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Zanzibar Information
Zanzibar is one of Africa's top destinations because of its fascinating history and its incredible beaches. Zanzibar's location in the Indian Ocean (off the coast of Tanzania) has made it a natural trading center throughout its history. Famous for its spices, Zanzibar also became an important slave trading post under its Arab rulers.
The Arab influences are obvious throughout Zanzibar but especially in Stone Town one of the island's biggest attractions. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Stone Town boasts beautiful traditional houses, narrow alleyways, a Sultan's palace and many mosques
Travel Guide to Zanzibar
Travel to Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania and experience its amazing beaches, fascinating history and wonderful spices. Not to be missed is Stone Town an old Arab town built by those who got rich from the slave and spice trade. This travel guide to Zanzibar will help you get to the islands, find accommodation and give you some historical and cultural information.
Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands, and several islets. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 25 miles off the Tanzanian coast and six degrees south of the equator. Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja) is only 60 miles long and 25 miles wide, occupying a total area of approximately 650 square miles. It is characterized by beautiful sandy beaches with fringed coral reefs, and the magic of historic Stone Town – said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa.
There are no large animals in Zanzibar, and forest areas such as Jozani are inhabited by Red Colobus monkeys, bush pigs, small antelope and Civets. Various species of mongoose can also be found on the island. There is a wide variety of birdlife and a number of large butterflies in rural areas. The coral reefs that surround the East Coast are rich in Marine diversity, and make Zanzibar an ideal location for snorkeling, diving and game fishing.
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Zanzibar’s local people have an incredible mixture of ethnic backgrounds, indicative of a colourful history. Islam is the dominant religion practiced by most locals on the island. The islanders speak Swahili, a language which is spoken extensively in East Africa. Many believe that the purist form of the language is spoken in Zanzibar as it is the birth place of Swahili. Zanzibar is an island state within the United Republic of Tanzania, and has its own semi-autonomous government.
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Zanzibar Attractions |
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Recently named a UNESCO World heritage site, Stone Town is becoming as much of an attraction in Zanzibar as its beaches. It was once the main slave trading port in East Africa. You can enjoy the intricate balconies, the ornate doors and more as you get lost in its many narrow alleyways. This site tells you what to look for and how to get around Stone Town. |
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| Pemba island is a wonderful place for snorkelers and divers and those who enjoy the beach. It is a beautiful, sparsely inhabited island, north of Zanzibar island. This site provides information about how to get to Pemba island and what hotels are available (there aren't many). |
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Zanzibar Hotels & Accomodation |
Mnemba Island Lodge
Off the coast of Zanzibar rests the untouched tranquil isle of Mnemba Island and its private lodge. Only staff and other guests inhabit the island making your stay here a completely private romantic getaway. |
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Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel
Located on a wild beach on the northern tip of Zanzibar is Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel. The hotel is built from hand-cut fossilised coral limestone and other natural materials, and literally blends into the landscape. |
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Sultan Palace Zanzibar
Sultan Palace in Zanzibar is one of the very few five star hotels on the East African coast. Built in Arabic Zanzibari style it is a smart and peaceful retreat offering an excellent contrast to the hustle and bustle of Stone Town. |
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Breezes Beach Club & Spa
Enter the Tropical Island of Zanzibar and relax in comfort and style at the Breezes Beach Club & Spa. |
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Blue Bay Beach Resort
Blue Bay Beach Resort is situated on the East Coast of Zanzibar in an area known as Kiwengwa. |
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Mapenzi Beach Club
On the east coast of Zanzibar the Mapenzi Beach Club faces a white beach of soft sand, elegant palm trees and a warm turquoise sea. |
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Karafuu Hotel Beach Resort
A name recalling ancient adventures and legends, the island of Spices, mythical gold, ivory, and slave trade land - this is Zanzibar. |
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Fundu Lagoon
Fundu Lagoon is the epitomy of "barefoot paradise" with a distinct Robinson Crusoe air. It is a place for guests to relax and unwind in casual, yet elegant surroundings. |
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Gemma Dell’Est
This enchanting and environmental friendly resort was designed and constructed to blend with its magnificent surroundings and the marvelous contours of the landscape. |
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Ocean Paradise Resort
This enchanting and environmental friendly resort was designed and constructed to blend with its magnificent surroundings and the marvelous contours of the landscape. |
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Pongwe Beach Hotel
Situated on one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, the Pongwe Beach Hotel is a true paradise retreat, set within a secluded bay on the east coast of Zanzibar. |
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Matemwe Bungalows
Matemwe Bungalows is situated on the northeast coast of Zanzibar; about 1 hour by road from town. This rural part of the island is known for its natural beauty and the best weather on Zanzibar. |
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