Over the centuries, Zanzibar has been visited and occupied by explorers, traders and settlers. Persians, Arabs, Indians, and Europeans have all had their time, and left their impression – if not offspring. In 1840, the Sultan of Oman transferred his seat of government to Zanzibar. The introduction of clove plantations and the flourishing of the notorious slave trade saw Zanzibar develop into a strategic trading center, in 1890 the British proclaimed Zanzibar a protectorate and the Sultan’s authority was reduced. Zanzibar became an independent sovereign nation in December 1963, but it was short lived. A revolution took place the following month, and three months later still, it signed an agreement of confederation with mainland Tanganyika forming the United Republic of Tanzania. The name was created by the words Tanganyika, Zanzibar, and “Azania” – being the Greek name for the eastern coast of Africa.

Languages

English is widely spoken, but it’s (and fun) to try some Kiswahili, particularly for greetings and shopping in the market. You may also find some local people are ready to speak Arabic or Italian.

Religion

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. This is obvious in dress code, greetings and with the call to prayer five times a day. In Stone Town there are over 50 mosques, two cathedrals and few Hindu temples. Tourists are requested to be respectful of local customs and culture. When visiting villages, and also in town, please dress modestly at all times. Also, during fasting hours in the holy month of Ramadhan, avoid consumption of food, drink, and cigarettes, and any immodest behaviour in public places.

Geography

The Zanzibar archipelago is comprised of over 50 islands, nestling in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean; 36 km off the east coast of Africa. The main inhabited islands are Unguja (Zanzibar), Pemba and Tumbatu. The population in 2019 was estimated to be 1.5 million with an annual growth rate of 3.1%. Zanzibar is 6 degrees south of the Equator and enjoys a tropical climate. Temperatures are generally warm all the year around. The hottest months, just before the rains, are February and October. The (relatively) cooler season is May-September when the average temperature is 26 “C.

Currency

The local currency is the Tanzanian Banknotes are issued in denominations of 10000, 5000, 2000, and 1000 Shillings. Coins commonly found in circulation are 500, 200 and 100 Shillings. Well known credit cards are accepted in the bigger hotels and curio shops. FX is available at most banks and at the Post Office in Shangani. There are a few ATMS in Stone Town, and also and Paje.

Food

Zanzibar offers a wide variety of dishes, served in places and at prices to suit every visitor’s budget. For a complete experience, do try some of the local f00d to get a taste for Zanzibari cuisine. The night food market in Forodhani Park offers a wide choice; prepared while you wait. And it usually comes with a refreshing sea breez, ono a starlit sky!

Culture and Festivals

One of the most exciting things about Zanzibar is its collection of cultures. You will see it in the cuisine, clothing and architecture, and at times of traditional gathering like births, marriages, funerals, Eid, Diwali and Mwaka Kogwa. The Swahili people have a wealth and diversity of traditional music. No visit would be complete without sharing your soul with Taarab or your passion with Kidumbak.

Festivals

Sauti za Busara music festival (February) busaramusic.arg
•  Zanzibar International Film Festival (June / July) ziff.or.tz
•  Mwaka Kogwa (late July)

Music concerts:

•   Dhow Countries Music Academy (DCMA) zanzibarmusic.org
•  Culture Club rehearsals (CMC)

Stone Town

Zanzibar’s Stone Town is the largest, living, Swahili stone town in the world, and was designated a “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO in 2000. There are over 1000 coral-stone buildings having architectural significance and more than 200 carved doors. But, despite the crumbling, historic architecture, Stone Town is still very much alive with busy, narrow streets, linking homes, shops, workshops, and schools. In the late afternoon, local people like to sit outside, drinking fee, talking and playing board games. F I’s worth walking around and getting lost. Check out the vinara Mosque, Old Dispensary, Hifadhi Center, Old Customs House, Palace Museum (under renovation), Old Fort, St Joseph’s Cathedral, Hamamni Baths and the Old Slave Market. Along the Kiy way, you’ll find numerous places offering freshly prepared juices and dishes, with sea views or roof-top panoramas.

Out of Town Attractions

Imagine brilliant white sandy beaches, lapped by the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean. Beneath the surface, take a snorkel and mask for easy access to colorful coral and fantastic tropical fish. World class sub-aqua diving is available all over the Ara and the coastline. Divers can expect warm, crystal clear waters, shipwrecks and close encounters with manta rays, barracudas and giant Napoleon fish. And when you are ready for air, you can readily arrange game fishing, dolphin toun kite surfing or a sandbank picnic. Of course, you have to do a spice tour. See, smell and taste so many names, familiar from cookery books and menus, growing in their natural habitat, other tours include giant tortoises, a turtle aquarium, a butterfly center and Jozani forest with nature trails, mangrove board- walk and red colobus monkeys.