Zanzibar

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Zanzibar is a separate state within the United Republic of Tanzania, approximately 40 kilometres off the coast of East Africa and nestles in the Indian Ocean. The capital of Zanzibar is Stone Town, a bustling historic city with narrow pathways and stone coral buildings, ornate carved doors and secluded courtyards, and has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.

This beautiful paradise is a cornucopia of exotic islands and inlets with idyllic palm fringed beaches that embellish the coast. Although the Swahili people are innate to the region, Zanzibar has an interesting fusion of many diverse ethnic cultures and creeds, and has absorbed an epitome of explorers, merchants, travelers, pilgrims, and fishermen through passage of time. The spontaneous, friendly, culture tolerant people of Zanzibar embrace life to the fullest, and although the tourist industry is a valuable source of income, they continue to honor their rich cultural heritage. Throughout the city the air is thick with the scent of cardamom and other spices that is used to prepare authentic Zanzibar cuisine.

Of the many islands, Unguja is the largest and have fertile regions to the north and west. The eastern part of the island is covered in coral rock thus making it unsuitable for agriculture, but the stunning beaches and reefs is a haven for tourist resorts and secluded quaint fishing villages. Pemba, the second largest of the Spice Islands, has lush fertile hills covered in palm, clove and rubber trees. The stunning pristine white beaches attract a huge influx of tourists. The reefs and channels make for excellent diving conditions, whilst the sun lover can bask in the splendid tropical climate and take in the beautiful vistas. The people of Zanzibar express themselves through rituals, colorful festivals and art, and the rhythmic beat of the African drums and music is ever present. Stone Towns’ historic waterfront reverberates with passionate cultural entertainment which will leave the visitor enriched and empowered.

Zanzibar is a water sport lover’s haven and offer great opportunity for windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. There are splendid fishing sites that lure the fishermen to the waters. There are many National and Marine Parks, Forest Reserves, and the enchanting Jozani Forest which is home to the endangered innate Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey.

Naturally being the Spice Island, organic products such as clove oil, ylang-ylang and jasmine soap, cinnamon cream and henna is abounding in Zanzibar. At Nungwi traditional boat carvers still practise the trade of boat building, carving out the same design handed down to them for centuries.

Zanzibar is exciting, vibrant and alive yet peaceful and serene at the same time, a jamboree of delightful sights and sounds, and is a magical destination for a vacation.