From the very beginning, the word Zanzibar evokes exotic and paradise associations, which in reality are not far from the truth. Zanzibar is the main island of the archipelago of the same name, which was part of the British protectorate in the years 1890–1964, and in 1964 became part of the Republic of Tanzania.

The slave and spice trade played a huge role in the history and development of Zanzibar. Due to its location in the 1872th century, the island was the world's largest supplier of cloves and one of the famous trading centers in East Africa. It was systematically visited by Assyrians, Arabs, Egyptians, Indians, Persians, Dutch and Chinese. At the end of the XNUMXth century, while traveling around the world, Vasco da Gama also visited this island. Later, famous African explorers discovered the towns of Burton, Speke and Livingston during their expeditions. The strongest hurricane of XNUMX destroyed most of the clove and coconut plantations, after which the islanders were forced to give up their position as suppliers of Far Eastern spices.

Why is it worth going to Zanzibar?

The central part of the city has a rich history and is called Stone Town (Stone City). Locals often call them simply Shangaani, after the name of the Bantu tribe from Mozambique whose fishermen settled in these places. Most of the houses in Stone Town are between 100 and 150 years old and are distinguished by carved gates, openwork loggias and verandas. Arab, Indian and European culture had a significant influence on the city's architecture.

Zanzibar has a wide range of luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean. Dense vegetation and white coral sand beaches along the coast make the island attract a large number of tourists every year. Despite its growing popularity, the tourism industry did not disturb the everyday life of the indigenous people, nature remained untouched, and hotels and clubs fit into the local landscape without disturbing the harmony of the environment.

The hot, humid climate has a major impact on beautiful views and surprises with the uniqueness of flora and fauna. The Indian Ocean never ceases to surprise with the colors of the underwater world, and the long, white beaches with fine sand are perfect for walks and bike rides. An exotic jungle with numerous baobab trees, inhabited by flocks of monkeys, and a night sky with millions of stars that seem to be at your fingertips - these are just some of the views this magical island offers. You must experience it and see it with your own eyes!

The best attractions in Zanzibar – our TOP 5.

This island has many interesting attractions worth seeing. Below we present our selection, which is a must-see while visiting this place. Carter® also offers a tour of the island with a Polish-speaking guide.

1. Jazani Chwaka National Park
It is the only national park on the island, located in the southern part of Zanzibar. This is where we can see numerous baobab trees in the mangrove forest and meet unique red gerees - beautifully colored monkeys with a very friendly disposition that often approach people. In addition to monkeys, we can also admire many interesting species of birds and turtles.

2. Prison Island
It is a small island near Zanzibar with an interesting history. In the 60s it was used as a prison for rebellious slaves, but also functioned as a coral mine. Currently, in addition to the ruins, there is a breeding farm for 200-year-old turtles brought from the Seychelles.

3. Kizimkazi
Kizimkazi is a fishing village on the south coast that served as the capital in the 1107th century. There is a mosque built in XNUMX, but the place is famous for its beautiful coral reefs and dolphins, which you can swim with if you encounter them.

4. Miza Wa Miza Cave
This is a cave in which there was a well with a certain legend associated with it. It is said that when you look into it, you cannot call anyone by name, because it may bring misfortune on someone. Legend has it that once two of the chief's wives came there, and when one of them, drawing water, uttered the name of the other, the well turned the person being called into a stone, which is still there today. Miza is the name of a woman who was turned into stone.

5. Pemba Island
A coral island famous for the production and export of spices, located in the north of Zanzibar. It is a perfect place for a water safari and jeep safari, combined with exploring the local cuisine and culture.

Boutique and luxury hotels in Zanzibar

If you have ever had a dream of escaping from civilization and living on a tropical island with white sand, without having to worry about survival, Zanzibar will be the perfect place. The best hotels in Zanzibar offer a romantic escape to places where time passes slower and everyone can enjoy life surrounded by exotic nature.

Zanzibar for whom?

Zanzibar is not only paradise beaches and turquoise waters. In addition to active ways of spending time on the island, you can also taste unique cuisine, use natural products in the SPA or have fun in the evenings with live African music. It is also a great place for a romantic honeymoon for two.

Location

Indian Ocean, 35 km from Tanzania, 1,5 hours by sea ferry from Dar es Salaam.

When is the best time to go?

It is possible to relax all year round, but the peak tourist season on the island falls from June to September, which coincides with the dry season in that area.

How to get to Zanzibar?

There are no direct scheduled flights to Zanzibar from Poland, but we can easily get there with a transfer in Dubai or Qatar. The flight from Dar Es Salaam International Airport to Zanzibar Airport takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

Sport

Diving, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, beach volleyball, tennis, aerobics, water gymnastics, cycling. Games and swimming with dolphins, as well as sea safaris on local boats.

Zanzibar – paradise beaches, exclusive hotels, holidays in paradise for the most demanding!

Zanzibar is a real pearl of the Indian Ocean, a perfect place for a family holiday and a romantic honeymoon. Are you looking for the best hotel for couples? Nothing could be simpler, the exclusive The Palms offers only 6 extraordinary, spacious villas with individual service. A beautiful, long beach with white sand and pristine coral reefs - this is the quintessence of a successful holiday, away from the crowds.

Zanzibar is a paradise for divers and kitesurfing enthusiasts. The exclusive and intimate White Sand Villas Hotel is the perfect place to learn kitesurfing and diving. If you love snorkeling, Mnemba Island will meet all your expectations. Luxury villas with swimming pools in the area of ​​Nungwi, Kendwa or Bwejuu…make a wish, the rest is up to us!

What is the best way to combine a holiday in Zanzibar?

The most popular safari options in East Africa are watching the Great Migration on the Serengeti plains, visiting the NgoroNgoro Crater, or climbing Mount Kenya.

The Great Migration is an amazing spectacle where hundreds of thousands of wildebeests and zebras migrate in search of water and food. If you dream of immersing yourself in African nature, away from the beaten track, we highly recommend a trip to Lake Tanganyika, where you will experience an encounter with chimpanzees.

The perfect end to your safari trips will be a blissful stay in luxury in Zanzibar.

Unusual African trips to Tanzania and Kenya – and finally a holiday in Zanzibar!

Let our extremely prestigious trips to Africa and exclusive journeys fill your free time. The most beautiful lodge in the bush, 5* professional service, the most luxurious hotels in Zanzibar, accommodation on extraordinary islands such as Mneba Island or Mafia Island. The best hotels on offer CARTER in Zanzibar are White Sand Villas, Park Hyatt in Stone Town, Baraza, boutique Baraza for adults and Mnemba Island Lodge.