Scattered off the coast of East Africa, the Zanzibar Archipelago comprises three inhabited islands and dozens of surrounding islets that are collectively nicknamed the “Spice Islands”. The main island of Unjuga has long been an important trade hub, with influences from Swahili, Portuguese and Omani cultures still visible today.
Spend a day getting lost in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets of Stone Town and learn about Zanzibari cultures at the House of Wonders. Explore the 17th-century Old Fort, which defended the archipelago against Portuguese naval attacks, then feast on freshly caught seafood at the Forodhani Market.
North-east of Unguja is the island of Pemba, which is home to endemic flying foxes, red colobus and vervet monkeys. Tour one of the local plantations where exotic spices and tropical fruits are grown before venturing below the water’s surface to see green turtles and a dizzying array of fish around Mnemba Atoll.
Getting there
Regular ferries connect from Dar es Salaam to the Zanzibar Port while flights from destinations across Africa, the Middle East and Europe arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Traditional dhows travel between the islands while dala dalas and taxis are available for getting around Unguja.