Zanzibar

The spice island of Zanzibar and its sister islands of Pemba and Mafia are renowned island retreats - all offering unspoiled, palm-fringed beaches and the warm clear waters of the Indian Ocean. There is a huge range of accommodation, from charming guesthouses to small stylish hotels scattered along the many beaches and throughout the capital of Stone Town. The smaller islands of Mnemba, Chumbe and Changu Island offer wonderful private retreats, perfect for honeymooners.

Zanzibar is also a wildlife experience. The snorkelling and diving is among the best in the world, with superb coral reefs to the north of Zanzibar and off Pemba. Changu in particular is famous for its huge tortoises, many hundreds of years old.

We highly recommend a night or two in old Stone Town, the cultural heart of Zanzibar, to explore its history, colourful markets and the many shops and stalls bursting with intricate carvings, paintings and jewellery. The lively night market is the place to try the day’s catch of kingfish, lobster and many other local delicacies.


TRAVEL ADVICE

• Zanzibar and the mainland coast combine perfectly with a Tanzanian or Kenyan safari.

• The best time to visit Zanaibar is June to March.

• April-May has some rain but is still warm. 

Regions in Zanzibar

Stone Town

Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses, and the Turkish baths of the old city.

Surrounding Islands near Zanzibar

Pemba to the north of Zanzibar offers excellent diving and the luxurious Fundu Lagoon property. Chumbe Island Coral Park just off Stone Town and nearby Prison, Grave, and Snake Islands make a refreshing day-trip from Stone Town. Also consider Mnmeba Island and Mafia Island.

Tanzania Mainland Coast

Here ancient Swahili history, culture and hospitality combine with hundreds of miles of endless beaches and the warm Indian Ocean.

Zanzibar Coastline

Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world, but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on.

Accommodation in Zanzibar

Kisiwa House Stone Town Zanzibar

Kisiwa House Stone Town Zanzibar This luxurious hotel is located in Stone Town. Kisiwa House was originally constructed in 1840 by a rich and influential Omani merchant and it was amongst one of the first buildings in Stonetown. The house has been in the same family for generations and has been recently renovated into a luxury boutique hotel.