch dhow boat building, explore the UNESCO-listed Stone Town maze, swim in the mineral-rich waters of Kuza Cave, dine at the Rock Restaurant perched on the ocean, and end at Paje Beach.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Zanzibar Island highlights

• Visit Baraka Natural Aquarium
• Stroll along Nungwi Beach
• Watch dhow boat building
• Explore Stone Town alleys
• Swim in Kuza Cave waters
• Dine at The Rock Restaurant
• Relax at Paje Beach

The experience

The day starts at Baraka Natural Aquarium in the north, where you get close to rescued sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts on the island. From there, Nungwi Beach is a short walk. You'll stroll the shore, meet local fishermen preparing their catch, and see the traditional craft of dhow boat building that has been passed down through generations.

Stone Town, the UNESCO World Heritage site at the heart of Zanzibar, takes up the middle of the day. You move through its narrow cobbled alleys and past centuries-old buildings that blend Arabic, Indian and European architecture. The House of Wonders, the Sultan's Palace and the Old Slave Market each tell a piece of the island's layered history, and the bazaars sell spices, crafts and textiles. The route includes time to wander at your own pace.

South of Stone Town lies Kuza Cave, a limestone formation with crystal-clear turquoise water. The mineral-rich pool is believed to have healing properties, and you can swim in the cave's peaceful setting before heading to the Rock Restaurant, which sits on a rocky outcrop in the Indian Ocean. At high tide you arrive by boat. At low tide you walk out to it. The menu centers on fresh seafood and local dishes with views across the water. The day ends at Paje Beach on the southeast coast, where you can swim in the shallow turquoise waters or simply rest on the sand as the light fades.

What’s included

• Private transportation for the full day.
• a multilingual guide in English, Spanish, French, German or Italian.
• bottled water and soda.
• all entrance fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

AgesAdult (24 to 73 years) · Senior (74 and older) · Youth (11 to 23 years) · Child (3 to 10 years) · Infant (1 to 2 years): free

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French, German and Italian

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyInfant seats availableNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Wise Tour Guide

Is this one for you?The guide speaks your language (English, Spanish, French, German or Italian), so the history and culture of each stop come through without translation delays. Children from age one travel comfortably, and all areas of the tour, including transport and sites, are wheelchair accessible.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French, German and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (11 to 23 years); Child (3 to 10 years); Infant (1 to 2 years): free.

What is Baraka Aquarium and why is it included in the tour?

Baraka Natural Aquarium is a natural lagoon on Zanzibar's northern tip that rescues and cares for sea turtles. You visit to see the turtles swim and learn about the conservation work that protects them, and during special events you can help release them back into the ocean.

Can I swim at Kuza Cave, and what makes the water special?

Yes, Kuza Cave has crystal-clear turquoise water that is safe to swim in. The mineral-rich water is believed to have healing properties, and the cave holds cultural significance as a site once used for spiritual rituals and traditional healing practices.

How does the Rock Restaurant work if it's in the middle of the ocean?

The Rock Restaurant sits on a rocky outcrop in the Indian Ocean. At low tide you can walk out to it on foot. At high tide a short boat ride gets you there. The timing depends on the day's tides, and your guide will arrange the approach.

Is Stone Town just a walking tour, or do I visit specific landmarks?

Stone Town is explored on foot through its maze of narrow alleys and cobbled streets. The route includes the House of Wonders, the Sultan's Palace and the Old Slave Market, and you'll pass through bustling bazaars and have time to wander at your own pace.

What should I bring for a nine-hour day that includes swimming?

The tour includes bottled water and soda throughout the day. Bring swimwear for Kuza Cave and Paje Beach, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes for Stone Town's uneven streets. Your guide speaks English, Spanish, French, German or Italian, so language is not a barrier.