Overview

"It's a kind of magic" ~ Freddie Mercury

As part of a safari and beach option, or a stand alone destination, the Zanzibar Islands offer a diverse choice of interests from the activities on the azure sea, to visiting a working spice farm or seeking out the indigenous Red Colobus Monkey. The name Spice Islands derives from the growth and production of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper - an industry that goes back thousands of years in the region. Zanzibar has been populated for over 20,000 years. Possibly not continuously, but the islands history is as varied and interesting as its well-known spice trade. A visit to Stonetown (A UNESCO world heritage site) reveals a history of traders, invasions, revolutions and eventual independence in 1963. We do recommend a guided visit around Stonetown, to best understand its history, followed by time at a carefully selected location on one of the outstanding beaches. Here you can indulge in activities such as snorkelling, kite surfing, scuba diving and deep sea fishing. Or simply enjoy relaxing on the fine white sand with a favourite book, with nothing but a fresh seafood lunch on the list of things to do. It's a kind of magic... Freddie Mercury might well have been referring to his birthplace.

Location

The Spice Island

Location

Lying in the Indian Ocean, safely tucked away just 25-50km off the mainland, and north of Dar Es Salaam, lies the Zanzibar Archipelago. The Archipelago is made up of 2 large islands: Unguja, which is the island referred to as Zanzibar, and Pemba Island, which lies to the north of Zanzibar. There are also many smaller islands, such as Mafia Island, in the area that are also well regarded for their exceptional sealife, startling blue seas and relaxed, but gorgeously, comfortable island hideaways. The capital city is Stonetown, located on the main island of Unguja/Zanzibar and is worth visiting in its own right.

Getting Here

For those travellers choosing to visit Zanzibar after a safari on the mainland, you will fly in via Arusha, Mt Kilimanjaro or Dar Es Salaam. You can also charter a private flight straight from your safari lodge. If you are visiting Zanzibar on its own, there are flights from Europe and Southern Africa that fly directly to the island, but not necessarily on every day of the week. We will discuss this with you when we plan your adventure.
Some of the smaller islands have airstrips, or you may need to use a boat.

When to visit Zanzibar

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Green Season

April, May, June and November

It is not recommended to visit Zanzibar during the long rains between April and June and the short rains in November. Conditions can be very wet and overcast.

weather icon average temperature

30°

Average Temperature

weather icon average rainfall

32MM

Average Rainfall

High Season

Dec to March and June to October

Conditions on Zanzibar differ depending on your area of interest and time of year, please do consult with us for the latest information.

December to March are hot, with sporadic rain.

July through to October does get cooler, especially in the evenings when the breeze picks up for pleasant and comfortable nights.

During peak season months of December to February and July to October, it is advisable to please book well in advance of your intended days of travel.

weather icon average temperature

31°

Average Temperature

weather icon average rainfall

10MM

Average Rainfall