Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar;-The name is just as evocative—almost aromatic—as the spices that made this archipelago in the Indian Ocean a success story for the entire world centuries ago. Zanzibar is blessed with beautiful beaches made of the purest sand, elaborate Omani royal architecture, and a vibrant culture influenced by Islam. Check out our list of the top things to see and do in this treasure off the coast of East Africa to make sure you’re experiencing the best that this Tanzanian island has to offer.
Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
1.Stone Town
Stone Town is the historic center of Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar. It is a maze of winding streets and alleyways, dotted with landmarks such as the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the Arab Fort. Stone Town is also home to a number of markets, including the Darajani Market, which sells a wide variety of goods such as fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. Stone Town’s architecture is a mix of African, Arab, and European influences, and the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tourists visit Stone Town to experience its rich history and culture, shop at the markets, and explore the narrow streets and alleyways.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
2.Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a protected area on the island of Zanzibar, located about 50 kilometers southwest of Stone Town. It is the only national park on the island and is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the rare red colobus monkey, bushbucks, bushpigs, and over 50 species of birds. The park also has several walking trails, which allow visitors to explore the forest and see the wildlife. In addition to its natural beauty, the park is also a popular destination for ecotourism, as it is dedicated to the conservation of Zanzibar’s natural resources and the education of local communities about the importance of preserving the environment.
3.Prison Island
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a small island located about 30 minutes by boat from Stone Town, Zanzibar. It was originally used as a quarantine station for slaves and later as a prison for rebellious slaves. The prison was never actually used, and the island later served as a quarantine station for yellow fever and a sanatorium for the Sultan’s family.
Today, the island is a popular tourist destination and is home to a sanctuary for giant tortoises, some of which were brought to the island by David Livingstone in the 19th century. Visitors to the island can see the tortoises, tour the former prison and quarantine buildings, and relax on the beach.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
4.Spice Tour
Zanzibar, also known as the Spice Island, is famous for its production of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. A spice tour is a popular activity for tourists visiting the island, and typically includes a visit to a spice plantation, where visitors can learn about the different spices grown on the island and how they are used. Many spice tours also include a tasting session, where visitors can sample various spices and try dishes made with them. Spice tours are a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture and can be a fun and educational experience for travelers of all ages.
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5.Zanzibar Butterfly Centre
The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is a conservation center located in Jambiani, on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. It was established in 2000 to conserve and protect the island’s butterfly population, which is under threat due to habitat loss and other environmental factors. The center is home to over 20 species of butterflies, as well as other insects such as beetles, moths, and spiders.
Visitors to the center can learn about the different species of butterflies found on the island, see them in their natural habitat, and participate in educational programs and activities. The center also has a nursery where visitors can see the life cycle of butterflies from eggs to adult, and a shop selling handmade crafts made by local artisans.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
6.Mbweni Ruin
The Mbweni Ruins are the remains of a 19th-century Anglican mission located near Stone Town, Zanzibar. The mission was established by David Livingstone and other missionaries in the 1860s and was used as a school, a hospital, and a church. The mission played a significant role in the abolition of the slave trade on the island.
Today, the ruins of the mission are a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can see the remains of the buildings, including the church and the hospital, as well as a cemetery where many of the missionaries are buried. The ruins are also home to a museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits about the history of the mission and its role in the abolition of slavery.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
7.Beaches
Zanzibar is home to many beautiful beaches, which are a major attraction for tourists visiting the island. Some of the most popular beaches include:
- Kendwa Beach: Located on the northwest coast of the island, Kendwa Beach is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Paje Beach: Located on the east coast of the island, Paje Beach is a long stretch of white sand and palm trees. It is a popular spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing, and there are many hotels and restaurants located nearby.
- Nungwi Beach: Located on the north coast of the island, Nungwi Beach is known for its clear blue waters and coral reefs. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, and there are many hotels and resorts located along the beach.
Other popular beaches in Zanzibar include Matemwe Beach, Jambiani Beach, and Bwejuu Beach.
8.Dolphin Tour
A dolphin tour is a boat trip that takes visitors out to sea to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Dolphin tours are a popular activity in many coastal areas around the world, and Zanzibar is no exception. Many tour operators offer dolphin tours in Zanzibar, and these tours typically last a few hours and include a stop for snorkeling or swimming.
Dolphin tours are a great way to see these intelligent and graceful animals up close, and they can be a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It’s important to choose a reputable tour operator that follows responsible wildlife viewing practices and does not disturb the dolphins or their habitat.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
9.Safari Blue
Safari Blue is a half-day tour of the Menai Bay Conservation Area, located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. The tour includes a boat trip to several small islands, where visitors can see a variety of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish. The tour also includes snorkeling and a traditional lunch on one of the islands.
Safari Blue is a popular activity for tourists visiting Zanzibar, and it is a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty and rich marine life. The tour operates under the principles of ecotourism, and the proceeds from the tour go towards supporting conservation efforts in the Menai Bay Conservation Area.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
10.Maruhubi Palace Ruins
The Maruhubi Palace Ruins are the remains of a 19th-century palace located just outside Stone Town, Zanzibar. The palace was built by Sultan Barghash bin Said in the 1870s and was used as a summer residence for the royal family. It was destroyed by fire in the late 1800s and abandoned. Today, the ruins of the palace are a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can see the remains of the buildings, including the grand entrance, the throne room, and the harem quarters. The palace is also home to a small museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits about the history of the palace and the royal family.Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Zanzibar 2023
FAQs
- What is the best thing to do in Zanzibar?
- Going Safari Blue.
- Going Spice Farms Tour.
- Visiting Jozani Forest.
- Stone Town Walking Trip.
- Snorkeling at Mnemba Island.
- Swimming With Wild Dolphins.
- Sunset Cruising with Dhow.
- Visiting Prison Island.
- Why is Zanzibar a top tourist attraction?
The allure of Zanzibar lies in its versatility as a travel destination, offering a singular fusion of beautiful beaches, fascinating history, diverse cultures, delectable cuisine, exotic spices, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Also, Tanzania and Kenya are only a short ferry ride or flight away!
- Which part of Zanzibar is the best?
The majority of Zanzibar’s upscale lodging is situated on the north-east beaches because of the island’s ideal location on the north-east coast. The best reefs in the archipelago are located off the coast of Mnemba Island, where diving is superb and there is little tide variation.
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