Zanzibar

For hundreds of years, Zanzibar has been the destination of seafarers in search of spice, slaves, adventure, intrigue and delicious decadence. Nowadays it attracts visitors in search of glorious white sand beaches, warm turquoise sea, fantastic diving and rich cultural heritage. The Zanzibar Archipelago, off the coast of Tanzania comprises several islands, of which Unguja and Pemba are the biggest. Unguja is better known as Zanzibar Island and is home to Stone Town, an intriguing old city of narrow, winding alleyways and stone coral buildings, which is full of atmosphere and immensely beautiful. Explore the Forodhani Market in front of the Old Fort in Stone Town, and dine on the delectable array of food offered by the numerous outdoor grills and stalls. Spice things up with a tour of Zanzibar’s spice plantations around Stone Town, which for centuries attracted traders across the Indian Ocean.

If it’s virginal, isolated coral reefs that you’re looking for, then a visit to Pemba Island, about 80 kilometres north of Unguja, is essential. Whereas parts of Zanzibar are well on their way to being overrun with tourists, Pemba is comparatively unknown and undeveloped. Scuba diving off Pemba Island is spectacular, as the island boasts the best deep water and coral dives on the east African coast.

Visitors to Zanzibar typically spend their time diving, snorkelling, swimming and exploring the beaches but there are also plenty of festivals held throughout the year in Zanzibar for cultural entertainment, such as the Sauti za Busara Swahili music festival in February and the Zanzibar International Film Festival of the Dhow Countries in July.