About Zanzibar
Size: 1,651 sq. km (637 sq. mi).
Location: Indian Ocean, Tanzania Coast.
Zanzibar archipelago comprises the islands of Unguja (also called Zanzibar) and Pemba with a number of islets adjacent thereto. It is part of the United Republic of Tanzania but administratively there is an autonomous government for matters that are not part of the union agreement.
Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Island are part of a coral reef barrier along the Tanzania Coast. The resorts here are becoming recognized as among the top in the world. The crystal clear water, beautiful beaches and luxurious vegetation form a paradise that provides a wonderful combination of Swahili culture, superb diving and wonderful cuisine. A visit to any of these islands is easily added to one of our Tanzania safaris.
Zanzibar is immediately accessible from the mainland by ferry or by scheduled flights. Pemba is most easily reached by ferry from Zanzibar.The island of Zanzibar, also called Unguja, is separated from the mainland of East Africa (Tanzania) by a channel which is at its narrowest part 36 km (22 1/2 miles) across. It lies between latitudes 5° 40' and 6° 30' South; and longitude 39° East. It is about 85 km (53 miles) in length and 39 km (24 miles) in breadth at its broadest point. Its area is about 1 660 square km (640 square miles). It is the largest island on the east coast of Africa.
The island of Pemba lies about 40 km (25 miles) NNE of Zanzibar between latitude 4° 80' south and longitude 39° 35' and 39° 50' east. It is separated from the main continent by a channel some 56 km (35 miles) wide. It is smaller than Zanzibar, being 67 km (42 miles) long by 23 km (14 miles) wide (maximum) and having an area of 985 square km (380 square miles).
The name Zanzibar means "Land of the Blacks" and originates from the Arabic words "Zinj" meaning black and "barr" meaning land. The Island of Zanzibar consists of two main islands, Pemba and Unguja with some 50 smaller islands surrounding the archipelago. Unguja is the main and most developed island. Many people refer to it as Zanzibar, so please do not get confused when we refer to it as Unguja. The population of Zanzibar is about 800,000 people, of which 150,000 are found on Pemba. The majority of people inhabit Stone Town (which is the "capital" of Zanzibar). Many of the rural people prefer the fertile Northern section of the island, whilst the East Coast has coral rag, and provides the most spectacular beaches and holiday destinations.
These areas are so sparse that at the right time of the year, you may even have a whole stretch of beach to yourself. Portuguese invasion and control of the Swahili Coast in the late 16th century ended the golden age of the archipelago, although the Omani Arabs returned to power less than a century later. Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses, and the Turkish baths of the old city. Day-long spice tours to working plantations offer visitors the chance to observe the cultivation of cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices that have made the island famous.
Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world, but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on. On the east coast, waves break over coral reefs and sand bars offshore, and low tide reveals small pools of starfish, small minnows, and anemones. Up north, ocean swimming is much less susceptible to the tides, and smooth beaches and white sand make for dazzling days in the sun. The port city of Stone Town dominates the west coast, and although the beaches of Mangapwani, where slave caves are visible at low tide and nearby Bububu are less than half an hour’s drive away, a night or two spent on the east or north cost is well worth the extra hour it takes to drive there. That said, the Chumbe Island Marine Park just off Stone Town – and nearby Prison, Grave, and Snake Islands – make a refreshing day-trip and a good break from exploring the winding passageways of the old city.
On the South coast of Zanzibar lies the Menai Bay Conservation Area, a sea turtle protection area for the endangered species that come to breed on the island. Roads to the southeast coast take visitors through the Jozani Forest, home to Zanzibar’s rare Red Colobus monkeys and a number of other primate and small antelope species.
Most tourist prefer beach holidays usually in the North or East Coast of Unguja Island. Zanzibar remains one of the most beautiful and exotic island destinations in Africa and most visitors to Tanzania add on an excorsion to the Islands to cap off their safaris.
ZANZIBAR ENCHANTING CULTURAL HERITAGE
As with the history of the Zanzibari people, so comes their culture. From origins dating back to the first century AD, the people are diverse and interesting. One of the most remarkable features is the friendliness and hospitality shown by many of the locals.
The majority of the people are of Bantu origin with many Arab strains found throughout the island. They are not as tribal as may be found in Kenya or South Africa. This is due to a policy introduced by the Tanzanian Government in the late 1960's of relocating and breaking up tribes. The intention of the government was to prevent tribal warfare, as was seen in Kenya. This policy is today the main contributor of the prevailing peace within the country.
WEATHER
Situated in the tropics, the climate is as such. Hot and humid. The sea water is just as warm with an average temperature of 20ºC and is very calm. Surrounding most of the island is a coral reef. At low tide you are able to walk out to the reef in certain places. Below is a summary of the seasons and best times to visit.
July to October
During this period, there is little rain, the average temperature is 25ºC and the humidity is low. Light breezes at night provide some relief from the hot days. Not as many tourists as in January, so for somebody who likes a bit of privacy, it is ideal.
November to March
Are good months although the short rains come at this time and it is very hot and humid. Added to this is the Muslim festival of Ramadan in December/ January, which see Muslims fasting during the daytime for an entire month. This festival moves back a couple of days every year, so be sure to check here again if you plan on going to Zanzibar a couple of years down the line. Some local restaurants, bars and discos are closed during this period. All resort and accommodation entertainment is still open though. If you are planning to go to a resort, this is a fantastic time.
April to June
This is the quiet season. The long monsoon rains pour down. It does not rain the whole day every day, but you will have to remain indoors for some time when they come down. If you are on a budget trip, then this is the best time in terms of price unfortunately. Many resorts are closed though during this period, so you will have a smaller selection of places to stay.
How To Get There
Many airlines from Europe and the rest of the world fly to Zanzibar: mirates, Oman Air, Alitalia, Gulf Air, etc. Regional flights from Nairobi, Mombasa, Arusha and Dar es Salaam are operated daily. Zanzibar is also accessable by sea with hourly ferriers departing from Dar es Salaam each day.
What To Do
Activities such as island hopping, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving and snorking are available. The one-day spice tour is highly recommended
When To Go
Accessible year round. Dry season, June-August. Wet season November-March. December- February.
Accommodation
Stay at the Kilimanjaro Kepinski Hotel, Movenpick Hotel, Holiday Inn or New Africa Hotel in city centre. The Oyster Bay Hotel, Golden Tulip or the Seacliff Hotel in the suburbs.
Please contact us at info@amani-tours.com to make an inquiry and/or to place a subsequent booking for Zanzibar. Thank you!
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