Travel Idea

Zanzibar

A tropical paradise with unique blend of Africa, Arabia and Europe influence. Popular as a post-safari choice, a Zanzibar holiday can also be a great stand-alone escape

overview

There are more than 40 islands spread throughout the entire Zanzibar Archipelago, with Zanzibar being the largest. The island epitomises exotic with white-sand beaches, thick green forests, sapphire mangroves and flat grasslands It is the perfect beach destination.

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Zanzibar is everything you want from an Indian Ocean island – mile upon mile of white sand beaches lined with palm trees and blue turquoise waters. It is also the birth place of Freddie Mercury.

Ben Nelson
Founder

Zanzibar is known for its stunning beaches, historic Stone Town, and vibrant Swahili culture.

Zanzibar is situated approximately 25-50 kilometers (15-30 miles) off the coast of Tanzania. Unguja is the largest island and is the main tourist destination, while Pemba Island, to the north, is less developed and more pristine. The archipelago also includes several smaller islands and islets.

History

Zanzibar has a complex history shaped by African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. It was a major center for the Arab slave trade in the 19th century. The islands gained independence from British colonial rule in 1963 and merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964.

Culture

Zanzibar has a diverse and vibrant culture. The majority of the population is of Swahili descent, and Swahili is the primary language spoken. Arabic and English are also widely used. The culture is heavily influenced by Islam, with many mosques and Islamic traditions.

Cuisine

Zanzibari cuisine is a unique blend of flavors influenced by the island's history and diverse population. Some popular dishes include pilau rice, biryani, seafood, and various coconut-based dishes. Zanzibar is also known for its spices, which are used to flavor many dishes.

When to go

December to March: the short, dry season with tropical weather and daytime temperatures of circa 32°C.

June to October: the long, dry season with predictably dry days and daytime temperatures of circa 26°C.

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Activity

Without surprise, activities are focused around the beach. Sunset cruises, snorkelling, and diving trips are offered from every property. You can swim with dolphins at Kizimkazi, see the giant sea turtles at Nungwi or kite surf on Paje Beach. You can also visit the colobus monkeys of Jozani Forest.

Stone Town

Zanzibar island's capital, dates back to the 1st century, and over the years, African, Arabian, Indian and European influences have blended to create the way of life here. It's full of magnificent things to see and do, from massive catholic cathedrals and vintage colonial-style houses to authentic Hamamni Persian baths. The entire district's been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Did you know

Freddie Mercury was born in Stone Town. The Freddie Mercury Museum is located in the heart of Stone Town and is the same house where Freddie and his family stayed until they moved to England in 1963.

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