Zanzibar is a tiny island off the coast of Tanzania, with white sandy beaches, tranquil fishing villages and spectacular coral reefs. It might not have been on your bucket list – yet – but trust us when we say it will be now. Taking up a Zanzibar holiday package will ensure you enjoy all the tropical romance of Bali, with none of the tourists or traffic jams. It’s one of those places you visit once and immediately start scheming ways to go back again. The waters around Zanzibar are home to some of the most pristine reefs in East Africa. In fact, they’re among the top 25 diving destinations in the world. There are more than 80 dive sites accessible from Zanzibar that feature breathtaking drop-offs, caves and arches as well as a variety of marine life including turtles, barracuda, green turtles and rays.

Check out these nine things to do in Zanzibar before you go.

- The spice tour: Zanzibar has a long tradition of growing spices, including cloves, nutmeg and black pepper. You can visit the plantations to learn about the history and cultivation of these spices, then try samples of freshly ground and brewed spices.

- The Jozi-Bi Bi island cruise: This offers you a way to experience both the ocean and the inland waterways of Zanzibar. Cruise past the beaches, mangrove swamps and villages of the north and south sides of the island.

- The Zanzibar Stone Town cultural tour: Stone Town is the cultural center of Zanzibar, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many historic buildings, mosques, churches and forts to visit, and knowledgeable guides who can tell you about the history of the island.

- The Jozani Forest and Ethnological Museum tour: This is one of the few remaining indigenous forests in East Africa. It’s home to a rare species of tree called the Jozani Palm, as well as several species of birds and other animals. The forest is also home to a local tribe who have lived here for generations. The Ethnological Museum features both historical and cultural artifacts from other groups who have lived on the island.

- The Uzi Island day trip: Uzi Island is just a short ferry ride off the coast of Zanzibar, and a popular day trip destination. Bring your snorkel gear and explore the coral reefs, or tuck into a fresh seafood lunch at one of the island’s fishing villages.

- The Zanzibar spice and food tour: While the island is known for the spices it grows, it’s also a popular destination for food lovers. The spice tour is great if you’re interested in the cultivation and history of spices, but if you just want to sample the local cuisine, this tour is for you.

- The Jozani Forest Ethnological Museum and Jozani Dum Tour: You can visit both the Jozani Forest Ethnological Museum and Jozani Wildlife Sanctuary on one tour, as well as a local village where you can try some local cuisine.

The best hotels on Zanzibar

- The Zaliv Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Stone Town, surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil pond. The hotel offers free shuttles to and from the airport and the ferry terminal.

- The Pongwe Beach Hotel: This quiet, beachfront resort is a great choice if you want to relax. The hotel has a large pool, as well as a spa, yoga classes, and occasional live music nights.

- The Zanzibar Sea Lodge: This waterfront resort is located on a quiet stretch of the north coast, just a short walk from the village of Jozani. The resort sits on a cliff overlooking the sea, and features a large dive center.

- The Spice Hotel: This centrally located hotel is a great choice if you want to be in the heart of the action. It’s walking distance from the Stone Town UNESCO site, as well as the seafood and fish markets.

- The Coco Beach Resort: This beachfront gem is located on the southern coast of the island, and is a great choice if you want to be near the best diving spots on Zanzibar.

The best restaurants on Zanzibar

- The Pongwe Beach Restaurant: This restaurant is located on the beach at the Pongwe Beach Hotel, and offers fresh seafood and a relaxing, beachside atmosphere.

- The Spice Garden Café and Restaurant: This is located inside the Spice Hotel, and serves up a mix of Indian and Zanzibari cuisine. It’s a great choice for vegetarians, and also offers a few gluten-free options.

- The Coconut Café and Restaurant: This is a great choice if you want something a little different, as it specializes in Asian and Western fusion dishes. It’s a good mid-range option, and is located in the heart of the Stone Town UNESCO site.

- The Mwana Restaurant: This restaurant is a bit off the tourist trail, and is located in the village of Jozani. It offers a mix of Indian, Chinese and Zanzibar cuisine, and is a great choice if you want to eat like the locals.

- The Jozani Café: This café is located within the Jozani Forest Ethnological Museum, and offers a wide selection of curries and rice dishes. It’s a great choice if you want to eat somewhere off the beaten path, and support the local economy.

The best beaches on Zanzibar

- Kiwai Beach:  This is one of the best beaches to visit on the north side of the island, and is a great combination of quiet and busy. It’s a great choice if you want to relax, but also enjoy easy access to nearby shops, bars and restaurants.

- Mjumbe Beach: This beach is located on the southern side of the island, and is a great choice if you want a quiet escape. There are no bars or restaurants, but it’s a great place for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling, and has a calm, shallow beach break.

- Jozani Beach: This beach is located just a short walk from the Jozani Forest Ethnological Museum and the Jozani Café. It’s not a great choice if you want quiet and seclusion, as it’s very popular with locals and tourists alike.

- Pongwe Beach: This beach is located at the Pongwe Beach Hotel, and is a great choice if you want to enjoy an upscale beach experience, with nice loungers, comfortable beach chairs and a full-service bar.

What to do after diving in Zanzibar

- Visit the Jozani Forest: This natural reserve is home to a rare species of lemur, as well as several other animals, including red colobus monkeys, red-tailed black and blue-eyed squirrels and giant tree frogs.

- Visit the Zanzibar National Museum: This museum offers an overview of Zanzibar’s history, from its original use as a trading post to its modern tourism industry.

- Explore the Stone Town vernacular architecture: This UNESCO site features mosques, palaces and buildings that blend the local Zanzibari vernacular architecture with Portuguese, Omani and Indian influences.

- Visit the Zanzibar Spice Garden: This large spice plantation is owned by the same family that opened the Spice Hotel, and is a great place for a walking tour.

Conclusion

Zanzibar may be off the beaten path, but that’s exactly why you should go. This is one of those places where you can feel completely detached from the world, while still being close enough to get back home whenever you need to. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of big city life, or the crowds of other tropical islands, this is the place for you. With lush green forests, pristine waters, and charming villages, Zanzibar has something for everyone regardless of age or interests. So don’t put off visiting this tropical paradise any longer. Plan your next Zanzibar Holiday vacation today.

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