The Spice Island.
[ DURATION: 9 DAYS ] [ PACE: LEISURE ]
Situated in the Indian Ocean only 40 kilometers off the coast of Africa is the island of Zanzibar; also known as “The Spice Island” due to its export of cloves and a wide variety of the most commonly known spices. Zanzibar has a very colourful and exciting history. Visitors to its shores in the centuries gone by included Sumerians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Indians, Chinese, Persians, Arabs and British, each leaving behind a legacy of their stay. It was from this island the great European explorers Burton, Speke, Livingstone and Grant set off their voyages of discovery in the uncharted mainland. For many years it was part of the powerful Oman Empire and Sultan Sayyid Said moved his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar in 1840 to exploit the flourishing slave trade. The Oman remained a sultanate until January 1964, when Zanzibar and Pemba joined Tanganyika to become the United Republic of Tanzania. Today the island is steadily developing and offers a unique combination of history, culture, and friendly people and beautiful unspoilt beaches.
Stone Town
The old quarter of Zanzibar is known as Stone Town and looks much the same today as it did two centuries ago, with its winding lanes and Arabian style stone houses. These are known for their extravagant front doors, elaborately carved and studded with brass. A stroll through the alleys filled with bazaars, with their carpenters, jewelers, hawkers, tailors and coffee sellers is absolutely worthwhile. Many of Zanzibar’s historic buildings are situated in Stone Town and therefore a highly recommended area to visit.
The East Coast
With several good hotels to choose from, the best beaches are to be found on the East Coast, which is easily accessible by road, and only are a few hours away through small villages and fertile countryside.
Day 1 – Zanzibar
Met on arrival and transfer to Tembo House, situated in the old town over-looking the sea. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Tembo House.
Day 2 – Zanzibar Town
After breakfast at your hotel you go on a guided city tour, visiting the colourful market, house of wonder, the cathedral, an Old fort , old slave market, the museum and some of the historical buildings. Overnight at Tembo House.
Day 3 – 5 – East Coast
Breakfast at your hotel and then proceed across the island to Matemwe bungalows situated on the East Coast. Stop en route to take a closer look at the many interesting fruits and spices grown on the island. Matemwe is a good comfortable hotel overlooking the ocean and situated at the end of a sparkling white beach. Accommodation is in bungalows all overlooking the sea.
Day 6 -8: North coast beach
Tranfered to the north coast of Zanzibar at Nungwi beaches, stay overnight at Ras Nungwi beach resort www.rasnungwi.com This is an exclusive resort. Scuba diving and other water sports can be arranged.
Day 9: Flight
Morning transfer back to the stone town, on the way visit Jozani forest to see some endangered species such as Zanzibar red colobus. Spice tour and spice shopping will also be arranged. Later in the afternoon flight back to Dar es salaam International Airport for your flight back home.
