Skip to navigation Skip to main content
Menu

Blog

Welcome to Zanzibar: The Spice Island Escape

Discover a world where turquoise waters lap against pristine white-sand beaches, and the air is fragrant with exotic spices. Zanzibar, a jewel of the Indian Ocean, offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation, vibrant history, and unique culture. With a variety of experiences tailored to every kind of traveler, your island paradise awaits.

Ready for the reward? Add Zanzibar to your Tanzania adventure

You’ve pushed your limits on Kilimanjaro and sought out the Big Five on safari. Now, trade your hiking boots for sandals and your binoculars for a beach towel. The tropical paradise of Zanzibar is the perfect way to unwind after your epic Tanzanian journey.

The perfect ending to your epic East African trilogy

While the mountain and the safari offer unparalleled adventure, a few days on the Spice Island complete your story. Zanzibar provides the perfect change of pace, letting you soak in the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean and the vibrant, historic culture of Stone Town.

Explore our handpicked Zanzibar experiences

 The cultural heart of Stone Town

Step back in time in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historical and cultural center of Zanzibar. On a guided walking tour, you’ll:

  • Navigate a maze of narrow, winding alleys.
  • Admire the unique Swahili-Arabic architecture and intricately carved wooden doors.
  • Visit historic landmarks such as the Old Fort and the Anglican Cathedral , built on the site of the last slave market.
  • Indulge in a sensory feast at the bustling Darajani Market, or enjoy the evening food stalls at Forodhani Gardens

The famous spice tour

Known historically as the “Spice Islands,” Zanzibar was a hub for the spice trade. A guided spice tour is a captivating, multi-sensory experience that lets you discover:

  • How spices like cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon are grown.
  • The medicinal and culinary uses of different plants.
  • A tasting of exotic fruits and fresh spices right from the source.

Relaxation and adventure on pristine beaches

Zanzibar boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, catering to every mood.

  • For the laid-back: Find a peaceful retreat on the palm-fringed sands of Nungwi, Paje or Jambiani to name a few.
  • For the social butterfly: Head to Nungwi, a popular beach known for its sunsets, water sports, and lively nightlife.
  • For the water enthusiast: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters of Mnemba Atoll, a marine conservation area teeming with vibrant marine life.
  • For the adventurer: Enjoy a tranquil mangrove walk at Uzi Island or go kayaking in clear turquoise waters near Kendwa.

 

Unique wildlife encounters

Nature lovers will be captivated by Zanzibar’s diverse fauna.

  • Take a boat trip to Prison Island to see the giant Aldabra tortoises.
  • Spot the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey on a guided nature walk through Jozani Forest.
  • Go on a dolphin-watching excursion or, for a truly immersive experience, swim with dolphins off the coast of Kizimkazi

.

Essential travel tips

  • Best time to visit: The dry seasons from June to October and mid-December to February offer the best weather for enjoying the beaches and water activities.
  • Dress code: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim, so be respectful by dressing modestly, especially in Stone Town and away from tourist resorts. Cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Safety: Zanzibar is generally very safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables secure.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, but US dollars (notes from 2007 or newer) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Getting around: Use reputable taxis arranged through your hotel, especially after dark. Always agree on a fare in advance.

Ready to plan your escape?

Zanzibar is a feast for the senses, with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Let us help you create the perfect island getaway. Our expert team is ready to craft a personalized itinerary that matches your interests, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

Why choose a Zanzibar extension?

  • Relaxation reimagined: Feel your tired muscles and weary legs recover as you lounge on pristine, powder-soft white beaches, with the gentle sound of the turquoise ocean as your soundtrack.

 

  • Cultural immersion in Stone Town: Get lost in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town. Wander through its narrow, winding alleys, marvel at the intricately carved doorways, and explore a captivating history influenced by Swahili, Arab, and European cultures.

 

  • A taste of the Spice Island: Savor the flavors of a guided spice tour. Walk through lush plantations and discover where cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla are grown, all while enjoying the island’s intoxicating aromas.

 

  • Aquatic adventure: The calm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean offer world-class snorkeling and diving. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or take a dhow cruise at sunset.

 

  • Seamless travel: With quick and easy flights from mainland Tanzania, we’ll handle all the logistics to ensure your transition from safari to seaside is effortless.

Your customized island escape

Whether you desire a luxurious, beachfront resort or a boutique hotel in the heart of Stone Town, we can tailor the perfect Zanzibar experience for you. This is your reward—a final, unforgettable chapter to an adventure that will forever be etched in your memory.

Ready to add paradise to your itinerary?

Get in touch now to extend your trip with a Zanzibar beach holiday.
ENQUIRE NOW
Sidebar

  • Mara Kati Kati is a mobile camp strategically situated in north Serengeti, ideal for exploring the Mara Ecosystem. The camp offers comfortable accommodation together with the unique opportunity to enjoy a real safari experience on a camp. In its comfortable tents one will feel completely immersed in the surroundings and one can enjoy the rich animal life and vegetation of the area.

    An original form of accommodation which resembles the old camps of the first explorers in Africa, with all the commodities of today.

    The camp has been designed to cause a minimum impact on the environment. All of the infrastructure is mobile and the philosophy of the company is not to leave anything behind.

    The tents at Mara Kati Kati are meticulously designed to blend the essence of classic safari adventures with modern comforts. Each tent is furnished with plush bedding, locally inspired décor, and ensuite bathrooms equipped with hot showers and eco-friendly toiletries. The subtle lighting, soft linens, and rustic yet sophisticated furnishings create an ambiance that seamlessly merges the raw beauty of the wilderness with the elegance of a homey accommodation.

  •  

    Experience the Wild…

    Welcome to Tarangire Simba Lodge, Tarangire National Park is a gem on the northern safari circuit. Teeming with wildlife, especially in the dry season, this area is a safari-goers dream. Located near the new Sangaiwe Gate of Tarangire National Park. Tarangire Simba Lodge is situated in a wildlife-rich area with unhampered views to beautiful Lake Burunge, bordered by the park and a Wildlife Management Area. The setting is stunning; with a giant old Baobab tree anchoring one corner and a permeating feeling of real Africa.

    The lodge opened in mid 2015 (July) and has 24 classic tents under thatch. Resident wildlife includes lion, zebra, bushbuck, impala, porcupine, monkeys, warthog, mongoose and more. Elephant, buffalo, ostrich and giraffe frequently pass through while the bird life is prolific and vibrant.

    Areas surrounding national parks are critical for conservation. The location of Tarangire Simba Lodge creates a buffer between the park and the nearby village areas, which, although currently sparse in population, are under cultivation and could be subject to human/wildlife conflict. We work closely with the rangers at the nearby station to ensure that the wildlife is not compromised.

     

     

    During the dry season groups of elephant, giraffe, waterbuck, zebra and more come to a small waterhole located in front of the lodge. Lucky guests can watch wildlife right from their rooms or the elevated viewing platform near the pool.

    Guests are able to enter, exit and re-enter from the Sangaiwe gate of Tarangire National Park with ease.

     

    Fine hospitality for safari travellers

    Accommodation at Tarangire Simba Lodge is in sixteen classic canvas safari tents situated permanently under thatch. The spacious tents are constructed on platforms complete with wooden floors, large en-suite dressing room, toilet and shower. There are twin and queen tents; triples are possible. There is also a family tent with two queen-sized beds. Additionally there is an outdoor shower and each tent has a private veranda with views to the bush and Lake Burunge. Furnishings are handcrafted from African hardwood complimented with tastefully selected fabrics; electricity and hot water are solar powered. Full amenities are provided.

    If you’re lucky you may see wildlife right from your room or verandah!

    Each room has a torch (flashlight) and umbrella for you to use during your stay with us and there is a power strip to charge your devices.