Overview of Zanzibar
The idyllic tropical beaches of Zanzibar and the surrounding islands are lined with clean white sand, palm trees and lapped by the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean. They can be visited independently or before or after a safari in Tanzania.
Besides being a beach lover’s paradise Zanzibar has many different experiences to offer travellers. Famed as ‘the spice island’ the part this island played in the past as a major port on the trade routes simply adds to the allure and exotic appeal of Zanzibar.
Taking a spice tour allows you a greater insight into all of the different types grown on the island and you can get carried away on the heavy scent of vanilla pods, warming cinnamon and spicy pepper. Some tours will even provide you with a cooking lesson at the end so that you may take some of the magic of the spice island away with you.
Explore the local wildlife with a walk through Jozani Forest, home to some of the endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus monkeys - one of Africa’s rarest primates. Other animals you may encounter are small antelopes, bush pigs, curious chameleons and colourful butterflies. There are also dolphin tours running along the coast.
Stone Town
Experiencing Stone Town adds to any visit to Zanzibar. This UNESCO world heritage site is a labyrinth of alleys and passageways with a tumble down combination of architecture to admire. You will come across intricately carved doors, for which the city is famous, as well as absorbing some of the local culture and historical sites. The day can be rounded off by watching the traditional dhows sail in at sunset and visiting the night market, which is amazing; all the fishermen sell their cooked seafood from that day. It is so fresh and delicious... its a seafood lover’s dream!
The Islands
The nearby islands of Pemba, Mafia, Chole and Chumbe are ideal choices for those looking for something more remote. Often the lodges on these islands are eco friendly
and are heavily involved in sustaining the local communities and the surrounding marine environment. The mainland coast also has some fabulous beaches to explore.
Our favourite is the Ras Kutani area south of Dar es Salaam, perfect to combine with a Southern Circuit
Safari.
A truly unique beach destination is Saadani National Park. Beach, bush and river come together
in a colourful ecosystem found nowhere else on the eastern coast of Africa. You can experience a game drive in the morning, and spend the afternoon snorkelling
in the open sea - a mere stone's throw away. Saadani is perfect for families, honeymooners and anyone wanting to experience an idyllic retreat.