Zanzibar Tours and Excursions
Zanzibar’s lasting mystique has attracted travellers from around the world for centuries. Its beaches are world-renowned for their idyllic seascapes and island charm. The history stretches back to when the first dhows from Arabia and India discovered its natural harbour.
Over centuries different cultures have influenced Zanzibar to become the present fusion.
A visit to some of the special areas on Zanzibar and enjoy the people, the beauty of the island, and the lasting mystique of its regal history.
Kizimkazi – Dolphin Tours
Located on the southern tip of the island, Kizimkazi is a fishing village home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins which can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village. If you are lucky, you may be able to swim with the dolphins which can be a very rewarding experience.
Jozani Forest
The Jozani Natural Forest Reserve is located in the central east region of Zanzibar island home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey which is endemic to Zanzibar. These monkeys are full of character, and roam freely. They can also be seen at very close quarters just outside the reserve's perimeter and are incredibly photogenic. Jozani is home to other species including the Syke's monkey.
Also found in Jozani are small buck and bush pigs. The elusive Zanzibar leopard (last sited several years ago) is said to feed here at night - perhaps this is why the reserve is only open during the day?!
Jozani offers a guided nature trail. The guides have a fun sense of humour and informative.
Stone Town
A tour of Stone Town takes you through the alleyways, where history appears to stand still.
The House of Wonders, Palace Museum (People's Palace), Dr Livingstone's House, Sultan Barghash's harem at Marahubi and the Arab Fort offer a good historical introduction to the fascinating essence of Zanzibar’s huge history and vibrant culture.
If shopping is your idea then Stone Town has some excellent gifts shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.
Spice Farms and Plantations
The history of Zanzibar would not be incomplete without the cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper and many other spices which brought the Sultans of Oman to Zanzibar.
Located just outside Stone Town you can visit these plantations, Visitors to the Spice Plantations on Zanzibar will be provided with a detailed description about the variety and use in cooking and cosmetics. You will have the opportunity to smell and taste various spices and guess what they are, as well as watch the harvesters climbing huge trees with no harnesses or protection, to collect coconuts.
We suggest you try a local lunch, cooked the traditional way.
Prison Island
Was once the site of a gaol for misbehaving slaves, the island lies just off the mainland of Zanzibar and is surrounded by a beautiful coral reef, ideal for snorkelling with a powder white beach.
It is also home to a family of giant tortoises, imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. Prison Island is perfect for a day-trip. Refreshments are available throughout the day. It also has a small restaurant where you can enjoy freshly caught fish.
Slave and Coral Caves at Magapwani
Northwest of Stone Town are the slave caves. The cave was used by illegal slave traders to conceal their slaves before rushing them away through the tunnel to the waiting pirate ships.
The nearby Slave Chambers also here were specifically constructed to incarcerate slaves before their sea journey.
3km north of Coral Cave, you can see two large stone slabs, just above ground level. These sloping slabs are the roofs covering small underground chambers. Here over a hundred slaves would have been incarcerated. It is possible to descend the steep and moss-covered steps leading down into this “bottomless pit” but do take care, it could be a bit claustrophobic if you are not good in tight spaces.
EMAIL US AT: info@go2zanzibar.co.uk
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