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Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures and tradition. A traditional trading point on the east African spice route, the island is famous for its vast spice farms and beautiful azure beaches. Stone Town is a bustling and unique little town with thin cobbled streets and thousands of vendors selling everything from fabrics to tasty food. There are many pristine islands surrounding Zanzibar if you are looking to disappear completely, and day trips to the bigger island of Pemba is a must. A combination of African, Arabic and eastern influences make Zanzibar a real cultural treasure. We just love it.
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Think of Zanzibar, think of powdery sand, lapping waves and a sun lounger? Well, yes, Zanzibar has them all by the bucket-load, but there’s plenty beyond the beach too. Water babies can take their pick from just about every ocean activity under the sun, be it snorkelling, kayaking, kite surfing or SUPing. Depending on the hotel, these can be done in-house or from a local water-sports centre that will provide the equipment and an instructor, (particularly for scuba-diving). A sundowner aboard a traditional dhow is also a must; again, many hotels have their own boat or will arrange one for you. On land, Stone Town is a hub of colour and culture, shopping and spices, and worth a wander (with a guide or without) especially in the evening when the markets come to life. Spice Tours are famous for a reason, and lesser-known but equally as enticing activities include Jozani Forest and Prison Island. Details vary from place to place, but all activities can be arranged through your hotel in advance, or simply decide when you arrive.
If you believe a holiday isn’t a holiday without some Vitamin D and a dose of warm turquoise water, add Zanzibar to your safari. It’s incredibly easy to get to, stunningly beautiful and even if the term "sunbathing" sends a chill down your spine, there’s plenty to do.
The traditional wooden dhows or sailing boats billowing across the ocean are a common sight in Zanzibar. But don’t just watch them – hire one for the day, complete with its local crew, and discover the hidden corners of the island on your own terms.
It's considered the height of disrespect to dress immodestly, especially when visiting towns, villages and local communities in Zanzibar. Travellers face penalties should their clothing be considered inappropriate - it might be helpful to check with hotel staff before you leave for the day.
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Dry Season
Temperatures are reasonably hot, with little rainfall at this time of year.
This is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark, the largest fish in the world.
The ideal month for exploring the coral reefs and exotic fish with water clarity of 25 meters or more.
Dry Season
Temperatures are reasonably hot, with little rainfall at this time of year.
This is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark, the largest fish in the world.
The ideal month for exploring the coral reefs and exotic fish with water clarity of 25 meters or more.
Wet Season
The weather is not good over this period with high temperatures and plenty of rain, often in the form of storms.
Diving is not ideal during this month, with water clarity dropping because of the weather.
Wet Season
Temperatures are high and windy, with rainfall continually falling over this period.
Diving is not idea during this month, with water clarity dropping because of the weather.
Wet Season
Temperatures are high and windy, with rainfall continually falling over this period.
Diving is not ideal during this month, with water clarity dropping because of the weather.
Dry Season
At the end of the wet season, temperatures are cooler, wind can still be strong with sporadic rainfall across the month.
Diving is decent during this month, as long as weather doesn't pick-up.
Be aware that many local restaurants and stores close during the period of Ramadan.
Dry Season
Weather is more consistent over this period with cooler temperatures, little wind and low rainfall.
Diving is is decent during this month, as long as weather doesn't pick-up.
Be aware that many local restaurants and stores close during the period of Ramadan.
Dry Season
Weather is more consistent over this period with cooler temperatures, little wind and low rainfall.
Diving is decent during this month, as long as weather doesn't pick-up.
Dry Season
Weather is more consistent over this period with cooler temperatures, little wind and low rainfall.
There is the possibility of whale watching, as an added bonus during this time of year.
Diving is decent during this month, as long as weather doesn't pick-up.
Dry Season
Weather is more consistent over this period with cooler temperatures, little wind and low rainfall.
There is the possibility of whale watching, as an added bonus during this time of year.
The ideal month for exploring the coral reefs and exotic fish with water clarity of 25 meters or more.
Wet Season
Temperatures are hot with the arrival of the summer rains and wind.
If you are a keen fisherman, billfish fishing season kicks off.
This is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark, the largest fish in the world.
The ideal month for exploring the coral reefs and exotic fish with water clarity of 25 meters or more.
Dry Season
Temperatures are hot with the arrival of the summer rains and wind.
This is the best time to swim with the mighty whale shark, the largest fish in the world.
Diving is not at its best but decent during this month, as long as weather doesn't pick-up.