What Is Zanzibar Known For?

Zanzibar is a semiautonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, in East Africa known for its white sand beaches and coral reefs. The islands are a popular tourist destination, especially around the main island, Unguja. Here, visitors will find picturesque retreats featuring traditional winding streets, an iconic 19th-century harbor, and centuries-old Arab and Islamic architecture. Zanzibar is also renowned for its spices, which are some of the finest in the world.

The Main Island – Unguja

Unguja, also called Zanzibar, is the largest and main island of the archipelago. The capital city, also known as Zanzibar City, is home to attractions like the old quarter of Stone Town and the House of Wonders Museum. In Stone Town, visitors can admire centuries-old stone-built structures with luxuriously carved doors, ornately decorated balconies, and labyrinthine alleys. The iconic Old Fort was built in the early 1800s and is today a popular tourist attraction. At the House of Wonders Museum, tourists can explore a wealth of local history and culture. Other attractions on Unguja include Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach, Kiwengwa Beach, Jambiani Beach, and the Chumbe Island Coral Park.

The Islands

Asides from Unguja, Zanzibar consists of two other major islands — Pemba and Mafia — plus numerous smaller islets. The most popular destination on Pemba Island is Misali Island, an uninhabited nature reserve located just off Pemba’s coast. Travellers come here to scuba dive and snorkel in some of the world’s best sites, located in close proximity. It’s also a great spot to view vibrant marine life and go bird watching. The Changuu Private Island lies just off Unguja’s northeast coast. Once a prison island, Changuu has now been transformed into a lush paradise offering travellers a secluded beach experience. If you’re looking for a more exclusive holiday spot including spa treatments, luxury cottages, and cooking classes – then Mafia Island should be your choice.

The Food

Zanzibar cuisine is a mashup of Swahili-style cuisine combined with Indian, Arabic and other African influences. Its unique cooking style and flavours make it one-of-a-kind among African foods. Zanzibar timeless cuisine offers an abundance of exciting dishes for even the most particular palate. Start your day with a plate of pilau – a rice dish cooked with spices, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves and nuts. Spice fans should try Zanzibar’s signature spicy rice dish – biryani – prepared with fried onions and served with chicken or beef. Seafood lovers will enjoy highly-recommended dishes like marinaded octopus or crayfish spiced with chilli pepper and garlic sauce. Spicy doughnuts called zimukhokha are delicious made in coconut oil with grated coconut sprinkled on top.

The Culture

Zanzibar is often called the birthplace of Swahili culture due to the strong heritage the archipelago maintains on the mainland coast of Tanzania. Here you’ll find a lively mixture of cultures influenced by Arabs, Persians, Indians, Chinese and Europeans. Visitors who are interested in art and history will appreciate Zanzibar’s culture immensely. You can find many stunning examples of traditional music like taarab – a mix of Middle Eastern melodies and African rhythms – as well as paintings that reflect mysticism from Islamic and African cultures. Amazing Fansam Safaris offers an impeccable selection of guided tours and activities that surround Zanzibar’s amazing culture and traditions.

Luxury Experiences

If you’re looking for some luxury during your stay in Zanzibar, then Sindbad Hotels & Resorts should be your top pick. The award-winning five-star resort offers visitors personalised service amidst stunning tropical gardens with private beach access in Nungwi – a northern part of Unguja Island. Here you can enjoy some of the most luxurious accommodations in East Africa with all amenities included: gourmet restaurants featuring a fusion of international and Swahili culinary styles, outdoor pools, massage spa, a fitness centre – you name it! Sindbad Hotels & Resorts offers an all-inclusive high-end experience for travellers who just want to chill out and relax in pure comfort during their stay in Zanzibar. To sum up, Zanzibar truly is a magical place rich in culture that offers its visitors an inimitable holiday experience. It boasts some of the best beaches with crystal clear waters in Africa – perfect for exploring marine life or simply soaking up some sun rays – as well as unique markets featuring exotic spices, exotic gowns worn by local women and priceless souvenirs from the dark past of slavery era. But beyond sightseeing and shopping experiences lies an exciting new world – full of musical expressions, gastronomy delights, ancient history and luxurious pampering – waiting to be discovered on the East African semiautonomous archipelago known as Zanzibar.