Luxury Zanzibar Holidays
Do you long to set foot on pristine white beaches in an untamed tropical paradise? A luxurious escape to gorgeous Zanzibar awaits! We would love to help you design your ideal escape to this idyllic oasis in the Indian Ocean.
UNSPOILT BEACHES, WARM TURQUOISE WATERS, PRISTINE CORAL REEFS
Gentle waves lap against the most perfect white shores as palms sway gently behind you. Zanzibar is the epitome of barefoot luxury, nestled in the Indian Ocean and feeling a million miles from everywhere. This is the ideal destination for a secluded escape to relax and completely rewind, either as an extended beach retreat, or twinned with an African safari across the plains of Tanzania.
Zanzibar offers an endless choice of beautiful beaches, and some of the most vibrant and fertile coral reefs in the world. Swimmers and divers will be in heaven here, snorkelling is another much-loved past-time, and you can while away many contented hours exploring the underwater delights off Zanzibar’s shores.
If you can tear yourself from the shoreline for a little while, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital of Stone Town, a coastal city that is steeped in fascinating culture and history. Here you can wander between extravagant Sultan palaces and shop for souvenirs in the vibrant local markets. The many local restaurants and rooftop bars are ideal spots for some people watching as you sample the local cuisine and an exotic cocktail or two.
The smaller island of Pemba is separated from mainland Tanzania by a channel of rich coral reefs filled with colourful marine life. Pemba is a lush, green escape that is famed for its clove plantations. The tranquil shores are lined with wonderful lagoons and tiny islets – this is an ‘undiscovered’ hideaway of complete secluded bliss.
Accommodation in Zanzibar ranges from exclusive beachfront resorts with private infinity pools and stand-alone villas, to stylish boutique hideaways and chic bohemian retreats with traditional thatched-roof lagoon side suites.
Top 5 things to do in Zanzibar
- The cultural heart of Zanzibar can be found in Stone Town, the world's oldest functioning Swahili City.
- Pay your respects at the Slave Monument. Zanzibar was a major trading hub for many items, one of these was slaves. The monument reflects on the cruelty of the past before people like David Livingstone (a one time resident in Zanzibar) helped to abolish slavery.
- Enjoy a sundowner at the Africa House Hotel, on the terrace overlooking the ocean.
- Take an organised tour of the villages. Most include a traditional Swahili lunch and they are a great way to explore the culture and meet the locals.
- Experience one of the three major festivals that take place each year. Sauti za Busara; a music festival in February, The Zanzibar International Film Festival, and the Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival in September.
Top 5 facts about Zanzibar
- Zanzibar is an archipelago of islands located in the Indian Ocean.
- The capital city is Zanzibar City, in which Stone Town is situated.
- Spice farming is a major part of the Zanzibar economy. You can find cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon,and black pepper, all of which are grown there.
- Freddie Mercury (Farroukh Bulsara) was born in Zanzibar in 1946.
- Zanzibar's current flag is only 14 years old, the sixth since 1856!
Official Language
Swahili, Arabic, English and French.
Local Currency
Tanzanian shilling
When to Visit
July to September