Zanzibar
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What people say
Mimoza Greca
"Zanzibar is a safe place you can travel and hav best experience in your life.
Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is a vibrant destination known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and unique cultural experiences. Here are some top activities and attractions to consider:
1. Explore Stone Town:
- Historical Sites: Visit the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the Sultan's Palace.
- Markets: Wander through the Darajani Market for a local shopping experience.
- Architecture: Admire the intricate doors and narrow alleys that reflect Zanzibar’s diverse cultural influences.
2. Relax on the Beaches:
- Nungwi Beach: Known for its clear waters and vibrant nightlife.
- Kendwa Beach: Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with stunning sunsets.
- Paje Beach: Popular for kite surfing and water sports.
3. Spice Tours:
- Visit local spice farms to learn about and sample the island’s famous spices, including cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
4. Jozani Forest:
- Explore this nature reserve, home to the rare red colobus monkeys and various bird species.
5. Diving and Snorkeling:
- Mnemba Atoll: Renowned for its rich marine life and coral reefs.
- Chumbe Island: A private nature reserve with excellent snorkeling opportunities.
6. Cultural Experiences:
- Local Villages: Visit traditional villages to experience Swahili culture and hospitality.
- Music and Dance: Enjoy Taarab music and traditional dance performances.
7. Historical Tours:
- Slave Market: Visit the historical site of the old slave market and its memorial.
- Freddie Mercury Museum: Learn about the life of the famous Queen frontman, who was born in Zanzibar.
8. Water Sports and Excursions:
- Go on a dhow cruise, dolphin spotting tours, or enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding.
9. Cuisine:
- Savor local dishes such as Zanzibar pizza, biryani, and seafood at beachfront restaurants or food markets.
10. Festivals:
- If your visit coincides, participate in events like the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) or the Sauti za Busara music festival.
11. Prison Island:
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is one of the popular tourist attractions near Zanzibar.
- Originally, the island was used as a prison for rebellious slaves in the 1860s.
- Later, it was repurposed as a quarantine station for yellow fever patients in the late 19th century.
- The island is home to a colony of Aldabra giant tortoises, which were originally a gift from the British governor of Seychelles in 1919.
- Visitors can interact with and feed these gentle giants, some of which are over 100 years old.
- Explore the remains of the prison and quarantine buildings, which provide a glimpse into the island's historical past.
- Informational plaques and guided tours are available to give context to the island’s history.
- The island boasts beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
- The surrounding coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling, offering vibrant marine life.
- Walk along the nature trails that offer scenic views of the island and opportunities to see various bird species.
- Prison Island is typically visited as a day trip from Stone Town, which is about a 30-minute boat ride away.
- Several tour operators offer packages that include boat transport, guided tours, and sometimes lunch.
Visiting Prison Island provides a mix of history, wildlife encounters, and natural beauty, making it a must-see when in Zanzibar.
12. Mikumi National Park in Tanzania
A trip from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park in Tanzania combines a beach vacation with a thrilling safari adventure. Here are the steps and options for making this trip:
- Flights from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi: From Dar es Salaam, you can catch a small charter flight to Mikumi National Park. Coastal Aviation and Auric Air provide these flights, which take approximately 1 hour.
- Mikumi is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and various bird species.
Consider booking a tour package that includes transportation, accommodation, and guided safaris. Some reputable operators include:
- *Tanzania Horizon Safaris*: Provides tailored safari packages.
- *Easy Travel*: Known for customizable safari experiences.
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (June to October):Best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
- Wet Season (November to May):The landscape is lush, and it's a good time for bird watching, but wildlife can be harder to spot due to dense vegetation.
Additional Tips
- Health Precautions: Ensure you have necessary vaccinations and take malaria prophylaxis.
- Travel Documents: Carry your passport, visa, and any required permits for national park entry.
- Packing: Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Combining Zanzibar's stunning beaches with a safari in Mikumi National Park offers a well-rounded Tanzanian adventure.
• Acomodation
I recommend Riu Jambo Hotel Zanzibar- is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and comprehensive resort experience on the island. Here are some details and recommendations about the hotel:
Highlights:
- Beachfront Property: Located directly on the beach, offering easy access to the Indian Ocean.
- All-Inclusive: The hotel provides an all-inclusive experience, covering meals, drinks, and many activities.
- Facilities: Multiple swimming pools, various dining options, bars, a spa, fitness center, and water sports.
- Rooms: Modern and spacious rooms, many with ocean views and private balconies.
Features and Amenities
1. Dining:
- Buffet Restaurants: Offering a variety of international and local dishes.
- Themed Restaurants: Specialty dining options, including Asian, Italian, and African cuisine.
- Bars: Several bars including a swim-up bar, beach bar, and lobby bar.
- Water Sports: Snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and kayaking.
- Entertainment: Daily and nightly entertainment programs, including live music and shows.
- Kids Club: Activities and programs for children.
- All-Inclusive Convenience: The all-inclusive package makes it easy to enjoy your stay without worrying about additional costs for food and drinks.
- Variety of Activities: Plenty of options for both relaxation and adventure, catering to different interests.
- Family-Friendly: Facilities and activities for children make it a good choice for families.
Recommendations
- Book Early: Due to its popularity, it's wise to book well in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during high season.
- Explore Beyond the Resort: While the resort offers many activities, consider exploring Zanzibar's local attractions, such as Stone Town, spice farms, and Jozani Forest.
- Check for Deals: Look for special offers or packages on the Riu website or through travel agents for potential savings.
Contact Information
- Website: [Riu Jambo Zanzibar](https://www.riu.com/en/hotel/tanzania/zanzibar-island/hotel-riu-jambo/)
- Address: Nungwi Road, Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania."
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Calvin Exaud
"Day 1
Pick up from air port and transferred to the hotel ,and enjoying the night tour at stone town.
Day 2
Activities at stone town and diving
Day 3
Having a leisure at resort at transfer to airport
"
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Kimberly Lynn
Available for hire
"Welcome to Zanzibar!"
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