Zanzibar Introduction

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago located not far from the east coast of mainland Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. It consists or several small islands and two large islands, Pemba and Unguja. The later being by far being the most populated, and largest tourist destination is commonly referred to as simply Zanzibar. The capital city of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City. The historic centre of Zanzibar City is called Stone Town and is a World Heritage Site. Zanzibar was in important trading hub and the Swahili language and culture were formed from Persian, Indian, Arab, and Portuguese mixing with the native Bantu languages and cultures. The islands of Unguja and Pemba are often referred to as the "Spice Islands" due to the abundance and wide variety of spices grown on the islands.

Stone Town shows off the cultural blend of the islands with its fascinating architecture, narrow winding alleyways opening into bustling bazaars with its many small shops and restaurants. Spending a day in Stone Town is well worth the experience. But for the beaches the best locations are on the northern and eastern coasts. We recommend spending a minimum of 4 days in Zanzibar to not feel rushed while simultaniously trying to relax.

GETTING THERE

There is an international airport located on the southwest portion of Unguja - Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ airport code). There is also a small airport on Pemba Island (PMA airport code -- be careful if booking a flight, there is also a Pemba Airport in Mozambique). Flights to ZNZ flights can be found from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Dar es Salaam (DAR) Moshi Airport (QSI), Arusha Airport (ARK), from Serengeti (Seronera) Airstrip (SEU). There is also ferry service from Dar es Salaam to Ugunja (Zanzibar). To get to Pemba, you can get a flight on a small plane from ZNZ or DAR. There is also a ferry from Ugunja to Pemba.

ACTIVITIES IN ZANZIBAR

Who says that you need to do anything? After a Kilimanjaro trek or bouncing around on dusty roads while on safari, doing nothing for a few days is an excellent idea. The perfect white sand beaches lined with palm trees are very relaxing. But for those wanting activity there is plenty to do.

• Recommended are the following:
• Stone Town Walking Tour
• Stone Town Walking Tour
• Spice Plantation Tour
• Jozani Forest Tour
• Jozani Forest Tour
• Cheetah's Rock Animal Rescue Center
• Zanzibari Cooking Classes
• Deep Sea Fishing
• Ocean Canoeing
• Ocean Canoeing
• Swim with Dolphins
• Kite-surfing
• Para-sailing
• Jet skiing
• Full Moon Party (Kendwa Rock)
All activities can be easilly booked through your hotel once you arrive. The exception being Cheetah's Rock Animal Rescue Center visit which requires advance booking. For Cheetah's Rock details visit cheetahsrock.org.