- Arusha - Tanzania
- info@jrsafari.com
- +41 76 743 20 89
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The Zanzibar archipelago is one of the most historic Indian Ocean islands, awash with atmosphere, intrigue, and idyllic beach experiences. There are masses of accommodation options across the price spectrum, and plenty to see, do and discover. As the birthplace of the Swahili, site of Sultans’ Palaces and renowned for its spice plantations, the little island republic of Zanzibar features larger-than-life on the world map and is a must-see at the end of any African trip, but is especially great when added onto a Tanzanian safari.
There are fabulous and stunning beaches on the islands of Zanzibar, and many choices for an ideal spot to sit back and watch the white dhow sails cruising the startling blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether it is for a Zanzibar holiday, honeymoon or some post-safari relaxation; whether you prefer the blissful privacy of a private island or the amenities of a larger hotel; and whatever your preferred activities, there are good options for every traveler.
You can choose to stay on the northern coast, south, east coast or a combination of these locations based on the number of days you have in Zanzibar.
Things to do in Zanzibar
Snorkelling, Diving, Jozani Forest Tour where you will find the endangered red colobus monkeys and many more tree hoppers such as bush babies, Spice Tour for those interested in trees, spices (for obvious reasons) and where everything is from. Learn about all the different spices in Zanzibar from their origins. Prison Island Tour which used to be an isolated area for the yellow fever epidemic sufferers, but now it is home to the Aldabra giant tortoises which is the main attraction of the island. Stone Town Tour where you will take a guided tour around the cobbled streets of charismatic Stone Town and learn about Zanzibar’s rich history and culture. Safari Blue which is the best pick if you want to experience a stunning African beach and many more.
Places to stay
Zanzibar is booming as a tourist destination; there is space here for backpackers and luxury beach retreaters alike. As a result there are a lot of fantastic boutique hotels to choose from. If you are on a budget, midrange, luxury or luxury+ we all have you covered.
Spice tours – Muscat, vanilla, cinnamon, pepper, ginger and other spices and fruits so exotic that they don’t have an English name, can be explored in the many plantations.
The slave chambers – The underground slave chambers in Mangapwani was the center of the illegal slave trade up until 1909.
Persian baths – On the highest point of the island, Kidichi, the sultan Sayyind Said built Persian baths in 1850, one for him and one for his wife. They are still in a good condition with splendid Persian architecture, so a visit here will be more than worth your time.
Prison Island – In the middle of this island, you will find the remains of an old prison built in 1893. Half an hour by boat, you pay a modest fee to enter the island, which is ideal for snorkeling and watching giant turtles, imported from the Seychelles at the end of the century.
Jozani Forest – The only remaining natural forest on Zanzibar, where the rare red guerexa monkeys habituate. The best time to go to Jozani is in the early morning hours, when the monkeys are active.
Swimming with dolphins – Taking place in the southern part of the island, the boat ride is long, and you are not guaranteed to find dolphins, but when you finally do, and if you get the chance to join them in the water, it will be an extraordinary experience.
Deep sea fishing – Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia are excellent islands for sports fishing. Do as Ernest Hemingway and catch sailfish, mackerel, kingfish and marlin among others.
Diving – Coral reefs, tropical fish and clear water make this area ideal for scuba diving. Take a diving course, get your certificate and jump in the Indian Ocean.
Sailing and water sports – Windsurfing and sailing are popular activities, and can be organized many places.
ZIFF – The Zanzibar International Film Festival was established in 1997 to promote the art and culture of the Dhow region. The Dhow region consists of the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian sub-continent, Asia, Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.
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