Jambiani is one of Zanzibar's most rewarding villages to explore — quiet, authentic and right on the beach. Here's everything worth doing during your stay.

Watch the sunrise on the beach

Jambiani faces east, which means the sunrises here are extraordinary. Set an alarm, walk onto the sand and watch the sky turn from deep blue to orange and gold over the Indian Ocean. It costs nothing and you'll never forget it.

Walk the coastline

The beach stretches for kilometres in both directions. Low tide reveals pools, coral formations and almost no other people. Walk north towards Bwejuu or south towards Paje — both directions are beautiful.

Take a dhow sailing trip

Traditional wooden dhows still work these waters. A sunset cruise is one of the best experiences in Zanzibar — an hour on the ocean, watching the sky change colour, with no engine noise. Your hotel can arrange it in minutes.

Snorkel the reef

The lagoon at Jambiani is calm and shallow, with a coral reef just offshore. Visibility is good, fish life is rich and the water temperature is warm year-round. Basic snorkelling equipment is available locally.

Visit Kuza Cave

A short walk from the village, Kuza Cave is a freshwater cave sacred to local communities. You can swim inside it. It's one of Zanzibar's more unusual and memorable experiences — cool, quiet and completely unlike anything else on the island.

Explore the village

Jambiani is still a working fishing community. Walk through in the early morning and you'll see dhows heading out, nets being mended and seaweed farming in the shallows — one of the few places in the world where it's still done by hand. The local market is worth a visit too.

Eat fresh seafood

The restaurants along the beach serve some of the freshest fish in Zanzibar — caught the same morning, grilled simply and served with rice and coconut sauce. Don't overthink it, just ask what's fresh.

Take a spice tour

A half-day spice tour takes you inland to see cloves, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg growing in their natural environment. It's one of Zanzibar's most popular excursions and easily arranged from Jambiani.

Kite surfing

Jambiani's consistent south-easterly winds make it one of the better spots in Zanzibar for kite surfing. There are schools and equipment rental nearby. Even if you've never tried it, a lesson is worth the experience.

Where to stay: Villa Juliana is a solar-powered beachfront eco villa in the heart of Jambiani. Book direct for the best rate.