Summer in Zanzibar: beaches, food and excursions
Located off the east coast of Tanzania, the island of Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, languages, ethnicities and religions. The island is a favorite among fans of the cult British band Queen, as it is the birthplace of lead singer Freddie Mercury. Because of its turbulent and troubled past, the island brings together Arab, South Asian, African and even European cultures, offering a truly unique blend. We will explore all that this hidden gem has to offer, including Zanzibar's tourist attractions, beautiful beaches, various free and paid excursions, and delicious and varied cuisine.
A breathtaking island with an eternal summer and fantastic weather. Due to heavy rains , it is recommended not to visit Zanzibar and the whole of Tanzania in April and May . The best time to visit Zanzibar is between July and September, the high season, when prices can be higher and there are more people. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to plan your trip for late fall or early summer.
This small group of islands in the Indian Ocean is famous for its endless sandy beaches. Among the best things to do in Zanzibar are sunbathing, snorkeling, diving and other beach and sea activities. Honeymooners are drawn to the island of Nakupenda, which means "I love you" in Swahili. Nakupenda Beach is only 20 minutes from the main island and is best reached in the morning. The island literally shrinks over the course of the day due to the tides. Here you can enjoy quiet, secluded beaches away from the crowded tourist roads of the main island.
Nungwi is at the northern end of the island and is generally busier and more active. One of the bestholidayresorts inZanzibar, Nungwi is full of restaurants, water sports, accommodations and tourist stores . If you are looking for an exciting vacation destination where you can meet people, enjoy delicious food, snorkel, dive and more, Nungwi may be the place for you.
Southwest of Nungwi you can explore Zanzibar's Sunset Beach, known as Kendwa , a quiet place with white sand and calm turquoise waters. Kendwa is a great place for snorkeling, as it is home to many marine species such as octopuses, stingrays, sea urchins, whale sharks and dolphins. At sunset, get your camera ready to see and capture the most incredible sunset you will ever see during a Zanzibar vacation.
If you prefer Zanzibar'squiet beaches , free ofaturistsand expensive restaurants, visit the beaches of Matemwe, Paje and Pingwe. You can also immerse yourself in the lives of locals and observe seaweed harvesting, fishing and local food vendors. On hidden and secluded beaches, you can sample local delicacies in Swahili and enjoy a relaxed and restful vacation.
Because of its truly unique and surprising mix, Zanzibar is a coveted place for all foodies. The island is fortunate to be surrounded by a sea rich in shellfish and fish, which has given rise to a rich local cuisine. European colonialism enriched the palette with beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes and bananas. Persians also brought their own flavors, including coconut, various spices, citrus, and mangoes. In the 15th century the Portuguese introduced pineapple, cassava, and corn, and two hundred years later the Omani brought Indian spices such as chutney, curry, and masala. You can discover local spices along the Zanzibar Spice Route. Thanks to Indian influence, today locals prepare samosas, biryanis, and fish fritters. Finally, close relations with China have also contributed to the spread of Chinese cuisine and sauces.
This popular dish is called pizza, but it is actually a savory pancake topped with meat, onions, eggs, peppers, cheese, mayonnaise, and hot sauce. Zanzibar pizza is the quintessential fast food on the island and is served, mordicus, with skewers or baguettes. In Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town you can visit a Zanzibarmarket and sample pizzas and many other local dishes.
These Indian spices introduced by the Omaniites allow them to create tasty dishes with nutmeg, garlic, ginger, cardamom, pepper, and coriander. While biryani is cooked separately from the meat and served as a side dish, pilau is prepared with the meat. Both dishes are rice-based and consist of meat, usually beef, and the spices mentioned above. You can taste these delicious dishes at Luckmaan Restaurant while walking around Stone Town. If you want to learn more about local spices, book untour of spicesinZanzibar .
The island is famous for the diversity of its seafood and surprises all foodies with local octopus dishes. Octopus is usually prepared with curry or simply grilled on a skewer and served as street food. If you like fresh seafood, you are in the right place in Zanzibar, where the options are endless and the prices reasonable. In Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town you can sample a variety of octopus dishes.
Zanzibar is also home to Arabic cuisine with a local twist. Falafel, bread cakes, kofta and more can be found on the streets of Stone Town. Visit Hurumzi's Rooftop Teahouse restaurant in Stone Town for an Arabic dining experience with a breathtaking sunset view.
This soup sent everyone into a coma: mashed potatoes, coconut chutney, cassava chips and bhajias, all in one incredible dish. Bhajias are a popular African dish of fried vegetables dipped in flour and spices. In Forodhani Gardens, many vendors serve this dish.
If you have a sweet tooth or just want to try a local dessert, you will find mandazi in almost every street in Stone Town. Known as Swahili doughnuts, mandazi are made of sugar dough flavored with cardamom and fried just before being eaten. Enjoy a cup of sweet chai and the mandazi or other local sweets such as vitumbua (coconut cake) and many others.
Zanzibar, a tropical island, is rich in exotic fruits offered in markets. From common fruits such as oranges, bananas, mangoes and coconuts to rare durians, guava, fuu, zambarau, kungu, bungo and many more. If you want to explore the selection of native fruits and taste nature's exotic gifts, book a visit to the Village Green Spice Farm in Mitakawan.
The vast majority of the island is Muslim, which limits the availability of alcohol. However, one can always opt for a delicious cup of coffee at one of the local cafes. Persian influence has given rise to the strong Arabic coffee, with spices and cardamom, which is served on every street corner. Italian coffee is also available at the Zanzibar Coffee House, although it is not as common outside the tourist areas.
As a relatively small archipelago, Zanzibar has much to offer visitors. From the eclectic streets of Stone Town to the magical forest of Jozani, there is something for everyone.
One of the most beautiful places in Zanzibar is Stone Town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The area is a unique combination of different cultures, languages and ethnicities. Cars and other large vehicles will not bother you here, as the roads are quite narrow and locals use bicycles and motorcycles to get around town. The region gets its name from the ubiquitous coral stone used in construction, which gives buildings their characteristic reddish color.
As you stroll the streets of Stone Town, be sure to check out the Zanzibar Gates, magnificent wooden buildings with superb Indian and Persian-influenced decorations. Downtown Stone Townis where FreddieMercury was born and raised . The musician spent his childhood in one of the local houses, and today Freddie Mercury's home in Zanzibar has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the life of the world-famous singer. Learn more about local tourist attractions by booking an excursion to to Zanzibar.
Hakuna Matata, an iconic phrase from The Lion King, comes from the Swahili language and translates to "no worries." The pace of life in Zanzibar reflects this idea because of its relaxed lifestyle.
Completed in 1699, the Old Fort is the oldest building on the island. Once a garrison, prison, railway station and ladies' club, it now houses the International Film Festival. In the evenings, visitors and locals can listen to live music in the amphitheater, have a drink in one of the bars, and admire the artistic talents of African painters.
Tingatinga paintings, an East African art style popular with tourists, can be explored and purchased at the Old Fort. Tingatinga paintings, also known as airport paintings, are small, colorful, vibrant and inexpensive.
Another Zanzibar attraction is the House of Wonders, a building known for its steel columns, majestic balconies, and high ceilings. Inside you can learn about the history of the island and Swahili civilization at the Museum of History and Culture. Its name comes from a real miracle of the time: it was the first building on the island to have electricity and running water. A mtepe, a replica of a Swahili boat dating back to the Middle Ages, can be seen in the courtyard.
In 2012 and 2015, the House of Wonders suffered two major landslides that threatened the structural integrity of the entire building. Although the Zanzibar government has planned to renovate the building, it remains closed to the public.
Despite its name, this small 5.6-square-kilometer island was never used as a prison. In the late 19th century, a maximum security prison was to be built to isolate violent criminals and slaves. In the early 20th century, a maximum security prison was to be built to isolate violent criminals and slaves, but in 1923 yellow fever devastated the region and the island was turned into a quarantine station. Today the island-prison is a popular tourist attraction and a sanctuary for the endangered Aldabra giant tortoises. For the modest fee of $4, anyone can enter the island for a few hours or stay overnight at one of the resorts or guesthouses and enjoy the secluded and quiet beaches.
Mnemba is an exclusive and luxurious island that can be visited for between $1,500 and $1,600 per night. If you are looking for a romantic destination, a quiet and peaceful vacation and first-class services, this island is the place to be. Here you can swim with white sharks and dolphins, pet rare green turtles and eat freshly caught and prepared lobster, fish and other seafood.
Jozani Forest, theonly national park on the island , is home to many birds, butterflies, monkeys, baby forest monkeys, tree-dwelling giraffes and more. The park is famous for its rare monkey species, such as the red colobus and Sykes' monkey. Local rangers work hard to preserve these rare species, and the number of endangered monkeys has increased in recent years.
Jozani Forest is also home to the rare Zanzibar leopard, which was thought to have become extinct at the turn of the century. However, some experts believe there are still leopards kept as pets by local healers.
Literally perched on a rock in the sea, this restaurant is renowned for its exquisite seafood and other masterpieces of local and foreign cuisine. You can reach the restaurant on foot at low tide and by canoe at high tide. If you visit the restaurant in high season, it is best to make reservations in advance because it is usually very crowded. Prices are high and range from $15 to $30 for a main course.
Zanzibar is a breathtaking hidden gem of East Africa that is definitely worth your time and attention. This magical island is the perfect place for a honeymoon, vacation or a few days with friends or family, and will surprise you with its cultural mix, unexpected gastronomic combinations and breathtaking beaches. To immerse yourself in local culture and history, take a trip to Visit the City of Stone. Enjoy the extraordinary viewsofZanzibar, sample freshly caught seafood and relax on the beach. Finally, Queen fans will be pleasantly surprised to see FreddieMercury 'sfamily home in Zanzibar.
If you are wondering if you need a visa to enter Zanzibar, here are some useful tips. You can check this information with ivisa.com, a service that helps you get a visa. Simply select your passport country from the drop-down list to find out if you need a visa for Zanzibar. If you need a visa, you can use the site's services to get one quickly and easily. By using the promotional code "freetour," you will receive a 5% discount on these services. Note that the link given in this article already automatically applies the promotional code.
Visit The best month to visit Zanzibar
A breathtaking island with an eternal summer and fantastic weather. Due to heavy rains , it is recommended not to visit Zanzibar and the whole of Tanzania in April and May . The best time to visit Zanzibar is between July and September, the high season, when prices can be higher and there are more people. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to plan your trip for late fall or early summer.
The best beaches in Zanzibar
This small group of islands in the Indian Ocean is famous for its endless sandy beaches. Among the best things to do in Zanzibar are sunbathing, snorkeling, diving and other beach and sea activities. Honeymooners are drawn to the island of Nakupenda, which means "I love you" in Swahili. Nakupenda Beach is only 20 minutes from the main island and is best reached in the morning. The island literally shrinks over the course of the day due to the tides. Here you can enjoy quiet, secluded beaches away from the crowded tourist roads of the main island.
Nungwi is at the northern end of the island and is generally busier and more active. One of the bestholidayresorts inZanzibar, Nungwi is full of restaurants, water sports, accommodations and tourist stores . If you are looking for an exciting vacation destination where you can meet people, enjoy delicious food, snorkel, dive and more, Nungwi may be the place for you.
Southwest of Nungwi you can explore Zanzibar's Sunset Beach, known as Kendwa , a quiet place with white sand and calm turquoise waters. Kendwa is a great place for snorkeling, as it is home to many marine species such as octopuses, stingrays, sea urchins, whale sharks and dolphins. At sunset, get your camera ready to see and capture the most incredible sunset you will ever see during a Zanzibar vacation.
If you prefer Zanzibar'squiet beaches , free ofaturistsand expensive restaurants, visit the beaches of Matemwe, Paje and Pingwe. You can also immerse yourself in the lives of locals and observe seaweed harvesting, fishing and local food vendors. On hidden and secluded beaches, you can sample local delicacies in Swahili and enjoy a relaxed and restful vacation.
Local dishes in Zanzibar
Because of its truly unique and surprising mix, Zanzibar is a coveted place for all foodies. The island is fortunate to be surrounded by a sea rich in shellfish and fish, which has given rise to a rich local cuisine. European colonialism enriched the palette with beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes and bananas. Persians also brought their own flavors, including coconut, various spices, citrus, and mangoes. In the 15th century the Portuguese introduced pineapple, cassava, and corn, and two hundred years later the Omani brought Indian spices such as chutney, curry, and masala. You can discover local spices along the Zanzibar Spice Route. Thanks to Indian influence, today locals prepare samosas, biryanis, and fish fritters. Finally, close relations with China have also contributed to the spread of Chinese cuisine and sauces.
Zanzibar pizza
This popular dish is called pizza, but it is actually a savory pancake topped with meat, onions, eggs, peppers, cheese, mayonnaise, and hot sauce. Zanzibar pizza is the quintessential fast food on the island and is served, mordicus, with skewers or baguettes. In Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town you can visit a Zanzibarmarket and sample pizzas and many other local dishes.
Biryani and pilau
These Indian spices introduced by the Omaniites allow them to create tasty dishes with nutmeg, garlic, ginger, cardamom, pepper, and coriander. While biryani is cooked separately from the meat and served as a side dish, pilau is prepared with the meat. Both dishes are rice-based and consist of meat, usually beef, and the spices mentioned above. You can taste these delicious dishes at Luckmaan Restaurant while walking around Stone Town. If you want to learn more about local spices, book untour of spicesinZanzibar .
Octopus
The island is famous for the diversity of its seafood and surprises all foodies with local octopus dishes. Octopus is usually prepared with curry or simply grilled on a skewer and served as street food. If you like fresh seafood, you are in the right place in Zanzibar, where the options are endless and the prices reasonable. In Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town you can sample a variety of octopus dishes.
Persian cuisine
Zanzibar is also home to Arabic cuisine with a local twist. Falafel, bread cakes, kofta and more can be found on the streets of Stone Town. Visit Hurumzi's Rooftop Teahouse restaurant in Stone Town for an Arabic dining experience with a breathtaking sunset view.
Aurojo Soup
This soup sent everyone into a coma: mashed potatoes, coconut chutney, cassava chips and bhajias, all in one incredible dish. Bhajias are a popular African dish of fried vegetables dipped in flour and spices. In Forodhani Gardens, many vendors serve this dish.
Mandazi
If you have a sweet tooth or just want to try a local dessert, you will find mandazi in almost every street in Stone Town. Known as Swahili doughnuts, mandazi are made of sugar dough flavored with cardamom and fried just before being eaten. Enjoy a cup of sweet chai and the mandazi or other local sweets such as vitumbua (coconut cake) and many others.
The fruit
Zanzibar, a tropical island, is rich in exotic fruits offered in markets. From common fruits such as oranges, bananas, mangoes and coconuts to rare durians, guava, fuu, zambarau, kungu, bungo and many more. If you want to explore the selection of native fruits and taste nature's exotic gifts, book a visit to the Village Green Spice Farm in Mitakawan.
Coffee
The vast majority of the island is Muslim, which limits the availability of alcohol. However, one can always opt for a delicious cup of coffee at one of the local cafes. Persian influence has given rise to the strong Arabic coffee, with spices and cardamom, which is served on every street corner. Italian coffee is also available at the Zanzibar Coffee House, although it is not as common outside the tourist areas.
Best places to visit in Zanzibar
As a relatively small archipelago, Zanzibar has much to offer visitors. From the eclectic streets of Stone Town to the magical forest of Jozani, there is something for everyone.
Stone Town
One of the most beautiful places in Zanzibar is Stone Town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The area is a unique combination of different cultures, languages and ethnicities. Cars and other large vehicles will not bother you here, as the roads are quite narrow and locals use bicycles and motorcycles to get around town. The region gets its name from the ubiquitous coral stone used in construction, which gives buildings their characteristic reddish color.
As you stroll the streets of Stone Town, be sure to check out the Zanzibar Gates, magnificent wooden buildings with superb Indian and Persian-influenced decorations. Downtown Stone Townis where FreddieMercury was born and raised . The musician spent his childhood in one of the local houses, and today Freddie Mercury's home in Zanzibar has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the life of the world-famous singer. Learn more about local tourist attractions by booking an excursion to to Zanzibar.
Hakuna Matata, an iconic phrase from The Lion King, comes from the Swahili language and translates to "no worries." The pace of life in Zanzibar reflects this idea because of its relaxed lifestyle.
Ancient fort
Completed in 1699, the Old Fort is the oldest building on the island. Once a garrison, prison, railway station and ladies' club, it now houses the International Film Festival. In the evenings, visitors and locals can listen to live music in the amphitheater, have a drink in one of the bars, and admire the artistic talents of African painters.
Tingatinga paintings, an East African art style popular with tourists, can be explored and purchased at the Old Fort. Tingatinga paintings, also known as airport paintings, are small, colorful, vibrant and inexpensive.
House of Wonders
Another Zanzibar attraction is the House of Wonders, a building known for its steel columns, majestic balconies, and high ceilings. Inside you can learn about the history of the island and Swahili civilization at the Museum of History and Culture. Its name comes from a real miracle of the time: it was the first building on the island to have electricity and running water. A mtepe, a replica of a Swahili boat dating back to the Middle Ages, can be seen in the courtyard.
In 2012 and 2015, the House of Wonders suffered two major landslides that threatened the structural integrity of the entire building. Although the Zanzibar government has planned to renovate the building, it remains closed to the public.
Prison Island
Despite its name, this small 5.6-square-kilometer island was never used as a prison. In the late 19th century, a maximum security prison was to be built to isolate violent criminals and slaves. In the early 20th century, a maximum security prison was to be built to isolate violent criminals and slaves, but in 1923 yellow fever devastated the region and the island was turned into a quarantine station. Today the island-prison is a popular tourist attraction and a sanctuary for the endangered Aldabra giant tortoises. For the modest fee of $4, anyone can enter the island for a few hours or stay overnight at one of the resorts or guesthouses and enjoy the secluded and quiet beaches.
Mnemba Island
Mnemba is an exclusive and luxurious island that can be visited for between $1,500 and $1,600 per night. If you are looking for a romantic destination, a quiet and peaceful vacation and first-class services, this island is the place to be. Here you can swim with white sharks and dolphins, pet rare green turtles and eat freshly caught and prepared lobster, fish and other seafood.
Jozani Forest
Jozani Forest, theonly national park on the island , is home to many birds, butterflies, monkeys, baby forest monkeys, tree-dwelling giraffes and more. The park is famous for its rare monkey species, such as the red colobus and Sykes' monkey. Local rangers work hard to preserve these rare species, and the number of endangered monkeys has increased in recent years.
Jozani Forest is also home to the rare Zanzibar leopard, which was thought to have become extinct at the turn of the century. However, some experts believe there are still leopards kept as pets by local healers.
The Rock Restaurant
Literally perched on a rock in the sea, this restaurant is renowned for its exquisite seafood and other masterpieces of local and foreign cuisine. You can reach the restaurant on foot at low tide and by canoe at high tide. If you visit the restaurant in high season, it is best to make reservations in advance because it is usually very crowded. Prices are high and range from $15 to $30 for a main course.
Zanzibar is a breathtaking hidden gem of East Africa that is definitely worth your time and attention. This magical island is the perfect place for a honeymoon, vacation or a few days with friends or family, and will surprise you with its cultural mix, unexpected gastronomic combinations and breathtaking beaches. To immerse yourself in local culture and history, take a trip to Visit the City of Stone. Enjoy the extraordinary viewsofZanzibar, sample freshly caught seafood and relax on the beach. Finally, Queen fans will be pleasantly surprised to see FreddieMercury 'sfamily home in Zanzibar.
If you are wondering if you need a visa to enter Zanzibar, here are some useful tips. You can check this information with ivisa.com, a service that helps you get a visa. Simply select your passport country from the drop-down list to find out if you need a visa for Zanzibar. If you need a visa, you can use the site's services to get one quickly and easily. By using the promotional code "freetour," you will receive a 5% discount on these services. Note that the link given in this article already automatically applies the promotional code.
09
December,
2022
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