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Original poster

Any top tips for Zanzibar?

12 replies

marialuisa · 18/01/2019 16:09

DD(18) and I are off to Zanzibar for February half-term. Does anyone have any recommendations, must-sees or pitfalls to avoid? I’ve not booked it through a travel agent and we’ll be staying on the east coast. Thanks

OP posts:
vitaminsmoothie · 19/01/2019 14:07

Travel vacs and Malaria tablets?

Original poster
marialuisa · 19/01/2019 17:38

Was thinking more along the lines of excursions, restaurants and so on, but thanksGrin

OP posts:
vitaminsmoothie · 19/01/2019 18:26

Sorry, didn't mean to be snappy.
Have you looked on TripAdvisor? It's usually really helpful.

Original poster
marialuisa · 19/01/2019 18:38

Yes....but oddly enough I thought I’d ask here too. Different perspectives are interesting especially as on this forum you are more likely to get responses tailored to your situation. I’ve replied to threads like this on these boards before but given your answers perhaps the Travel section is redundant.? Thanks for replying though.

OP posts:
MarieKondo · 19/01/2019 18:47

Snorkelling is amazing there, diving even better if you can. Stone town is worth a visit but make sure you pack clothing that covers your arms and legs. Loose flowing palazzo type trousers and a large scarf are pretty essential. You’ll feel more comfortable if you cover up respectfully. I found the slaving history fascinating and worth doing a little local tour with someone talking you through the history. If I was going again I would go All Inclusive as it’s really worthwhile there compared to some European AI deals where everything is served in shit paper cups or you get diff menus to the other guests. You’ll love it!

sunnysouthie · 19/01/2019 19:24

I went to Zanzibar 10 years ago with my female friend. It really was beautiful,Stone Town is so interesting,I would advise to hire a private guide to walk you around Stone Town and while I usually like to go it alone I'd say this is a really good way to allow you to relax and see the sights as we felt a little uneasy as two female travellers ,we got a lot of attention and because Stone Town can be hard to navigate we rushed through it as we felt a little uncomfortable stopping to navigate however that might be a personal issue. I just think it would be fab to see it in the company of a local so you can relax and enjoy the experience rather than worrying about getting lost or attracting unwanted attention.
Book dinner on one of the roof top restaurants it's a great experience. There are lots of hustlers on the beaches selling stuff,just ignore and don't engage! It'll be amazing,hope you have a lovely time.

Original poster
marialuisa · 21/01/2019 19:32

Thanks, that’s really helpful. I wasn’t sure about Stone Town but it sounds worthwhile

OP posts:
zeddybrek · 21/01/2019 21:19

I have been twice, last time was a few months ago. It is my favourite place in the world, you're going to love it! So it costs around 40-50 USD to get to the East Coast. Lots of taxis right outside the airport.The beaches are stunning and the sea is a lot warmer in the evening than you think sometimes. Going for a sunset swim was one of my favourite ways to end the day. The beaches don't have many hustlers anymore and the few leave you alone. Going on a spice tour is an absolute must, your hotel can arrange it and they are all run very well so just go with the flow. In Stone Town wear loose clothing that covers all your arms and legs otherwise you will stand out. It is a Muslim country. Lukmaans restaurant is great, delicious local food and reasonably priced. A private tour around stone town would be worthwhile too, to give you an understanding of the history. If you are in stone town pick up anything you need as the East coast is very islotaed. Take whatever cash you need with you or go to an ATM in Stone town. Have a great time, it is truly paradise on Earth.

ToothlessReg · 24/01/2019 12:14

Jozani Forest is a nice easy walk, and you can see the red colobus monkey that are native to Zanzibar. There’s also a butterfly centre nearby.

Stonetown is worth a visit. The Slave markets are very sad but give you an idea of the history. We did a walking tour which was brilliant. Go to Forodhani gardens at night for some street food (sugarcane juice and Zanzibar pizza!) and to watch all the local boys doing acrobatics and diving into the sea. Just dress respectfully, we saw a few tourists wearing strappy tops and shorts and they really stood out.

I’d definitely recommend diving - the Mnemba Atoll in the North East has good corals and we were lucky enough to be found by some dolphins whilst underwater 😊

Original poster
marialuisa · 25/01/2019 12:32

Thanks

OP posts:
Gunpowdertea · 25/02/2019 02:26

Zala park which is inland is worth a visit. The owner is called Mohammed. There is an island off the coast where they have giant turtles. Watch the sunset at Africa house. Fly from Tanzania to Zanibar on a mini plane.

bonnielassie1 · 25/02/2019 02:55

Definitely spend some time in stone town it is beautiful! Also a spice tour- it’s an amazing place you will have an incredible time but like others have said do cover up accordingly it will make you feel more comfortable! Long light pants and long sleeves are fine

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