Sun, sea and history. Somehow they mix well in Zanzibar, an archipelago made up of Zanzibar, Pemba Islands and several islets. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast, and 6A^? south of the equator. Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja, but as Zanzibar internationally) is 60 miles long and 20 miles wide, occupying a total area of approximately 650 square miles. When you ask about Zanzibar, most visitors and locals would relate it with beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs, and the magic of historic Stone Town - said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa. The coral reefs that surround the East Coast are rich in marine diversity, and make Zanzibar an ideal location for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Zanzibar

Stone Town

History appears to stand still in the fabled Stone Town. You will see Zanzibar's bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors, two cathedrals and countless mosques along with the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum (People's Palace), Dr Livingstone's House and the Arab Fort! Stone Town has some excellent gift shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.

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. You?ll be fascinated by the sheer number of spices produced and their incredible value for many ailments. This is also the cheapest place to purchase spices and spice oils.

Jozani Forest

The Jozani Natural Forest Reserve is located in the central east region of Zanzibar island and is home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey, which is endemic to Zanzibar. Jozani is also home to other species including Syke's monkey's, small buck and bushpigs. The elusive Zanzibar leopard is said to feed here at night. Jozani has an excellent nature trail and the guides are well trained and informative.

North Coast

Tours to the unspoilt north coast always end up at Ras Nungwi, a sleepy fishing village on the northern tip of Zanzibar island. The local villagers have built a turtle sanctuary where injured turtles and other marine animals are nursed back to health before being released back into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Kizimkazi Mosque and Dolphin Sighting Spots

The Kizimkazi fishing village is home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins which can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village. If you are lucky, you may be able to swim quite close to the dolphins which can be a very rewarding experience. Kizimkazi is also the site of a 12th century mosque, the earliest evidence of Islam in East Africa.

Prison Island

Once the site of a gaol for misbehaving slaves, the island lies just off the old stone town. It is fringed with a beautiful coral reef and has a lovely white beach. It is also home to a family of giant tortoises, imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century.