Zanzibar is actually the reference for the group of islands located off the Tanzanian mainland. However Unguja, the principal island, is more widely known simply as Zanzibar. 
Zanzibar fulfills all tourist clichés of a dazzling island getaway. With white sand, palm fringed beaches and aquamarine blue seas this is picture post card heaven. The surrounding waters offer superb diving, fishing and other watersports. However the allure of Zanzibar is not confined to its beaches - the rich cultural history of the island gives a fascinating insight into the ancient Arab trade routes and the modern Swahili Coast culture.
It is recommended to spend part of your stay based in Stone Town, which is central for many island excursions, then relax on one of the many spectacular beaches.

Island Excursions

Stone Town - This tour takes you through Stone Town, where history appears to stand still. With visits to the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum (People's Palace), Dr Livingstone's House and the Arab Fort amongst others, it is a fascinating look at the essence of Zanzibar. You will see Zanzibar's bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors, two cathedrals and countless mosques. A trip to the site of Sultan Barghash's harem at Marahubi should also be included and rounds off an insight into Zanzibar's huge history and vibrant culture. Stone Town has some excellent gifts shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.

Spice Plantations - The history of Zanzibar would be incomplete without the cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, many other spices which brought the Sultans of Oman and the beginnings of the infamous slave trade. They can be seen in the plantations just outside Zanzibar town, and a good tour includes opportunities to dazzle the senses with fresh spices and an insight into the number of spices produced and their incredible value for many ailments. This is also the cheapest place to purchase spices and spice oils. Several spice tours include a traditional meal with a Zanzibari family and can be combined on route to the north or east coasts.

Jozani Forest - The Jozani Natural Forest Reserve is located in the central east region of Zanzibar island and is home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey, which is endemic to Zanzibar. These monkeys are full of character, and roam freely. Jozani is home to other species including Syke's monkeys, small buck and bushpigs. Jozani has a nature trail and the guides are well trained and informative.

North Coast - Tours to the unspoilt north coast always end up at Ras Nungwi, a sleepy fishing village on the northern tip of Zanzibar island. It is the dhow building capital of Zanzibar, so you will be able to see the traditional methods of dhow construction in action. This area of Zanzibar has some fantastic beaches, and nearby coral reefs which are ideal for diving and snorkelling. The local villagers have built a turtle sanctuary where injured turtles and other marine animals are nursed back to health before being released back into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

East Coast - Endless kilometres of idyllic beaches run the length of the east Coast. Now becoming heavily developed by hotels this still remains a beach lovers heaven. The tide does tend to go out further on the East Coast than around the northern tip of the island which makes swimming difficult at certain times of the day, but many hotels have swimming pools.

Kizimkazi Mosque & Dolphin Tour

Situated on the southern point of the island, Kizimkazi fishing village is home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins which can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village. If you are lucky, you may be able to swim quite close to the dolphins. Kizimkazi is also the site of a 12th century mosque, the earliest evidence of Islam in East Africa, and is thus worth a visit for both natural and cultural reasons.

Prison Island - Once the site of a jail for misbehaving slaves, the island lies just off the Stone Town. It is fringed with a beautiful coral reef, ideal for snorkelling, and has a lovely white beach for sun-bathing. 
It is also home to a family of giant tortoises, imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. This island is ideal for a day-trip with refreshments available throughout the day and a small restaurant.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June-January with peak months being June-October.

Getting there:

By Sea: There are daily ferries from/to Dar es Salaam departing 3 times/day which take roughly 90 minutes.

By Air: There are daily scheduled services from/to Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mafia, Pemba and Selous.

Where to Stay:

There are a huge variety of accommodation options throughout Zanzibar to suit all budgets

For further information contact: info@tourtanzania-safaris.com

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