Exotic Zanzibar, You know about it. You believe you know where it is. And what it is. But do you? Let’s dive into this group of paradise islands off the coast of Tanzania’s east coast and find out what makes them so magical and mysterious.

Zanzibar used to be called the “Spice Islands” because of the trade and strong smells of clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. Coming here is like going back in time. In Zanzibar today, you can still see signs of its history, but it’s also a paradise of soft, relaxed beaches with the Indian Ocean right next to them.

A simple stroll along this lovely stretch of beaches will lead you to a number of small fishing towns. I found paradise.

It is the largest island in the Zanzibar group of islands and is thought to be the culture and historical center of the group. A lot of people just call it Zanzibar Island. There are many beautiful beaches around the island where you can swim, fish, and explore the underwater world of glowing marine life in the coral gardens nearby. You might even swim with groups of dolphins that like to hang out near these shores.

Zanzibar City, which was founded by the Sultan of Muscat in 1824, is the shopping and culture center of the island. Sad to say, it was a center for the Atlantic slave trade.

There are now many beautiful parks and areas all over the city. Red colobus monkeys, duikers, and bush babies can be found in the forest that makes up Jozani-Chwaka National Park.

Visit the Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond, which is close to the island’s lighthouse and is a safe haven for many kinds of turtles from hunters and other animals that might try to harm them.

You should check out Stone Town, which is the historic heart of Zanzibar City. The city’s art, building, and food still show influences from African, Arab, Indian, and European cultures, as well as its interesting maze of winding streets.

Visit the Old Fort, which was built by Arabs who took over more than 300 years ago. This still-standing fortress has an amphitheater and a Cultural Arts Gallery. It looks out over the ocean.

The Palace Museum on the water used to be the sultan’s retreat. It has items from the time of the kings and queens, like thrones, great tables, and beautiful pictures.

See the House of Wonders, which the king built, and leave no trace. This fancy front from the 1800s with fancy porches was the first building to have electricity, which must have been a big deal at the time.

Along with Zanzibar Island, the most well-known and visited islands in the Zanzibar archipelago are Pemba, also called the “Green Island,” and Mafia, which used to be a trade hub for people from Egypt, Portugal, Rome, and Greece.

If you like swimming, Pemba Island is a great place to explore because it has a huge variety of sea life. Pemba is still the main clove producer in the area, and it’s only a 40-minute ride from Dar es Salaam.

With its alluring mix of old-world trade and modern luxury, Zanzibar is the gateway to a very unique African experience that is hard to put into a single category. The sights, smells, and experiences you have there will stay with you forever.

Let Safari Trips to Kenya plan a unique trip for you to Zanzibar.