Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar Island is located in the Indian Ocean in the United Republic of Tanzania. The island united with Tanzania in 1964. It is a group of islands also known as the Spice Islands. The island was initially called the Unguja, the largest populated island in the United Republic of Tanzania.The island is about 50 kilometers away from the coast or the mainland of Tanzania consisting of the two islands that are Unguja (Zanzibar) and Pemba island. The island’s development was due to the coming of the Arabs and Indian traders in the 17th century.
Also, these traders constructed beautiful architecture within the island in the old town called Stone Town. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the buildings in this town are those of the Arabs and Indians who came for trade. The island is also known as a spice town, there are a lot of spices grown within the area, and much of these spices are displayed in their markets. In Zanzibar, the major industries are the spice industry and the tourism industry. The tourism industry in Zanzibar is marketed and promoted by the government rather than the private sector. This island has also contributed to the economic development of Tanzania because of its industries.
What to see in Zanzibar? (Attractions)
Stone town
This is the oldest city part of the island and was set up by the Arab traders 200 years ago. During the safari to the town, you will see old architecture of the Arab buildings that were constructed. The town is also regarded as the oldest Swahili town in East Africa with good looks, smell, and beauty. The town is made up of the Islamic region and while on your visit, you will always hear the Islamic call for prayer.
Giant tortoise sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to a large number of tortoises that were imported from the Seychelles in the 19th century. While in the sanctuary, you will learn about the efforts made to protect the tortoise. The tortoise in this region ages up to 150 years and is about 200 kg in weight. This sanctuary was initially a prison that was built in 1883 to separate the dangerous prisoners from the mainland and also the people who were suffering from yellow fever. The prison is now a hotel operating within the sanctuary.
Jozani forest reserve
This forest reserve is located within the Jozani Chwaka National Park in the Chwaka bay. This forest is the largest in the area with indigenous tree species. The area in the forest is low-lying and it is always flooded. While on the safari to the forest, you will see over 40 bird species and red colobus monkeys that are only found in Zanzibar. The other wildlife you can see include bushbabies and duikers among others.
Spice plantations
On the safari to Zanzibar, you will have a tour of the tropical fruits and spices. The spice plantations were first set up by the Portuguese and the seedlings of these plantations were first imported from Goa and Brazil in the 16th century. These spices led to an increase in trade on the island.
What to do in Zanzibar? (Activities)
City tour
The city tour in Zanzibar is done in the Stone Town, one of the oldest towns of Zanzibar with architectural buildings. On the city tour, you will also visit the malls and old mosques. You will also see the markets that taste different spices.
Quad biking
While on your Zanzibar safari, you will do quad biking where the training of the quad bikes is free. Then later, you will go ahead with riding the bikes within Zanzibar. While on the quad biking, you will visit different villages cultural centers, and agricultural sites experiencing fresh fruits and vegetables. The activity will last for about 3 to 6 hours of the day. It can also be done either in the morning or the afternoon and also you can either choose to do it in a group or alone.
Nakupenda Beach tour
Nakupenda Beach is known for its white sands and clear water. The tour to the beach will require you to have the swimming costumes and gear. During the tour, you will swim into the underwater world and you will see a lot of the aquatic life and the coral reefs within the sea. You can also choose swimming, sunbathing on the beach. The activity can be done either in the morning or the afternoon.
Dolphin tour
The dolphin tour is done in Zanzibar within the sea. The travelers will swim with the dolphins in the clear waters. During the tour, you will also see the other aquatic animals. The activity is done in the morning hours and in the north of Zanzibar which is Mama Mia Beach. At the beach, there is a conservation area for the dolphins where a traveler can do his or her safari.
Accommodation facilities in Zanzibar
While in Zanzibar, there are a variety of accommodation facilities that travelers can choose to stay in on their Tanzania safari. The facilities are located around the island and these include; the Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Fairmont Zanzibar Hotel, Essque Zalu Hotel, Tembo Hotel, Uroa Hotel, Voi Kiwengwa Resort, the Sunset Resort, Zanzibar Rock Hotel many others. Most of these facilities are located on the shores of the sea, beaches, and other features which offer the best view for tourists.
What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is open to travelers throughout the year for their visits. The best time to visit the island is June to October. During this period, the weather is cool, and dry, with less rainfall and warm temperatures where which makes tourism activities go well. During other months, the island can be visited since there is less traffic for the traverse within the island. Book a Zanzibar Island Tour Now.
