Zanzibar

Zanzibar rises from the Indian Ocean like a fragment of Arabian Nights transported to the African coast. This archipelago of islands has been a crossroads of cultures for over a millennium, where African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences have blended into something entirely unique.

Pristine white beaches

Stone Town, the UNESCO-listed heart of Zanzibar City, is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, ornate carved doors, and crumbling palaces. The air is thick with the scent of spices�cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla�that made these islands famous and drove centuries of trade. Wandering these streets is like stepping back in time, with mosques, Hindu temples, and churches standing side by side.

Beyond the historic capital, Zanzibar's beaches rival any in the world. The eastern shores feature powdery white sand and turquoise waters, while the northern beaches offer excellent swimming and water sports. At low tide, women in colorful kangas harvest seaweed from the shallows, creating scenes of timeless beauty.

The surrounding waters teem with marine life, making Zanzibar a world-class diving and snorkeling destination. Mnemba Atoll's pristine coral gardens are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and an explosion of tropical fish, while seasonal whale shark encounters add another dimension to this Indian Ocean paradise.