Tour Overview
Discover the magic of East Africa’s coast on this unforgettable 8-day, safari that blends rich Swahili culture, fascinating history, and stunning white-sand beaches. Begin your journey on Prison Island, known for its giant tortoises and turquoise waters. Continue to vibrant Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with narrow alleys, markets, and ancient architecture. Next, relax and explore the dreamy shores of Zanzibar, where spice farms and soft beaches await. Cross into Kenya for two days in historic Mombasa, exploring old forts and coastal markets, before ending your adventure on the pristine beaches of Diani, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and unwinding. This itinerary offers the ideal blend of adventure, culture and relaxation for travelers who want to truly immerse themselves in East Africa’s coastal charm.
Destinations
Destinations:
Prison Island, Stone Town, Zanzibar, Mombasa and Diani
Transport:
4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
Accommodation:
Mid-range or Luxury Lodges/Tented Camps
Best For: Wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers
Day by Day
Arrival at Prison Island
Start your adventure with a boat ride from Zanzibar to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. Famous for its giant Aldabra tortoises, this island offers a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s history. Enjoy time to feed and interact with the tortoises, explore the old prison ruins, and swim or snorkel in the clear waters around the island. Return to Zanzibar in the afternoon for dinner and overnight at your beach hotel.
Explore Stone Town
Spend the day exploring Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar. Walk through narrow winding streets filled with spice markets, colorful doors and lively bazaars. Visit the Old Fort, House of Wonders, Sultan’s Palace, and the former slave market to learn about the island’s rich heritage. Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch, and in the evening, wander down to Forodhani Gardens for local street food and sunset views. Overnight in Stone Town.
Spice Farms and Beaches
After breakfast, visit a spice farm to see, touch, and smell the spices that made Zanzibar famous. Learn about cloves, nutmeg, vanilla and more. In the afternoon, transfer to one of Zanzibar’s stunning beaches. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on powdery white sands, swimming in the turquoise sea, or indulging in a beachside massage. Dinner and overnight at your beach resort.
Snorkeling at Zanzibar
Enjoy another full day in Zanzibar. Take an optional boat trip to Mnemba Atoll for world-class snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish, or go dolphin watching along the coast. Alternatively, unwind at your resort, explore local shops, or stroll along the beach. End the day with a sunset dhow cruise for a magical experience. Dinner and overnight at your beach hotel.
Zanzibar - Mombasa
After breakfast, take a flight or ferry to Kenya’s coastal city of Mombasa. Check in to your hotel and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, explore Mombasa Old Town with its winding alleys, Swahili architecture and vibrant markets. Visit Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the city’s Portuguese and Omani history. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant and overnight in Mombasa.
Discovering Mombasa
Spend the day exploring Mombasa further. Visit the bustling spice markets, local curio shops, and stroll through Haller Park, a beautiful nature sanctuary home to giraffes, hippos, and giant tortoises. In the afternoon, relax on one of Mombasa’s beaches, like Nyali or Bamburi, before returning to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Mombasa - Diani
After breakfast, transfer to Diani Beach, one of Africa’s most beautiful coastal gems. Check in to your beachfront resort and spend the afternoon enjoying the powdery sands and crystal-clear waters. Go snorkeling, try kite surfing, or simply relax under a palm tree with a cocktail in hand. Dinner and overnight at your Diani resort.
Final Beach Bliss and Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with ocean views. Spend your last day soaking up the sun, taking a final swim, or shopping for local souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, check out and transfer to the airport for your onward journey, leaving with unforgettable memories of East Africa’s most enchanting coastal destinations.
Accommodations
Inclusions
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Park Entry Fees
- Game Drives
- Bottled Drinking Water
- Government Taxes and Levies
Exclusions
- International Flights
- Visa Fees
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Tips and Gratuities
- Optional Activities
- Extra Meals or Accommodation
