Top 5 Reasons to Visit Zanzibar
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
