Zanzibar is located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. It is an island paradise filled with postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant local culture, and incredible wildlife. We will take you to the stunning beauty of this island so that you can enjoy the journey. Without doing delay let’s begin the journey.
Zanzibar
Though many people mistakenly believe Zanzibar is a country. But it is actually an archipelago that forms an autonomous region of Tanzania. The islands have had a tumultuous history. control passed between various foreign powers over the centuries before merging with Tanganyika to form Tanzania in 1964 after gaining independence.
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Today, Zanzibar relies heavily on tourism, with idyllic beaches being one of the main draws. The video focuses on providing insight into the following key aspects of the island:
- Stunning beaches in the north, central, and southeast regions
- The culture and daily life of locals in rural villages
- Top attractions like Stone Town and various spice farms
- Adventurous activities from water sports to jungle safaris
- An overview of accommodation, food, costs and safety
Spending time discovering all that Zanzibar has to offer promises to be an unforgettable and potentially life-changing experience!
Driving Around Unguja
The majority of Zanzibar’s beaches and resorts are located on the main island of Unguja. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island, with the video presenter renting an older Toyota RAV4 for $30 USD per day.
While police do frequently stop tourists, they report no issues with demands for bribes. Roads are decent quality around beach areas but more potholed in rural areas. Other things to note when driving in Zanzibar:
- Driving is on the left hand side
- Locals mainly travel by bicycle or dala dala minibuses
- No sidewalks so pedestrians walk on roadsides
- Livestock and children can appear on roads
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When driving, be sure to travel slowly and cautiously, particularly at dusk when visibility is lower. Having your own transport allows you to discover parts of the island most visitors never see!
Idyllic Beaches of Nungwi in the North
The most popular tourist destination is Nungwi in the north, known for its lively atmosphere, water sports, and luxurious resorts. It offers tropical beach splendor straight from the pages of travel brochures – white sand, swaying palms, and turquoise waters. The beach stays busy both day and night with vendors, boats, and revelers.
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Another great northern option is Kendwa, which attracts travelers seeking a more relaxed, less crowded vibe. Excellent beaches can also be found lining the east coast, where the trade winds make conditions ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
While relaxing on the beach or engaging in water sports, don’t be surprised if you’re approached by local “beach boys.” Some can be pushy selling excursions or souvenirs, but others become great friends and guides. Spend time getting to know the locals!
Experiencing Rural Island Culture Away from the Resorts
While most tourists stay cloistered in the beach resorts of Nungwi and Kendwa in the north, renting a car allows you to experience authentic rural Zanzibari culture. Just a short drive from the tourist enclaves, you’ll find:
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- Friendly locals living without electricity or running water
- Women cooking over open fires and farming seaweed
- Lively games of street football and cricket
- Insight into family life – Zanzibar has an extremely high fertility rate of 4.9!
- Children tending cows and goats or carrying water long distances
Interacting with locals requires having an open mind. Concepts like personal space differ greatly. But taking time to smile, chat, and understand daily life offers rich rewards.
Vibrant Stone Town Showcases Zanzibar’s Cosmopolitan History
No trip to Zanzibar is complete without exploring the winding alleyways of historic Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its labyrinthine streets feature ornately carved doors, bustling bazaars, erstwhile palaces, and lingering reminders of the slave trade.
Stone Town reflects Zanzibar’s historical status as a trading port where Persians, Arabs, Europeans, and locals intermingled over centuries, exchanging not just goods but customs too. Discoveries around every corner testify to the island’s colorful past from a cathedral built on the site of a Portuguese church to the waterfront Palace Museum.
Try street food like Zanzibar pizza or sample spices while letting your senses become immersed in Stone Town’s tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells – a beguiling experience offering glimpses into the destination’s complex heritage.
Jozani Forest Showcases Zanzibar’s Biodiversity
While Zanzibar conjures images of pristine beaches, the island also hosts the last remaining indigenous forest in Unguja. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park protects nearly 30 sq miles of jungle and mangrove swamps, providing habitats for the rare red colobus monkey, vibrant bird species, and a treetop wonderland of butterflies, flowers and plants.
Book a guide to increase chances of wildlife sightings while learning about medicinal plants and exotic produce like jackfruit, mangoes and durian during a tour of a spice farm within the reserve. Don’t miss seeing ancient baobab trees, found across Africa, but especially awe-inspiring examples on Zanzibar.
Vibrant Culture, Pristine Beaches, Fascinating History
Zanzibar leaves visitors with an incredible impression thanks to its tranquil turquoise waters, cosmopolitan heritage, and lively cultural tapestry. Exploring seaside villages, getting lost in Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys, interacting with warm locals, discovering hidden coves or watching glass-bottomed dhows drift across the sea all create magical memories.
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While parts of Africa grapple with poverty or instability, Zanzibar remains a safe, affordable tropical paradise where Muslims, Christians, and foreigners mingle peacefully. This sun-drenched island offers rewarding adventures, cultural eye-openers, natural wonders, and barefoot luxury at accessible prices.
Go for the dazzling beaches, but leave enchanted by so much more!
Map of Zanzibar
FAQs
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Zanzibar is very safe, especially around tourist areas. However, as when traveling anywhere, tourists should take basic precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night. Most locals reported that violent crime is rare.
How expensive is Zanzibar?
Zanzibar offers outstanding value compared to many global destinations. Guesthouses cost $15-60 per night, hotel rooms average $100 per night, and food costs $10 or less for local dishes. Western food, alcohol, and excursions cost more.
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
July to October brings drier weather but also more tourists and higher prices. Many recommend visiting in May/June or November for ideal weather conditions minus the crowds.
Do I need vaccinations for Zanzibar?
While malaria medication is essential when visiting mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar itself is malaria-free so no anti-malarials are needed. However, it’s smart to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations like hep A and typhoid.
How do I get to Zanzibar?
Most visitors fly into Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) which receives direct flights from Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Istanbul, and Dar Es Salaam. Visitors can also take a short flight or ferry from Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania.
