The island of Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous province that merged with Tanganyika in 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar's economy is largely based on the production and export of spices such as cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. The island has a fascinating history of trade, colonization, revolution, and independence.
The island was once a major centre of the spice trade and was ruled by various sultans and colonial powers over the centuries. As a result, Zanzibar has a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European cultural influences.The capital of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City, which has a historic centre called Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore The Beaches
Zanzibar has many amazing beaches, each with its unique character and charm. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, snorkel, dive, kite-surf, or just relax on the soft sand. Some of the best beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani, and Nakupenda.
Visit The Spice Farms
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island for a good reason. On the island, you can visit spice farms and learn about the various spices that grow there, their uses in cooking and medicine, and how they have influenced the history of Zanzibar. Additionally, you have the opportunity to sample some of the mouth-watering local dishes made with these spices.
Discover Stone Town
Stone Town is the historic district of Zanzibar City, where you can witness the fusion of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European cultures in the architecture and urban planning. You can stroll through the labyrinthine streets and lanes, admire the intricately carved doors and balconies, explore the mosques and museums, shop at the bustling bazaars and markets, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
Experience The Wildlife
Zanzibar has a rich biodiversity that includes numerous species that are endemic and endangered. A visit to the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park allows you to witness the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, the Zanzibar servaline genet, along with other animals and plants. Another attraction worth visiting is the Prison Island, where you can see the giant tortoises that were brought from Seychelles in the 19th century.
Learn About The History
Zanzibar has a tumultuous history that spans across continents and centuries. To gain insights into different aspects of Zanzibar's history, you can visit various historical sites and monuments such as the Old Slave Market/Anglican Cathedral, where you can witness the remnants of the slave trade that the British abolished in 1873. The House of Wonders, constructed by Sultan Barghash in 1883 as a palace and museum, and the Palace Museum, which served as the residence of the sultans until 1964, are also great places to learn about the history of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar food is influenced by Swahili, Indian, and Arab cultures, and uses a variety of spices, seafood, and tropical fruits. Some of the common dishes are Ugali, a bread-like staple made from maize flour, Zanzibar pizza, a savoury dough with meat, cheese, and vegetables, Pilau, a meat and rice dish cooked with coconut milk and spices, and Urojo or Zanzibar mix, a tangy soup with bhajias, fried potatoes, and coconut chutney.
Nungwi, located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, is the most sought-after area for accommodation. The place boasts a long stretch of pristine white sandy beach, along with crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral reefs that make it a perfect destination for beach lovers. Some of the top hotels to stay in Nungwi include Canary Nungwi Hotel & SPA, Babalao Bungalows, and Park Hyatt Zanzibar. Another great area to stay in Zanzibar, located on the northwest coast of the island is Kendwa. has a similar beach to Nungwi, but it is quieter and more relaxed. Kendwa is perfect for enjoying the sunset, relaxing, and having fun. Some of the best hotels in Kendwa are Zuri Zanzibar, Gold Zanzibar Beach House & Spa, and Kendwa Rocks Hotel.
By plane- you can fly from various cities in Tanzania, such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Tanga or Kilimanjaro, to Zanzibar International Airport. The flight time ranges from 20 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the departure point.
By ferry- You can also take a ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. The ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam is located at Kigamboni, and the ferry terminal in Zanzibar is located at Stone Town. It's a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two locations. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours and costs $35 for non-residents.
Zanzibar is best visited during the dry season, which lasts from June to October. The weather during these months is pleasant, with an average temperature of 77°F and low rainfall. This is also a great time to combine your trip with a safari in mainland Tanzania to witness the spectacular wildebeest migration. However, Zanzibar can be enjoyed year-round due to its tropical climate that offers plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures.
