Zanzibar

Marine life
Go diving near coral reefs

On the water
Sail the clear waters

Beach living
Soak up the sun on the sand

Historic architecture
Explore island towns
Beautiful beaches, tropical waters and exceptional diving
This group of islands off the coast of Tanzania, paired with their Arabian history, make for an excellent safari add-on, or the perfect romantic getaway with someone special. With intriguing architecture evident in the main town, Stone Town, you will be able to experience a mix of culture and landscape with pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. From the traditionally garbed Maasai striding across the beach and Swahili and Indian traders in their own striking traditional dress, the blend of cultures here is enchanting.
On the western side of the island, Stone Town was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 2000 and once you lay eyes on its faded grandeur, you’ll understand why. The visible lines and layers of the many cultures and centuries are etched into the profile of this port town, once the Indian Ocean’s most important trading post. The heady scent of spices in its bustling labyrinth of streets make it an incredibly intoxicating place.
Located 80km to the North East of Zanzibar Island, Pemba Island, offers you unspoiled nature, dense forests, green valleys and white sandy beaches. Beautiful corals and rich marine life make for excellent scuba diving along mangrove-knotted shores. It’s also the world’s main exporter of cloves.
Lying just south of Zanzibar, the beach and ocean wonderland of Mafia Island is an adventurous destination. It boasts stunning beaches, sublime marine wildlife and the exclusive feeling of complete seclusion. The island is surrounded by a barrier reef teeming with sea life and almost half of its coastline has been designated as protected marine park.
With its palm-fringed beaches and brilliant blue waters, Fanjove Island is home to incredible wildlife both on land and in the water. Look out for dolphins, humpback whales and green turtles. While away the days soaking up the sun on the beach, or do a spot birdwatching, when you’re not out on the water.
Highlights
Get a taste for tropical living on private Fanjove Island
Head out on a memorable sundowner tour of Stone Town
Dip beneath the surface and go diving at Mafia Island’s protected marine park
Visit the ancient ruins of Pemba Island dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries
Embark on a traditional boat trip from Zanzibar Island




Luxury accommodation in Zanzibar
Zanzibar Island
Situated in the north of Zanzibar at Kendwa with direct access to a private beach, Zuri Zanzibar is a brand new l…
Zanzibar Island
Positioned in the Michamvi Peninsula, the southeast corner of Zanzibar, Xanadu Villas offer an intimate retr…
Zanzibar Island
Stone Town
Zanzibar Island
Pemaba Island

Pemaba Island
Places to pair Zanzibar with

Kenya

Tanzania
When to visit

Watersports
June–October

Heavy rainfall
March–June

Festivals
February/July/September

Zanzibar Beach When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
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