Do you want to go on an epic African adventure? Do you want to go somewhere amazing to see stunning beaches and unsettling history in one quick day trip?
If you look on the surface, you may think that Zanzibar looks like the perfect spot for sunbathers and beachgoers but this island is much more than a simple and sandy oasis! You will encounter a deep and emotional history when you head over to Stone Town, which is the oldest section of Zanzibar.
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During much of the 19th century, Zanzibar was a major hub for the slave trade whereby more than 50,000 slaves passed through the port every year! There are rusting chains and shackles embedded into the walls throughout the streets of Stone Town in Zanzibar as reminders of this dark history.
Leave aside the sad part; on the happier side, Zanzibar is also a delicious little city. It is widely known for an abundant offering of spices, including nutmeg, cloves, black pepper and cinnamon as well as its juicy, exotic fruits that are found there.
Soaking up the sun; strolling through Stone Town or savoring sweet, fruity treats, this place will quickly steal your heart and have you plotting your way back.
Must do’s in Zanzibar
Pay a visit to Stone Town
Stone Town is a winding maze of narrow streets, old, deteriorating, buildings and cream-colored bazaars, and thousands of years of rich African history. In 2012, Stone Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and served as a port for world-renowned East African explorers.
The place is known for its ornate wooden doors, rows, charming old alleys and rows of colorful street stands and bright blue ocean views.
You cannot forget the delicious Darajani market – a busy local marketplace that offers fruits, meats, vegetables, and spices you have probably never heard of!
Instead of hustling through the crowds for peace and quiet you may just take an exploratory stroll through Darajani market, sampling exotic fruits like the spiky Shoki Shoki. Shoki Shoki looks more like a weapon than fruit on the outside but it is sweet and juicy on the inside!
There is also a trip to the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ which stands atop the former slave market in Stone Town pictured below. Stone Town’s slave market was the world’s last open slave market which was shut down by the British in 1873.
To date, the Cathedral’s white marble altar stands in place of the former whipping tree as an eerie reminder of the cruelty humans are capable of. Travelers can climb down, below ground to the tight, claustrophobic chambers where slaves were confined for an even closer look at this traumatic past. A visit to the former slave market is integral to ensuring the past is not forgotten and that Zanzibar’s future is brighter and kinder now.
Go for a beach walk
Zanzibar has got all the essential elements of a typical and beautiful beach: calm, bright white sand, sunshine and blue waves for days. If you take a walk along the shore you will notice some interesting and important differences that set Zanzibar’s beaches apart from the rest.
It is all about fishing! Zanzibar’s beaches are not just for frolicking tourists, they are a significant food source, also. Your Indian Ocean photos will be filled with vibrant white beaches and vintage, faded-blue and red fishing boats from the shore into the horizon.
Zanzibar’s main beaches which are closest to downtown are filled with locals. Children, workers, and even tourists flock to the shore for sunbathing, pickup soccer, and showing off with acrobatics.
The local beaches are not fit for serenity-seeking travelers but they are the perfect scene for those looking to absorb Zanzibar’s culture at its best.
Be safe
Zanzibar is a welcoming and warm city, but do not let that fool you because there is still plenty of crime. Some people report that their designer sunglasses were stolen while swimming at the hotel and they conveniently reappeared when they called out a suspicious staff member on it.
Therefore, you have just to be safe, keep an eye out for suspicious activity, think cautiously about where to store your wallets, purses, and other valuable things. Always keep your most important valuables on your person. If you can follow those golden Zanzibar rules, you will be all set for a safe, memorable trip!
Enjoy!