Zanzibar

The name Zanzibar evokes images of an exotic place of palm-fringed coastlines framing white sandy beaches where the warm crystal-clear water of the Indian Ocean laps its shores. Known as the ‘Spice Islands’, the farms and plantations were once key producers of cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cardamom. Venture through the World Heritage Site of Stone Town and marvel at the unique architecture, Arab forts and enjoy wandering through the bustling local markets and winding streets.

• Located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania, the Zanzibar Archipelago is a semi-autonomous territory politically tied with Tanzania. The main island of Zanzibar, locally known as Unguja, is the largest and the island of Pemba is the second largest. Many of the other neighbouring islands are small and uninhabited.
• Kiswahili and English are the official languages of Zanzibar. Kiswahili is the most widely spoken language and the mother tongue of virtually all Zanzibaris. Many locals can speak English and Arabic as well as some Italian and French in the main tourist areas.
• Being just south of the equator, the islands of Zanzibar are warm all year round. The rainy seasons are typically from March to May and late September to November, with drier periods outside of these times. Tropical downpours can occur at any time but are generally short outside of the rainy seasons.