Let’s talk about Zanzibar! Thinking of taking a trip to one of Africa’s most popular beach destinations for some well-deserved TLC and time under the blazing hot rays of the African sun? We can assure you, you will not be disappointed! This semi-archipelago located just off the east coast of mainland Africa offers tourists some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Rich in history and culture, this stunning tropical paradise is home to picturesque islands with soft-sand, white beaches and shimmering azure waters ready and waiting for you to explore - Here’s everything you need to know when starting from ‘skratch’ in Zanzibar!
How To Get To Zanzibar ✈️🗺️
Zanzibar is a stunning island located in the Indian Ocean, lying 22 miles (35 km) off the coast of east-central Africa, which in recent years has become easier to access by the rest of the world. With international connecting flights making this island highly accessible like other top island destinations like Seychelles, the number of tourists has seen an increase here in recent years.
If you are visiting from Europe or America flights are available with a connecting flight - specifically take a look at flights with Qatar airlines with a connection from Doha and, if visiting from another African country, Ethiopian airlines offer flights across the continent. Tanzania is ultimately Zanazibar’s neighbour and if you are making a stop in Tanzania first, travel options to help you across include; the ferry (which is a lot cheaper) or, you can take a flight. The plane ride involves about half an hour of cruising in a shaky Cessna, but the ferry is cheaper and can be a far more pleasant experience.
Planning a trip? Skratch has partnered with Sherpa to offer simple, trusted visa applications. Get your Tanzania eVisa here.
When Is The Best Time To Visit? ☀️
Like many African countries, Zanzibar boasts pleasant warm weather all year round, even when the rain is pouring and the storms start storming! The sun is strong and bright all day until it sets, highlighting the beauty of this tropical paradise and shining off of the beautiful blue waters. If you enjoy sunning yourself and catching a golden glow, then Zanzibar is the location for you.
The high season takes place between June and October. Here the temperature is slightly cooler and there is no rainfall. This is the most popular time to visit especially the Serengeti during this time to witness the Great Migration and come to Zanzibar for beach time afterwards.
Do note that during the rainy season, March to May, rainfall is heavy here and a number of resorts close as a result of torrential downpours for weeks on end.
Where To Go In Zanzibar 👀🏖️
Zanzibar is a massive island with lots of different parts all offering something unique. When visiting for a beach holiday it is common for tourists to stay in their resorts and only explore local areas. Different parts of Zanzibar include;
Stone Town - The Stone Town is the capital of Zanzibar where most people start their journey at. No matter how tourists arrive on this island, more or less everyone will stop here. Stone Town is a labyrinth of chaotic alleyways interposed between towering limestone houses with ornately carved arched hardwood doors with brass finishings and terracotta roofs. It is a highly vibrant town that is a melting pot of culture. As a primary trading post on the spice, silk and slave trade routes for over a millennium, Stone Town has been a unique meeting place, blending African, Indian, Arabian and European cultures. It is one of the few remaining ancient towns in Africa.
Nungwi- Nungwi is located on the northern tip of Zanzibar and is rated as one of the top locations in terms of beautiful beaches. Nungwi is famous for its blindingly white sand, 5-star resorts, and absolutely breathtaking water colours. So, whether you’re honeymooning, on your summer holiday or stopping off on a long excursion, you will not be disappointed by this location. Nungwi is one of the top spots for beaches in not only Zanzibar but also globally. With its subtle low and high tides and lack of seaweed, and more sand, when the sun shines on the tide, the colours that reflect are stunning.
How To Travel Around Zanzibar 🚗
Considering Zanzibar is a massive island that covers over 200 km and 100 km from east to west, you will need to pre-plan the way in which you navigate and travel around the island. If you’re travelling in and around your resort you won’t have to worry as much as there will be golf buggies that can transport you. If you are planning to explore as much of the island as possible, then taxis are the best way to travel.
To view other island life blogs and how to travel to and around them click here!
Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:
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