All You Need to Know About Taking a Trip to Zanzibar

Have you ever wanted to take a vacation to Zanzibar? Have you been dreaming of soaking up its beautiful beaches, exploring its unparalleled landscape and sampling the delicious local cuisine? Well, now is the perfect time to plan your dream getaway.Zanzibar is located in the Indian Ocean, off the East African coast of Tanzania. It’s an archipelago made up of two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, as well as several smaller islands. It has something for everyone from adventurers, to beach-goers and history buffs alike. On this remote idyllic paradise, you can find a mix of cultures and traditions, majestic wildlife and a rich history.If you’re looking for a relaxed holiday where you can spend lazy days lying on the beach or exploring local culture and fine-dining, Zanzibar is the perfect destination. Here is your guide to planning the perfect getaway to Zanzibar.

Planning your trip to Zanzibar

Once you’ve made the exciting decision to take a holiday in Zanzibar, there are a few steps you need to take in order to plan a successful trip.

When to go

For travelers looking to soak up the sun and relax on breathtaking beaches, the best time of year to visit Zanzibar is from June-October. During this time the area experiences dry weather with little rainfall and plenty of blue skies. It’s also during this window that you’ll find the best deals on accommodation and excursions. For those adventure-seekers wanting to explore the area’s natural beauty, December-February is the best time visit Zanzibar. During this time of year, the area experiences slight rainfall, but it shouldn’t hamper any outdoor plans, as it typically lasts for a short period. If you plan to visit during this time, make sure to book your stay ahead of time as it’s also peak tourist season with accommodation hard to come by.

Where to stay

When it comes to choosing accommodation in Zanzibar, there are plenty of options available ranging from luxury beach resorts, to affordable guesthouses and hostels. If you’re looking for a place to stay in the heart of Stone Town, Gizo Hotel is a great option. The charming boutique retreat is ideal for those wanting to explore Zanzibar’s fascinating culture and learn more about its rich history. If you’re looking for something closer to the ocean and beaches, there are several options available for all budgets. For a luxury escape, The Residence in Nungwi is one of the top spots on the island. If you’re traveling on a budget, The Divinity Beach Guesthouse located in Jambiani is a great option.

Getting there

Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) lies just 16 miles Southwest of Stone Town located on the North East coast of Unguja island. Many airlines including Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania and Ethiopian Airlines offer direct flights from Europe and other African countries.

What to do

There’s plenty of activities that visitors can enjoy while in Zanzibar. From snorkeling and scuba diving in its crystal clear waters, to spotting wildlife on safari and exploring vibrant Stone Town and its many attractions. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Scuba Diving

With its miles of warm clear waters home to an abundant of marine life and colorful coral reefs, it goes without saying that diving in Zanzibar is unmissable experience. Whether you’re a certified diver or have never dived before, Zanzibar has something for everyone!

• Deep Blue Divers, located in Nungwi, offers beginner and advanced scuba diving courses for all ages.
• Experience Zanzibar, located in Ushivanyi, offers private guided scuba diving sessions.
• Kesma Zanzibar Dive Center, located in Paje offers PADI scuba diving courses for certified divers.

Safari

For those looking for an unforgettable safari experience undisturbed by other tourists, Kichaka Private Game Reserve located near Mafia Island is worth a visit. The area is home to various big game animals including zebras, impalas, giraffes and buffalos with occasional sighting of elephants! The reserve offers everything from game drives with local guides and private luxury campsites.

Stone Town

The heart and soul of Zanzibar lies in its capital Stone Town located on the South-West Coast of Unguja Island. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, Stone Town is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in East Africa and is rich with history and culture with its various mosques, palaces and museums open for visitors. The main attractions include:

• The Spice Islands known for its abundance of spices where visitors can sample exotic flavours and purchase souvenirs.
• Old Fort, once used as a royal palace.
• House of Wonders Museum, oncehome to the Sultan of Zanzibar with stunning architecture.

There’s also plenty of restaurants ranging from cheap roadside cafés serving delicious Swahili cuisine, to exquisite seafood restaurants serving up some of the freshest catches in town!

Conclusion

From its secluded beaches, crystal clear waters and exotic wildlife to its vibrant culture, there’s no doubt that Zanzibar is an incredible destination for those wanting some much needed rest and relaxation away from it all. Whether you’re looking for a family fun-holiday or an adventure-filled getaway there’s something for everyone on this magical island paradise! I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your next perfect getaway in Zanzibar!