Zanzibar - The Spice Island

Zanzibar, an island located about 23 miles off the East African Coast, conjures up romantic imagery - the scent of spices, the charm of narrow streets, intricately carved doors, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a paradise for tourists, boasting tranquil tropical waters and miles of pristine sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean.

Throughout history, Zanzibar has been a crossroads for explorers like Burton, Speke, Livingstone, and Vasco da Gama, who passed through on their journeys to India. With its rich and ancient past, Zanzibar has long been a hub for travelers sailing from distant lands, such as the Middle East, aboard traditional dhows.

Once the main trading center for East Africa, Zanzibar's serene ambiance has endured due to its unhurried pace of life. Accessible from Dar Es Salaam by a 30-minute flight or a 1 1/4-hour hydrofoil or catamaran ride, Zanzibar offers a range of luxurious accommodations, from boutique private retreats to medium-sized resorts, scattered across the island.

Excursions and Places to Visit

Stone Town: Stone Town is a unique blend of architecture and culture shaped by centuries of interactions between East Africa, Arabia, the Persian Gulf, India, China, Portugal, and beyond. Guided tours lead visitors through narrow alleyways to the bustling market, where they can witness a fish auction. Recognized for its historical significance, Stone Town is designated as one of the World's Cultural Heritage sites by the United Nations, sparking efforts to restore its architectural heritage.

Beit-al-Ajaib (House of Wonders): Formerly the Sultan's Palace until 1911, this majestic structure is renowned for its lofty ceilings and towering pillars.

National Museum: Home to portraits of past Sultans, historical documents, relics of early explorers, and local arts and crafts, the National Museum offers insights into Zanzibar's rich heritage.

Livingstone House: Built by Sultan Seyyid Majid for explorer David Livingstone in 1866, this house served as Livingstone's base for his mainland expedition.

Slave Market: Once a hub of the East African slave trade until its abolition in 1873, the site now hosts a church.

Changu Island: Formerly known as Prison Island, Changu Island housed slaves awaiting transportation to other markets. Visitors can explore underground slave chambers and encounter giant tortoises.

Marhubi Ruins: Built by Sultan Sayyid Bargash in the 1880s, these ruins were once a palace for his harem before being accidentally burnt down in 1899.

Spice Tour: Visitors can experience, taste, and smell various spices and fruits cultivated on the island.

Other attractions include the Town Market, Tippu Tip House, Portuguese Fort, Dunga Palace, Kidichi Persian Bath, Mangapwani Caves, Kizimkazi Mosque, Mtoni Palace, and Jozani Forest.

Dolphin Safari: This full-day guided excursion begins at 9:00 am with a transfer to the fishing village of Fumba, where visitors receive a briefing before setting off in search of dolphins. Snorkeling and lunch on a nearby island or sandbank are included, with return sail to Fumba around 4:00 pm.

Dhow Cruise: Cruising to Prison Island and Bawe Island, visitors can explore historical sites, snorkel, and enjoy a seafood BBQ on the beach.

Jozani Forest: Home to most of the world's remaining Red Colobus Monkeys, this forest reserve offers a chance to encounter these endangered species on a half-day tour.

Explore the enchanting wonders of Zanzibar, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable island experience.