Zanzibar Beach Holidays & Islands

Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja, the main island) is 60 miles long and 20 miles wide, it is characterized by beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs and the magic of historic Stone town is said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa, and is a World Heritage Site.

Zanzibar's rich history has been influenced by the Arabs, Persians, Indians, Portuguese, British and local tribes from the African mainland and this shows in the architecture. Stone Town is a place of winding lanes, ornately carved wooden doors, circular towers, raised terraces and beautiful mosques. Important architectural features are the Livingstone house, the Guliani Bridge, the House of Wonders and the Aga Khan's Old Dispensary Building.

Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, is steeped in history and an outstanding example of cultural fusion and harmonisation. It was recently and deservedly recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Few places evoke such romance as the fabled spice islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia -sleepy islands with beautiful unspoilt beaches and lush tropical vegetation.

..romance, mystery, stunning beaches....

The very name brings to mind intrigue, adventure on the high seas and tales of pirates and traders. Today, the “Spice Island” retains all of its romance and mystery and combines it with a collection of boutique accommodation that make it a perfect place to unwind and relax.

Existing ruins comprise of 15th to 19th Century palaces, towns and mosques.Many an explorer stayed on in Zanzibar and the houses where Livingstone and Burton lived can still be seen today.

The maze of narrow streets lined with old houses and remarkably intricate carved doors draws visitors to the Old Stone Town. A walk through the alleys and then through the bustling souk transports visitors back in time and 19th century explorers like Livingstone, Stanley, Burton and Grant come alive.

Tucked along the shore you will find stunning beaches with pampering resorts where the hustle and bustle of every day life fade away and relaxation becomes the priority of the day.

Activities on a Zanzibar Beach Holiday:

Diving - The islands are known for some of the best diving sites in the world, thanks to the rich marine life and clear waters. Zanzibar has several dive companies which offer PADI courses and certification.

Zanzibar Diving - there are a number of diving operations, most of them on the north and east coasts.

The best months for diving are October to March, though for non-divers, the period between May and October will offer the best weather. There are six major dive sites and innumerable lesser sites, all excellent.

Zanzibar holidays can be added to a Tanzania safari or enjoyed as a stand-alone beach holiday. The astoundingly white beaches of Zanzibar's east coast lead out to turquoise coral waters, great for snorkelling and diving. The climate is tropical and suitable for a beach holiday at any time of year.

Fishing - There are several great fishing spots around Zanzibar, the best is probably the Pemba channel.

Spice Tours - These are tours in and around Stone town and take in the spice plantations, historic and cultural spots around the town

Getting to Zanzibar

Kenya Airways and KLM fly into Zanzibar daily from Nairobi, Kenya, .
Many other international airlines fly to Dar es Salaam, a city on the coast of mainland Tanzania, from where you can take a local flight to the island or choose to cross over by ferry.  The trip by sea last approximately 2 hours.

Best time for a Zanzibar Beach Holiday:

late December, January and February is Zanzibar’s short dry season and the hottest time of year. It’s normally around 29°C but can get as hot as 39°C. The weather is very calm, humid and the ocean is flat like a mirror.

April-May is the time when heavy rain is most likely. If you do not mind sheltering when there is a torrential downpour it can be a magical time to be here, as the earth and wildlife heaves a sigh of relief as its thirst is quenched.

June to September is the coolest driest time of year. In July the Kusini trade winds may sometimes bring leaden skies and wild spectacular seas.  But they also bring humpback whales, the best chances to see them are July, August, September.