Zanzibar is a paradisiacal African island where Maasai people walk the beaches and where the recognizable vocals of Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of Queen, who was born in this tropical paradise, echoes on the radio.
Zanzibar is located a few kilometers away from the east coast of the African continent, and with its rich and long-standing culture of colonialism, it offers much more than just magnificent sandy beaches. Fragrant spices and beaches with tall palm trees are synonymous with Zanzibar, which has stood at the crossroads of trade routes for centuries. Throughout history, it has experienced various dominations, first it was under the Sultanate of Oman, later the Portuguese and, last but not least, the British colonialists. Due to its rich history, it can boast of interesting architecture, and in addition to this, the island also has spices, interesting animal species and plenty of opportunities to engage in water sports. Welcome!
When to Zanzibar?
The best time to visit is the dry season between July and September, when the island is flooded with tourists sweating under the hot sun. Of course, it is worth avoiding the peak of the tourist season, especially on an island that is famous for its pleasant temperatures all year round. These range from 28°C to 34°C. Just make sure to avoid the rainy season in April and May.
What should I see in Zanzibar?
To begin, head to the beach and walk along the white sand, which rests in the shade of palm trees. There are a bunch of great beaches on the island, but Bwejuu Beach and Jambiani Beach are undoubtedly among the most popular. Paje Beach is a popular spot for kitesurfing, and the most beautiful sunset is offered by the beautiful sandy beauty Kendwa Beach with a crystal clear sea coast.
If you get tired of lying on the beach, you will realize that the island offers much more than just palm trees and sand. Zanzibar is so famous for its spices, which you will get to know best on a spice hiking trail, along which you will mingle with local spice growers, and at the same time you will be able to buy the produce directly from them. Hiking shoes come in handy in Zanzibar. It is one of the natural attractions that should not be overlooked Jozani forest, a preserved area of rainforest, home to rare species of monkeys, tropical birds and chameleons.
For prison lovers, board a ship and travel to Changuu Island, which was once a prison and a slave gathering place. Today, the island is home to a large colony of turtles, which you can also feed during your visit. Snorkeling enthusiasts will also find themselves in Zanzibar. The most attractive is the seabed around the island of Mnemba, where you can also meet turtles and dolphins. The main town on the island is also interesting. Stone Town, which is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While exploring the streets, you will feel the mixture of Arab, Asian and European cultures, which makes the island itself even more rich and diverse. Don't be surprised that the famous Freddie Mercury, lead singer of Queen, was born in Stone Town. You will recognize the house where he was born, where he spent his childhood years, by the singer's photos on the windows, and there is also an old piano in the house, which he loved to play as a boy.
How to experience Zanzibar as authentically as possible?
For starters, visit some local villages and exchange a few smiles with the locals. Step out of the resorts and hotels and head to the shops where the locals sell souvenirs instead of spending your money in generic tourist shops. Above all, take a ride at least once in these dala-dala, vans used by the locals for transportation.
How to explore Zanzibar?
As already mentioned, for an authentic local experience, you will have to ride a dala-dala at least once. These off-road vehicles can carry around 20 people while allowing you to mingle with the locals and exchange a few words. Dala-dalas do not know the timetable, so ask the locals about transportation. For a little more comfort, you can also choose taxis, which are found in all the more popular tourist spots. You can also rent a motorbike or a car if you want to be completely independent in discovering the island.
How much is a plane ticket to Zanzibar?
You can fly from Venice to Zanzibar starting from a few hundred euros. In February, plane tickets start at 425 euros, and in March the prices are even lower. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Covid-19 restrictions in Zanzibar
All tourists must show a negative PCR test result upon arrival in Tanzania. This applies to both unvaccinated and vaccinated people, and the test must not be older than 96 hours. Tourists from countries with a high virus risk are also checked at the airport with a quick test, which can also be applied for online. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Zanzibar
We have chosen three nice accommodations located right next to the beach.
The African Paradise Beach Hotel
Just a few steps away from the famous Bwejuu beach, there is an interesting hotel, which also has a well-kept garden and a common area for socializing. They spoil you with a continental breakfast every day, and they also offer room service. The rooms are tastefully furnished, the airport is located 35 kilometers away.
Tsunami Village
Not far from the diving center, near Bwejuu Beach, is Tsunami Village. Guests can relax in the garden or jump into the outdoor pool, and the property offers a range of activities, making it popular with tourists. Guests are offered abundant breakfasts, and there is also a restaurant with a varied offer within the accommodation.
Pearl Beach Resort & Spa Zanzibar
A luxury resort may not be the most affordable accommodation on the island, but it is worth paying a little more for the rich offer. The resort offers two private sandy beaches and a swimming pool, and the real gem is the cliff-top restaurant with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The rooms are furnished in Zanzibar style, on hot days the air conditioning cools you down pleasantly.
