Why Zanzibar?
Rich Culture
Activities for everyone
Tropical paradise
The island offers visitors an unique blend of African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, making it unique and diverse. The people of Zanzibar are predominantly Muslim, and religion plays a significant role in their everyday lives.
Zanzibar is also known for its traditional crafts, including wood carving, basketry and hand-woven textiles.
Tropical paradise
Activities for everyone
Tropical paradise
With its warm weather and laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for those looking to unwind and relax in this tropical paradise.
Its crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs make it a perfect destination for those who love diving, snorkeling, and swimming. You can also simply take a sunbath on the one of multiple stunning beaches of Zanzibar.
Activities for everyone
Activities for everyone
Activities for everyone
Some popular things to do include exploring Stone Town's historic buildings and winding alleyways, taking a spice tour to learn about the island's rich history of spice trading, visiting one of the island's pristine beaches for swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
There are also opportunities to take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow boat or to go on a safari on the mainland.
Zanzibari cuisine
Multiple spoken languages
Activities for everyone
Spices are a key component of Zanzibari dishes, with favorites including biryani rice, pilau, and samosas. Seafood is also prominent, with dishes such as octopus curry, grilled fish, and spicy calamari.
The island is also known for its sweet treats, including cardamom-flavored coffee, coconut milk rice pudding, and fresh fruit salads.
Overall, Zanzibari cuisine is a delicious and diverse reflection of the island's rich cultural history.
Acceptance of currencies
Multiple spoken languages
Multiple spoken languages
The official currency of Zanzibar is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Most shops, hotels, and restaurants accept cash in TZS, and some may also accept major credit cards. It is recommended to carry cash in smaller denominations as larger bills may not be accepted everywhere.
Foreign currencies such as US dollars, Euros, and British pounds are also accepted in some places but may not be as widely accepted outside of tourist areas.
Multiple spoken languages
Multiple spoken languages
Multiple spoken languages
Swahili is the most widely spoken language and used for everyday communication, commerce, and education.
English is taught in schools and widely used in government institutions, business, and tourism.
Arabic is especially spoken among the older generation, as Zanzibar has a long history of Arabic influence.
Other minority languages spoken include Comorian and various Indian languages due to its historic trading relationships with those regions.
More about Zanzibar
Where is Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is an island chain located off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It is part of Tanzania and consists of two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, along with several smaller islands. The capital and largest city is Zanzibar City, which is located on the island of Unguja.
Climate
Zanzibar's climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The rainy season runs from March to May and from November to December, while the dry season is from June to October and from January to February.
The island experiences cool sea breezes that help moderate the heat, and sea temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C year-round.
Overall, the island's warm climate is perfect for beach and water activities, as well as exploring the natural beauty of the area.
History
Zanzibar has a rich history dating back to the 6th century when it was a trading center for Indian and Arab merchants. The island was under Portuguese control in the 16th century before being taken over by the Sultanate of Oman in the 18th century. Zanzibar later became a British protectorate until gaining independence in 1963.
Impressions
