Arriving at Zanzibar Airport is just the beginning of your adventure. If you’re a British traveler looking to explore the island beyond the usual stops, consider hitting the road. Renting a car in Zanzibar gives you the freedom to find hidden gems that most tourists miss. Sure, everyone knows about Stone Town and Nungwi. But what if you want something quieter, more local, or just different? Let’s take a look at road trips from Zanzibar Airport that will show you a whole new side of the island.
Driving in Zanzibar is easier than you think. Roads are mostly paved, and signs are often in English. Plus, as a British tourist, you’ll feel right at home driving on the left side of the road. Most rental cars are automatic, and local traffic is light outside the main towns. Navigation apps work well in most areas, especially near popular destinations.
You won’t need to follow a tour group or rush through places you want to enjoy longer. Stop whenever you like for photos, try roadside snacks, or visit a beach that isn’t in a brochure. With your own vehicle, avoiding tourist crowds and exploring Zanzibar your way is easier. Having a car is also more convenient. You can store your luggage, keep extra clothes or snacks in the car, and take breaks when you want. Whether you're planning day trips or overnight stays, you are in control of your schedule.
Before rushing into town, it’s worth knowing that some of Zanzibar’s most charming spots are a short drive from the airport. Whether you're into quiet beaches, marine adventures, or cultural sites, you don’t have to travel far. Here are eight easy-to-reach destinations near Zanzibar Airport.
Fumba Peninsula is a quiet, undeveloped corner of southwest Zanzibar. To reach it, drive west on Nyerere Road and turn left at the Kombeni junction onto Fumba Road. Fumba offers access to Menai Bay Conservation Area, known for dolphin sightings, sandbanks, and coral reefs. It’s also home to eco-lodges like Fumba Beach Lodge. Activities include kayaking, sunset dhow cruises, and snorkel tours. The area is ideal for nature lovers seeking peace. Fuel up at Kombeni, as services are limited farther out. Parking is free at most lodges.
Located 60 kilometers from the airport, Kizimkazi lies on the island’s southern tip. The drive takes about 60 minutes via Kibele Road. Once a fishing village, Kizimkazi is now known for its dolphin-watching tours, which leave early from Kizimkazi-Dimbani beach. Tours cost $20 to $65 and last about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll also find the 12th-century Kizimkazi Mosque here, which is one of East Africa’s oldest Islamic structures. Roads are mostly paved but narrow near the coast. Bring modest clothing for religious sites and reef-safe sunscreen for marine activities.
Mangapwani is about 28 kilometers from the airport and can be reached via Malawi Road. Expect a 1-hour drive. This spot is best known for the Mangapwani Slave Caves, which are historical coral chambers once used during the slave trade. Tours cost around $30. The nearby beach is undeveloped but perfect for a quiet afternoon. There are no facilities, so bring water and snacks. Parking is free, and fuel is available in Bububu. If you enjoy history and a quiet coastline, this makes a rewarding short trip.
Just 16 kilometers north of Zanzibar Airport, Chuini is reached by heading up via Malawi Road. The main draw is the ruins of a 19th-century palace built by Sultan Barghash. The site offers ocean views, stone arches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Nearby lodges serve lunch and drinks, and parking is available on-site. Some paths may be uneven, so bring good footwear. This is a great quick-stop destination for history fans or those seeking a peaceful escape near the city.
Chumbe Island is a protected marine reserve and eco-lodge accessible only by boat. First, drive 10 kilometers from the airport to Mbweni Ruins Hotel. Boat transfers to Chumbe must be booked in advance and cost around $90 per person for a day trip. The trip includes snorkeling, forest walks, and meals. Chumbe’s coral reefs are among the healthiest in East Africa. No outside boats are allowed. There are no shops or phone signal, so pack accordingly. The boat departs around 10 AM and returns by 4 PM. Parking at Mbweni is secure and free. It’s an ideal trip for conservation-minded travelers.
Bububu is a small town on the Tanzanian island of Unguja. The area offers a lively glimpse into daily Zanzibari life, with small shops, local eateries, and busy streets that come alive, especially on weekends. While not touristy, Bububu offers local culture and coastal charm. Travelers can join 4x4 safaris through nearby inland areas or take island-hopping boat trips that explore the surrounding waters. It’s a great base for those looking to balance relaxation with light adventure near the coast.
Fuji Beach is the main attraction here. It's a quiet public beach outside Bububu. The beach doesn’t have major resorts or facilities, but there’s a local café and some snack vendors nearby. The sand is clean, and the water is safe for wading. However, there are no lifeguards or rental shops around.
Matemwe is a quiet coastal village about 53 kilometers from Zanzibar Airport, with a drive time of around 1 hour and 12 minutes via Nyerere Road. Known for its soft white beaches and clear turquoise water, Matemwe is a peaceful escape away from busier tourist spots. It serves as the main access point to Mnemba Atoll, one of the top places in Zanzibar for snorkeling and diving. Day trips to the atoll usually include dolphin sightings, coral reef exploration, and fresh seafood lunches on the boat.
The village itself offers more than just beach lounging. Visit local seaweed farms, where women harvest and dry seaweed used in cosmetics and food. You can go sunrise kayaking along the shore when the tides are calm. If you are interested in cultural experiences, some lodges offer Swahili cooking classes or village walks led by locals. Fuel stations are in Kinyasini, and while most resorts accept card payments, always carry cash for shops and guides.
Marumbi is a laid-back village located about 37 kilometers from the airport via Nyerere Road. The village is known for its quiet setting and proximity to Uroa Bay. The main draw here is the Uroa Blue Adventure, a full-day sailing and snorkeling trip that departs from nearby Uroa Beach. Marumbi itself is quieter, lined with palm trees and small lodges.
It is a small coastal village on the western edge of Chwaka Bay on Zanzibar Island. While the scenery is peaceful and charming, the beach has mixed swimming conditions. During low tide, the water recedes far out, making it a long walk to reach deeper areas. At high tide, the water stays shallow and can be a bit muddy, which makes swimming less ideal. Many travelers prefer hotel pools or exploring the coast to find better swimming spots.
Despite that, Marumbi is home to one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. This unique ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife, including the rare red colobus monkey. Guided mangrove tours are popular here, and you can learn about the area’s plant and animal life while walking through peaceful trails and wooden boardwalks.
For those drawn to the ocean, Marumbi is still a great base. The nearby beaches offer options for sunbathing, snorkeling, and boat trips. The coral reefs off the coast are home to tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes dolphins. Adventure-seekers can try water sports like windsurfing, kiteboarding, or diving. Cultural trips to Jozani Forest are also easy to access from here.
When driving in Zanzibar, stick to the speed limits, especially near towns and villages. There are frequent speed bumps and police checks. Local drivers may stop suddenly or overtake without warning, so drive cautiously. Always wear your seatbelt and make sure your headlights work, especially if driving near dusk.
If you plan to explore rural spots, leave with a full tank. Fuel stations can be sparse outside towns. Lastly, carry your international driving permit, passport copy, and insurance documents while on the road. Most rental cars come with basic insurance, but double-check what's covered.
Looking for a quieter route that skips the crowds? This 3-day itinerary is perfect for British tourists in Zanzibar who want scenic drives, peaceful beaches, and a more authentic local experience, far from the usual tourist traps.
After landing at Zanzibar Airport, pick up your rental car and drive about 51 minutes north to Mangapwani. Start your adventure by visiting the Mangapwani Slave Caves for a glimpse into Zanzibar’s past, then head to the nearby beach for a peaceful break. The area is quiet and often overlooked, so you won’t have to deal with crowds. After soaking up the coastal views, drive about 20 minutes south to Chuini, where you can explore the ruins of Sultan Barghash’s old palace. End your day with a relaxing dinner and overnight stay at a lodge in Chuini.
In the morning, drive 1 hour and 20 minutes from Chuini to Kizimkazi, located on Zanzibar’s southern coast. Book a dolphin-watching tour early, as mornings offer the best chance to see them. After your boat trip, explore the quiet village and visit the ancient Kizimkazi Mosque. Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local beach restaurant, then decide whether to stay the night in a nearby eco-lodge or return to your base in Chuini. Either way, you’ll get a good mix of wildlife, history, and relaxation on this day.
Start your final day with a scenic 1 hour and 20-minute drive from Chuini or Kizimkazi to the Fumba Peninsula. Known for its calm waters and natural beauty, Fumba is a great place to unwind before your flight. You can enjoy kayaking, book a lunch dhow cruise, or simply relax at a beachfront café. Menai Bay offers some of the most beautiful coastal views on the island. By late afternoon, start returning to the airport, which is only a 30-minute drive away. It’s the perfect end to a peaceful and scenic road trip through Zanzibar.
You've barely scratched the surface after soaking in Zanzibar’s quiet beaches, coastal villages, and scenic drives. There’s still so much more to explore. Road trips from Zanzibar Airport let you skip the usual crowds and experience the island’s hidden gems at your own pace. Whether chasing dolphins in Kizimkazi or kayaking in Fumba, having your ride makes the journey more flexible and fun.
If you’re ready to hit the road, renting a car with FinalRentals is the way to go. With flexible pick-up points, easy booking, and reliable vehicles, your adventure starts when you land.
