Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous archipelago of Tanzania, is renowned for its pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The main island, Unguja (often simply referred to as Zanzibar), is home to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic center, with its labyrinthine streets, Arab-inspired architecture, and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into the island's rich Swahili and Islamic heritage. Notable landmarks include the House of Wonders, a former sultan's palace, and the Old Fort.
Beyond Stone Town, Zanzibar boasts idyllic beaches, particularly in the northern areas of Nungwi and Kendwa. These stretches of white sand are lined with luxurious resorts, offering a variety of water sports, diving, and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can also explore Zanzibar's lush interior, home to spice plantations, nature reserves, and the Jozani Forest, where endangered red colobus monkeys reside.
Tanzania is located in the tropics, so it has a tropical climate. The temperature ranges from about 18°C to 29°C year-round, and there's plenty of rainfall throughout the country. The rainy season in Tanzania means heavy rains.
February is the hottest month in Zanzibar with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and the coldest is July at 24°C (75°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 10 in December. The wettest month is April with an average of 401mm of rain.
There are two rainy seasons in Zanzibar. The main season, called the “long rains” is during mid-April and May. The second rainy season, “the short rains” that last only for a few minutes, usually in the mornings, is from November to December.
The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to October during the cool, dry season with minimal rainfall and warm weather and sea temperatures. This period is also the high season for safaris on the mainland and the island is busy with all facilities in full operation.
Zanzibar uses a UK/European standard voltage of 220/240 volts. Power sockets are typically of the UK style (square pin type).
If you're traveling to Zanzibar with US appliances, you'll need both a voltage converter and a plug adapter. The voltage in the US is 110/120 volts, which is incompatible with Zanzibar's 220/240 volts.
Power outages and voltage fluctuations are not uncommon in Zanzibar. Many Resorts have backup generators or alternative power sources to minimize disruptions. However, it's a good idea to be prepared for potential power outages.
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania. The specific visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
You can obtain a Tanzania visa in several ways:
The Government of Zanzibar has introduced a MANDATORY inbound travel insurance requirement for all foreigners visiting the Spice Islands of Zanzibar.
Safaris Unmasked, Baobab House, 2nd Floor, Westlands Office Park, Waiyaki Way, Westlands - Nairobi Kenya
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