ZANZIBAR - things to do and see

There is no shortage of things to do on vacation in Zanzibar should you get tired of just soaking up the sun. The following are some ideas amongst the many activities available:

Stone Town

Stone Town, Zanzibar's capital, is what makes the island so different from a thousand other tropical isles. Behind its elegant waterfront, it is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners fought with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings. One of the most characteristic aspects of these ancient mansions is the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors - there are more than 500 different examples of this handiwork.

The vivid colours and perfumes and smells of Stone Town both pleasant and unpleasant leave a strong impact on the visitor. The senses are heightened and the impact is sometimes overwhelming. You either love Stone Town or you hate it, fortunately most fall in love with the town and never forget it.

The following excursions can all be organised from Stone Town either by your hotel or through a local travel agent.

Spice Plantations

The history of Zanzibar would be incomplete without the cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper and many other spices which brought the Sultans of Oman and the beginnings of the infamous slave trade. They can be seen in the plantations just outside Stone Town: a good spice tour includes opportunities to dazzle the senses with fresh spices and a detailed description about the variety of spices and their uses in cooking and cosmetics. Unfortunately with the exception of Salome's Garden none of the old plantation and country houses have survived but the experience is nonetheless not to be missed.

Kizimkazi

About one hour South of Stone Town is the little village and beautiful beach of Kizimkazi. The local fishermen have organised themselves to take visitors on trips to see the dolphins. Sightings are almost guaranteed and it is not uncommon to be able to swim amongst them.

Jozani Forest

Jozani forest once stretched over large area of the centre of Zanzibar. It is now seriously reduced in size but is now a natural park and protection is improving. The park is home to an endemic species of Colobus Monkey as well as Sykes Monkey. Nature trails have been set up and a visit to the forest is well worth while for those who enjoy wild-life.

Mangapwani beach

Some 15 miles North of Stone Town is the beautiful beach of Mangapwani.
This beach is surrounded by flamboyant trees and is a beautiful spot for bathing.

There is also a restaurant at Mangapwani owned by the Serena Inn - bookings can be made directly from the Serena in Stone Town.

The Palaces and Persian baths North of Stone Town

A day trip to Mangapwani beach can be enhanced by a stop over at the ruins of the various Sultans Palaces along the coast. The closest is Maruhubi Palace. This impressive palace built for Sultan Barghash at the end of the 19th Century was destroyed by fire at the turn in 1899. There are interesting remains of the bathing areas. Mtoni Palace, was built at the beginning of the 19th Century for Sultan Said. This was a massive complex and was the house where Princess Salme was born. Only the main central structure remains relatively intact and provides an idea of how impressive the Palace once must have been. Beit el Ras Palace is still further up the the North Road out of Zanzibar near the teacher training School. This palace was constructed by Sultan Said but is now in a sad state of repairs. To reach the Persian Baths, simply turn left off the main North Road at Bububu and travel for a few Kilometres until you see the baths on your right. The baths are still relatively intact and interesting for a short visit.

Snorkelling

There are many other excellent snorkelling sites around Zanzibar and if you are travelling around the island you should carry a mask and snorkel with you.