Welcome to Zanzibar, the very definition of a balanced whole! Its extremely gorgeous palm-fringed beaches surrounded by crystal-clear lakes are one-of-a-kind places in the world. The words describe Zanzibar which is a dream destination in the Indian ocean. Nestled off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar’s idyllic location gives it access to dazzling blue waters and beautiful white-sand beaches. Rich culture and vibrant spice markets also exist in this small island. Here, in this detailed Zanzibar itinerary guide, we will take you on a journey on this enchanting island covering all the best sights, activities, and experiences to make your trip truly outstanding.
But before traveling to Zanzibar, you should know some important information if you are traveling for the first time.
Seven Things to know before visiting Zanzibar
1. Health Precautions:
Zanzibar is situated in the tropics, thus one has to be mindful of the health dangers beside. Think about getting vaccinated against yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Nevertheless, not all travellers have to be vaccinated. It is advisable to check the most recent news updates about your country and then find out if they are applicable to you. Also, remember to take anti-malarial drugs and use insect repellents along with wearing long sleeve clothing to prevent mosquito bites.
2. Currency and Payment:
The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the main currency of Zanzibar and American dollars continue to be welcome, especially at the tourist centres. It is recommendable to have them in both the local currency and the US dollar, for your own convenience, before traveling.
3. Weather and climate:
Natural scenery and climate in Zanzibar varies not much, instead it is hot and humid all the year round. Rainy season normally starts from March-May and November-December so make sure you decide when you will arrive depending on whether you favor the rainy weather or not.
4. Cultural Sensitivity:
Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim community, whereby visitors are required to respect and behave appropriately when in religious sites or in the presence of locals. Local customs and etiquette advise that visitors dress code must obey the rules, especially when meeting some locals or visiting sacral places. Do not engage in cotillions in public spaces, and avoid wearing provocative clothes.
5. Language:
The official languages in Zanzibar are Swahili and English Even though English is quite common in tourist destinations, it’s obviously more promising that you’ll learn a little Swahili. That will make your conversations more successful and will be a sign of your respect for local culture.
6. Transportation:
Zanzibar offers transportation options, including taxis, dala dalas (minibuses), and private drivers, enabling people to move around with ease. Also, renting a car or a scooter is another choice for more free expeditions, but pay attention the driving situation and obey the traffic rules.
7. Safety:
For the larger part, Zanzibar is safe for the travelers though being vigilant is mandatory since security of the tourists is paramount. Avoid using yourself late during the night in the areas you do not know, look after your belongings and pay attention to the scams and petty thefts in the tourist spots.
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How to Reach Zanzibar?
1. By Air:
Flying is the most common way to reach Zanzibar. A number of large airlines around the world have flights going to Zanzibar from many African, European, and Middle Eastern cities. You can fly to Zanzibar directly from destinations like Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, and the rest.
Zanzibar’s air travel is mainly served by Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates.
2. By Ferry:
You can also take a ferry, which is a popular choice among many people coming from the mainland of Tanzania. The Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar route is by far the most served ferry passage with departures several times per day. Ferry time is two to three hours with respect to the size of ferry and condition of sea.
There are also ferry services operating from the Tanzanian coast beach towns like Tanga and from the Pemba Island.
A Guide to your perfect Zanzibar Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Stone Town
The true start to your Zanzibar travel is definitely in Stone Town, the island’s oldest quarter, that acts as the living monument witnessing the passage of time starting from the medieval era to the current. Your landing at the Zanzibar International Airport marks your initiation into a world in which you brush up against the harmony of the Arab, Persian, Indian, and European cultures.
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Go to the most popular tourist spots like the place where the Sultan lived, the Old Fort, and the place where the famous garden they call Forodhani is located. Besides, a traveler should not miss the chance to wander round the lively markets as there he could find crazy spices, fresh seafood, and even local delicacies.
Day 2: Spice Tour and Jozani Forest
Stroll through plantations on a guided spice tour to understand why Zanzibar is called the “Spice Island.” While exploring cloves, cinnamon, nutmegs and other spices cultivated in plantations, learn how these spices played an important role in the history and cuisine of the island.
Subsequently , visit the Jozani Forest Reserve, which is one of the only places where you can see the endemic red colobus monkey and many other animals. Take a short stroll to the forest, paying attention to these unique animals and the exotic birds around the spot.
Day 3-5: Beach Retreat in Nungwi or Kendwa
Everything your heart and soul longs for is there: steady gazes into the sea, astonishing sunsets, and everything that seems to be right at your fingertips. Move to the northern point of the island to the perfect relaxing beach villages like Nungwi or Kendwa where you could find some of the nicest beaches of Zanzibar.
Spend your days on relaxing and gently sloping white sands, swimming in the warm and lovely turquoise waters, and taking up water sports that may interest you, such as snorkeling, diving, or sailing. Do not too often ignore the opportunity of watching the sun set, a breathtaking spectacle that should not be missed by any means.
Day 6: Prison Island Excursion
Take a boat trip to the Prison Island, which is another name for Changuu Island, around the coast of Stone Town. Discover the island with its fascinating history like the former prison place or quarantine areas.
Presently, Prison Island is much more than just a prison as it hosts a number of the hundred year old giant tortoises, which are native to the island. Take the chance to join the crew and see what you can do to extend the life to the gentle giants as conservation is all the talk today.
Day 7: Departure
As your Zanzibar trip is about to finish, remember to walk in the streets of Stone Town one more time, from where you can observe the beautiful scenes, hear the sounds, and smell the scent of the mystic city. Choose few goods or handcrafted thing to take home with you as souvenir of your wonderful experience.
Say goodbye to Zanzibar knowing that the island holds the natural beauty, cultural richness and your warmhearted hospitality which demonstrates that every time you go for an adventure, paradise will welcome you back wholeheartedly.
Conclusion:
Zanzibar is, undoubtedly, a piece of heaven on earth, which provides all of the comfort, excitement, as well as cultural encounter that one could desire. The enchantment goes all the way – either you’re embarking in Stone Town’s historical astral, searching for a perfect beach treat, or experiencing the spice island, Zanzibar will offer you a taste unlike any other. Let the suggested Zanzibar itinerary guide you to organise your nonpareil Zanzibar trip, and start life-changing travel journey.
FAQs related to Zanzibar Itinerary:
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
The most favorable time of visiting Zanzibar should be when it’s the dry season, June to October, when the weather is cooler with a little of rain. Nevertheless, Zanzibar can be found pulsing through the years, instead of the individual seasons bringing their specific emotions at different times of the year.
what are the must-visit attractions in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar’s attractions are numerous, such as Stone Town, Prison Island, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, Spice Farms, and the best beach spots which are Nungwi and Kendwa.
what activities can I include in my Zanzibar itinerary”
In Zanzibar one’s getaway could consist of snorkeling, diving, spice touring, viewing historical sites, visiting local markets, sunset cruising, and beach relaxation.
what should I pack for my zanzibar trip?
To make sure that you have the most important things in your luggage when you are going to Zanzibar, you have to pack lightweight clothes, some swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your camera either; it could turn out to be a useful accessory as you watch the sunrise or sunset on this Island.