Sightseeing in Zanzibar Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Zanzibar is the picturesque archipelago, the main treasure of which is unique nature and fabulously beautiful beaches. The archipelago includes the island of the same name, which has long attracted attention of curious travelers. Stone Town rich in historical monuments is situated on Zanzibar Island. Several years ago, this unique place attracted only fans of ecotourism. Today Zanzibar features well-developed infrastructure and is able to serve all travelers without exception.

There is a luxury holiday complex, vibrant entertainment venues, and beautiful beaches, but the main interest for many tourists is the historical heritage of the island. The main attraction of the archipelago is its capital, which is usually considered a single architectural complex. Stone Town was founded by the Sultan of Zanzibar in the first half of the 20th century and still survives in its original form.

It’s very convenient to explore the territory on foot. Walking through the winding stone streets, you can see small castles and quaint houses with high turrets built in keeping with the best national traditions. The city has several gorgeous mosques; many historic buildings were converted in restaurants and shops. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The first settlement on the territory of present-day capital appeared much earlier, at the beginning of the 18th century; it housed a large complex of associated fortifications. Currently, travelers can see only a small part of thick fortification buildings. The amazing Cathedral of Christ completed in 1874 and the Cathedral of St. Joseph built in the late 19th century have survived in the capital.

One of the most spectacular architectural attractions in Stone Town is Malindi Mosque featuring the minaret of rare conical shape. The most ambitious architectural complex of the archipelago is the palace of the Queen Fatuma, which is also known under the informal name, the House of Wonders. The former royal residence is incredibly beautiful; it seems that the structure is ageless. It’s worth to visit the National Museum of Zanzibar and appreciate its rich collection of ethnographic and art exhibits, and then pay attention to the historic sites located outside of Stone Town.

To the north of the capital there is an important historical place, the ruins of amazing palaces Maruhubi and Mtoni. Far away from them there is the most iconic and unusual attraction of Zanzibar - spice plantations - one of the most visited sites in the archipelago. Since ancient times, the island has being growing dozens of different kinds of spices. Travelers have an opportunity to stroll through the extensive thickets of vanilla and cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. There are dozens spices of hot peppers, ginger, saffron and turmeric. It’s also necessary to include in the excursion program a visit to one of the local factories.

Fans of natural attractions won’t be bored too. It’s certainly worth to visit Caves Mangapwani . Locals believe that these places have magical properties; it’s simply impossible to describe beauty of that sight in words. Despite the active influence of civilization, reserved Zanzibar Island hasn’t lost its historical grandeur that is perfectly complemented by amazing cultural traditions of the islanders.

Zanzibar is an ideal place for beach recreation and diving. Travelers will be pleased to find gorgeous beaches with shiny white sand. Fuji Beach is located not far from the country’s capital. It is a comfortable place with several water sports centers. The beach is a great place for all vacationers who want to try waterskiing, snorkeling or take several scuba diving lessons. Fuji is also the starting point of excursions to the Turtle Island.

This beach has only one disadvantage – it is very crowded, so travelers who prefer more silent and secluded places are better to choose another beach, Mangapwani. Romantic travelers are simply in love with one more resort in the region, Nungwi, which has become famous for its picturesque coral lagoons. Local beaches are widely recognized as the most beautiful on the whole archipelago. Thanks to their rich underwater world, they are very popular with divers. In the northern part of the archipelago, vacationers will find Kendwa Beach that has another informal name, “the beach of millionaires”. The most luxurious hotels, restaurants, and entertainment centers of the region are located close to that beach. Needless to say, the choice of entertainments is amazing. The beach is well-kept and it is very comfortable and pleasant to stay there.