Zanzibar

What is the best way to end your safari in Tanzania? With a Zanzibar vacation package that will transport you straight to the tropical shores of ‘the Spice Island.’ Combining cobbled streets, ancient stone houses and white-sand beaches, a Zanzibar holiday package is truly unique, and a popular option for a romantic safari and beach vacation and those wanting a honeymoon in Africa. 

Many travelers start their Zanzibar vacation in Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former, center of both the slave trade and the spice trade in the early 19th Century. Today it is a diverse melting pot of cultures: Swahili, Arab, Indian, Persian and European influences come together in a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. Most Zanzibar vacation packages will include a traditional spice tour through Stone Town; the fragrances of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg linger in the air, bringing with them a sense of an earlier partially forgotten era.  

From Stone Town, head to the coast for beach delights that include sunbathing, sunset dhow cruises, snorkeling and diving. Indeed, the reefs off Pemba and Mafia island offer some of the most spectacular diving in the world. Coral reefs shine, almost neon in the azure water, while immense whale sharks make their way along the sandy seabed. 

There’s much to experience on Zanzibar beach and safari holidays. Jozani Forest is the only national park home to the endangered red colobus monkeys. And a tour of Prison Island will introduce to you the giant Aldabra tortoises – historic in their own right. 

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar:

Like any island destination, Zanzibar also has prime times to visit, particularly when it comes to diving visibility. If you plan on donning your scuba gear, the best time to visit is between July and August and in February and March when the water is at its clearest. It is a warm destination all year round, so the traditional dry season (June to October) which is so popular for a safari in East Africa, sees a lovely cool dry climate on the island. It is particularly hot between December and February. 

A map of Zanzibar is not enough to experience just how magical this tropical destination is; experience the Spice Island with Explorer Safari vacation packages.

Read more about Tanzania’s Zanzibar and safaris with our travel guides and discover our Top 5 beaches for snorkeling in Zanzibar, explore the Flavours of Zanzibar, discover Zanzibar’s Stone Town, find our some Interesting Facts about Zanzibar or see Which Safari Destinations you can add to your Zanzibar itinerary.