Zanzibar is famous for its powder-white beaches and turquoise waters, but the Spice Island has a depth of culture, history, and natural beauty that rewards travellers who venture beyond their sun lounger.
Stone Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The old town of Zanzibar City is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, ancient coral-stone buildings, and elaborately carved wooden doors. The architecture reflects centuries of Arab, Persian, Indian, and Swahili influences that shaped the island's identity as a major trading hub.
Don't miss the old slave market and Anglican Cathedral — a sobering but essential historical site — and the House of Wonders, the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator.
Spice Farm Tours
Zanzibar was once the world's leading producer of cloves, earning it the name "Spice Island." A half-day tour of a working spice farm is a sensory delight — you'll taste, smell, and learn to identify vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and dozens more.
Diving & Snorkelling
The waters surrounding Zanzibar are among the best diving destinations in the Indian Ocean. Mnemba Atoll, just off the northeast coast, is a marine conservation area teeming with sea turtles, dolphins, and colourful reef fish. Whale sharks are frequently spotted between October and February.
Dolphin Tours at Kizimkazi
The shallow waters off Kizimkazi in the south are home to resident pods of bottlenose and humpback dolphins. Early morning tours offer the best opportunity for swimming alongside them — a magical experience.