Why you really should go to Zanzibar
Zanzibar has been surprising and delighting visitors for many centuries, and it’s not hard to see why. The main island of Unguja (as it’s known locally) and neighboring Pemba are blessed with an alluring blend of natural beauty, fascinating history and warm hospitality which make them quite unlike anywhere else.
Life’s a beach on Zanzibar
Like many other islands in the Indian Ocean, the paradise that is Zanzibar has beautiful beaches and warm, clear waters which offer a multitude of activities. But there’s much more to this large island than just the sand that surrounds it, so take a closer look…
Fascinating Swahili culture
Zanzibar has always been an important crossroads for trade between Africa, the Middle East and India. As such, it has developed its own unique culture incorporating culinary, linguistic and spiritual influences from the many shores of the Indian Ocean. The Swahili language is just one aspect of the country’s identity. Other clues can be found in the architecture, food and traditions like the local wedding ceremonies.
Lose yourself in Stone Town
The capital of Zanzibar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of those places where the best discoveries happen when you put the guidebook away and simply follow your nose… Expect the unexpected as you follow twisting alleyways and catch glimpses of traditional life through arches and carved wooden doorways. You never know who you might meet around the next corner, from laughing schoolchildren to a hardworking donkey carrying crates of empty soda bottles.
Fascinating history
Zanzibar’s long history is studded with characters as diverse as explorer David Livingstone and rock star Freddy Mercury. Dark chapters include the slave trade and the country’s involvement in the shortest-ever war, while on a much more positive note, today’s islanders are proud to celebrate their identity through music, dance, and events like the annual Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF).
Delicious distractions
Historic wealth came primarily from its role as a center of the international spice trade – exporting cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and more was extremely profitable. Today, you can still explore Zanzibar’s Spice Island heritage by visiting one of the working plantations to discover what the spices in your kitchen rack look like while they’re still growing.
You can also enjoy the island’s superb cuisine, which (as you might expect) leans heavily into fresh seafood, tropical flavors and those famous spices. One unmissable foodie experience is wandering through the stalls at the nightly food market in Forodhani Gardens, the home of the best street food and liveliest vibe.
Set sail for romance
Zanzibar has many luxury hotels and resorts, including boutique offerings in traditional Swahili townhouses and mansions built around open courtyards. If waking up in an antique carved wooden four-poster bed while the call to prayer echoes from nearby minarets doesn’t bring out the romantic in you, then nothing will!
One of our favorite Zanzibar experiences is taking a trip on a traditional dhow, especially towards the end of the day. These ancient sailing vessels have been cruising the waters of Zanzibar for longer than anyone can remember, and completely embody the romance of the trade routes (as well as being the ideal location to enjoy your sundowner of choice).
Book your private consultation
To discover Zanzibar for yourself, reach out to our travel experts at Private Ocean Islands here.