Zanzibar - Overview
An inimitable Indian Ocean Island, off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is the quintessential destination that affords superlative historical, cultural, exploratory, and eco-tourism beach experiences in East Africa. It seems to have everything that any like-minded sightseer might look for. It has a distinct, ethnical history that is a remarkable amalgamation of the many travellers that passed through it for centuries.
Arabs, Indians, Persians, European and even a trace of Chinese, each left an indelible mark in the form of architectural styles and culture that now contribute to its charm. Side by side is the rise and fall of many empires that left behind ruins and other remnants, but their presence is still felt in the blood of the traditional Zanzibarian.
Zanzibar is an escape from the everyday and the ordinary, with world-class beaches, and a rich history, culture, and geography like no other in the world. It’s a true tropical paradise, but with so much more to offer than just surface beauty.
Zanzibar - GlobalXplorers
The Zanzibar Islands are also called Angoja in the local Swahili language of indigenous islanders, and the Zanzibar Island Group is officially traced to the State of Tanzania in East Africa, but it has semi-autonomous autonomy. Zanzibar is a group of 52 islands, the largest of which is Zanzibar, followed by Bemba Island and other well-known islands such as the Mafia Island and Tumbatu. Zanzibar is renowned for growing and producing cloves, with statistics indicating that there are more than 4 million carnation trees, making Zanzibar the world’s leading source and producer of cloves.
Zanzibar has a unique population structure consisting of a large proportion of Arabs, Africans, and Indians, with a population of 1 million in the Zanzibar Islands, 98% of whom convert to Islam and the rest of the population convert to Christianity and Sikhism.
To earn their living, Zanzibar people depend on agriculture. Coconuts and cloves are among the most important crops produced by the people of the islands. In addition, they work in fishing and the tourism sector, which is an important source of the country’s economy. Zanzibar in Tanzania is dominated by tropical weather, and Zanzibar enjoys two rainy seasons during the year, the first season is in March, April, and May each year with heavy rains, and the second season during November and December of the end of each year, with less rain than the first season.
Zanzibar was historically subordinate to the rule of the Omani Sultan, whose authority extended all over the east coast of Africa. Zanzibar’s importance reached its peak during its Arab reign in 1828 under Sultan Saeed bin Sultan, who made it the capital of the Sultanate and moved his residence to the islands being inspired by its climate and picturesque nature. Zanzibar’s Omani-Arab rule ended following a revolution by the Afro-Shirazi Party with the support of British colonial forces in 1964; the islands now belong to the African state of Tanzania.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Zanzibar
The Perfect Tropical Beach Experience
You have your choice of several stunning beaches with fine coral white sand, and brilliant blue waters on Zanzibar Island alone. The area around Nungwi and Kendwa at the northernmost tip of the island includes an idyllic, wide beach. There are also great beaches to savor at Matemwe, Kizimkazi on the eastern side, and Bwejuu and Dongwe in the south- eastern part of the island.
Explore a Unique History
In historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zanzibar City, you can see the mix of Islamic and East African Swahili cultures in the architecture, with elegant minarets and wonderfully carved doorways. You can walk through laneways that meander past historical landmarks like the House of Wonders, an 18th-century sultan's palace.
World-Class Water Sports
Whether you want to explore in, on, or under the water, you'll find the adventure you crave in Zanzibar, including diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, and windsurfing. You can go fishing, take a cruise on a traditional dhow, kayak, parasail, or kiteboard. Whether you are an expert or complete novice, you'll find many opportunities to have fun, learn new skills, and enjoy Zanzibar's brilliant blue waters.
Unique Nature and Wildlife Encounters
Zanzibar is home to unique species like the Zanzibar red colobus monkey and Zanzibar leopard. You can visit their natural habitat in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and check out the colobus and other types of monkeys from a trail through a mangrove forest. The Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond is a sea turtle sanctuary that is helping to conserve these interesting creatures.
Exciting Cuisine in the Spice Islands
Dining in the Spice Islands is everything you'd expect - a fragrant mixture of East African, Arabian, Chinese, and Indian influences. You'll find dishes from the Seychelles Islands too, along with contemporary fusion cuisine, with fresh seafood, seasonings, and other ingredients to offer you the best of land and sea.What to do in Zanzibar?
Nakupenda Beach: Pristine Expanses
This may be the most untouched paradise you will ever see in your life. Nakupenda Beach off the coast of Zanzibar Town is an isolated island of pure sand surrounded by crystal waters. Simple as can be, the beach instils peace and relaxation in every visitor. Spend the day lying out in the sun, snorkelling the clear sea, and appreciating the disconnection from hectic civilization. This is the ultimate escape.
Stone Town: Historical Center
Stone Town overflows with historic sights combined with contemporary experiences. Don't miss the 17th-century Old Fort or the House of Wonders, Zanzibar's architecturally stunning Museum of Culture. St. Joseph's Cathedral still stands after centuries, and the time-worn details are stunning. For a taste of local culture visit Darajani Market or head to Forodhani Gardens for the epic seafood night market on the water.
Changuu Island: Prison to Paradise
Also known as Prison Island, this offshore marine wonderland had a grizzly history during the slave trade. Today, however, it is a popular day trip for visitors to Zanzibar. Giant turtles that roam the island are the number one attraction, along with a diversity of other creatures - from dolphins to butterfly fish. There is also an informative and commemorative Slave Trade Museum with moving exhibitions about events of centuries past.
Nungwi Beach: Treat Yourself
The northern tip of Zanzibar Island is filled with all your beach vacation needs and desires. Nungwi Beach has been rated one of the best in the world and is surrounded by resorts of the highest quality. Even if you are just visiting for the day, their water sports rentals, scuba diving courses, massage booths and seaside bars are available to one and all. Make sure to stick around for the epic sunset too. There truly is something for everyone here.
Cheetah's Rock: Make New Friends
One of the island's unique attractions brings tourists face to face with majestic African creatures, and it is a mind-blowing experience for all. Rescued cheetahs, lions, zebras, and more are introduced to each guest in an intimate and safe setting - soon, everyone reaches a mutual understanding. This immersive day of wildlife wonderment will stick with you forever, and you'll have unbelievable photos to show for it.Where to stay in Zanzibar?
Nungwi and Kendwa
These villages on the north coast of Unguja where you will find some of Zanzibar's finest beaches. Not surprisingly, it's also where to find many of the area's premium luxury hotels and resorts.
