Get ready to be captivated by the enchanting allure of Zanzibar, an exquisite archipelago that belongs to the United Republic of Tanzania. Nestled in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar boasts a collection of stunning islands, with Unguja and Pemba taking center stage. The vibrant heart of Zanzibar Island, Unguja, is home to the iconic Stone Town, a bustling historic city with narrow winding alleys and magnificent stone coral buildings.
But that’s not all! The Zanzibar archipelago extends far beyond the two main islands, encompassing a mesmerizing array of smaller islands and islets that stretch from the northern tip of Pemba to the southern reaches of Unguja.
Prepare to be astonished as you unravel the unexpected history of this remarkable island in the southern waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar’s roots trace back thousands of years when the first African settlers arrived, forging the foundations of a vibrant culture. Throughout the centuries, Zanzibar became a melting pot, attracting and embracing visitors from diverse corners of the world, including Egypt, Greece, Persia, Arabia, India, China, and Europe. It’s a tapestry of history, culture, and exploration like no other.
Unleash your wanderlust as you embark on a variety of thrilling excursions that showcase the wonders of Zanzibar.
Step into the mystical realm of Stone Town on a captivating guided tour. Traverse the cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage. Discover the haunting remnants of the former slave market, witness the vibrant fish market, and marvel at architectural gems like the Sultan Palace, House of Wonders, and the Old Arab Fort. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleyways, where every corner reveals bustling bazaars, magnificent mosques, and resplendent Arab houses and palaces. As you explore, you’ll encounter over 500 extraordinary, intricately carved wooden doors that epitomize the extraordinary craftsmanship of Zanzibar.
Embark on a Spice Tour and find yourself amidst the lush farmlands of central Zanzibar. Indulge your senses as you encounter a bountiful array of spices and exotic seasonal fruits. Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the indigenous population, experiencing their warm hospitality in traditional African dwellings. Discover the secrets of cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger root, and more, as you learn about the island’s rich spice heritage. The scents and flavors will transport you to a world of sensory delight.
Among the spices grown are cloves (huge production), cardamom, cinnamon, ginger root, lemongrass, nutmeg, pepper and chili, also common exotic fruits such as, jackfruit, durian, custard apple, mangoustine, star fruit, tangerine and varieties of mango species The tour includes a stop at Livingstone House and Maruhubi Palace Ruins for a little piece of history. Transfer back to your hotel at the end of the tour.
The tour takes you from your hotel to the former slave market site, a guided visit of the old church and slave chambers. Afterwards drive north of the island for a visit of the busy Mkokotoni fish market and dhow harbor. Leisurely photographing.
Early afternoon proceed to Nungwi village with a brief stop at Fukuchani ruins. Here a guided visit to the dhow construction yard and Swahili village followed by lunch at one of the local restaurants. Rest of the day is spent at leisure on the white pristine beaches of Nungwi. Return to your hotel at the end of the tour.
A half day guided tour of nature trails and mangrove swamp. Home to the family of rare specie of red colobus monkey and few dikdik population. The monkeys are highly endangered, numbering only around 1,500. The Forest contains about 100 tree species from a total of 43 families. It has a gazetted area of over 6,000 acres that includes the whole ground water forest, coral rag forest and salt marsh area. The area together with the adjacent Chwaka Bay forest have recently been converted into a reserve known as Jozani Chwaka Conservation Area. A little paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Full day sailing excursion from the fishing village of Fumba, aboard traditional motorized dhows. Clients are picked from the hotel to arrive at the coastal village within Menai Bay Conservation area. The bay has a number of beautiful uninhabited islands and sandbanks frequently visited by humpback and bottlenose dolphins. Professional guides are responsible to give briefings and life jacket demo before the start of the tour.
Set off to explore the Menai Bay coral reef on a first stop. Coconut drink provided on a sandbank after the snorkeling session.
Later embark on the dhows to another sand bank for barbeque lunch.
Lunch is a traditional Zanzibari buffet including grilled fish, lobster, calamari, chicken and variety of coconut sauces, vegetarian recipes served under the fixed shaded tents.
Also on the menu is a gastronomic selection of seasonal fruits, soft drinks and beers.
Later in the afternoon sail through the beautiful lagoon and mangrove forest using local outrigger canoes “ngalawa”. Return to Fumba shore by sail as sun begins to set.
This is a half day tour on motorized boat departing from Stone Town waterfront.
Also known as Changuu, the island was originally used by Arab rulers as a detention centre for disobedient slaves. In 1893, a prison was built here but instead it was used as a quarantine station for the whole of East Africa. It is endowed with natural attractive features observed while on a guided walks around the island.
Apart from the ruins of the old prison, there is a large population of protected giant tortoises, brought from Seychelles in the 18th century. The island has a restaurant and small coral reef for snorkeling and is popular with day trippers from a number of Stone Town Hotels.
Accessed using a motorized boat from any Stone Town Hotel, a full day trip is just the ideal option.
Chumbe Island is situated eight miles off the coast of Zanzibar main Island. It is a small uninhabited island dominated by coral rag forest and bordered, on its western shore, by a fringing coral reef of exceptional bio-diversity and beauty.
Chumbe Island was gazetted as a Reef Sanctuary by the Government of Zanzibar in 1994 with minimum and controlled vessel movements.
Well trained rangers conduct all the excursions with great efficiency and knowledge.
Lunch is included on the tour and is served on the island’s only eco- friendly lodge.
Complete your adventure with a visit to the picturesque Mangapwani village, famous for its coconut and clove plantations. Because of location, the tour is recommended for clients staying in Stone Town or as an en route visit to north east hotels.
Visit the coconut plantations to see cultivation, processing and consumption. Explore the intriguing slave caves and chambers, delving into Zanzibar’s complex past.
Barbecue lunch is served at a beach restaurant.
Rest of the day, relax on the beautiful sandy beach with optional sailing, kayaking and snorkeling.
Also included in your trip: Relaxation on the idyllic sandy beach and a sumptuous barbecue lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
Optional activities such as sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling await, providing the perfect finale to your Zanzibar escapade.
Zanzibar beckons you with its rich history, awe-inspiring beauty, and endless adventures. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return to this magical paradise.
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