After an adventurous safari and diving trip, we wrapped up our travels with a few days of pure relaxation in Zanzibar—a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. This beach holiday was exactly what we needed to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Indian Ocean. We based ourselves at the Nungwi Beach Resort by Turaco in Nungwi, a spot known for its pristine beaches, calm tides, and clear waters that make it ideal for swimming throughout the day. The resort offered a great pool and easy access to the ocean, making it a perfect base for relaxation.

Beach Days at Nungwi

Nungwi is known for its picture-perfect beach, crystal-clear waters, and lively atmosphere. We spent most of our time at the resort, lounging by the pool, enjoying fresh mango daquiries and passion fruit mojitos, and taking dips in the ocean.

Jet Skiing and Dhow Sunset Sail

While we were there to relax, we couldn’t resist adding a bit of adventure to our stay. One afternoon, we rented jet skis and explored the coastline from the water. It was a thrilling way to see Zanzibar’s stunning shores from a different perspective.

We also took a traditional Zanzibar dhow boat out for a sunset sail. There’s something I love about watching the sun set over the ocean while gently cruising along the water. The sail included a short snorkeling stop, where we got to explore the underwater world for a bit before heading back to the boat to enjoy the sunset.

Swimming with Horses

One of the truly unique experiences in Zanzibar was swimming with horses with the Zanzibar Horse Club. Following a quick stop at the stables where we got to meet all of the horses, Jay (my horse) and I went out onto the beach and into the ocean. It’s a rare and unforgettable experience to ride a horse into the ocean.  Who knew horses can swim! 

Cheetah’s Rock and Swimming with Otters

A visit to Cheetah’s Rock was another memorable experience. This conservation-focused sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to get up close with various animals in a responsible and ethical manner. While we got to briefly see the cheetah, lion and puma, our visit was focused around swimming with the otters. We fed and played with three different otters, all siblings, both on the grass and in the water —an adorable and playful encounter that brought plenty of smiles.

A Quick Stop in Stone Town

We heard so much about Zanibar’s history and culture, but Stone Town was a far distance from Nungwi. Therefore, on our way back to the airport, we made a quick stop in Stone Town. Our driver gave us a brief tour of the historic town, known for its narrow winding streets, beautiful carved wooden doors, and vibrant markets. While our time there was short, it was enough to get a taste of Zanzibar’s rich history and culture.

Summary

Zanzibar was the perfect way to end our trip—a blend of relaxation, adventure, and unique experiences. From lounging on the beach to swimming with horses and otters, every moment felt special. If you’re in Africa and looking for a destination that offers beautiful beaches and plenty of activities, Zanzibar should be on your list!