Zanzibar, an archipelago off Tanzania's coast, blends African, Arab, Indian and European influences into a cultural mosaic. The main island, Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar Island), offers pristine beaches, historic Stone Town, and lush spice plantations. The smaller Pemba Island is known for clove production and exceptional diving. This tropical paradise enjoys year-round warmth (25-30°C) with two rainy seasons (March-May and November).
Stone Town
UNESCO World Heritage Site - This labyrinthine old city showcases:
• House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) - First East African building with electricity
• Old Fort - 17th century Omani fortress with nightly cultural shows
• Forodhani Gardens - Legendary sunset food market with Zanzibar pizza
• Slave Market - Powerful memorial at the last operating slave market
• Darajani Bazaar - Sensory overload of spices, fabrics and silver
The carved wooden doors (over 500 remain) reveal family histories through their symbols.
Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches
North Coast Paradise - Famous for:
• Nungwi Tide Phenomenon - Swimmable at all tides due to deep shoreline
• Full Moon Parties - Kendwa's legendary monthly beach celebrations
• Dhow Building - Watch traditional boat construction techniques
• Mnarani Aquarium - Sea turtle conservation project
• Sunset Dhow Cruises - Sail on historic Swahili sailing vessels
The powder-white sand contains microscopic algae that prevent it from getting hot.
Jozani Forest
Last Sanctuary of Red Colobus - This 50km² national park features:
• Zanzibar Red Colobus - 6,000+ of these endangered primates
• Mangrove Boardwalk - Elevated path through tidal ecosystems
• Mahogany Trees - 200-year-old giants in the groundwater forest
• Butterfly Center - 50+ species including endemic varieties
• Night Walks - Spot bushbabies and elephant shrews
The forest acts as Zanzibar's "green lung" and critical water catchment area.
Spice Tours
Fragrant Heritage - Zanzibar's "Spice Island" legacy includes:
• Kidichi Spice Farm - Original 19th century clove plantation
• Vanilla Vines - Learn hand-pollination techniques
• Cinnamon Peeling - Demonstration of bark harvesting
• Traditional Uses - Medicinal applications of 20+ spices
• Spice Lunch - Sample dishes flavored with fresh ingredients
Zanzibar once produced 90% of the world's cloves - smell the history in the air.
Prison Island (Changuu)
Historical Island Sanctuary - This 30-minute boat ride from Stone Town offers:
• Giant Tortoises - 100+ Aldabra tortoises (some over 150 years old)
• Quarantine History - 19th century yellow fever isolation station
• Coral Reef Snorkeling - Vibrant marine life in shallow waters
• Prison Ruins - Never actually used as a prison despite the name
• Private Beaches - Secluded white sand coves around the island
The tortoises were a gift from the British governor of Seychelles in 1919.
More Zanzibar Highlights
The Rock Restaurant
Iconic seafood restaurant on a tidal rock near Michamvi, accessible by foot at low tide or boat at high tide. Serves Swahili fusion cuisine with ingredients sourced daily from local fishermen.
Kizimkazi Dolphins
Year-round bottlenose and humpback dolphin sightings (July-Oct for migration). Local operators follow strict no-chase guidelines. Includes visits to 12th century Shirazi mosque with Kufic inscriptions.
