Zanzibar

Zanzibar is where Africa meets the Indian Ocean, and the result is an island unlike any other. White sand beaches stretch along the east coast with water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue as the tide moves. Stone Town, the historic heart of the island, is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, spice markets, and rooftop restaurants where the call to prayer mingles with the sound of Taarab music drifting from open windows. It is exotic, atmospheric, and completely captivating.

The island sits off the coast of mainland Tanzania and has served as a trading hub for centuries, connecting Africa with Arabia, India, and Southeast Asia. That history shows in the architecture, the food, and the culture, which blends Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences into something uniquely Zanzibari. Most visitors come as a beach extension after a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari, and the combination of bush and beach is one of the best one two punches in world travel.

Where to Go

Stone Town deserves at least one full day. The Forodhani Gardens night market on the waterfront serves freshly grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza (a stuffed crepe), and sugar cane juice to crowds of locals and visitors every evening. The House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the former slave market at the Anglican Cathedral tell the island’s complex history. The spice tour, visiting farms where cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper grow, is a Zanzibar essential.

The north coast beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa offer the best all around beach experience, with minimal tidal variation meaning the water is swimmable at any time. Sunset dhow cruises from Nungwi are spectacular. The east coast around Paje and Jambiani has stunning beaches but significant tidal changes that expose the reef at low tide. Paje has become a world class kite surfing destination.

Mnemba Atoll, a private island and marine conservation area off the northeast coast, offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in East Africa. Day trip snorkeling excursions circle the island through coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, dolphins, and, in season, whale sharks and sea turtles.

Where to Stay

andBeyond Mnemba Island is the most exclusive property, a private island with just 12 bandas (thatched bungalows) on the beach. The Residence Zanzibar on the southwest coast offers butler service villas with private pools. Baraza Resort and Spa on Bwejuu beach blends Swahili architecture with five star luxury. In Stone Town, Emerson Spice and Park Hyatt Zanzibar offer atmospheric stays within the historic quarter. For a more boutique experience, Zawadi Hotel on the southeast coast sits on a clifftop with panoramic Indian Ocean views.

Let Us Plan Your Zanzibar Trip

Zanzibar is the ideal complement to an East African safari, but it also stands on its own as a beach and culture destination. We will help you choose the right coast, the right resort, and the right balance of Stone Town culture and beach relaxation for an unforgettable Indian Ocean escape.