Zanzibar is go!
A discussion on African islands would not be complete without mentioning those on the East African coast, many enmeshed with a trading history over hundreds of years. The largest, Zanzibar, also known as the “Spice Island”, is an island state within the United Republic of Tanzania and was once one of the most important trading centres in the whole of the Indian Ocean region.
Beach at Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar, Zanzibar
Zanzibar Island
With Stone Town at its heart, now declared a World Heritage Site, the romance of the old city is clearly evident with its winding alleys, bustling mosques and grand Arab houses. The island itself is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches with coral reefs and the warm Indian Ocean which is ideal for diving, snorkelling and water sport activities including deep sea fishing. Most of the resorts here are small and intimate, each with a character of its own. Serena Inn or Zanzibar Palace are good options in Stone Town itself while Baraza Resort and Spa and Matemwe Retreat are excellent coastal options.
Outdoor dining, Matemwe Retreat, Zanzibar
Pemba Island
For those who prefer their island a little quieter, just north of Zanzibar is Pemba which tends towards the luxurious, a breezy but refined setting for private beach getaways. Just a short boat ride away is Misali Island with some of the most pristine and breathtaking coral reefs in East Africa, perfect for divers and snorkellers alike. Fundu Lagoon and The Aiyana are lovely spots here.
Fundu Lagoon, Pemba Island
Mafia Island
To the south is the sleepy Mafia Island, home to a handful of lodges, and the place to really step down a gear. Reached by dhow, motor boat or light aircraft, this is a place where time proceeds at tidal speed and where nightlife is confined to candle lit beach-front suppers or simply gazing at the million stars. Kinasi Lodge, Pole Pole and Fanjove Island are good options here.
Snorkelling at Kinasi, Mafia Island
Mnemba Island
The smallestand most luxurious island in the Zanzibar archipelago is Mnemba, reached via a 20-minute crossing from Zanzibar. It’s a private island getaway to delight newlyweds, the not-so-newlyweds and families alike! From snorkelling, diving, swimming and kayaking to massages and doing nothing at all, Mnemba has something for everyone.
Sundowners, Mnemba Island
Thanda Island
Whether Thanda really counts as an island is debatable, it’s more a sand spec in the ocean but is home to one of the world’s most exclusive private island getaways – just one villa and two bandas (traditional thatched cottages) booked on a sole-use basis. Situated in its own marine reserve you can swim with whale sharks, watch sea turtles nesting, rest and rejuvenate, or enjoy adventure sports in paradise.
Private Thanda island
All these Zanzibar island hideaways combine easily as the beach element of a longer Tanzanian safari or work just as well as a good destination for a sun and sand holiday in its own right.
What next?
We would be delighted to help you plan a dream holiday in Zanzibar. Our team of experts has travelled widely throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean and can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris. Do get in touch – chatting to people by phone or email is what we do best. We listen, we explain, we answer all sorts of questions even those you didn’t know to ask, and finally we make suggestions. If this is your first time to Africa or your twenty first, we have a team standing by to help make the planning easy and the journey the best ever. Please get in touch whatever stage you’re at.
Hi. We are coming to Zanzibar in October for 10 days and are interested in doing a safari. What would you recommend and what would be the prices please
Dear Jo, your enquiry has been passed on to a sales expert who will be in touch, Best regards Renate
I would love to visit Zanzibar. I live in Scotland where do you fly from and with what company?
Dear Pamela, your enquiry has been passed on to a sales expert who will be in touch, Best regards Renate
We are interested to visit Zanzibar next June
Thanks for getting in touch. I’ll ask one of the team that knows Zanzibar well to make contact and answer…
Me and other 3 ladies are visiting Zanzibar in April for our birthday celebration. Please advise which place is the best for ladies to make good memories of their birthdays
Thanks for getting in touch. I’ll ask one of the team that knows Zanzibar well to get in touch
My 3 sisters and I want to visit Zanzibar in Sept 2022. We are looking for an all inclusive package deal preferably in the north.
Thanks for getting in touch. I’ll ask one of the team that knows Zanzibar well to get in touch
I am in Zanzibar now, what a wonderful place and wonderful people!
I planning to visit Zanzibar with my 2 kids . Can you recommend family friendly accommodation.