While on holiday in Zanzibar, you can enjoy different activities such as diving, visiting Swahili fishing villages, snorkeling, and others.

Known as the ‘Spice Island,’ Zanzibar is a tropical paradise with palm-dotted beaches, clear blue waters, and an amazing blue sky. The island is found 25 miles off the coast of mainland Tanzania.

Organizing a safari or holiday to Zanzibar needs a lot of preparation, although some parts of Zanzibar have become commercialized and lost some of their original charm, you can still find tranquil beaches if you take the time to plan your visit to this enchanting archipelago.

The main island, commonly known as Zanzibar Island, is an amazing destination to visit located east of mainland Tanzania, stretching approximately 96km in length and 38km in width. The island is popular for its beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, delectable seafood, vibrant coral reefs, and the Stone Town, which UNESCO has recently acknowledged as a World Heritage Site.

The island’s northeast part, known as Matemwe, is famous for its amazing natural beauty and being near to the famous diving spots. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the vast Indian Ocean, stroll along pristine white-sand beaches, and admire the breathtaking coral reef at Mnemba Atoll. The area is also home to lush, wild vegetation and a small fishing village, where fishermen set out each morning in their traditional dhows to sail the expansive ocean.

Zanzibar Island also has an international airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport) with direct flights to Europe and regional destinations such as Dar es Salaam, and Arusha and other destinations in east Africa like Nairobi Kenya, Entebbe Uganda, and others. Additionally, you can travel by water using the daily ferry services that operate between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam. Transfers to or from the seaport, Stone Town, or the airport can also be organized for your convenience.

The island’s specialty is fresh seafood, which is obtained from the local market daily. The dishes offer a delightful blend of African and European flavors. Don’t miss the beautiful sunrise views as you enjoy your tea or coffee on your veranda. In the evening, witness the moonrise over the sea—a breathtakingly romantic sight that is memorable. On moonless nights, gaze up at the brilliantly star-lit sky.

The local snorkeling and diving sites cater to all experience levels, from beginners to experienced divers. The reefs, especially around Matemwe, are rich in variety. You’ll find an abundance of hard and soft corals, sponges, and anemones. The diverse species of fish will surely amaze you. If you are a lucky traveler, there is a chance of spotting dolphins or even a whale passing by the reef. The chances of seeing whales are higher from August to October.

Enjoy the amazing local culture and the vibrant village life in Zanzibar from the neighboring village.

Zanzibar’s history dates back to the eras of the earliest dhows from India and Arabia, which found this African natural harbor. The island served as a stopover for caravans traveling deeper into Africa. Over time, permanent settlements emerged, leading to the establishment of Stone Town.

Upon arriving in Stone Town by sea, visitors are welcomed by the House of Wonders, a stunning building that once served as the administrative center for the sultan. Adjacent to it is the sultan’s town palace, with the now decrepit walkways that once connected the two structures. Nearby, the Portuguese Fort stands as a reminder of their short occupation of the people on the island. Not far from here is the Anglican Cathedral, built over the site of the ancient slave market to help heal the wounds of a painful past. The major historic tourist site on the island is the Stone Town much like beaches, famous for its serene seascapes and island charm. Visitors can choose from several beaches, each offering tranquil, crystal-clear waters and a tropical climate.