Zanzibar Island
Known as the Spice Island, the beautiful island of Zanzibar on Africa’s east coast is bursting with culture and history, seemingly at odds with its idyllic geography of white-sand beaches with palms swaying lazily in the sea breeze. Together this makes Zanzibar a fabulous place to explore as well as a dream to relax and unwind.
WHAT TO DO IN ZANZIBAR
Because of its long history,Zanzibar has many fascinating things to do. Here is a list of what Wildzone Expeditions recommends the most.
Stone Town
Stone Town is where all the action is on the island. It is a maze of winding alleys and old Arabic-style buildings, you can easily lose yourself in the ancient magical streets. Soak up the local culture by enjoying a cup of coffee from a vendor or just wander through the bustling markets.
Nungwi Beach
This is why you booked a Zanzibar excursion, the beaches. And the beach you need to visit is the Nungwi Beach. The Nungwi village is found on Zanzibar’s North West tip. This is a popular place, yet it’s not congested with tourists. It is one of Zanzibar’s top beaches since the tide doesn’t retreat too far. This is a great beach for those looking to just soak up some sun and dip their toes in the sea.
Jozani Forest
Jozani is the last indigenous forest left on Zanzibar. It is a vast and lush blanket of green, It is located inland from Chwaka Bay. The area often floods, which luckily nurtures a unique swamp forest of many amazing looking trees and ferns. The forest is best reached via bus, chartered taxi, or as part of a tour.
Forodhani Market
A spectacular night-time food market, Forodhani opens in the late afternoon in Stone Town. This market is alive with energy. Here you will find fresh local produce as well as freshly grilled fish, meat and vegetables. The seafood options are by far the most popular and the fish is served with fried potato balls, naan and samosas.
Prison Island
Prison Island provides tourists a glimpse into the island’s dark history. It is located about a half-hour boat ride from Zanzibar. This land was once used as a place where slaves were detained. Once slavery was abolished, it functioned as a quarantine camp for people with deadly diseases. Today the island is a nature reserve for giant tortoises and a place to see the ruins that once functioned as the prison.
Palace Museum
Commonly known as the Sultan’s Palace, The Palace Museum is perhaps the most historic building in Stone Town and is a must-see for any tourist. The Palace Museum is located along the waterfront, overlooking the ocean. It was built in the 19th century as a home for the Sultan and his family. After the 1964 revolution, the palace was used as a Government building and was renamed as The People’s Palace. Today it serves as a museum of the past Sultan families.
The Old Fort
The oldest building in Stone Town, the Old Fort is also located along the waterfront. It is in front of the famous Forodhani Gardens. It was originally built in the 17th century with the purpose of defending the island from attacks from the Portuguese. Today it is a mainly an attraction for tourists. Visitors can admire the remains of the fort and stroll around the center courtyard. Sellers have local produce and souvenirs for sale. An old amphitheater still hosts events and functions in the fort.
House Of Wonders
The House of Wonders show the cultural and architectural influences of Zanzibar, Britain, Portugal, and Oman over the centuries. When it was built it was the most modern building in East Africa. It was the first building to have electricity and an elevator. The House of Wonders hosts a historical exhibition and offers insight into Zanzibari and Swahili culture. It is a very important and visually stunning historic building in Stone Town. The House of Wonders is the grandest and tallest building in all of Stone Town and is found in a prominent location in front of the Forodhani Gardens on the old town’s waterfront along Mizingani Road.
Spice Tour
As we mentioned earlier, Zanzibar is known for its spice trade, so what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than learning about its wealthiest and most profitable industry? Tourists can choose from a variety of tours and explore the winding streets with expert tour guides who will guide you through the origins of the industry, as well as teaching guests about the wide variety of spices that Zanzibar produces and trades.
The Rock
Visitors are treated with not only a stunning view but fine dining as well. The restaurant is located on a rock with a view over all the city’s main sights. The Rock has some of the best seafood Zanzibar has to offer. Make sure to make reservations since this exclusive restaurant has only 12 tables and it’s often fully booked.
