10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar is the perfect destination if you’re looking for pocket friendly exotic holidays. It comes at no surprise why many compare it to the likes of Maldives and Seychelles. Miles of powder-white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters are the number one reason why you should visit Zanzibar. Past the exotic beaches, this island is steeped in history and has wonderful cuisine. When you combine all that with the great people you meet everywhere in Zanzibar, then you have all you could ask from an ideal holiday destination.

STONE TOWN

The only way to truly experience Stone Town is by allowing yourself to get lost. This UNESCO Heritage Site may feel somewhat overwhelming at first. Past that first impression, start exploring its winding narrow alleyways and you will quickly warm up to it. Expect to have all of your senses heightened as you begin to stroll through its streets. The smell of the street food including chapattis, samosas and roasting corn amongst many others, will be all too inviting. You will find stalls selling fruits and all kinds of aromatic spices. On each turn, you will come across locals playing Bao (a traditional board game) while watching passers by.

Part of Stone Town’s charm is also the mixture of Arabic, Indian and African culture. That heritage is naturally reflected on the architecture. Ancient buildings are dotted across the town, distinguished by unique carved wooden doors. Each door in Zanzibar’s historic buildings has a unique story to tell. It is said that the doors reflect the social status and religion of the family who lives in the house.

TIP: The historic part of Stone Town is busy but very intriguing. My suggestion is that you book a walking tour to explore Stone Town. An experienced guide will be able to share his knowledge about the history of the island. As well as, share his insight about the local’s lifestyle.

PRISON ISLAND

Prison island is one of those places that you may find it somewhat too touristy, but I would recommend that you don’t skip a visit. The island got its name back in 1890 when a prison was built, where slaves would be imprisoned. However, upon the completion of the construction, the plan was never put into action. Instead, it was used as a place to quarantine people who were diagnosed with yellow fever. The island is also home to giant tortoises which were brought to Zanzibar years ago from the Seychelles. The oldest one is known to be 192 years old!

MNEMBA ISLAND & BLUE SAFARI

Exotic islands and watersports go hand in hand and Zanzibar is a wonderful destination to try water activities. Locals and expats who live in Zanzibar will be quick to tell you that Mnemba island is the ideal place to go for diving. On the island there is only one luxury hotel, meaning that access to non-guests is not allowed. Do not let that discourage you because the real fun is actually underwater, in the reef surrounding the island. It is a very popular destination not only for diving but also snorkeling. I had the best time ever, swimming in the most extraordinary turquoise water and watching the colourful reef and the myriad of fishes. I will savor this memory forever!

THE LOCALS

I am always very curious about the culture and the people of a country that I’m visiting. This time was no different and naturally, I was very much looking forward to making new friends. As soon as we landed in Zanzibar “Jambo” (the Swahili word for “hello”) was the first word we heard. That same way we were greeted by the locals, wherever we would go in Zanzibar. It was a natural impulse to be a bit cautious and distant at first. We were thinking that most probably that approach was simply an attempt to sell us something. Quite honestly, most of the time it was. However, being friendly comes naturally to Zanzibari people and it is an important part of the local culture. As soon as we let our guard down, we realised that even if we were not interested in buying something, they would still engage in conversation and just wanted to ask how our day was. That led to us meeting some of the nicest and friendliest people in Zanzibar.

ZANZIBARI CUISINE

The Zanzibari cuisine is a mixture of many different foreign influences, including Indian; African, Arabian and Portuguese. A perfect blend of flavorsome chapatis and curries, pilau, fresh fish and seafood to name a few. Don’t hesitate to try new flavors, as long as you are cautious where you eat. The safest places to try the local cuisine is at your hotel, the Stone Town Night Market (it is best if you avoid fish and seafood here) or at a recommended restaurant. A dishe that you simply must try before you leave the island, is the urojo soup. A coconut curry broth filled with toppings. In terms of toppings expect anything from egg to meat skewers and from falafels to peppers.

IS ZANZIBAR SAFE FOR TOURISTS?

I know what you’re thinking and why you may or may not be looking for more reasons to visit Zanzibar. Is Zanzibar a safe country to visit? The answer is yes, Zanzibar is one of the safest African destinations. Tourism plays an important role in the country’s income. That means that the locals welcome anyone visiting and take their safety seriously. With that being said, it is always advised that you use common sense. Avoid things such as walking alone at night in isolated areas and leaving your valuables unattended at the beach.

GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELLING TO ZANZIBAR

Malaria is common in Zanzibar, be sure to plan ahead and take anti-malaria medication. We used Malarone as this particular brand was recommended by most pharmacists we asked. We were advised to start taking one pill 2 days before landing in Tanzania, during our stay and continue the medication for 7 days after we left the country. Also, bug spray is a MUST, preferably a strong one with 50% DEET. One thing that was unclear for us when we were planning our trip was whether we needed a yellow fever vaccination or not. We flew out from Malta via Istanbul and we were not required to have the Yellow Fever vaccination. Also, we were not asked for proof of vaccination by the airport control upon entering Tanzania. The vaccination is however mandatory if you are coming from countries with a very high percentage of Yellow Fever cases, such as Kenya.