Zanzibar is a magnificent spice island and tourist destination in the Indian Ocean. It consists of two islands, Unguja and Pemba, and its culture has been influenced by Egyptians, Assyrians, Sumerians, British, Indians, Persians, Arabs, and Dutch over the past centuries. The island destination is a semi-autonomous area controlled by Tanzania, and it is located in the Zanzibar Archipelago consisting of several small islands including the larger Unguja and Pemba. Zanzibar City on Unguja is the capital of the island destination, and the center of the city, known as Stone Town, is a famous World Heritage Site.
Attractions
The Zanzibar city is called Stone Town because most of the older buildings in the city are built with coral stones. Your visit to this island would be incomplete without visiting this historic town. Stone Town has a number of attractions for tourists including the Arab Fort, Forodhani Gardens, and National Museum. The Anglican Church of Christ was built on the site that represents the slave trade during the 19th century.
If you want to get a soothing break from the town, visit Prison Island and Changu Island. It was built during the 19th century for confining slaves. The island is home to Aldabra giant tortoises and gives you the opportunity to enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming. The island offers two main beaches – the North Coast and East Coast beaches. In the north, you can go relaxing or swimming on the pristine white Nungwi beach. The east coast beach offers the opportunity to enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. You can also visit the Dunga Palace Ruins, an 18th-century Omani-Arab building.
Zanzibar Food
Zanzibar is a charming romantic island in the true sense. When it comes to its local cuisine, make sure to check the local staple food, Cassava. Ugali, which is made from cassava flour, is commonly eaten on the island.
Pilau rice is a traditional dish that can be found in almost all the local restaurants. The best addition to this dish is the salad containing sliced onion marinated in lime juice, sugar, and sliced chilies for an hour.
Restaurants
When in Stone Town, it would be best to enjoy your meals near the coast. While your breakfast and tea can be had at Ocean Restaurant in Paje, it would be stunning to enjoy your lunch and late-night supper at The Rock on the Michanwi Pingwe Beach. The Rock is a fascinating small restaurant on a rock just a few meters from the beach.
Airport & Transportation
Kisauni Airport or Zanzibar International Airport is located on Unguja Island. It is around 6 km from Stone Town. You can move around Zanzibar on the local “dala dala” shared taxis or hire a car from one of the several tour operators. The Daladala main station is near the Darajani Market. Then, there is the “mabasi” bus service that is available for long-distance travel. Even though this service connects all the villages around the island, it would be better to rent a car. You can reach the other major island Pemba by using the regular ferry service.
