a beach with boats and trees
Excursions
a beach with palm trees and a body of water

Discover Zanzibar Beyond the Beach

From The Sands Beach Resort in Dongwe, guests can explore some of Zanzibar's most iconic places and natural experiences. Our team can help arrange excursions for families, couples and friends, from cultural visits and spice tours to forest walks, island trips and ocean adventures.

Whether you want to visit Stone Town, discover Jozani Forest, explore Prison Island, join a Safari Blue experience or enjoy the south coast around Kizimkazi, The Sands is a peaceful base to return to after a day of discovery.

a monkey on a rock

Jozani Forest Tour

Jozani Forest is one of Zanzibar's most interesting natural experiences and a good choice for guests who want to discover the island beyond the beach. The forest is known for its rich vegetation, mangroves and the famous red colobus monkeys, one of Zanzibar's most iconic species.

This excursion is suitable for families, couples and friends looking for an easy nature experience during their stay at The Sands.

dolphins jumping out of the water

Kizimkazi Dolphin Spotting & Snorkeling

Kizimkazi, on the southern coast of Zanzibar, is one of the island's best-known areas for dolphin spotting and ocean excursions. Depending on sea conditions and the season, guests may have the chance to observe dolphins in their natural environment and enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding waters.

This experience is best approached with respect for the marine environment. Our team can help guests choose reliable local operators and understand the best conditions for the excursion.

an island with a small island

Prison Island

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is one of the classic excursions from Stone Town. Guests can visit the island, see the giant tortoises, learn about its history and enjoy time by the sea.

It is a good option to combine with a Stone Town visit, especially for guests who want a mix of history, nature and ocean views during the same day.

a boat on the beach

Safari Blue

Safari Blue is one of Zanzibar's most popular full-day ocean excursions. The experience usually combines sailing, swimming, snorkeling, sandbanks, seafood and time on the water, making it a memorable day for couples, families and groups of friends.

It is a good choice for guests who want a more complete sea adventure while keeping The Sands as their quiet base in Dongwe.

a city on the water

Stone Town

Stone Town is the cultural heart of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its narrow streets, carved wooden doors, historic buildings, markets and layered history.

A visit to Stone Town is ideal for guests who want to understand more of the island's identity, from Swahili culture and spice trade history to local life, architecture and shopping. It can be arranged as a half-day or full-day excursion from The Sands.

a group of bowls full of food

Spice Tours

A spice tour is one of the most authentic ways to discover why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island. Guests can walk through local farms, see how spices and tropical fruits grow, and learn about the aromas and ingredients that influence Zanzibari cuisine.

This is an easy and enjoyable excursion for families, couples and friends, especially for guests interested in food, nature and local traditions.