Zanzibar is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about 25 km off the Tanzanian coast. Its main island, Unguja, is famous for powder-white beaches, warm turquoise water and Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences.

Things to do

• Wander the narrow alleys, carved doors and markets of Stone Town
• Take a spice tour to see cloves, nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon growing
• Snorkel or dive at Mnemba Atoll
• Visit Jozani Forest for the endemic red colobus monkey
• Sail on a traditional dhow at sunset

Where to stay

The north (Nungwi and Kendwa) has beaches that are swimmable at most tides. The east coast (Paje, Jambiani, Matemwe) is known for wide tidal beaches and kitesurfing.