Beautiful Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania is a breathtakingly beautiful destination not just because of its pristine natural beauty but also because of its stunning beaches, rich historical heritage and vibrant culture. If you are looking for an extraordinary tropical getaway, Zanzibar is the place to be. Our ultimate guide to Zanzibar Island is sure to spice up your tropical vacation.
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Where Is Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar is a cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of mainland Tanzania, East Africa. Two islands (Zanzibar & Pemba) together with Tanganyika on the mainland form the United Republic of Tanzania. Zanzibar is separated from the Tanzanian mainland by just 36.5 km from its narrowest point.
How To Get To Zanzibar
By Air: Fly straight into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) which is just three miles south of Zanzibar City on Unguja Island. Another option to get here is by taking a flight to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) and then taking the ferry to Unguja Island.
By Rail: On the mainland is a train hub called Dar es Salaam that makes travelling to Zanzibar very easy. It is well connected with all the other cities in Zanzibar.
By Road: Road is the most common way to move from one place to another. There are plenty of buses and minibuses operated by private companies. Once you get to the island, there are plenty of car rental services as well.
History Of Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar was a meeting place for merchants and traders from all over the world. Chinese, Arabs, Persians, Indians, and Europeans have left their mark on the island. Arabs arrived in the 1st century AD, then Vasco da Gama visited in 1498 and then sultan of Muscat and Oman established the capital of his kingdom in Zanzibar City in 1824. In 1890 the British proclaimed a protectorate over Zanzibar and in 1892, Zanzibar was declared a free port. During the 19th century, Zanzibar became an important center for the spice trade and also a major slave trading post. Finally, in 1964 Zanzibar gained independence from British rule and became a part of the modern-day country of Tanzania.
Top 5 Reasons To Visit Zanzibar
The top five reasons to visit Zanzibar Island is as below:
- To experience the several stunning beaches with white sand and brilliant blue waters.
- To explore historical landmarks which are also an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- To see unique nature and wildlife encounters.
- To indulge in world-class water activities.
- To learn about Zanzibar Islands diverse spice plantations.
Best Time To Visit
Zanzibar has a tropical climate, making it ideal to travel all year round. The island has only two seasons; dry season and wet season. Dry Season is between the months of June to October and wet season is between the months of April to June. Weather in Zanzibar is very hot and temperature can soar to over 30 degrees during the month of March. Overall the best months to visit Zanzibar Island is from July to September and again from December to February. For people looking to travel on a budget can plan during the off season between March and May. This is when you can get lower prices for accommodations and activities.
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Top Places To See And Things To Do In Zanzibar
Zanzibar is not a small Island, hence it is always better to plan your itinerary well in advance to avoid missing out on the top attractions in Zanzibar. Here’s a quick guide that will help you know what not to miss in each part of the island.
Stone Town
Zanzibar’s capital city, Stone Town is popular for its historic sites and UNESCO World Heritage status. Don’t miss the museum, old fort, ancient architecture and vibrant markets. Apart from the popular landmarks, make sure to wander through Stone Town’s narrow, winding streets and explore the island’s rich history.
Beaches
Zanzibar has some of the most stunning beaches. Beaches like Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje and Matemwe have white sands and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect place to catch amazing sunrises and sunsets. For those looking to indulge in some water sports, Zanzibar’s beaches are the great place to be. From snorkeling to kitesurfing, they have it all here.
Jozani Forest
To see the wild in its natural habitat, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the place to be. The forest is home to unique species of animals and birds. The rare Red Colobus monkeys, Kirk’s Red Colobus, Zanzibar leopard and rare forest antelope are a treat to spot. There are many conservation projects that work towards protecting these interesting creatures.
Spice Tours
Zanzibar is also called the “Spice Island” because of the large quantity of spices being produced here. From cloves to cinnamon, nutmeg to vanilla, everything is produced here. This makes it one of the major centers for spice trading. The best way to understand and learn about the cultivation and use of these spices is by going on a spice plantation tour.
Local Cuisine
Zanzibar Island cuisine is a mix of African, Arabian, Chinese, and Indian. You will be surprised to see dishes from the Seychelles Islands too being sold here. Zanzibar is known for their seafood specialties. Other must try items in the island are octopus curry, Zanzibari pizza and the fresh and juicy tropical fruits.
Zanzibar Cultural Etiquette And Tips
- Show respect for the island’s local customs and rich Islamic traditions.
- Make sure to dress modestly while visiting Stone Town and other rural areas.
- Be mindful of eating, drinking, or smoking in public spaces during the holy month of Ramadan.
- Practice responsible wildlife viewing.
- Follow all instructions given by your official guide.
Also Read: 10 Best Things to Do In Tanzania On Your Next Vacation
Final Words
Zanzibar Tourism is growing fast in the island in the past few years, hence it is very important that we travel responsibly to keep the natural beauty of the place intact. It is only then the generations to come can experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this paradise. Plan a trip soon to this amazing destination and do share your experience with us in the comments below.
FAQs
The north coast is the most beautiful part of Zanzibar. The pristine beaches with white sands, clear waters and vibrant atmosphere is what attracts tourists to this part of Zanzibar.
Compared to other tropical island destinations, Zanzibar is considered to be relatively affordable. The flights might be expensive but the accommodation and food can be reasonably good.
A 5-7 day trip is more than enough to explore and enjoy all the prominent places like Stone Town, Paje and Kizimkazi. Beach relaxation, spice farm visits, activities like snorkeling and dolphin watching can also be enjoyed during this time.
