Zanzibar The Spice Island

Zanzibar is the melting pot of cultures because of the cultural diversity that is a result of the interaction between Arabs, Africans, Portuguese, Bristish and Indian people who, over the centuries, have traded on this famous island. Just the name Zanzibar evokes dreams of romance and mystery and the reality will not disappoint the traveler bored with mass tourism. Zanzibar welcomes those who come to marvel at the rich heritage reflected in the architecture and the culture of the people for this is where Arabia meets Africa. Breathe the fragrant scents of cloves, vanilla, cardamon, and nutmeg and discover why Zanzibar is called the Spice Island.

Zanzibar Island
Tours in Zanzibar are an extremely rewarding experience with cultural sights and natural beauty on the itinerary. Visitors will travel past fragrant plantation of cloves, cardamon, nutmeg and other spices in their way to a number of places of historical events. To the south of the island is the walled city of Kizimkazi, where the ruins of Shiraz mosque stand, part of which dates back nearly 900 years are found. A coral stone inscription provides evidence of its making one of the earliest Islamic buildings in this part of Africa outside the mosque are 18th century tombs of dignitaries of the period.

Head north from Zanzibar town and visitors will encounter the palace ruins of Maruhubi near the shore off the road to Bububu offer a tantalizing glimpse of the former grandeur of this palace built by Sultan Bargash in 1880 to house his harem but burned down in 1889, only a few rooms and impressive arches remain. The palace of Mtoni suffered a similar fate. Dating back to early part of the 19th century, it once housed 1000 people. All that remains now is a courtyard, a row of stone baths and an aqua duct. These are only few examples of historical ruins that are dotted throughout the island. Others are to be found at Chuini, Dunga, Kidichi, Kizimbani and Dungi Thirty five kilometers south east from the city is the Jozani forest reserve, an area of 10 sq. km whose thick forest with trees over 100 years old are also of the last remaining sanctuaries of the red colobus monkey, the small Zanzibar leopard, duicker and Sunni antelopes may also be seen. Another popular option is a trip to Changuu Island or Prison Island, as it is known, something of a misnomer.

The island was used by an Arab to contain his awkward slaves and a jail was built here in 1893 but it was never used. However the ruins can still be seen. Today the islands most famous inhabitants are the giant tortoises and it is a popular place for a swim, a stroll or a picnic

THE ZANZIBAR BEACH SPLENDOUR
Brilliant white beaches constantly lapped by the warm water of the Indian Ocean surround the entire island. It provides a perfect place to relax. Soak up the sun and take a break from a some busy sightseeing schedule. Modern resorts nestle in the shade of coconut palms providing cool and comfortable retreats. The beaches are a paradise. Here are picturesque fishing villages where the people live in a simple way of life. Close to Zanzibar town is Fuji beach, which offers facilities for a range of water sports. Another lovely location is Chunni beach, where the local hotel has a restaurant and a beach bar, swimming pool and water sports equipments.

For really getting away from it all there is Mangapwani, where the only noise breaking the silence islikely to be the sound of the ocean. On the northern trip of the island is Nungwi approached by a road lined by banana, mangoes and coconut trees. Visitors can watch fishermen’s boats being built here. Swim in the coral lagoons. On Zanzibar northeast coast are the beaches of Matemwe and Pwani-Mchangani with their wide stretches of uncrowded sands and opportunities for scuba diving. One of the most luxurious resorts is to be found at the Uroa Bay well known for the beauty of the under water world beyond its shores. Other well developed resorts; Bwejuu and Jambiani are to be found on the southeastern coast. As well as water sports there are also opportunities for fishing or for observing the activities of the local fishermen

Best of Zanzibar Island Tour - 4 Days

Day 1: Arrive Zanzibar.
Karibu! - We are warmly received surrounded by the aroma of exotic spices and the land of friendly
Zanzibaris. We are transferred to our hotel. Overnight: Zanzibar Serena Inn 5 Star (1 Night)

Day 2: Zanzibar.
Our tour of this historical place, once a kingdom in its own right, starts with the Stone Town - a fine
example of the Swahili coastal trading towns of East Africa. It retains its urban fabric and townscape virtually intact and contains many fine buildings that reflect its distinct culture, which has brought together and homogenized disparate elements of the cultures of Africa, the Arab region, India, and Europe over more than a millennium. We then cover the House of Wonders, the Slave Market and take a stroll through the famous narrow streets of the island. Afternoon we are transferred to beautiful East Coast of Unguja Island for our beach stay. Day free to enjoy the
Island. Overnight: Karafuu Hotel 5 Star (B, D)

Day 3: Zanzibar.
The day is free to enjoy the many attractions the island has to offer. We highly recommend an optional excursion to Pemba, the world clove capital, or a relaxing day under the sun on the silver sand beach. Overnight: Karafuu Hotel 5 Star (B, D)

Day 4: Zanzibar / departure.
After an interesting and unforgettable experience of Zanzibar, we are seen off as we depart the island either by air or the ferry to Dar es Salaam. (B)

COSTS INCLUSIVE OF:

Zanzibar Airport-Zanzibar Serena Inn-Karafuu Hotel-Airport/Port transfers, 1night in Stone town (Zanzibar Serena Inn - bed and breakfast),
1x Stone town tour and 2nights at the Beach (Karafuu Hotel 5 Star – half board basis).

COSTS EXCLUDE:

Drinks, tips, additional meals and excursions, airport taxes, visas, toiletry requirements and all items of a personal nature.