7 Best Authentic Places to Visit in Zanzibar
When it comes to fun and adventure, few places can compete favourably with the Eastern African island of Zanzibar. Apart from enjoying bright sunshine throughout the year, this island archipelago hosts a plethora of activities and places and things to experience. You can bet that any piece of excitement and relaxation can be found on any corner of the island, from lounging on a beach chair to diving deep into the coral gardens of the deep sea.
You can arrive in Zanzibar with zero knowledge of the island, but fall into the hands of a caring guide who is paid merely to cater to your every need. So if you’re new to the island, here are seven best authentic places to visit in Zanzibar:
1. House of Wonders
House of Wonders is located next to the old fort and a must-visit place while in Stone Town. If you want to learn about the island history, then this is the right place to start. The old exhibits and rooms will evoke wonder and amazement.
2. Paje Beach
Paje beach is a favorite haunt for budget travellers. It has a myriad of burger joints, bars, cafes, hostels, and almost any other accessory that make it one of the best places to visit. You can spend a couple of days relaxing in the inviting turquoise waters as you watch others kite surfing. Paje is one of the best kite-surfing destinations in the world.
3. Kichanga Foundation
Apart from offering great food and accommodation in its hotels and restaurants, the Kichanga Foundation keenly supports local development and empowerment programs. Established in 2005, the Foundation focuses on various projects such as building of schools. One of its flagship projects is the school at Michamvi Kae and Pingue. The foundation also is in advanced plans to provide piped water and also build a modern health center.
4. Stone Town
Walk through the narrow cobbled streets of Stone Town a Heritage site. Many places of interest are scattered throughout Stone Town including the Sultan’s palace, which holds a rich Arab history and culture.
5. Mnemba Island
Mnemba is a small island located about a kilometer on the north-eastern part of the island. The coral reefs along the shore provide some great snorkelling and diving spots that attract hundreds of enthusiasts each year. The island is also home to endangered green turtles. Although the island is privately-owned, the reef is open to the public and is a popular destination from Zanzibar. The island can also be rented out for exclusively private events like weddings and other corporate events.
6. Pemba Island
A valuable part of the archipelago, Pemba is a developed island with the largest spice plantations, beautiful hotels, and fantastic diving. The island is scattered with small fishing villages, miles of wild coastlines and historic ruins.
The island also hosts a variety of other activities including excursions in the mangrove forests, spa treatments, dhow safaris, and dolphin sightings.
7. Chumbe
Situated 12 km south of the island, Chumbe had been isolated as a marine reserve but now offers terrific underwater experiences within the umbrella of strictly controlled eco-tourism. The shallow-water corals are pristine and host rare birds, turtles and some 400 fish species waiting to be discovered.
For more details read our article: Zanzibar street markets