Background

The Zanzibar archipelago is made up of the main island of Unguja, its sister island Pemba and dozens of smaller islets scattered along the Tanzanian coast. For centuries it was a hub of the Indian Ocean trade, and that history lives on in the carved wooden doors, coral-stone houses and bustling markets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond the old town, the island opens up to clove and spice plantations, mangrove forests, the Jozani Forest – home of the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey – and a coastline of quiet fishing villages, coral reefs and shallow tidal lagoons.

 

 

Destination Highlights

Zanzibar is the classic “bush and beach” finale to a Tanzanian or Kenyan safari, just a short flight from the mainland. Days can be spent snorkelling and diving around Mnemba Atoll, sailing on a traditional dhow at sunset, kitesurfing the lagoons of Paje on the east coast, touring spice farms or simply relaxing on the sand.

The island is a year-round destination. The dry months from June to October and from December to February offer the most settled weather, while the long rains of April and May bring quieter beaches and lush green landscapes.