Zanzibar Island, Zanzibar Holidays, Zanzibar Safaris, Travel in Zanzibar

Although Zanzibar and its neighboring tropical island of Pemba do not have reserve or park status, they are worth mentioning here for the aquatic life, some rare primates and a fascinating history. Zanzibar is a common post-safari destination that adds a relaxing, exotic element to a hectic holiday.

These islands lie at the top of Tanzania's Indian Ocean coastline, which over the centuries have been influenced by numerous cultures which have blended together to create the Zanzibar of today. The confusing mix originates from an African Asian combination created by a touch of Persian, Arabian, Indian and Chinese influences with some Dutch, Portuguese and English thrown in for good measure. Slaves and spices made these islands famous.

Shirazi Persians and Omani Arabs settled and ruled the Zanzibar Sultanate, which explains the Arab influences and Muslim religion which endures today. Heavily carved and studded Zanzibar doors relieve the plain exteriors of many houses, many of which are peeling and disheveled. The Indian influence produced colored glasswork and ornamental fretwork balconies and today Gujarat traders sell just about anything from cloves to curios. The English legacy is a number of solid imperial buildings occupying the more select parts of The Stone Town.

The islands conjure up everything one could want from a tropical escape. Spectacular beaches, simple fishing villages, relaxing resorts, silence and solitude if you wish or the hustle and bustle in the narrow streets of an ancient town.

The city of Zanzibar is often referred to as Stone Town because of the coral stone used in the construction of many of the older buildings found along the narrow alleys ways. No visits to this exciting island is complete without a tour of this historic town. The three hour guided tour includes the city market, a century old Anglican Church of Christ, built on the site of the notorious slave trade in 1874; and some of the rooms where slaves were stashed before their sale.

The tour also include the National Museum, Forodhani Gardens, the Arab Fort (circa 1700) and some interesting shops found along the narrow streets and walkways. The tour ends at Livingstone.

Evening Stone Town Tour

As a rainbow of colours bounce off the Indian Ocean whilst the sun sinks into the west, the city of Zanzibar comes alive with the call to prayer from the dozens of mosques. Your guide takes you for a leisurely walk through the narrow streets where you will encounter a variety of cultures in the many shops that come to life in the cool of the night.

Jozani Forest

After a drive of half an hour from the city center, spend about two hours walking through the nature trails of this tropical rain forest. The guide will point out some of the interesting vegetation, birds and smaller animals seen along the route.

Prison Island

For a relaxing break from the city, take a native dhow to Changu Island, nicknamed Prison Island because of its use by Arab Slave traders for the confinement of slaves. A side from the 1893 built gaal that still stands, there are giant tortoise on the island. Take this opportunity to swim, snorkel and sun bathe. A full day trip with lunch can also be arranged.

Mangapwani Beach and Slave Caves

Arriving by vehicle for lunch, a new facility operated by Serena Hotels provides a tasty lunch under thatched roof overlooking the private cove below. After lunch, stroll along the nature trail to the caves once used by slaves to fetch fresh water for their captors, view local crafts, swim or relax on the sandy beach. Late afternoon transfer back to your hotel.

Spice Garden Tour

This guided tour begins at the Kibweni Palace (Sultan’s Rest House) to view the Persian Baths built in 1850. then on to Kizimbani to visit the spice plantations where there are a variety of spices such as Cardamon, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg and naturally cloves. You will also come cross rare plants such as the henna bush, perfume tree and lipstick tree.

North Coast Beach

Transfer to the white sands of Nungwi where you have the day to swim and relax. Lunch is included from a nearby hotel. Visit a craftsman who constructs local dhows.

East Coast Beach

En route is the opportunity to view Dunga Palace Ruins, the last African palace built before the 18th Century rule by Omani Arabs. At the beach in Pongwe, swim, snorkel or just sun bathe. Includes a picnic lunch.

Dolphin Safari (South Beach)

Drive to the village of Fumba on the south coast and board local boats in search of dolphins. The species found in Menai Bay are Spinner and Bottlenose swim alongside these remarkable animals. A guide will assist with snorkeling in the reef.

A Swahili barbecue lunch is provided on a desert island and soft beverages are available throughout the day. The afternoon is free for swimming snorkeling and relaxing on the island before sailing back to the mainland.

Swahili Cultural Adventure

Driving to Fuoni on the outskirts of town, begin to feel the excitement of local life. This special tour includes experiencing local cooking, arts and food, products made from small farms, drying of spices, weaving, plus a visit to a Koranic School where young and old study the teaching of Islam. Refreshments are served.

Zanzibar from Nairobi, Arusha and Mombasa - 2 Nights

Day 1 Zanzibar

Fly to Zanzibar. Transfer to your overnight hotel in Stone Town. Afternoon spice tour. Overnight: your choice of Stone Town Hotel

Day 2 Zanzibar (B)

Enjoy a guided tour of the Stone Town in the morning. Afternoon, visit Prison Island and swim or snorkel in the warm blue Indian Ocean. Overnight: your choice of Stone Town Hotel

Day 3 Zanzibar (B)

Transfer to the airport for your return flight or drive to one of the many beach resorts.