Visit Zanzibar
This eclectic tropical paradise, a region of Tanzania, is simply unlike anywhere else in the world.
Known as Spice Island, the honeymoon destination of Zanzibar may be famous for its turquoise waters and pristine white beaches, but this multicultural melting pot has plenty to spice up your life.
The archipelago in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Tanzania, comprises over 50 islands, but the main ones are Unguja and Pemba. Unguja, commonly known as Zanzibar, is the largest and is popular with tourists for its stunning beaches and capital city Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Freddie Mercury. The ‘Green Island’ is a fitting name for Pemba, which is covered in lush-green forest and clove plantations 70 per cent of the world’s cloves are produced here. Zanzibar’s second-largest island is also one of the best spots for diving and snorkelling. It may be quieter than Unguja with fewer hotels, but one resort that gets a lot of attention is the Manta Resort, which boasts an underwater room offshore.
The smaller islands also have their draws. Chumbe, Zanzibar’s first Marine Protected Area, is a wildlife haven; watch humpback whales during migration, search for endangered coconut crabs or the rare Aders’s duiker. The Chumbe Island Eco Lodge is the island’s only accommodation. There are just seven bungalows, so you have privacy and spectacular views. There are only ten rooms on the remote and luxurious Mnemba Atoll as it’s just 500 metres (1,640 feet) in diameter, but you’ll have to splash out to stay here. The reefs in this marine conservation area are stunning and you can see turtles during breeding season.
If you’re searching for paradise, the best beaches on the main island are Nungwi and Kendwa in the north, Matemwe in the northeast and Bwejuu in the southeast. While Pemba and Mnemba are the best locations for diving and snorkelling, there are plenty of spots off the main island including Kizimkazi reef and Stone Town reef. If you don’t dive, there are plenty of water sports from kitesurfing to deep-sea fishing.
Its waters may be rich in marine life, but there’s plenty more to see. Visit the Jozani Forest to see red colobus monkeys, one of Africa’s rarest primates, or go to see Aldabra giant tortoises on Prison Island. The archipelago’s real charm lies in its rich culture. Once a major trade route, Zanzibar represents a mix of cultures from Africa, the Middle East, India, Persia and Europe, and these influences can be seen in its food, architecture and customs. Visit Lukmaan restaurant to try local curry and samosas, or go to the Forodhani Gardens for fresh seafood and sugar cane juice. The Rock restaurant’s unique offshore location makes it a diner’s dream.
Stone Town’s architecture highlights the blend of cultures, from Anglican churches to Islamic mosques and Hindu temples. Look out for the incredible woodwork on the doors, showing off detailed workmanship.
Zanzibar has a number of festivals throughout the year, but highlights include the Sauti za Busara music festival and the Zanzibar International Film Festival.
Whether you’re taking a dhow (traditional sailing boat) cruise to experience the breathtaking sunsets, or shopping for a kitenge (Swahili garment) at the Darajani Market, there’s culture around every corner. The history of Zanzibar is equally as fascinating, from spices to slavery. Visit the slave monument, the former slave market or David Livingstone’s house to learn about Zanzibar’s history as East Africa’s biggest slave port. Then explore a plantation to discover how the country’s wealth grew from common spices like cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.
Take a tour of Stone Town for a deeper insight into the island from the House of Wonders to the Old Fort and Palace Museum. Other landmarks include the Old Dispensary, the Persian Baths and, of course, Freddie Mercury’s house. You may go for the beaches, but Zanzibar’s unique mix of gems is what will really rock you.