An island off the Tanzanian coast, Zanzibar provides an unforgettable adventure in East Africa and here are some insights to help plan your holiday.

When to Visit

Zanzibar enjoys a warm climate the whole year through with July to October and December to March being the most popular times to visit with dry and sunny weather. April and May herald the arrival of the rains though rates will be much less too; you can expect some rains in June and November as well but not all the time.

Accommodation

Luxury Villa in zanzibar
Luxury Villa in zanzibar | Image via Unsplash

There are many options when it comes to accommodation in Zanzibar; luxury villas beside a pristine stretch of beach make an ideal choice for a family vacay or romantic escape. Such properties include The Residence Zanzibar by Cenizaro which also feature various dining options, spa rituals, a kids’ club, water sports and excursions.

Cultural Highlights

A great place to soak up some culture would be Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the old quarter of Zanzibar City home to the Sultan Palace, lively bazaars and diverse architecture. You can also visit a spice plantation, enjoy Taraab dance and music at the Mtoni Palace ruins and witness traditional livelihoods at Muyuni village.

Adventures in Nature

Amongst the best things to do in Zanzibar is to explore the Jozani Forest Reserve and see the endangered red colobus monkey. You can also head to Prison Island for encounters with ancient tortoises, go snorkelling, scuba diving and whale watching and swim near dolphins at the Menai Bay Conservation Area!