VISITING ZANZIBAR

Our Experience

TOURISM IN ZANZIBAR

1. Cultural & Historical Attractions

1.1 Stone Town (Zanzibar City) – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Description:
Stone Town is renowned for its labyrinthine alleys, vibrant markets, and a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European architecture.

Key Attractions:

  1. House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib) – Once the tallest building in East Africa; formerly housed the Museum of History and Culture of Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast.

  2. Old Fort – Built in the 17th century by Omani Arabs; now a cultural center with curio shops and an open-air amphitheater for live performances.

  3. Old Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral – Built over the old whipping post of the island’s largest slave market; offers insights into the history of slavery in East Africa.

  4. Darajani Bazaar – A colorful, bustling market selling fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local goods.

  5. Hamami Persian Baths – The first public baths in Zanzibar, built by Shirazi architects from Iran (no longer in use but open for viewing).

  6. Old Dispensary – Architectural gem blending Indian, European, and Swahili styles; now houses a small museum.

  7. Forodhani Gardens – Popular evening spot for enjoying local street food and socializing.

1.2 Prison Island (Changuu Island)

Location: ~5.6 km northwest of Stone Town.
Highlights:

  1. Giant Aldabra Tortoises – Some over 100 years old, gifted in 1919 by the British governor of Seychelles.

  2. Snorkeling – Colorful coral reefs, over 400 fish species, turtles, and occasional dolphins.

  3. Historical Significance – Former prison site; also used as a slave hiding place and chapel.

  4. Beaches & Nature Walks – White sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and forest trails with birdlife and butterflies.

2. Nature & Wildlife Experiences

2.1 Jozani–Chwaka Bay National Park

Location: Central-eastern Unguja Island.
Description: Home to the rare red colobus monkeys, mangrove forests, and diverse flora and fauna.
Activities:

  1. Guided forest walks (1–2 hours) with insights into plants, animals, birds, and traditional medicinal uses.

  2. Birdwatching and ecotourism education.

2.2 Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Location: Near Jozani Forest.
Highlights:

  • One of Africa’s largest butterfly enclosures.

  • Guided tours (30–40 minutes) covering butterfly life cycles and conservation importance.

2.3 Kizimkazi Dolphin Tours

Location: Southern coast of Zanzibar.
Activities:

  • Early morning boat trips to see bottlenose and humpback dolphins.

  • Swimming and snorkeling among coral reefs and colorful marine life.

3. Marine & Beach Activities

3.1 Mnemba Island

Location: ~3 km off the northeast coast of Unguja Island.
Highlights:

  1. Snorkeling – Excellent visibility, rich coral reefs, sea turtles, and colorful fish.

  2. Scuba Diving – Dive sites like Kichwani Reef and Wattabomi with reef sharks and dolphins.

  3. Swimming with Dolphins – Ethical guided experiences.

  4. Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Calm, clear waters.

  5. Deep-Sea Fishing – Tuna, barracuda, kingfish.

  6. Beach Walks – Powder-white sand and privacy.

 

3.2 Pange Sandbank

Location: Short boat ride from Stone Town.
Highlights:

  1. Snorkeling among vibrant corals.

  2. Traditional dhow cruises.

  3. Seafood BBQs and picnics on the sandbank.

4. Culinary & Cultural Experiences

4.1 Spice Farm Tours

Location: Various sites across Zanzibar.
Activities:

  1. Guided walks through spice plantations.

  2. Learn about cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, vanilla, and more.

  3. Demonstrations of herbal medicine and natural product making.

  4. Traditional Swahili cooking classes.

  5. Craft-making (weaving, coconut carving).

  6. Nature walks and birdwatching.

  7. Farm-to-table dining.

4.2 Forodhani Night Market

Location: Forodhani Gardens, Stone Town.
Highlights:

  • Zanzibar Pizza, grilled seafood, mshikaki, urojo, samosas, cassava.

  • Sugarcane juice with ginger or lime.

  • Sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

  • Local entertainment, acrobatic diving, and people-watching.