Book Flights to Dongwe

Zanzibar has a tropical climate and can be visited year-round. But for a sunny experience, it is best to avoid the rainy seasons from mid-March to the end of May and  then the ‘short rains’ November.

If you visit Zanzibar specifically for diving, it is good to know the diving on the north coast is excellent from June to October, and the south coast is best between November and March.

The archipelago has changed hands many times over the centuries and the history of the islands and the town is imprinted upon the people and the place.

The old Stone Town is made up of a warren of twisting narrow streets, lined with curio and antique shops, locally made clothing and souvenirs, and friendly Zanzibaris offering tasty treats and refreshing fruit juices or ice-creams.

The House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer a glimpse into Stone Town’s past. The well maintained Forodhani Gardens along the seafront offer a lovely spot to relax and watch the people, the waves, and the boats. At night the gardens host hundreds of locals and tourists eating, socialising and enjoying the balmy outdoors

There is so much to see and do, more than you could wish for.

Wander the picturesque lanes of Stone Town and feel its history; shop for souvenirs, beautiful local clothing, antiques, and treasures. Visit the spice and fresh produce market, as well as the seafood market. Marvel at the architecture. Enrich your knowledge of the local history with a visit to the Slave Market. Ask yourself ‘what lies behind the most beautiful doors, ornately carved with brass knockers and décor?’ Each door a sign of social standing.

Learn how to dive, or take in the underwater world snorkelling in the magnificent marine parks. Or fancy a romantic sunset cruise on a traditional dhow?

Take in sunset drinks on a rooftop whilst listening to the calls to prayer as evening settles in.

Search for the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey on your way to the spice plantations.

Feast on local foods, and taste the influences of Zanzibar’s history.

And don’t forget to soak up the African sun.

Zanzibar’s cultural influences are reflected in the myriad choices open to you. Middle Eastern traders, migrants from India, Portuguese invaders and of course the Eastern African. A right melting pot of flavours, tastes, and aromas presented by craftspeople using the fabulous and fresh local ingredients from the sea, land and aromatically seasoned from locally grown spices.

Expect seafood as you’ve never experienced, fruits and vegetables new to the palate.

From fine dining restaurants to local cafes, you can find something for all pockets. Don’t miss the food stalls in Forodhani Gardens along the seafront where you can sample the best street food Zanzibar has to offer. They pop up every evening so you can try the freshly caught seafood and other delicacies prepared on demand, grab a pancake dessert, and wash it all down with a freshly squeezed sugar cane juice for an excellent Zanzibari experience.

Over 95% of Zanzibaris practice the Islamic faith with Hindu and Christian in the minority.

Whilst not extreme at all, there are cultural do’s and don’ts:

• Shoes should always be removed when entering a home and place of worship
• Dress modestly in public. Bikini is fine when at your beach resort, but dress modestly when visiting for example Stone Town
• Topless sunbathing is illegal

In some public places, the consumption of alcohol is not allowed.

When photographing people, always ask permission first and agree on payment if required. As a general rule, ask.

Zanzibar is an in-demand destination with facilities for all wallets. This is true for accommodation, transport, food and excursions.

This is what you can expect to pay in Tanzania for:

• Domestic beer (0.5-litre bottle) in a supermarket – 2,552TSh
• Imported beer in a supermarket (0.33-litre bottle) – 3,833TSh
• Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) – 3,313Tsh
• A bottle of coca cola / pepsi (0.33-litre bottle) – 1305TSh
• A small bottle of water (0.33-litre bottle) – 857TSh

Bargaining is expected. Local traders and service providers often have 2 prices: one for locals and the other for visitors.