Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Located just off the mainland, Zanzibar remains a pristine, exotic location for travelers. The two main islands of Unguja and Pemba along with the smaller islands of Mafia Island and Mnemba make up the Zanzibar archipelago. The islands are best known for their exotic beaches, rich spices, and diverse cultural heritage.
There are 30+ beaches on Zanzibar, all showcasing pristine turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Marine life is abundant and locations like the Mnemba Atoll and Levan Banks have some of the best snorkeling and diving available in the Indian Ocean. Experienced divers can also explore on a steep wall dive or a drift dive for a unique perspective of the underwater world.
If staying afloat is more appealing, the islands have an abundance of water activities available including deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. A traditional wooden dhow cruise is yet another way to enjoy the water surrounding Zanzibar as well.
On land, visitors can explore the Jozani Forest, Zanzibar’s only National Park. The Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey can only be seen in this forest and the nearly extinct Zanzibar leopard is also a native resident. Guided tours on the forest’s nature trails allow visitors to see a 200-year-old tree called Mama Mtondoo, as well as 100 species of butterflies, and the raffia fern that boasts the largest leaf in the world.
The history of Zanzibar has been influence by Arabs, Persians, Indians, British and local tribes from the mainland. Stone Town showcases the mixture of cultures with a variety of architectural influence seen in century old buildings like mosques and palaces that have raised terraces and ornately carved wooden doors. The old ivory and slave trades were prominent historical events that shaped Zanzibar’s distinct character and make it an interesting place to visit.