Zanzibar Overview

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. It is composed of several islands, including Unguja, Pemba, and many smaller surrounding islands. Zanzibar has a rich history and was once a major trading center in the Indian Ocean region. It was controlled and influenced by various powers over the centuries including the Portuguese, Omanis, and British. Today, Zanzibar remains a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic Stone Town, spice plantations, and Swahili culture.

The main island of Zanzibar is Unguja, which contains the historic capital city of Stone Town. Stone Town is a World Heritage Site filled with winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques, grand Arab houses, and other architecture that reflects the diverse history of Zanzibar. Some key sights include the House of Wonders, Palace Museum, Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens, and the old slave market site. Just outside of Stone Town are white sand beaches like Nungwi that attract tourists from around the world.

The second largest island is Pemba, known for its fertile soil, cloves, and winding mangroves. Pemba is less visited by tourists than Unguja but offers scenic natural attractions like Misali Island, Ngezi Forest Reserve, and secluded beach coves. Both Pemba and Unguja are major producers of spices like clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper which were historically exported around the Indian Ocean by Arab and Portuguese traders. Spice tours are a popular activity for visitors to learn about Zanzibar’s spice history.

Culture and food are also draws for tourists in Zanzibar. The cuisine is a blend of Bantu, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences featuring spices, seafood, meats, rice, and tropical fruits. The population is predominantly Muslim and Swahili culture permeates daily life. From the colorful kanga prints worn by locals to the lively markets, festivals, music, and dance, Zanzibar has a unique cultural identity that fascinates visitors. Overall, Zanzibar remains an exotic island getaway that gives tourists a taste of its storied past and vibrant culture.