Reasons To Visit Zanzibar Archipelago
Zanzibar, an island located just off Dar es Salaam, is blessed with a coastline of picture perfect beaches. There are miles of white sand leading into shallow turquoise water lined with offshore reefs and dotted with small fishing villages sheltering under coconut palms.
At high tide all the dhows sail in to the various beaches and harbours on Zanzibar and lively bartering for the day’s catch ensues. Cruising around the islands on a traditional dhow boat is one of the best ways to experience Zanzibar.
Mafia is the site of Tanzania’s first marine national park, covering 800 square kilometres and with over 460 species of fish and fantastic corals. There are a wide variety of dive and snorkel spots in the Archipelago with something to offer for all abilities.
There are some very busy beaches, backed by large resorts which we don’t use. We have driven all round the island and found quiet beaches with small boutique hotels and simple lodges. We’ll drive you across the island to these and you can relax in peace.
Flanked by the sea, Stone Town is exotic and steeped in Swahili history. Laden dhows sail in to the port, crumbling buildings cast shadows over labyrinthine streets and the smell of spices fills the air. Much of Stone Town was built in the 19th Century and remains unchanged to this day.
The most commonly found turtle in Zanzibar is the green turtle, followed by the hawksbill. Both nest in Zanzibar and Pemba is one of the best places to see them. There are several projects being run to help protect these endangered animals and their nesting sites.
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Africa and The Indian Ocean
Much of Stone Town was built in the 19th Century and remains unchanged to this day. There is no room for cars in these streets, so they’re perfect for exploring on foot.
The bay has a number of uninhabited islands and sandbanks and is frequented by humpback and bottlenose dolphins.
You walk through the nature trail of the forest which is a habitat for many species of animals, and birds. It is famous for its Red Colobus Monkey; the rare species.
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Further reading:Zanzibar ArchipelagoWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout Zanzibar Archipelago
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