Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania, in East Africa. It is composed of the Zanzibar Archipelago in the Indian Ocean and consists of numerous small and two large islands (Zanzibar Island and Pemba Island).

Zanzibar Island was an important stop in the Spice Trade centuries ago, it is one of the few places in the world where saffron is produced, and many other spices are grown here. Take a spice tour around the island, visiting plantations and sampling exotic fruits.

Stone Town is the old part of Zanzibar City, the main city of Zanzibar. Stone Town is of prominent historical and artistic importance, with architecture mainly dating back to the 19th century. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Local guides are available for walking tours.

Local attractions in Stone Town include the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe), the vibrant open air market, Forodhani Park, House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib) and the Palace Museum (Beit al-Sahel).

Mtoni Palace Ruins is one of the oldest buildings in Zanzibar, however, around the 1880s the palace was abandoned and fell into ruin. Mtoni Palace offers visitors a glimpse into the world of the Arabian royalty once living there.

Take a boat trip out to Pemba Island with it's untouched coral and abundant marine life or Prison Island, home to giant tortoises and crystal clear waters, perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling.

The Kiwengwa/Pongwe Forest Reserve is located 20km from Zanzibar Town and is rich both in fauna and flora species including the red Colobus monkey, blue monkeys, sunni antelope, several species of snakes and 100 plant species. Within the reserve there are also coral caves with stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as a spice plantation nearby.

Other nearby attractions include Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond, Jozani Forest, which offers excellent nature trails and the chance to see the almost extinct red Colobus Monkeys and Zanzibar Butterfly Centre (1km away from the forest) with hundreds of colourful butterflies.

There are around 25 white sand beaches in Zanzibar, which have small fishing villages in close proximity. Popular beaches include Nungwi, Mangapwani and Uroa. Diving, scuba diving, snorkelling and deep water fishing can all be arranged.

There are lots of shops, stalls and bazaars in Stone Town, popular souvenirs include beautiful textiles, handmade jewellery, spices and wood and stone carvings.

Typical local dishes include 'boku-boku' (meat cooked in maize, ginger, cumin, chili, tomato and onion), 'pilau meat' (usually prepared with goose or calf meat, cooked with potatoes, onions, spices, coconut milk and rice), shark, fresh seafood and 'pweza wa nazi' (octupus boiled in coconut milk, curry, cinnamon, cardamom, garlic and lime juice). Spice cake is a popular dessert.

Both cruise ships and ferries use the Port of Zanzibar, which is around a 15 minute walk from the centre of town. The climate here is hot and humid and taxis are usually available at the pier should you prefer to ride the distance.

Once in Stone Town, it's best explored on foot.

For journeys outside Stone Town, taxis or hire car is best.

For the more adventurous, 'dalla-dallas' (small minivans), serve all the major villages on the island.