Tanzania · Indian Ocean
Zanzibar The Spice Island
UNESCO Stone Town, pristine coral reefs, sunset dhow cruises and the most beautiful beaches on the East African coast
Zanzibar is one of Africa's most enchanting destinations — an archipelago of coral islands floating in the Indian Ocean 35km off the coast of Tanzania, steeped in Swahili culture, Persian and Arab heritage and the lingering scent of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon that gave it the name 'The Spice Island'.
Stone Town, Zanzibar's ancient capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a labyrinth of coral stone streets, ornate carved wooden doors, rooftop terraces overlooking the harbour and the vibrant Forodhani night market where Zanzibari street food is cooked fresh each evening. The narrow alleys conceal boutique hotels in converted Arab merchant houses, rooftop bars and some of the finest fresh seafood in East Africa.
Beyond Stone Town, the island reveals some of the Indian Ocean's most beautiful beaches — the calm turquoise lagoon of Nungwi on the northern tip, the kite-surfing mecca of Paje on the east coast and the seclusion of Matemwe, where the Mnemba Atoll reef offers world-class snorkelling and diving with sea turtles, dolphins and spectacular coral gardens just a short boat ride offshore.
UNESCO-listed Stone Town is one of East Africa's most atmospheric destinations — 2,000 carved wooden doors, the Palace Museum, the slave memorial and the Forodhani night market.
A protected marine sanctuary offshore from Matemwe — sea turtles, spinner dolphins, eagle rays and the finest coral snorkelling in East Africa. Day trips available from most hotels.
A traditional wooden dhow drifts across the Indian Ocean as the sun sets behind the Zanzibar skyline — one of East Africa's most romantic and iconic experiences.
Zanzibar's spice farms are still active — tours through clove, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper plantations reveal the island's extraordinary aromatic history.
Dry, calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving. North and east beaches at their finest.
Hot and humid but excellent beach conditions. Whale sharks visit Oct–Dec.
Heavy rains. Not recommended for beach holidays.
Brief showers. Lush and green. Good hotel rates.