Zanzibar Travel Guide - welcome to paradise!
Zanzibar is an African island paradise sitting off the east coast of Tanzania. Zanzibar is an autonomous state of Tanzania, and is actually an archipelago, with Unguja (Zanzibar) and Pemba being the two largest and best known islands. Zanzibar is nicknamed the Spice Island, so it’s no surprise that it is an increasingly popular foodie destination. Equally appealing are the powdery white sand beaches and warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Dining in Zanzibar
Taking inspiration from Africa, Arabia, India and Europe, Zanzibar’s cuisine is as varied as it is delicious. Given its plethora of spices, you can guarantee that anything you eat on the island will be brimming with flavour. A popular dish for locals is biryani, an Indian dish that consists of rice cooked in spices and then mixed together with a fragrant meat or fish curry. Seafood plays a big role in the local cuisine; octopus curry is a delicacy on the island and is cooked in an aromatic coconut-cream sauce.
Attractions in Zanzibar
Immerse yourself in the charm of the historical area of Stone Town. Wander through the narrow streets, taking in the old-world vibe. Make sure you plan to pass by the beautiful cathedral, the Persian baths, the clock tower, and the old fort to admire the architecture. Take a fascinating spice tour on this Spice Island, then head out to the north coast to soak up some of the best beaches in the world. From kayaking, snorkelling tours, and party boats to a beach curio market with local artists or a massage near the water’s edge, there’s a little something for everyone.
Driving in Zanzibar
Hiring a car in Zanzibar will unlock the island and give you a feeling of adventure and freedom. It allows you to explore the island at your leisure, stop in small villages or jump out of the car to take photos of beautiful sunsets and amazing beaches.
Driving around Zanzibar is an adventure in its own right. The roads are a microcosm of the island itself. Around Stone Town they are cramped, bustling, and at times a frenzy of people, traffic, and animals. The roads in the rural parts of the country are wild and open and occasionally you’ll pass a bus of people commuting to work.
Zanzibar car rental
Things to be aware of when renting a car in Zanzibar include parking – particularly in Stone Town this can be difficult to come by so be sure to check the parking situation with your hotel before travelling. Another thing to be aware of for international travellers is the requirement to have a Zanzibar driving licence – this document can be pre-arranged via your car rental company. Police roadblocks are also a common sight in Zanzibar, luckily Green Motion Zanzibar are just a phone call away to clear up any potential situation with the police. When driving in Zanzibar just remember to keep calm, keep your wits about you, and enjoy the experience!