Sunny In Zanzibar Tanzania
Hello World, I hope you are enjoying the last few days of 2023! I visited Zanzibar, Tanzania in August for my birthday. I’ve dreamed of being in Zanzibar for my birthday for years. Grateful, it finally happened.
HISTORY
From Islands Of Africa: The history of Zanzibar stretches far back. The presence of microlihic tools demonstrates that humans have occupied Zanzibar for about 20 000 years. Zanzibar was also part of a major trade route from the Roman Empire to the Indo-Chinese ports. At around 4 C.E., the Bantu people began to settle in Zanzibar. Arab and Persian emigrants began to settle in Zanzibar around 7 C.E. after fleeing their war torn countries. The traders used the islands as bases during their trade voyages between Arabia, India and Africa. Through intermarriages, the Kiswahili language was born which formed the base of present day Swahili. Trade routes were established in the home countries of the Persian and Arab emigrants who continued to intermarry.The trade goods included gold, ivory, ebony, tortoise shells and slaves. In return, they received cloth, beads and porcelain. This was a prosperous time for Zanzibar which continued until the late 15th century with the arrival of Vasco Da Gama in 1498.This marked the beginning 2 centuries of Portuguese rule over East Africa and Zanzibar. The Portuguese failed to send enough men to protect their territories and eventually had to surrender. The Omanis took over rule of Zanzibar in 1698. The local African chiefs protested, but the Omanis continued to rule until the revolution in 1964.Many sultans of the Busaidi family ruled during this time. Zanzibar joined Tanganyika (Tanzania) on 24 April 1964 under President Julius Nyerere. Zanzibar was granted a constitutional right to have its own president, cabinet, first minister and House of Representatives. Zanzibar suffered after the revolution. Karume established relations with socialist countries such as USSR, Cuba and China, through which he was able to establish roads, airports and infrastructure which Zanzibar needed. Zanzibar was only opened to the free market in the late 1980’s. The residents and Tanzania began to take advantage of its tourist potential.
BEFORE TRAVELING TO ZANZIBAR
VISA: A tourist visa is required for Tanzania, which costs $100 for Americans ($50 for other countries) and can be obtained in advance online or upon arrival.
LANGUAGE: Swahili is the main language of the country, though English is widely spoken.
CURRENCY: The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and many tourist venues list prices in dollars. It’s a good idea to bring cash as there are only a few ATMs outside Stone Town.
WEATHER: As very few people want to go for a beach vacation and be stuck inside with rainy weather, the worst time to visit Zanzibar is March – May, which is Zanzibar’s rainy season. Although still warm, afternoon downpours are quite common and you’d probably find yourself stuck indoors most of your trip. The best time to visit is from June to October, the dry season filled with reliably warm and sunny days. From November to February, you may experience light rains, but they last for such a short time that they’re unlikely to ruin any plans. Located just 6 degrees south of the equator, Zanzibar is usually warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25°-35° C year round. (75°-95° F).
DRESSING: Tanzania is predominantly a Muslim country; visitors should dress more modestly in the regional capital, Stone Town, or in a village, but a head covering isn’t required, and most attire is permissible on the beach. Try not to wear short shorts or bikinis outside of resorts and beaches
I flew in from Nairobi (NBO) to Zanzibar (ZNZ) via Kenya Airways.
My first accommodation was Le Mersenne Beach Resort. This hotel marks the debut of the @marriottbonvoy Autograph Collection brand in Tanzania. Nestled on the picturesque Michamvi Peninsula, this resort is highly recommended when in Zanzibar. Pristine beachfront, world-class hospitality, stunning décor, and breathtaking views. My stay was simply perfect!
I visited Prison Island in Zanzibar, and it’s a truly lovely place. The name Prison Island originated from the initial planning of establishing a prison. It was actually used for a brief time in the 1860s as a prison for rebellious slaves and a coral mine. No prison institutions were actually built on the island but rather became a quarantine station for yellow fever cases. It’s now home to some amazing animals. Feeding the tortoises was such an incredible experience. They’re old OLD, 50-200 hundred years old. The island offers a unique experience with its history and beautiful surroundings. I highly recommend it. My tour guide @thabitmango planned this experience for me.
One of the most unique experience in Zanzibar was swimming with turtles at Turtles at Mnarani Marine Turtles Conservation Pond. . Zanzibar is home to several species of turtles, including the endangered green sea turtle, and there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.The turtles are very friendly and once you are in the water, they are coming to you directly. That’s because they know you’ll feed them. It was all fun and games until my boobs and fingers were considered food. Thankfully my nipple and index finger still intact! 🙏🏾😩😂
The Rock restaurant, located on a rock in the middle of the Indian Ocean is a must when in Zanzibar!
Full day of activities, discovering the wonders of Zanzibar! Got on a Dhow boat to see starfish in their natural habitat, while enjoying the clear Indian Ocean followed by delicious seafood and one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve seen thanks to my amazing tour guide, @thabitmango Highly recommend starfish and sunset tour while in Zanzibar.
Another hotel at stayed in Zanzibar, @emersonzanzibar is a must place to stay or dine while in Stonetown. Magical and authentic interiors in the heart of Stonetown. All rooms are uniquely designed. No two are the same. You feel transported back in time!
Zanzibar’s capital city is known as Stone Town, and it overflows with historic sights combined with contemporary experiences. You can see the mix of Islamic and East African Swahili cultures in the architecture, with elegant minarets and wonderfully carved doorways. For a taste of local culture visit Darajani Market or head to Forodhani Gardens for the epic seafood night market on the water.
My time in Zanzibar was a dream come true as I’ve been dreaming about visiting for years. Few places in the world can induce images of pristine turquoise waters, white powdered sandy beaches, and tropical palm-tree paradise like Zanzibar. It feels like an entirely different world, offering a unique cultural experience while also being a tranquil setting for pure relaxation. I truly found a slice of paradise in Zanzibar.
I hope this post helps inspires you all to Zanzibar!
DO NOT USE MY PHOTOS WITHOUT PERMISSION!
