SMALL GROUP JOURNEYOFFERS

The Palatial Stone Town & Coral Atolls

2026▾
10
Days
Private
Guide
Luxury
Stays

Giant tortoises on Prison Island, a helicopter loop over Stone Town and Jozani, Mnemba Atoll coral drop-offs, and a spinner dolphin marine reserve

See Pricing & Inclusions ↓
10 Days
Small Group
from $9,000 pp
Home › Zanzibar, Tanzania › The Palatial Stone Town & Coral Atolls

OverviewDesigned for luxury travellers who crave absolute marine privacy, world-class snorkelling, and high-altitude aerial scenery. This package integrates a private helicopter loop over the island with elite coral atoll preservation tracking. It highlights the historic architecture of Stone Town and its deeply moving slave market history, the giant Aldabra tortoises of Prison Island, and the pristine coral drop-offs of Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve. High-end highlights include a private helicopter loop over Stone Town and Jozani Forest, a private ocean sandbar sundowner in the middle of the Indian Ocean, a private island beach barbecue bonfire, and an exclusive Swahili Ukili weaver cultural encounter.

✦

Private historian leads the slave market site and Christ Church Cathedral — one of the most moving historical experiences in East Africa

✦

Prison Island private speedboat: feeding giant Aldabra tortoises over 100 years old and exploring the historic island ruins

✦

Private ocean sandbar vintage wine sundowner as the water turns gold — a setup in the middle of the Indian Ocean

✦

Dawn helicopter loop over Stone Town's coral-stone rooftops and Jozani's green canopy — breathtaking aerial views of both

✦

Mnemba Island: a private atoll with absolute privacy, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear snorkelling in turquoise lagoons

✦

Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve private boat: spinner dolphins, blue-fin trevally, and coral drop-offs in pristine waters

✦

Kuza Cave sacred subterranean pools: crystalline freshwater cavern used for centuries of Zanzibar spiritual healing

✦

Helicopter return from lodge lawn to Stone Town: the finest final transfer experience in all of Zanzibar

The Palatial Stone Town & Coral Atolls

Why Choose the Palatial Stone Town & Coral Atolls

Helicopter loop over Stone Town and Jozani: the only way to appreciate the full scale and beauty of both landmarks at once

Prison Island Aldabra tortoises: feeding creatures over 100 years old on a private island — a deeply memorable encounter

Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve: one of the finest coral dive and snorkel destinations in the entire Indian Ocean

Mnemba private island: absolute seclusion, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise water with no other guests

Slave market and Christ Church Cathedral: the most important and moving historical experience available in East Africa

Helicopter departure from the lodge lawn: an extraordinary and exclusive final transfer back to Stone Town

+−

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Stone Town · Prison Island · Jozani Chwaka Bay · Mnemba Island Atoll

Day by Day

Your Itinerary

Stone Town

Day 1 | Arrival in Stone Town — Sultan Suite Elegance

VIP tarmac greeting at Abeid Amani Karume Airport. Private luxury SUV into the heart of the historic capital. Check-in at Park Hyatt Zanzibar in the Sultan Suite — elegant oceanfront palace blending Swahili architecture with modern luxury. Indian Ocean views, coral-stone architecture, and the serene historic harbour. Early arrivals explore Stone Town's narrow winding streets, carved wooden doors, and historic waterfront. Welcome dinner at the hotel.

Arrival in Stone Town — Sultan Suite Elegance

Day 2 | Slave Market Site & Christ Church Cathedral — Private Historian

Private historian leads exploration of the old slave market site and Christ Church Cathedral — once one of the largest slave markets in East Africa. History of the market, the abolition movement, and the role of the Anglican Church in ending the trade. The Christ Church Cathedral built in the 19th century on the former slave market site with striking Gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The nearby Slave Chambers where enslaved people were held — a deeply moving and educational experience.

Slave Market Site & Christ Church Cathedral — Private Historian
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 | Prison Island Giant Tortoises & Private Ocean Sandbar Sundowner

Private luxury speedboat to Prison Island (Changuu) — historic 19th-century prison architecture never used for its intended purpose and the giant Aldabra tortoises that inhabit the island. Feeding these magnificent creatures, some over 100 years old. Exploring the island's beautiful beaches and historic ruins. Late afternoon: private sandbar in the middle of the ocean. Premium vintage wines from a private sandbar setup as the water turns gold at sunset — a truly unforgettable sundowner.

Prison Island Giant Tortoises & Private Ocean Sandbar Sundowner
Breakfast, Dinner
Mnemba Atoll

Day 4 | Helicopter Island Loop — Jozani Forest & Mnemba Check-In

Rising at dawn for a private helicopter flight looping over the historic coral-stone rooftops of Stone Town and the dense green canopy of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — breathtaking aerial views of the maze of narrow streets and lush forests below. Landing at Jozani for a private walking tour: Red Colobus Monkeys leaping through the canopy. Drive to the northeast coast. Check-in at Mnemba Island Lodge (AndBeyond) — a luxury private island resort.

Helicopter Island Loop — Jozani Forest & Mnemba Check-In
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 | Mnemba Island — The Private Atoll

A full day of absolute relaxation on Mnemba Island — a private atoll surrounded by crystal-clear waters. The stunning turquoise lagoon, white-sand beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. Swimming in the warm clear water, snorkelling along the shore, or relaxing on the beach. Absolute privacy and seclusion with no other tourists in sight. The afternoon yours to enjoy the resort's exceptional amenities.

Mnemba Island — The Private Atoll
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 | Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve — Coral Drop-Offs & Sandbar Breakfast

Private boat charter to Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve for elite snorkelling — magnificent coral drop-offs, spinner dolphins, and schools of blue-fin trevally in crystal-clear water. The best snorkelling spots selected by your guide: sea turtles, reef sharks, and a dazzling array of tropical fish. A luxury breakfast served on a private sandbar or secluded beach within the reserve — dining in absolute privacy with turquoise water stretching around you.

Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve — Coral Drop-Offs & Sandbar Breakfast
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 | The Sacred Caves of Kuza — Subterranean Swimming

Afternoon excursion to Kuza Cave in Jambiani — walking down stone steps into a prehistoric limestone cavern. Cool humid air, echoing dripping water, and a mystical atmosphere in one of Zanzibar's most sacred natural sites. Swimming in the crystalline subterranean freshwater pools traditionally revered by locals for their healing properties. The cultural significance of the cave for centuries of spiritual ceremonies and healing rituals explained.

The Sacred Caves of Kuza — Subterranean Swimming
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 | Oceanfront Serenity & Beachside Lantern Bonfire

A relaxed day enjoying the private oceanfront plunge pool with stunning turquoise water views, the gentle sea breeze, and the peaceful serenity of your private island retreat. Optional swimming, snorkelling, or premium spa therapy using local oils. The day culminates in a dramatic beachside seafood barbecue bonfire dinner served under hanging lanterns — warmed by a roaring central bonfire pit with the sound of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack.

Oceanfront Serenity & Beachside Lantern Bonfire
Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 | Exclusive Swahili Ukili Weaver Heritage Tour

Travel to a coastal village to interact privately with indigenous Swahili women weavers. The deep history of hand-weaving traditional Ukili palm fronds into intricate floor mats and sultanate-style baskets — passed down through generations. Watching the entire process: harvesting and preparing palm fronds to intricate weaving patterns. Private performance of traditional oral storytelling and music. Farewell multi-course dinner at Mnemba Island Lodge paired with vintage wines.

Exclusive Swahili Ukili Weaver Heritage Tour
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 | Helicopter Return to Stone Town & Complementary Spa Day

Relaxed luxury breakfast watching the turquoise water. Private helicopter transfer from the lodge lawn directly back to Stone Town — the most efficient and spectacular final transfer in Zanzibar. Complementary spa session at your city hotel. Private Stone Town tour if missed on Day 1. International departure the following day.

Helicopter Return to Stone Town & Complementary Spa Day

Want to adjust the pace, swap a lodge, or extend this journey?

We are here for that. Every Finders & Keepers Safaris itinerary is a starting point, not a fixed departure — the pace, the lodges, the length, the dates and the party travelling can all be reshaped around you. Tell us what you would change and a specialist will rebuild the journey and price it honestly, before you commit to anything.

Tailor This Journey →
Tailor this journey with Finders & Keepers Safaris
Your Accommodation

Two Exceptional Properties Across Zanzibar's History and Marine Heritage

Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Sultan Suite
NIGHTS 1–3
Stone Town · Nights 1–3

Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Sultan Suite

★★★★★ — Elegant oceanfront palace in the historic harbour with the finest ocean views in Stone Town
View Details
&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge
NIGHTS 4–9
Mnemba Atoll · Nights 4–9

&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge

★★★★★ — Ultra-exclusive private island resort with the finest coral snorkelling in the Zanzibar Archipelago
View Details
Why This Journey

What sets this journey apart

Stone Town’s history with a private historian, then a private atoll: Mnemba Island with &Beyond.

01

History, privately

A private historian leads the slave market site and Christ Church Cathedral, followed by Prison Island’s giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old.

02

From above and from a sandbar

A dawn helicopter loop over Stone Town’s rooftops and Jozani’s canopy, and a vintage wine sundowner on a private sandbar.

03

Mnemba, entirely

&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge is a private atoll with white-sand beaches and clear snorkelling, with a private boat to the marine reserve’s spinner dolphins and coral drop-offs.

Best ValueJan – MayWarm with occasional rain, excellent value
Peak SeasonMay – SepDry, cool trade winds — peak beach season
Shoulder SeasonSep – DecShort rains easing, dry season returns
Best forHoneymoonersHistory loversPrivacy seekers
Plan this journey with us →

Inclusions & Pricing

Deposit Offer

Hold 2027 for half the usual deposit

Confirm any 2027 departure with a 15% deposit instead of the usual 30%, booked before 31 December 2026.

  • Your balance is not due until 60 days before departure.
  • The reduced deposit holds your camps, permits and internal flights at today’s rates, so a mid-year price movement does not reach you.
  • Applies to new 2027 bookings only and cannot be combined with a group discount on the same booking.
Solo Travellers

30% off the single supplement

Travelling on your own? We cut the single traveller supplement by 30% across selected 2027 departures.

  • The supplement covers the sole-occupancy cost a camp charges when a room sleeps one rather than two.
  • Available on selected camps and dates — your specialist will tell you which of your nights qualify before you commit.
  • Nothing changes about the journey itself: same guide, same vehicle, same rooms.
Group Offer

Bring three, the fourth travels free

Book four guests on a 2027 group departure and the fourth guest’s safari cost is on us.

  • The waiver covers the land portion — camps, meals, guiding and game drives.
  • International flights, visas, gorilla and chimpanzee permits and personal spending are excluded, as those are paid to third parties per head.
  • All four guests must travel on the same departure date and book together.
What's Included
  • ✓VIP meet and greet at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Zanzibar
  • ✓All private luxury SUV chauffeur transfers throughout
  • ✓Luxury hotel and resort accommodation throughout
  • ✓All meals as specified — breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • ✓All private guided dhow, speedboat, and catamaran charters
  • ✓All park fees and marine reserve permits
  • ✓All private guided tours and cultural encounters
  • ✓Complementary spa session on final day
  • ✓Private guide and historian throughout
  • ✓Private historian slave market and Christ Church Cathedral tour
  • ✓Prison Island private speedboat with giant tortoise feeding
  • ✓Private ocean sandbar vintage wine sundowner setup
  • ✓Dawn private helicopter loop over Stone Town and Jozani Forest
  • ✓Jozani Red Colobus Monkey private walking tour
  • ✓Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve private snorkelling boat charter
  • ✓Kuza Cave sacred pool swimming excursion
  • ✓Beachside seafood barbecue bonfire under hanging lanterns
  • ✓Exclusive Swahili Ukili weaver cultural encounter
  • ✓Helicopter return transfer from lodge lawn to Stone Town
  • ✓Travel insurance facilitated on your behalf (adjusted in your quote if you are already covered)
What's Not Included
  • ✗International flights to/from Zanzibar
  • ✗Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • ✗Personal shopping and souvenirs
  • ✗Premium alcohol beyond inclusions
  • ✗Optional activities not listed
  • ✗Tips and gratuities
  • ✗Tanzania visa fees (USD 50 on arrival for most nationalities)

Package Pricing

Per Person Sharing$9,500
Single Traveller SupplementOn Request
ⓘ Price per person based on two guests sharing. All helicopter transfers, speedboat, private island accommodation, Mnemba boat charter, meals, and activities included. International flights to Zanzibar not included.

2027 Season Pricing

The same unforgettable journey, priced by season.

Jan – May Best ValueWarm with occasional rain, excellent value
$9,000
May – Sep Peak SeasonDry, cool trade winds — peak beach season
$10,450
Sep – Dec Shoulder SeasonShort rains easing, dry season returns
$9,700

Flexible Payment Plan

1

Reserve today with a low early deposit to lock in your 2027 dates and pricing.

2

Spread the rest across convenient instalments, at a pace that suits you.

3

Final balance due one month before departure — nothing more to pay once you fly.

Speak To Us

Journey Details

Travel Kit

Duffel, sun hat, reef-safe sun cream and dry bag

  • Your duffel — A soft-sided Finders & Keepers Safaris duffel, sized for the luggage limits on seaplane and inter-island transfers, where 20 kg per person is common and hard cases are often refused.
  • What is inside it — A wide-brim sun hat, a reef-safe sun cream that meets the marine park rules across the region, and a roll-top dry bag for boat days and sandbank picnics.
  • Yours to keep — The bag and everything in it is a gift, not a loan.
  • Packing around it — Light, breathable layers, and one modest set covering shoulders and knees for Stone Town, villages, temples and local islands.

Note

Tides govern the best beach and water experiences

Zanzibar's beaches are tidal — swimming conditions vary significantly between high and low tide depending on which coast you're staying on. Your specialist will recommend the best-suited beach for your priorities.

  • Early starts — The best of this journey happens at dawn — before the heat, the crowds and the haze. Your guide will confirm what time you will be collected from your hotel.
  • Tailoring this journey — If you would like this package with more or fewer days, arranged for a group, a family or a solo traveller, or with add-ons, reach out and we will tailor it for you.
  • Route changes — Your guide or driver may alter the route in certain circumstances, but every destination set out in the itinerary will be covered.

Documents

Visa on arrival or e-Visa, from $50

  • Passport — Valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Visa — Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so the Tanzanian eVisa or visa on arrival covers you. Single entry is US$50; US passport holders are issued the US$100 multiple-entry visa.
  • Compulsory island insurance — Since October 2024 every non-resident visitor must hold Zanzibar’s own inbound travel policy, sold only by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation at US$44 per person for 92 days — half price for ages 3 to 17, free under 3. Your own international policy does not replace it, and the QR code is checked at the airport. We arrange this for you.
  • Dress away from the beach — Stone Town and the fishing villages are conservative. Shoulders and knees covered once you leave the resort grounds.
  • Yellow fever — A vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or have transited, a country with yellow fever risk.
  • We handle the paperwork — We complete and submit your visa, eVisa or travel-authorisation applications on your behalf. You supply the documents once; we do the filing, track the approval and hold the confirmations for you.
  • Where you must appear in person — A few consulates insist on biometrics or a short interview that nobody can sit on your behalf — China requires fingerprinting for some nationalities, as do European and United States visas. We still prepare the entire file; we simply book you a single appointment and brief you beforehand so one visit settles it.
  • Before you travel — Entry rules change frequently and without much notice. Your specialist confirms the current requirements for every passport in your party at the time of booking, and checks them again before you fly.

Guaranteed Departures

Private, tailor-made departures on your dates, or join a small group

  • Once confirmed, you travel — When your departure date is confirmed, it is guaranteed. We do not cancel, merge or reschedule a confirmed departure for commercial reasons, however the final numbers fall.
  • What confirms a departure — A departure becomes confirmed once the agreed number of travellers has been reached and paid for in line with the agreed payment schedule. Places held without payment do not count towards it.
  • If the minimum is not reached — Where a group departure has not reached its agreed numbers, we tell you early rather than late, and you choose: move to the next available date, continue at a revised small-group rate, or take a full refund of everything you have paid.
  • Solo journeys — Solo and tailor-made itineraries carry no group minimum at all. Your dates are confirmed the moment your deposit is received.

A deposit of 30% is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 60 days before departure. All itineraries can be tailored — extend a stay, add a destination, or adjust the pace to suit you. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical evacuation and personal effects is required for all guests. Your dedicated specialist remains on call throughout your journey for any changes or assistance you need.

  • What to pack — Light, breathable fabrics, and more swimwear than you think you need. Away from the resort, cover shoulders and knees — Stone Town, the fishing villages and any temple will expect it. Bring reef-safe sun cream, which the marine parks require, a rash vest for long snorkelling days, and one smart-casual set for dinner.

More Journeys

The Southern Marine & Dolphin Sanctuary
MARINE

The Southern Marine & Dolphin Sanctuary

10 Days · Dhow & Catamaran · Min 7
RouteStone Town · Jozani Forest · Kizimkazi · Michamvi · Pingwe
The Spice Coast & Ancient Kingdoms
CULTURAL

The Spice Coast & Ancient Kingdoms

10 Days · Dhow Charter · Min 4
RouteStone Town · Nungwi · Jozani · Pingwe
The Secret Oases & Hidden Sandbars
HIDDEN GEMS

The Secret Oases & Hidden Sandbars

10 Days · Dhow & Speedboat · Min 7
RouteKizimkazi · Kuza Cave · Michamvi · Jozani · Pingwe · Stone Town
The Ultimate Romance & Secret Lagoons
MAURITIUS

The Ultimate Romance & Secret Lagoons

10 Days · Private
Route Le Morne · Riambel Beach · Ile aux Benitiers · Ilot Gabriel