Zanzibar
From Ngorongoro to the Indian Ocean islands of Zanzibar
The Indian Ocean archipelago of Zanzibar, off the east coast of Tanzania, is steeped in a romantic history of traders, explorers, sailors and Sultans, and provides an inspiring backdrop for ultimate island beach experiences. The juxtaposition of a quality Tanzanian safari with time on its unspoilt and exotic Indian Ocean coast or islands is easy, and allows for memorably fine holiday itineraries.
Arriving in Zanzibar by air or by sea, visitors are struck by the translucent hues of the surrounding sea over dazzling coral sands, coconut palms bending improbably over long stretches of beach, and the elegant pale sails of wooden dhows fishing these shores as they have for generations. There is a wide choice of beach accommodation to suit your tastes, from the rustic luxury of Mnemba, an exclusive private island on a coral atoll off the northernmost tip of Zanzibar island, to the five star faciltities of luxury eco resort La Gemma Dell'Est.
All about Zanzibar
Zanzibar is made up of two main islands, primarily Unguja or 'Zanzibar Island', and the more remote island of Pemba. Each is dotted around with tiny coral atolls, which include the magical island of Mnemba, off the the northeast tip of Zanzibar Island.
The people of Zanzibar are mainly fishermen and farmers, living from the fruit of the abundant Indian Ocean and traditionally farming coconuts and cloves since the days of the sultans. Plantations at the island centre still harvest a range of aromatic spices and continue to excite the senses of foreign visitors as they once did for bygone traders.
Zanzibar Stone Town
The capital and heart of the main island is Stone Town, a wonderfully labyrinthine web of narrow, mostly pedestrian streets winding from market to coast, alive with small traders plying local and tourist goods. This old city remains a living monument to the culture and histories of its curious mix of East African, Arab, Indian, Persian and European conquerors, traders and seafarers, and continues to thrive as a commercial centre.
Latest News from Zanzibar:
- RIBBON EEL
We were out on Bayena the other day, when we spied this beautiful, blue Ribbon Eel (Rhinomuraena quaesita). Ribbon Eels have an amazing life cycle, they are the only moray eel that is protandric, which means they change sex during their life from male to female. As juveniles they are jet black, but they begin their adult lives as males, in the stunning blue and yellow phase pictured. Once they reach full maturity, the males turn yellow and become fully functioning females, which lay eggs.
- THE TURTLES ARE BACK!
During the last two weeks, we had quite a lot of turtle sightings. It might be a sign that the nesting season is starting. Soon, the female green turtles will come visit Mnemba's beaches to lay their eggs. (photo credit: David Jackson)
- THORNBACK BOXFISH
This little thornback boxfish (also commonly called cowfish, because of his horns) was posing for us on our dive at Bayena yesterday. The little guy was courting his own reflection on the camera lense probably thinking he found a partner.
- MAKE YOUR MOVE
In the late afternoon Lionfish become more active in feeding. He successfully defended his feeding area against my camera lens. Each of those beautiful feathers was ready to give me a good sting.