Zanzibar is lying 36km off the Tanzania
coast in the Indian Ocean about 72km North from Dar es Salaam
(capital of Tanzania). The Island is 85km long and covers
an area of 1 464sq kms. The Island of Zanzibar consists of
two main islands, Pemba and Unguja. Unguja is the main and
most developed island. Many people refer to Unguja as Zanzibar
and that's what we will do as well.
Few countries have such a romantic allure
as the Spice Island of Zanzibar; a slumbering lush paradise
where green cloves, bread leaf, rice, cinnamon and coconuts
still grow wild today. Hidden around Zanzibar's idyllic coves
or along its stunning beaches are some excellent hotels and
further afield, over 50 islands litter the warm tranquil waters
of the Indian Ocean, with golden sands, swaying palms and
tiny rustic retreats.
The old Stone Town of Zanzibar is a fascinating
warren of narrow streets, overhanging balconies and huge,
intricately carved wooden doors. The bustling Suk (bazaar),
where traders bargain excitedly, is full of the pungent perfume
of exotic spices. Outside the town there are beautiful white
beaches lined with giant coconut palms - an unspoilt paradise
with fisherman's villages where the locals live in their
little mud –and-wattle houses roofed with palm thatch.
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Zanzibar is not a very big island and you can tour
the whole Island in a day. On the other hand, there is so much atmosphere
and culture to absorb, that you could also take months to explore
the island. With its mix of unspoilt beaches, aquamarine, warm seas,
incredible culture and fascinating history, it is definitely not
a place to be missed.
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