Zanzibar — Spice Island Paradise
Zanzibar is a tropical haven of white-sand beaches, turquoise Indian Ocean waters, and rich Swahili culture that has absorbed Arab, Persian, Indian, and Portuguese influences over six centuries of trade. Stone Town's UNESCO-listed medieval medina is a living museum; outside it, some of the world's finest beaches and coral reefs await.
Zanzibar is the perfect three-to-five-night extension to any East Africa safari — pair it with a Kenya or Tanzania itinerary for the complete 'bush and beach' experience that defines East African luxury travel.
Highlights
- ◆Stone Town — UNESCO World Heritage: Arab forts, carved doors, Persian baths, spice bazaars
- ◆Nungwi & Kendwa — Calm, tidal-free beaches on the northern tip; best year-round swimming
- ◆Paje & Jambiani — Turquoise east-coast lagoon; world-class kitesurfing destination
- ◆Spice Plantation Tours — Discover cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon
- ◆Jozani Forest — Home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey; only found here
- ◆Dhow Sunset Cruises — Traditional wooden sailing boats at dusk over a crimson ocean
- ◆Mnemba Atoll — World-class snorkelling and diving on pristine, protected coral reefs
Key Experiences in Zanzibar
Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of East Africa's most atmospheric places. Wander narrow alleys past elaborately carved Omani doors, browse the Old Darajani Market.
Nungwi Beach
The most famous beach in Zanzibar — powdery white sand, calm turquoise water, and an excellent village atmosphere. The natural tidal lagoon means swimming is possible at all tides.
Paje & the East Coast
Zanzibar's east coast offers the island's most photographed lagoon — shallow turquoise water that draws back at low tide. Paje is the kitesurfing capital of East Africa.
Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park
Zanzibar's only national park protects the last significant stands of ancient groundwater forest and is the only place on Earth to see the Zanzibar red colobus monkey.
Mnemba Atoll
A protected marine reserve off Zanzibar's north-east tip and the island's premier diving and snorkelling site. Dolphin pods, sea turtles, reef sharks, and over 600 species of fish.