Overview of Zanzibar
Zanzibar is plotted just east of the coast of Tanzania and a suitable twin centre with a Tanzania Safari combining adventure and relaxation with minimal travel time between. The impeccable beaches are lined with palm trees and replenished with the cool turquoise waters of the ocean making it more like paradise on earth. As an independent or combined holiday Zanzibar will please all of its guests.
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
Pemba, Chole, Mafia and Chumbe are much more remote and ideal for those seeking a more quiet and private experience. Many of the lodges on these smaller islands have been set up to preserve and nurture the surrounding communities endorsing eco-friendly environments which in turn help the marine life and agriculture. The Tanzanian coastline must not be forgotten with its range of spectacular beaches and proximity to other parts of the country. Our experts have a strong favourite when recommending safari-beach combinations- Ras Kutani, located just south of Dar Es Salam it is ideal as a relaxing beach destination after a fruitful and adventurous experience along the Southern Circuit.
Saadani National Park – considered a melting pot of adventure and activity is situated along the east coast and is unlike anything else you could possibly discover along this shore-line. Set out as a beach destination this tropical park offers surf and safari in close proximity. Imagine heading out on an early morning game drive to explore the parks fantastic ecosystem and returning for an afternoon of snorkelling or relation on the idyllic beaches. Honeymooners and families alike will enjoy everything this park has to offer without venturing very far.