THE STUNNING ZANZIBAR ARCHIPELAGO, IN THE INDIAN OCEAN

Zanzibar is an exquisite island archipelago, off the coast of mainland Tanzania. It offers a captivating combination of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history.

Turquoise seas and white sandy beaches

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, go no further than Zanzibar. Those into socializing and water sports will find the island’s northernmost tip - Nungwi and Kendwa - to be the ideal destination. Countless beach bars and restaurants contribute to the exciting vibe at these beaches, which are famous for their beautiful sunsets and exciting nightlife.

But you’ll find something very different down the eastern coast. Less frequented beaches, such as Jambiani and Paje, provide miles of pristine beachfront with calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and lounging. Beach strolls and observation of the diverse marine life in the shallow pools formed at low tide are made possible by the distinctive tide patterns of the East Coast.

Stone Town - a UNESCO World Heritage site

The historic district of Stone Town is a veritable treasury of Swahili art and architecture. The blend of Arab, Persian, Indian and European architectural elements will enchant you as you meander through its labyrinth of passageways. Intricately carved wooden doors, each depicting a tale of the island’s affluent past, have made the town famous.

Historical landmarks include the Palace Museum, the Old Fort and the House of Wonders, all from Zanzibar's Sultanate era. The Freddie Mercury Museum, pays tribute to the singer born in Stone Town, brings a contemporary element to the town’s historical past.

Spice Tours for a flavour filled experience

Exploring the spice farms is an amazing sensory adventure. On these excursions, you may learn about the island’s rich history as a spice grower, .The verdant spice plantations welcome those who want to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices. They showcase the culinary and medicinal benefits of indigenous spices.

Visitors can savour the island’s fresh flavours with a spice-infused dinner that typically concludes the trip. Tangawizi Spice Farm and Kidichi Spice Farm are well-liked by tourists because of the experiences that they provide.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

Jozani Forest Reserve is hidden in the heart of Zanzibar, covering 50 sqkm of incredible natural beauty. This "must visit" reserve has helped  the endangered Kirk’s Red Colobus Monkeys recover from the brink of extinction, with an estimated 2,500 now in the reserve. As they are habituated to humans, you can get close and take amazing pictures.

The larger Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park has forest trails with the chance to see Sykes’ monkeys, Chameleons, Bushbabies, the shy Ader's duiker, Suni antelope and numerous bird species.

Snorkelling & Diving

Zanzibar is not a single island, but an archipelago made up of many small and large islands that are a haven for marine life enthusiasts.

For example, the Mnemba Atoll is a popular diving and snorkelling destination thanks to its abundant marine life, beautiful coral reefs, as well as playful dolphins and turtles. Pemba Island offers some of the world’s top wall diving opportunities.

Water sports

Zanzibar is building a world-wide reputation is a premier watersports destination. Kite surfing, jet skiing, and parasailing are just a few of the exciting options available.

Anyone, from novices to seasoned pros, will find ideal conditions along the island’s varied shoreline.

Dhow Trips

A dhow safari is a must-do for any visitor to Zanzibar since it allows you to explore the island’s rich maritime history. Once used for transoceanic trade, these classic wooden boats today offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the archipelago. 

Dhow safaris can last anywhere from a few hours (including at sunset) to multiple days, and they frequently include diving in coral reefs, stopping at different islets, and cooking up seafood that has just been collected.

Delicious Zanzibari food

The hotels and resorts offer food of the highest standard and the cosmopolitan past of Zanzibar is reflected in its delectable combination of flavours in the island’s cuisine. Because the water yields a bounty of fresh catches every day, seafood is a mainstay here. You'll find amazing grilled seafood such as lobster, octopus, and fish.

A gastronomic journey into Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens night market finds merchants offering a range of Zanzibari dishes, This is a great place for locals and visitors to meet one another and enjoy a lively social gathering.

Ecotourism in practise

Sustainable tourism is important to Zanzibar and the island nation is committed to protecting its rich cultural and environmental history.

Eco-friendly hotels and resorts are now using sustainable materials, water-saving measures, and renewable energy to power themselves. Employing locals and purchasing things made in the area are two ways these businesses give back to the communities they serve. Sustainable tourist practices, cultural immersion, and interaction with locals are all part of Zanzibar’s community-based tourism projects. 

Warm-hearted Residents

Last but not least, no trip to Zanzibar would be the same without experiencing the genuine kindness of the locals.

Whether it’s a cooking lesson or a village tour, connecting with locals enhances the travel experience by adding an authentic and enriching layer.

Are you "Zanzi" enough?

Zanzibar is more than just a place to visit; it’s an immersive experience that inspires wonder. 

Speak to your travel agent or a specialist tour operator who will advise you on travel to Zanzibar. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful islands soon!

Tim Henshall, Head of Tourism Marketing UK

Tanzania High Commission

3 Stratford Place, London W1C 1AS 

0781-0508791 | tim.henshall@tzhc.uk