Savor the Splendor of Zanzibar: A Journey to Stone Town

I barely had time to catch my breath. Just as our bags hit the floor of the unassuming yet remarkable Al-Minar Hotel, we were whisked away by Amir-the-guide for an enchanting stroll through Stone Town, the ancient heart of Zanzibar City. Trust me, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. Stone Town is a captivating tapestry of beauty, poverty, and centuries-old tales.

Having a guide is a brilliant idea, not solely to prevent losing your way (because trust me, you will in this labyrinthine maze), but also because every corner holds a piece of history. Like the other guides we encountered, Amir was a treasure trove of wisdom, effortlessly regaling us with captivating tales.

Zanzibar’s history is too intricate to detail in this brief piece, but it’s important to acknowledge the factors that have contributed to its current state. Slavery, colonialism, religion, greed, and violence have all played a role, making it rather astonishing that peace now prevails. Amir and others assure me that people of all races and beliefs coexist harmoniously, yet it’s difficult not to question this given the horrific massacre that occurred during the Zanzibar Revolution just a few decades ago. It’s a perplexing situation, indeed.

At present, mainland Tanzania enjoys a relatively balanced religious landscape. However, Zanzibar, often referred to as the “African Hong Kong” due to its semi-autonomous status, is overwhelmingly Muslim, with a Muslim population comprising 95% of its inhabitants. As a visitor, you’ll frequently be welcomed with the familiar Swahili greeting, “Jambo!” But if you take the initiative to greet the locals with “Salaam aleikum,” the traditional Muslim greeting, it can be viewed positively.

Stone Town, oh boy, it’s seen better days. Maintenance? Forget about it. Corruption? Yeah, it’s probably lurking in there too. You see, this place is slowly falling apart like a Jenga tower, and to make matters worse, some shady folks are selling those beautiful carved doors to unsuspecting outsiders.

But let me tell you, there’s still a lot to see and experience. Sure, some doors have vanished, but there are still plenty of them standing, waiting to charm you. And don’t even get me started on the fish market! It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Oh, and here’s a little nugget for you. As we were strolling along, we came across the childhood home of someone truly legendary – Freddie Mercury, the one and only. And that’s not even the best part. Amir, this guy we met, decided to bless our ears with an a cappella performance of We Are The Champions. Let’s just say, it was a moment to remember.

After a long and arduous journey to Stone Town, my friends and I were in desperate need of relaxation. We found solace and refreshment in cold Kilis at the Livingstone Beach Restaurant, perched on its deck. As the sun began to set, I was captivated by the beauty of the moment. Little did I realize that this awe-inspiring sight would be a recurring gift throughout our stay.

At the market, just a few streets away, I discovered the rich history of the Spice Islands. It was a fascinating blend of cultures, flavors, and imagination. The seafood sosaties can be hit or miss, so it’s best to join the longest line if you’re feeling adventurous. But the real excitement lies in dishes like urojo, a thick soup made with mango and tamarind. I also fell in love with the sweet potato samosas and the refreshing sugarcane juice with lime and ginger.

The market also offers a unique twist on pizza and crepes, unlike anything you’ll find in New York or Paris. These creations feature unexpected but delightful combinations of ingredients like mayonnaise, atjar, and egg. And if you have a sweet tooth, there are “dessert” versions with chocolate, banana, or Nutella.

When I think about entertainment, one vivid image comes to mind – the Makachu divers. You won’t believe what these teenage boys can do! They fearlessly launch themselves off the harbour wall, flipping and twisting in the air before plunging into the water. It’s an impressive sight, but it also makes me worry. You see, the water is alarmingly shallow, and this daring display of athleticism has led to some devastating accidents. Youngsters have been injured, paralyzed, and tragically, even killed as they competed to outperform each other.

But don’t despair! There’s hope on the horizon. People have recognized the dangers involved in this thrill-seeking behavior and have taken steps to make it safer. A new initiative has been put in place to prevent further accidents and protect these young daredevils. Safety measures are being implemented to ensure that their acrobatic feats can be enjoyed without the constant fear of tragedy.

So, while the Makachu divers continue to amaze us with their audacious acts, we can also take comfort in knowing that their safety is being taken seriously. It’s a fine balance between the exhilarating joy of watching their incredible dives and the desire to protect their well-being. And it’s a reminder that even in pursuit of entertainment, we must always prioritize safety and the preservation of life.

The next day, I decided to skip the Spice Tour and take a 30-minute boat ride to Prison Island instead. Although the Spice Tour is supposed to be a great experience, I was more intrigued by what Prison Island had to offer. Surprisingly, it was never actually used as a prison. Instead, it’s known as Changuu and is famous for its collection of Aldabra giant tortoises. These incredible creatures were given as a gift all the way back in 1919 from the British governor of the Seychelles. And let me tell you, they definitely live up to their name. These tortoises are massive, with adults weighing around 250kg on average. It’s an impressive sight! But the tortoises aren’t the only wildlife on the island. There are also dik diks, which are tiny antelope that are much smaller than the tortoises. Plus, you might spot lizards and other animals roaming around. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a small reef nearby where you can go snorkeling. Just ask your boatman and they’ll guide you. It’s a great way to explore the underwater world while you’re there!

If you’re looking for that classic tropical beach getaway, head to the northern end of Unguja, Zanzibar’s main island. This is where you’ll find the stunning beaches that everyone talks about. While Kendwa offers miles of pristine sand, it can feel a bit lacking in character. Nungwi, on the other hand, is a tourist hotspot, but it has a more laid-back and relaxed vibe. Despite being just 60km away from Zanzibar City, the drive can take up to 90 minutes due to congestion. But don’t worry, the locals have a saying that goes “Pole pole” – take it slow, relax, what’s the rush? You might also recognize their other famous phrase “Hakuna matata” thanks to Disney!

Nungwi village may not seem like much at first glance, especially when compared to the luxurious resorts nearby. But don’t let appearances deceive you. When it comes to this little slice of paradise, it’s all about the location. Living steps away from the pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean is a true privilege.

And let me tell you, it’s worth every penny. Zanzibar enjoys near-perfect weather with average temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius year-round. Sure, the humidity can get a bit overwhelming during the wetter months, but there’s always a refreshing sea breeze to cool you down. And speaking of the sea, taking a dip in its warm waters – neither too chilly nor too hot – is an absolute delight.

Even during the so-called “winter” months, when it’s dry and hovering in the high 20s, Zanzibar remains a tropical paradise. And for us chilly South Africans fleeing the cold between July and September, it’s pure bliss.

But don’t get caught in the trap of swimming, being lazy, eating, and swimming again (unless that’s exactly what you want). There are plenty of bad examples to avoid: tourists with lots of money wearing tiny Speedos, getting burnt to a crisp while they’re bored out of their minds, and going back and forth from the beach towel to the bar. Once, we stumbled upon a funeral for a fisherman who drowned. And guess what? There was a tourist in the crowd, snapping pictures of the coffin. It’s incredible how people can lose their minds and forget their manners when they’re on vacation.

The countryside is just waiting to be explored. And one of the best ways to do that is by taking a tour in a buggy. These cute little vehicles can fit two people, have simple gears, high clearance, and quirky steering. The best part is the amazing guide who led our ragtag group. We stopped often to soak in the beautiful views, learn interesting facts, and hear entertaining stories.

Hey there! Have you heard about the Tazari Caves near Nungwi? They’re pretty remarkable! These limestone and dolomite caves are the largest in all of Zanzibar, but get this – they were only discovered in 2013! Isn’t that amazing?

When they found these caves, they also stumbled upon some intriguing stuff. Can you believe they found broken pottery and chains that are hundreds of years old? It’s believed that these caves may have served as a hiding spot for escaped slaves. Can you imagine?

What’s inside the Tazari Caves is just as fascinating. Get ready for stalactites, stalagmites, and crystals – the works! But that’s not all, there are also these massive bats that call the cave home. And let me tell you, you don’t want to be standing at the cave entrance during sunset when these bats start flying out. Yikes!

Now, I have to admit, the Tazari Caves aren’t as big as the famous Cango Caves, but they’re still definitely worth seeing. Plus, it’s a nice change of scenery from the beach, don’t you think?

Oh, and guess what? Right next to the caves, there’s a chameleon sanctuary! How cool is that? It’s like a two-for-one deal. You get to explore the amazing caves and then check out some fascinating chameleons. Talk about a unique experience!

Once you’ve had your fill of bats and reptiles, why not kick back and relax with a cold beer while watching the beautiful sunset? Nungwi has plenty of great spots for that. Whether it’s a rooftop pub or a spacious deck, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to unwind.

When hunger strikes, seafood is definitely the way to go. It’s abundant, fresh, and absolutely delicious. The coastal area is lined with fishing boats, guaranteeing you the freshest catch of the day. And if you’re in the mood for some well-made Western food or a scoop of ice cream, you’re in luck! There’s a strong Italian influence in the area, stemming back to the time when neighboring countries like Somalia and Ethiopia were under Italian rule about 80 years ago.

As I gaze out at the sea while devouring my prawns, I can’t help but spot horse riders on Nungwi beach. It’s quite a sight to see the Zanzibar Horse Club offering various rides and activities, even the chance to swim with horses (although, I wouldn’t recommend trying to swim with cows if you come across any). Beyond that, the club is also involved in an Appaloosa breeding program and runs a sanctuary for horses and donkeys. It did make for an amusing moment when I spotted a horse with a saddle strolling along the beach all on its own, only for the rest of the riding group to appear two minutes later, with one rider looking a bit downcast. When you visit, just make sure to ask for a horse that suits your skill level!

Maasai dreaming

And it’s not just horses you’ll see on the beach. You might also come across Maasai warriors from northern Tanzania. These tall and strong individuals are fully decked out in their vibrant traditional robes and carry intimidating weapons… as well as sporting Ray-Bans and chatting on a cellphone.

In the 1990s, I saw many young Maasai people come to Dar es Salaam because they didn’t have many opportunities back home. They were brave and had strong morals, which made them perfect for working as security guards. They formed tight-knit communities and were hard to corrupt. This type of work became popular, and more and more Maasai people joined.

Today, it’s sad to see that not all Maasai security guards are as admirable as they used to be. There are rumors that some of them aren’t even real Maasai, which is disappointing.

If you take a short walk along the beach, you’ll come across the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond. Here, they take care of turtles that have been rescued and rehabilitate them. They also raise baby turtles until they’re ready to be released, which happens once a year in February. If you visit, you can even feed the adult turtles! It’s a wonderful experience.

When you visit Zanzibar, one of the things that immediately captures your attention is the vibrant world that lies beneath its crystal-clear waters. Diving and snorkeling are undoubtedly among the most popular activities here, and it’s not hard to see why. The ocean is teeming with a breathtaking diversity of sea creatures, making every exploration an awe-inspiring experience.

As you venture into the turquoise depths, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant coral reefs that serve as a home to a myriad of fascinating marine life. The remarkable clarity of the water allows you to admire the intricate beauty of these corals up-close. It’s a fascinating world that exists just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.

If you’re eager to explore the underwater wonders of Zanzibar, there are plenty of operators available to assist you. They offer guided tours to nearby reefs and islands, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. These professionals possess a wealth of knowledge about the local marine ecosystem and can provide valuable insights along the way.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the environmental challenges that these reefs face. The health of the coral reefs is under threat, and there’s a collective effort to preserve and protect them. This involves various conservation initiatives aimed at raising awareness and implementing sustainable practices. While some believe these efforts have made a significant impact, opinions among locals remain divided.

Nevertheless, the allure of Zanzibar’s underwater world remains undeniable. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, you’ll be captivated by the magical sights that await you. It’s an experience that allows you to connect with nature in a truly unique way, immersing yourself in the wonders of the ocean.

If you’re in the mood for a special treat (and this is definitely the place for it), a great way to experience the sea is by joining a group on a catamaran or dhow day trip. It might be a bit pricey, but it’s worth it because all of your drinks, food (which is cooked fresh on board and delicious), and snorkeling equipment are included. Plus, the laid-back crew knows the best places to drop anchor. On our way to one of the destinations (just off a private island rumored to be partly owned by Bill Gates), we were lucky enough to have a pod of dolphins join us, swimming playfully under and around our yacht. The vibrant fish and coral we later swam among were just the icing on the cake.

Was it worth it? Absolutely. Zanzibar, like anywhere else, has its challenges. But if you travel with authenticity, embrace the unexpected, and take it slow – pole pole – you’ll return home feeling relaxed and enriched. And with more sunset photos than you know what to do with.

Discovering Zanzibar

I have the perfect guide to show you around the mesmerizing Stone Town – the heart of Zanzibar City. Get ready for an unforgettable walking tour! To plan your adventure in advance, simply email [email protected] His fee is $20, which is definitely worth it!

To make things easier, you can reach our guide at +255 717 017 859, or send him a WhatsApp message at +255 776 068 531.

Exploring Prison Island

Don’t miss the chance to visit Prison Island! For a boat ride, you can contact Yussuf at +255 777 861 188. The cost will depend on the number of people joining, but it’s usually around $10. Once you arrive at the island, there is an entrance fee of $4.

Buggy Adventures

If you’re looking for some excitement, I highly recommend the Adventure Tour. This thrilling experience takes you to beautiful beaches, farms, villages, and other fascinating spots – both on and off the road. It lasts for three to four hours and costs $60 per person. Trust me, it’s worth every penny!

Exploring the Tazari Caves

You can find the Tazari Caves near Tazari Village, just outside Nungwi. It’s a good idea to bring your own torch because theirs are not very bright. Also, be prepared for the heat. The entry fee is $10, and if you want to visit the chameleon sanctuary, it’s an additional $10.

If you’re interested, you can contact them at +255 717 300 704. They also have a Facebook page called Tazari Caves.

Another fun activity in Nungwi is horse riding.

You can visit the Zanzibar Horse Club, which is located behind the Z Hotel. They offer horse rides starting from $40.

If you’re into conservation, you should check out the Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond.

Don’t confuse this with the commercial Baraka Natural Aquarium. The Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond is the real deal, and they charge $10 for entry. You can reach them at +255 773 204 320. They also have a Facebook page.

If you love diving, Nungwi has a great dive center called East Africa Diving.

They are professional, friendly, and accommodating. Dives start at $125 for two people, and if there are more of you, the price is even cheaper per person. They also offer PADI courses starting from $150.

Phone: +255 777 416 425

Let’s set sail on a catamaran adventure!

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Zanzibar Watersports in Kendwa, starting at just $800. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the crystal-clear waters and hidden treasures of the Indian Ocean.

Phone: +255 777 415 660

Experience the thrill of Ringos!

Get ready for some serious fun as you get pulled behind a boat on a turbocharged tractor inner tube. Nungwi Extreme Parasailing & Watersports offers this exhilarating activity for $60, accommodating up to three people for approximately 20 minutes. The best part? You get to choose how intense the ride will be!

Phone: +255 629 987 373

Discover Amazing Zanzi Facts

• Zanzibar, known as the Spice Island, was once the world’s leading producer of cloves, making it an important player in the global spice trade.
• Did you know that Zanzibar is not just one island, but a group of islands? The two largest ones, Unguja and Pemba, are the main attractions.

On August 27, 1896, something remarkable happened in Stone Town. It was the shortest war ever recorded. The United Kingdom and the Zanzibar Sultanate were the two sides involved. The war lasted between 38 and 45 minutes. Can you believe that? Such a short-lived conflict!

Prison Island, one of the places in Zanzibar, is home to some incredible creatures called Aldabra giant tortoises. These tortoises are extraordinary. One of them is believed to be over 200 years old! And many others are over 150 years old. Can you imagine living that long? These tortoises have a resting heart rate of only six beats per minute. That might be one reason why they live for so many years.

Zanzibar has also given the world a famous icon. His name was Farouk Bulsara, but you probably know him as Freddie Mercury. He was born in Zanzibar in 1946 and went on to become a global superstar as the lead singer of Queen. Zanzibar saw the rise of a legend!

Zanzibar has always been a place of firsts. In 1973, it became the first location in Africa to introduce color television. Can you imagine how exciting that must have been for the people of Zanzibar? They were at the forefront of technological advancements.

Zanzibar is a truly fascinating place, filled with incredible history and unique achievements. It’s no wonder that it continues to captivate people from all over the world.

Zanzibar’s Jozani Forest is famous for its rare red colobus monkeys. But did you know that it was once home to the Zanzibar leopard? Sadly, this beautiful creature is believed to be extinct now. Legend has it that these cats were brought from mainland Tanzania to entertain the Sultan of Zanzibar. They were kept in the palace until they became too fierce. That’s when they were set free in the wild, only to be hunted to extinction later on.

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, let me tell you about some great places to stay. One option is the Al-Minar Hotel. It offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in Stone Town. The best part? The manager, Santosh, is always ready to help and make your stay amazing.

Another great choice is the ZaVa Nungwi Hotel. Located in Nungwi, this humble inn has a fantastic restaurant, friendly staff, and is right on the beach. You can relax and enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar while staying here.

So, if you’re looking for a unique adventure and a chance to see rare wildlife, Zanzibar should be at the top of your list. However, don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance to ensure a memorable stay.

Hey there! I’m excited to share this awesome article with you. �� It was originally published in the July 2022 print issue of Getaway.

Make sure to follow us on social media for even more travel news, inspiration, and helpful guides. And don’t forget to tag us if you want to be featured!

Make sure to follow us on social media for even more travel news, inspiration, and helpful guides. And don’t forget to tag us if you want to be featured!