5 Must-See Places in Zanzibar AFRICA
Unlike any other African country, Zanzibar is an undiscovered land of bliss located in the Indian Ocean. The island lies adjacent to Tanzania and is enriched with deep-rooted history and vibrancy running throughout the street, land, and air.
Because of the islands' size, it is easily accessible to get around within a week's stay- that being said, you may want to have a few days to relax and soak it all in, but it is doable, regardless. And if it's only a week or more, here are five must-see spots, plus a few extras.
Paje beach
A newfound haven for kite surfers across the world through its renderings of endless shallow depths to the ocean accompanied by the always present gusty winds. The coast lines itself with an everlasting white-sand for miles, the fishermen set off into the sea during the morning dawn, and the natives and locals reside among each other, taking in the beauty and simplicity as they look into the Indian Ocean.
EXTRA TIPS
+ Paje is on the opposite side of the airport, so make sure your transportation is set up through your stay, or go with your gut because there will be a lot of taxi's lined up once you step outside.
+ Very carefree vibe; this is a great spot if you're traveling with others or yourself because the others who are staying there have the same mindset as a 'backpackers' and love meeting new people.
+ Bring your swimsuit for the days and have a jacket with you at night! The wind starts kicking at night.
stone town
The oldest part of Zanzibar City, also known as Mji Mkongwe (Swahili for "old town"), is the most prominent historical and artistic city in East Africa. The city's Swahili culture derives from a multitude of influence’s, like Arab, Persian, Indian, and European components. When walking throughout the streets, you'll notice yourself strolling through narrow alleys with tall buildings by your side, storefronts lined up for miles, filled with trinkets and art, motorcyclists squeezing their way past you, and strong cultural influences everywhere you look.
EXTRA TIPS
+ Plan on spending a whole day here—there is so much to see and do here when it comes to looking at the many shops, visiting historical sites, or going on a tour—the possibilities are endless.
+ It’s essential to try the street food! In the center of Stone Town, near the wharf, many of the locals set up their stands and start preparing their food for the frolicking bystanders.
+ Exchange money before traveling here, although there are places, like restaurants who accept cards, you can go a long way with the local currency and even bargain for a lower price.
kuza cave
According to the Kuza Cave website, it's an ancient limestone jungle cave with crystal clear water sitting 50 meters round and three meters deep, along with much deeper sub caves. The sinkhole gained its depth though 250,000 years of erosion and the jungle itself is home to red colobuses, bush babies & more.
EXTRA TIPS
+ There are three separate tour options—allow at least 1-2 hours per visit
+ When visiting, know you are supporting a non-profit and a great way to learn more about the Swahili culture
The Rock
One of the most unique and intriguing spots on the island--The Rock is a world-renowned restaurant unlike any other due to its location. The restaurant sits atop a rock in the ocean less than a mile out from the shore. The cuisine, according to their website, is inspired by the natural resources of Zanzibar with a kiss of Italian.
EXTRA TIPS
+ One of the few places on the island who accepts cards + Because of its iconic status, be prepared to spend some money if you're eating. The menu is $$
+ If you want to go for lunch or dinner, have a reservation set in advance, but if you're going for cocktails then no worries there
+ Low tide is your friend, but a sight to see is when high tide is approaching. Since the restaurant is in the ocean, you'll get transferred by boat if the tide becomes too high, but when it's low you'll be able to walk your way across.
PRISON ISLAND
Traditionally known as Changuu Island, but commonly referred to as Prison Island, sits 30-minutes offshore from Stone Town and only accessible by a boat. The island itself carries a long history regarding slaves and prisoners, although it ultimately became a quarantine station for the yellow fever epidemic. Fast forward to current times, the land holds, what seems like hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises, which is considered a vulnerable species and placed on the IUCN Red List.
EXTRA TIPS
+ If you get seasick then be cautious because you will be on a makeshift boat ride for 30 minutes
+ Wear your swimsuit! Once you're done feeding the turtles and learning about the history, it'll be time to go snorkeling
+ Bring a spare change of clothes for when you're done snorkeling because you will be cold on the ride back
