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ZANZIBAR ISLAND
Zanzibar has a potent mix of history, legends and unique
cultures. Visually stunning with exceptional natural
beaches and the haunting architecture of Zanzibar town,
the island has lured travelers to its shores for
centuries. Its past was dominated by merchants, rulers,
explorers, scholars - today tourism is playing a key
role. Zanzibar provides the perfect compliment to an
East African safari.
Zanzibar is famous for being a major producer of cloves,
and infamous as being a slave entry-port, the old stone
town of Zanzibar has a fascinating labyrinth of narrow
winding streets lined with whitewashed, coral-rag houses
with overhanging balconies and magnificently carved
brass studded doors, shops, bazaars, mosques,
courtyards, squares etc. Outside town there are more
ruined palaces, Shirazi remains, Persian baths, and
magnificent palm fringed beaches with warm clear water,
ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
ZANZIBAR BEACH EXCURSIONS
Zanzibar City Excursions - Half Day
The half-day city tour visits Zanzibar's colourful
market, which exudes a heady smell of herbs and spices.
Other sites visited include the Anglican Cathedral,
which stands in silent testimony on the site of one of
the last open slave markets in the world, the residence
of the late Sultan of Zanzibar; 'Tip Tip House'. The Old
Fort and the House of Wonders - all locations rich in
antiquity and full of intrigue from the days of long
ago. The tour ends with a romantic stroll along the
narrow lanes of the Old Stone Town.
Spice Tour - 4 Hours
Once used to hold "rebellious slaves", Changuu Island
was purchased by a Briton in 1893 and converted to a
prison (although it was never used). Enjoy the excellent
swimming and snorkeling. The spice tour is guaranteed to
sharpen your senses. Drive through the countryside to
visit spice plantations - with an opportunity to pick,
smell and savour exotic fruits and spices. The fragrance
of cloves is always in the air on Zanzibar and this tour
takes you to one of the famous spice plantations. Also
visit the remarkably preserved Persian Baths built by
Sultan Seyyid Said in 1850.
Stone Town at Dusk - 3 Hours
As the sun sets and the city is called to prayer, walk
through the old town and see the city from a different
perspective. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the old
town, visiting the historic buildings, places and shops
in Zanzibar.
Jozani Forest - 4 Hours
Jozani is the only remaining natural forest on Ungunja
Island. Covering an area of 10 sq km it consists of high
forest, swamp forest and evergreen forest. It provides
an important refuge for the remaining Ungula fauna such
as the rare Red Colobus Monkeys, small Zanzibar Leopard
and two antelope species - the Zanzibar Duicker and
Sunni.
Prison Island - Full Day
Changuu Island is a historical island once used for the
detention of recalcitrant salves. Today Giant Tortoises,
some over 100 years old, act as unlikely vigilantes over
the island. The Zanzibar beach is superb and the crystal
clear sea excellent for swimming, snorkeling, fishing
and diving. This trip is perfect to while away a
complete day.
Mangapwani Slave Caves - 5 Hours
Along a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach lies a
hidden cove said to be used for hiding slaves after
their export was forbiden in 1873. Enjoy lunch and time
to swim or relax on the Zanzibar beach.
Full Day - Swim with Dolphins in Zanzibar Beaches
Minimum 4 Passengers
Local boats take you from Fumba into the waters off the
island in search of the dolphin. With luck, you'll find
a pod and be able to swim amongst these curious and
gentle creatures. Enjoy a Swahili barbecue lunch on a
nearby desert island and have time to relax before
returning to the mainland.
Zanzibar Beach Holiday and Safaris in Zanzibar
2 Nights - Stone Town Getaway
Day 1 Arrive Zanzibar
Upon arrival in Zanzibar you will be met and transferred
to your hotel of choice. This afternoon, enjoy a Spice
Island Tour and have the opportunity to sample locally
grown fruits and herbs.
Overnight: Hotel of your choice
Day 2 Zanzibar (B)
Enjoy a guided tour of Stone Town this morning. Later
this afternoon, an excursion to Prison Island is
included.
Overnight: Hotel of your choice
Day 3 Zanzibar-Depart (B)
Transfer to the airport for your return flight - or
extend your stay for a 2 or 3 day beach break at one of
the coast hotels.
Choice of Accommodations:
• Dhow Palace
• Tembo Hotel
• Zanzibar Serena Inn
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