What to do in Zanzibar

What to do in Zanzibar : The United Republic of Tanzania was formed in 1964 by the union of Tanganyika and the semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar. There are numerous small islands and two large ones: Unguja (the main island, sometimes known as Zanzibar informally) and Pemba Island. The archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean, 25–50 km (16–31 mi) from the coast of the African mainland. The island of Unguja is home to the capital, Zanzibar City. One of its World Heritage Sites is Stone Town, the historic core.

The three primary industries of Zanzibar are tourism, raffia, and spices. Clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, coconut, and black pepper are the principal spices produced. The Mafia Island in Tanzania and the Zanzibar Archipelago are sometimes referred to as the “Spice Islands” by locals. With government marketing, Zanzibar’s tourism industry grew more recently, from 19,000 visitors in 1985 to 376,000 in 2016.Five ports and the 1.5 million-plus annual capacity Abeid Amani Karume International Airport provide connectivity to the islands.

The Best Time to Visit Zanzibar

One of the many wonderful things about this beach resort in Africa is that, because to its consistent sunshine, it’s a lovely place to go on vacation virtually year-round. There are plenty of activities to do on your Zanzibar safari tours. But the best time to visit the beautiful island for  a memorable beach holiday is between June and October if you wish to combine it with a Tanzania safari  tour. This is the best time to go on a safari in Tanzania since it’s the height of the country’s beauty. After that, you can head to sunny Zanzibar, which is a well-liked combination.

Mnemba Island

Mnemba is a private island off the northeast coast of Zanzibar that has some of Africa’s best beaches. While only lodge guests are allowed access to the island, everyone is welcome to swim in the pristine waters of Mnemba Reef on the hottest, sunniest days. Mnemba is the ideal destination for those who enjoy water activities or are searching for a somewhat more upscale place to unwind. In addition to being one of the top resorts in Zanzibar, Mnemba Lodge boasts world-class dive spots and snorkel-friendly neighbouring coral reefs.

Explore the Stone Town

One of the greatest things to do in Zanzibar is to visit Stone Town, also called Mji Mkongwe, which means “old town.” Stone Town is a historic and vibrant town. Stone village is a lively, ancient village. From the white sands and cool waters of Zanzibar’s beaches, the town, brimming with a multitude of cultural influences, is alive with locals and tourists alike, welcoming everybody who dares to enter the joyous passageways of Stone Town. The best way to enjoy this fascinating place is to stroll around Stone Town, which provide a historical and cultural experience. An added benefit is that you can schedule activities for an entire day with this tool. There are lots of restaurants, art galleries, boutique stores, and fantastic cuisines to welcome you, creating an ambiance that is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Zanzibar.

Spice Tours

Spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla have played a significant part in Zanzibar’s history as the Spice Town, even though at first it might not seem like the most thrilling way to spend a day. The tour will take you on an aromatic adventure with a guide as you explore spice fields and hear tales of the lucrative and renowned spice trade that drew Zanzibar’s Omanis to the city.

Try the spices and purchase them, read about their history, cultivation methods, and culinary applications by the community, or enrol in a cooking class to learn how to make them yourself. Following the spice tour, you might find yourself buying and using spices with a little more sentimentality and caution the next time you’re in the kitchen.

Forodhani Market

The Forodhani Food Market is the spot to go at night in Stone Town. After sundown, a unique kind of excitement erupts on the streets. Night time gives a fresh perspective on the area, with markets, kiosks, and people strolling around. There are Gas lamps that light the rooms. Both Locals and visitors alike assemble here, where chefs prepare some delicious meals that entice you to try something new from Shawarma, pizza, coconut bread, and ginger and lime sugar cane juices are just a few of the delectable options. All of them are hints of the melting pot of cultures that creates Stone Town’s rich diversity.

Dhow cruises

When visiting Zanzibar, it may seem unconventional to skip the dhow trip, but we assure you that the experience actually lives up to the breathtaking pictures you have seen. Although dhow excursions are available at any time of day, nothing compares to the strange experience of a sunset ride. Dhow cruises are the ideal way to round off a day in Zanzibar, whether it’s spent sightseeing or just lounging on the beach.

Chumbe Island Coral Park

While there may not be as many environmentally conscious projects in Zanzibar as, example, the Seychelles, the Chumbe Island Coral Park is an award-winning hidden gem that is both a fully protected private reserve and a stunning place to visit that emphasises conservation. The island never feels crowded, even when it’s completely booked, giving you plenty of time to move at your own speed. Walk through the forest reserve, which is home to endangered species like coconut crabs and green marine turtles, or go snorkelling on a carefully protected reef’s remarkably calm, clear waters.

If you want to get a deeper understanding of the island, spend a few nights at the five-star Chumbe Island Coral Lodge, where sustainable practices are prioritised in everything from fishing to solar water heating and even photovoltaic energy usage. The lodge’s simple yet authentic design embraces simplicity.

Kuza Cave

There’s a little-known swimming hole in the town of Jamibiani on Zanzibar’s southeast coast. If you’re thinking, “But it’s Zanzibar, I can swim anywhere,” you’re not wrong, yet the Kuza Cave offers a refreshing swimming experience that’s unmatched in Zanzibar. Swimmers are encouraged to enjoy the restorative powers of the crystal-clear freshwater found in this limestone jungle cave located on Zanzibar’s southeast coast. Choose a trip to see objects recovered from the cave and discover Swahili history. After that, look for eateries serving Swahili cuisine and live music performed by local musicians throughout the islands. Simple but enjoyable day trips can be had in the Kuza Cave.