Zanzibar
The best of both worlds
Summary
Zanzibar might be the most perfect tropical African islands you’ve never heard of. The Tanzanian island owes as much to the Arab world as to Africa. Spend your days wandering through a winding labyrinth of cobblestone streets of the old city Stone Town. In Zanzibar, haggle at the markets and discover tiny cocktail bars and eateries that now occupy the 19th century buildings. After the city, head to the coast to relax on white sand beaches fringed by stunning coral lagoons. It’s a little piece of paradise.
This tiny island that has shaped the world around it, and there’s still a palpable sense of living history in the air alongside modern luxury at seaside resorts and villas. Immerse yourself in an eclectic mix of culture, faith, language, food and architecture.
Highlights
- Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Listed old city of Stone Town and discover distinctive Islamic-influenced architecture, with regular stops for a refreshing cup of mint tea.
- Zanzibar is a great place to go diving in the living aquarium of the Mnemba Atoll off the northern tip of Zanzibar a spectacular place to witness humpback whales migrating from July to September.
- Inhale the aromas that have shaped the African island’s fates with a visit to a working spice farm.
- See the poignant and moving slave memorials in Stone Town, a grim reminder of the island’s bloody past.
- Cocoon yourself in a luxury resort or private lodge along the coast or on small satellite islands and enjoy the white sand beaches.
- Take the opportunity to learn about the oldest Islamic culture in east Africa and gain an understanding of the traditions that pervade the modern society.
$USD 350-950 Per person, per day
General inclusions: accommodation, ground transfers, some activities and meals. Seasonality affects the price of accommodation and travelling in low season may reduce the price. Single supplements may also apply.
The name itself evokes the magic, the mystery, the idyllic beauty, and even a whiff of the violent history of these Indian Ocean islands.
James Palmer, The Independent
When to travel
For a tropical island getaway you’re going to want some sun and luckily Zanzibar is blessed with pretty perfect weather for most of the year. From June through to March temperatures stay around the high 20s to low 30s and rainfall is minimal. Try to avoid travelling between mid-March and late May – most of the year’s rain falls in these months and many resorts are closed. Discover the best time to travel to Zanzibar. The monthly average temperatures and rainfall below are for the capital Zanzibar City.
- 30°c
- 25°c
- 20°c
- 15°c
- 10°c
- 5°c
- 0°c
- 45 mm
- 36 mm
- 27 mm
- 18 mm
- 9 mm
- 0 mm
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sept
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Dry Season
FAQ
2. How long should I spend in Zanzibar?
Many visitors start with a safari experience through Tanzania and end with white sand between their toes in Zanzibar. A week is typical for most, but this depends on your appetite for rest, sun and world class beaches.
3. Will Zanzibar suit my travel style?
Couples and those looking for romance will love travelling in Zanzibar. It’s the ideal travel destination for honeymooners and couples with so much mystery and romance in the air. There are also a number of family-friendly resorts. Due to Zanzibar’s proximity to Tanzania it is a popular beach addition to a lot of travellers safari holiday, so if you are looking for a more remote beach you are better off trying out Seychelles or the Maldives.
6. What essential information should I know before visiting Zanzibar?
Visa: Australian citizens require an entry visa for Zanzibar, part of Tanzania. You can obtain a visa at the port of entry upon payment of the visa fee or in advance at an embassy. Ports of entry include Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar International Airport, Der-es Salaam International Airport and Namanga border crossing point between Tanzania and Kenya. We recommend obtaining a visa prior to arrival as rules and regulations for Tanzania have a tendency to change without warning.
Health: Anti-malarial’s are required. We recommend visiting your travel doctor for the latest information on travel vaccinations.
Capital: Zanzibar City.
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