Discovering the treasures of the Tropical Paradise of Zanzibar
Zanzibar, an archipelago located off the eastern coast of Tanzania, is one of the most captivating and enchanting tourist destinations in the world. Known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, and rich cultural history, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
The archipelago is composed of two main islands, Unguja (commonly known as Zanzibar) and Pemba, along with numerous smaller isles. Unguja is the vibrant heart of the archipelago, where the lively capital Stone Town welcomes visitors with its labyrinth of alleyways, the scent of spices, and historic architecture.
Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Zanzibar is famous for being a significant center for the trade of spices and slaves over the centuries. Today, this rich past is reflected in the island's vibrant culture, a fascinating mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Zanzibar is a destination that enchants with its natural beauty, rich history, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Mnemba, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Whether you are a lover of aquatic adventures, a history enthusiast, or a traveler seeking relaxation and tranquility, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. With its must-see attractions, every visitor can have an extraordinary and memorable adventure in this tropical paradise.
Stone Town, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
The 10 must-see tourist attractions in Zanzibar are:
1. Stone Town
Stone Town, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Stone Town, the historic capital of Zanzibar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that definitely deserves a visit. Its winding streets, ancient palaces, and charming houses with intricately carved wooden doors offer a journey back in time. Among the places to visit are the House of Wonders, the Sultan's Palace, and the old slave market. Walking through Stone Town, you can immerse yourself in the island's history and savor the unique atmosphere of its lively markets. Music lovers can visit the Freddie Mercury Museum in the house of the famous Queen singer.
2. Sultan's Palace of Zanzibar
Sultan's Palace of Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
The Sultan's Palace, also known as Beit el-Sahel, is one of the main historical attractions in Stone Town. This palace, once the residence of the sultans of Zanzibar, is now a museum showcasing artifacts, furniture, and photographs that tell the story of Zanzibar's royal family. A visit to the palace offers a fascinating insight into the life and culture of Zanzibar's nobility.
3. Spice Market
Spice Market of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Zanzibar is also famous for its aromatic spices, and a visit to the Spice Market in Stone Town or one of the island's many spice plantations, such as the Kizimbani plantations, is a must. Spice tours offer the opportunity to see, smell, and taste spices like cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. These tours often include local cooking demonstrations and the chance to purchase fresh spices to take home.
4. Nungwi Beach
Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Nungwi Beach, located on the northern tip of Unguja, is famous for its turquoise waters and fine white sand. It is a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The village of Nungwi is also known for its traditional dhow, the typical sailing vessels. Visitors can watch the master dhow builders at work and even take a sunset boat ride.
5. Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Mnemba is a private island located off the northeast coast of Zanzibar, famous for its spectacular snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island, a few kilometers from the village of Ugunja, is surrounded by a coral reef that hosts an incredible variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Day trips to Mnemba offer a unique experience to explore one of the world's most beautiful marine ecosystems.
6. Prison Island
Prison Island, Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Also known as Changuu Island, Prison Island is located a short distance from Stone Town (about 30 minutes by boat). Originally used as a prison for rebellious slaves, the island is now a nature reserve for Aldabra giant tortoises. Visitors can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, explore the old prison, and interact with the tortoises, some of which are over 190 years old.
7. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, Red Colobus monkey of Zanzibar Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is Zanzibar's only national park and home to the rare Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey. The park is a protected area with the forests of Unguja and the rainforest offering hiking trails and boardwalks through the mangroves where you can admire the Sykes monkey, butterflies, and birds. It's a great opportunity to observe local wildlife up close and discover the island's unique ecosystem.
8. Kendwa Beach
Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Located a short distance from Nungwi, Kendwa is another spectacular beach famous for its breathtaking sunsets and calm waters. Kendwa is an ideal place to relax, snorkel, and participate in beach parties that last all night. The shallow waters and the presence of high-quality tourist facilities make Kendwa a popular destination for tourists.
9. Paje Beach
Paje Beach, Zanzibar Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Paje Beach, on the southeast coast of Unguja, is one of Zanzibar's most charming destinations. With its fine white sand and turquoise waters, Paje is a paradise for kite surfing enthusiasts thanks to its constant winds. The Paje lagoon is also ideal for swimming and snorkeling, offering a safe and tranquil environment to explore marine life. The village of Paje is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with numerous beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood and local cuisine. Paje Beach is the perfect place for those seeking a combination of adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting.
10. Nakupenda Beach
Zanzibar Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Nakupenda, which means "I love you" in Swahili, is a spectacular beach located on a sandbank off the coast of Stone Town. Accessible only by boat, Nakupenda offers crystal-clear waters and white sand where visitors can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a picnic on the beach. It is a perfect place for a romantic getaway or a day of relaxation in an unspoiled environment.
Text by Alisè Vitri
Avion Tourism Magazine
Photos and visuals for editorial use only: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
All rights reserved. Reproduction prohibited. Copyright © Sisterscom.com
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Discover Zanzibar from Milan Bergamo
From Milan Bergamo Airport, you can reach Zanzibar by landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) with a convenient connecting flight operated by flydubai and a brief stopover in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| AIRLINE | STOPOVER | OUTBOUND FLIGHT | RETURN FLIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| flydubai | DUBAI | 2h 20min airport transit | 2h 40min airport transit |
Check the flight schedule to Dubai and book your trip to discover Zanzibar: white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters await you for a unique experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Swahili culture, explore tropical forests, and savor the delicious local cuisine. A perfect paradise for relaxation and unforgettable adventures.
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Where to sleep in Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers various possibilities for staying in facilities equipped with the best services.
To find the ideal hotel and the best offers you can do a search for the stars but also for atolls or landmarks.
STARS
Hotels by stars in Zanzibar city:
LANDMARKS
Hotels in tourist areas of Zanzibar city:
LANDMARKS
Hotels in tourist areas of Zanzibar city:
ISLANDS
Hotels in the Islands:
AIRPORTS
Hotels near the airport
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TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN ZANZIBAR
In addition to cultural tours in Stone Town or visits to spice plantations, Zanzibar is a true paradise for excursion enthusiasts, offering a wide range of experiences to discover its natural wonders. From Zanzibar, you can organize unforgettable safaris to Tanzania's national parks, where you can see elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes in their natural habitat.
Among the must-do boat experiences, the Blue Safari is one of the most popular. Departing from Fumba, this full-day adventure includes snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Menai Bay Lagoon, exploring deserted islands, and swimming in natural pools. Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a historic destination located a short boat ride from Stone Town. Originally used as a prison for rebellious slaves, the island is now a nature reserve for giant tortoises. Mnemba Atoll, a small private island surrounded by a spectacular coral reef, is perfect for snorkeling and diving. Boat excursions to Mnemba generally depart from Nungwi or Kendwa and offer the chance to see a variety of tropical fish, corals, dolphins, and sea turtles.
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Safari to Mikumi from Zanzibar
Zanzibar, safari. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Tour from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park in the Tanzanian savannah by flight. Includes a photo safari of Tanzanian wildlife in its natural habitat and lunch in the savannah. The package includes hotel pickup, flight, photo safari, driver/guide, lunch, park entry, and airport taxes. Duration: 8 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and full refund. Info and booking of the tour.
Safari in the Selous Game Reserve from Zanzibar
Zanzibar, safari. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Safari tour in the green landscapes of Tanzania from Zanzibar with flights, entrance tickets, and guide included to discover the wildlife of Nyerere National Park. Includes a traditional lunch tasting. The package includes hotel pickup, flight, photo safari, driver/guide, lunch, park entry, and airport taxes. Duration: 8 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and full refund. Info and booking of the tour.
Mnemba Island, Prison Island, Jozani Forest, and The Rock
Zanzibar, Mnemba Island. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Tour to explore the Mnemba Atoll in Zanzibar, Prison Island, Jozani Forest with red colobus monkeys, and lunch at The Rock Restaurant of Zanzibar (with an extra supplement). Includes hotel pickup, private boat, and private guide. Duration: 10 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and full refund. Info and booking of the tour.
Blue Safari in Zanzibar
Zanzibar. Photo: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos
Tour in a local private boat to reach Safari Blue Island along Menai Bay, one of the best coral reefs in Zanzibar. Visit to the natural sandbank, swimming and snorkeling, Kwale Island, and climbing an ancient Baobab tree. Duration: 7 hours. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and full refund. Info and booking of the tour.
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