A holiday in Zanzibar is an experience that will change you. You will return with a new perspective about the things that really matter in life. Memories of the people and the place remain indelibly imprinted on your mind. It is a place where the warm Swahili culture has absorbed the rich Arabic heritage. There are many fascinating places to see, things to do and tantalising exotic dishes to try.

The islands offer a distinctive travel experience...

A mere 3 ½ hours flight from Johannesburg, Zanzibar is ideal for those seeking an affordable island getaway. However Zanzibar is more than just white sandy beaches, palm trees and crystal clear warm waters. As the remnant of an economic center of the Omani Empire, which attained its climax in the middle of the 19th century, Zanzibar today boasts a culture and history closely linked with its historic events: Shirazi, Persian and Omani settlers, Indian and Arabian architecture, spicy dishes, slave caves and historical figures such as Speke, Livingston and Tipu Tipp have all left their marks.

Everywhere on the island, mementos of this past can be seen and are recounted in tales of myth and reality passed down from one generation to the next. Until today, the name "Spice Islands" refers to this capital of Swahili culture which is observed along the coast of East Africa. The distinguished mixture of cultures, professions and religions have in the course of time contributed to the metropolitan characteristic typical to this region. The ancient city of Stone Town was once the center of the worlds slave trade. The old slave market is preserved as a monument: a reminder of the inhumanity of that era.

Population: Approximately 700 000

Currency: Tanzanian Shillings for meals, drinks, curios and taxi rides, etc.
For hotel accommodation and services foreign currency is required, preferably US$.

Best time to visit: The relatively cool, dry period from June to October is
particularly pleasant, with average temperatures of 25°C with cooling breezes of the
SE monsoon prevailing.