Home > Destinations > Destination: Zanzibar
Zanzibar City
Tanzanian shilling
Swahili
GMT +3
Pristine palm-fringed beaches, white-sailed dhows on azure seas, vibrant spice markets, and the cobbled streets of the island’s capital, Stone Town, are all woven into the tapestry that is the colorful island of Zanzibar. A semi-autonomous part of the United Republic of Tanzania, a Zanzibar getaway is often combined with a luxury Tanzania safari, offering the best of both worlds.
Known locally as Ungunja, Zanzibar is full of rich history and is at the crossroads of Arabic and African cultures, creating a wonderfully eclectic fusion of influences. Whether you are solely traveling for a luxurious island getaway or as an addition to your East Africa safari, Zanzibar invites you to create lasting memories in paradise. Browse luxury safari packages in Zanzibar and Tanzania, or contact the luxury safari specialists at Ker & Downey Africa.
Zanzibar City
Tanzanian shilling
Swahili
UTC+03:00
Zanzibar is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean situated approximately 25 miles off the east coast of Tanzania, Africa. It is a semi-autonomous territory of Tanzania and consists of two large islands known as Unguja – the local name for Zanzibar – and Pemba Island, plus several smaller islands.
While you will be spoilt for choice with larger terrestrial predators in Tanzania, including the Big Five, Zanzibar is home to some rare and prolific aquatic species like moray eels, octopus, coral reef ecosystems, manta rays, a diverse array of vibrant fish, and even the endangered Green turtle. If you enjoy snorkeling or diving, there is also a strong chance you will get to experience intimate encounters with dolphins or the ocean’s largest fish, the whale shark. The Jozani Forest Reserve is also a great place to spot rare endemic mammals and birds between the swampy tropical fronds and is home to the island’s most famous resident – the red-colobus monkey.
Zanzibar is a year-round destination with a tropical climate, meaning you can expect hot and humid weather throughout the year. There are two rainy seasons throughout the year, with the first occurring from March to May and a secondary rainy season falling in November. The long dry season, when rainfall is fairly rare, lasts from June all the way through to October. Temperatures on the island may vary due to altitude and location, but one can generally expect clear skies and sunny weather during this time, making it a superb time to visit. The island is renowned for its world-class diving, which is an activity that can take place at any time of the year.
July to August is considered peak season in Zanzibar. With pleasantly high temperatures and little to no rain, it is an ideal time to experience all the island has to offer.
The low season is between March and May. This is the island’s rainiest season, and some resorts close while others offer discounted rates.
There are a number of high-end lodges and resorts scattered around the island that offer the utmost barefoot luxury for discerning travellers.
Some of the best accommodation options in Zanzibar include:
Some of the top recommended activities in Zanzibar include:
Spice Tour
A Spice Tour is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities in Zanzibar, reminiscent of bygone days when it was known as the ‘spice island’ exporting items like cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cardamom across the world, brought in from Asia and South America. A spice tour takes you to organic farms on the island where you can see, touch, smell, and taste a variety of spice plants and experience the spice islands’ rich history.
Marine Safari
Zanzibar has some of the most exceptional coral reefs on the planet, and a snorkeling or diving expedition is a must to experience the vibrant underwater world of the island and surrounding isles. It is one of the few remaining untamed underwater wildernesses and is a truly remarkable experience.
Dhow Cruise
A traditional wooden dhow cruise while visiting the island is an essential part of your Zanzibar experience. Gliding effortlessly to the sound of the white canvas sails in the breeze and the lapping of the crystal waters below is an unparalleled experience and a fantastic way to enjoy the sunset or a lazy lunch on a palm-fringed island nearby.
Stone Town
The central point of the island, Stone Town, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. It is an eclectic mix of African, Arabic, and colonial styles, all mixed into one cobblestoned city. It is packed with vibrant cultural influences from traders from India and the Middle East and has something exciting around every corner—from intricate fabrics and markets to eccentric food stalls selling mouth-watering culinary treats.
Zanzibar has just one national park, the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. While not a traditional national park, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and eco-tourism during an East African safari. The park is home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey, as well as other species such as Sykes’ monkeys and bush babies. Visitors can explore the park on private guided nature walks and mangrove boat tours.
Yes, many people opt to combine a luxury safari in Zanzibar with a trip to Tanzania, providing the best of both worlds. While Zanzibar offers a more relaxing island getaway, nearby Tanzania on mainland Africa offers a more traditional safari experience. Safari highlights in Tanzania include:
The Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Park is a World Heritage Site in northern Tanzaina, renowned for its vast savannah plains, stunning views, and abundant wildlife. The park is ideal for game drives and provides the opportunity to view the great migration of millions of wildebeest.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder renowned for its breathtaking beauty, game-viewing opportunity, and incredible bio-diversity. The crater is one of the largest intact calderas in the world and is home to a superb selection of African wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, lions, and a host of bird species. A visit to the Ngorongoro Crater promises awe-inspiring vistas and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Lake Manyara
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara is a captivating destination celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife. The lake is a haven for birdlife, including thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl. Surrounding the lake is the lush Manyara Biosphere Reserve, home to lush forests inhabited by elephants, giraffes, and elusive tree-climbing lions.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is nestled within the Kilimanjaro National Park. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a highlight for many repeat safari-goers; however, for nature enthusiasts, the park offers superb wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is made up of rugged mountain peaks, grassy plains, and lush rainforests, providing a wide range of habitats to explore.
Nyere National Park
Located in southern Tanzania, Nyere National Park is the largest national park in Africa, located some 230-kms from Dar es Salaam. Formerly Selous game reserve, the Nyere National Park is home to one of the largest concentrations of wild animals, including big game, making it one of the world’s ultimate safari destinations. The park boasts excellent numbers of big cats, as well multiple other wildlife species.
If you want to learn more about Tanzania safaris, contact the safari specialists at Ker & Downey Africa.
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