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About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is still the best-kept secret in the Indian Ocean, with its fascinating historical Stone Town and magnificent beaches.
Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands, and several islets. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast, and 6 degrees south of the equator. It is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs, and the magic of historic Stone Town – said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa.
Wildlife
There are no large wild animals in Zanzibar, and forest areas such as Jozani are inhabited by monkeys, bush-pigs and small antelopes. Civets – and rumour has it, the elusive Zanzibar leopard! Various species of mongoose can also be found on the island. There is a wide variety of birdlife, and a large number of butterflies in rural areas. The coral reefs that surround the East Coast are rich in marine diversity, and make Zanzibar an ideal location for snorkeling and scuba diving.
People, Religion and Language
Zanzibar’s local people are an incredible mixture of ethnic backgrounds, indicative of her colourful history. Islam is the dominant religion, and practiced by most Zanzibaris, although there are also followers of Christianity and Hinduism. Population is estimated at 800,000, with the largest concentration being Zanzibar City which has approximately 100,000 inhabitants. Zanzibaris speak Swahili (known locally as Kiswahili), a language which is spoken extensively in East Africa. Many believe that the purest form is spoken in Zanzibar as it is the birth place of the language.
Culture and Festivals
Zanzibar’s most famous event is the Zanzibar International Film Festival, also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries. Every July, this event showcases the best of the Swahili Coast arts scene, including Zanzibar’s favourite music, Taarab.
ZANZIBAR FACTS
Capital: Zanzibar City
Language: Kiswahili, Arabic and English
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSH)
Climate: Zanzibar is warm throughout the year with 7-8 hours of sunshine a day. The coastal resorts on the north and east coast are tempered by sea breezes. Generally the main rainy season, or the ‘long rains’, last during March, April and May. Afternoon tropical downpours are the norm – which can be heavy on any of the islands. The humidity is high and daily temperatures reach the low-mid 30°s.
Best time to travel: The long dry season, when rainfall is fairly unusual, lasts throughout June, July, August, September and October. Temperatures vary hugely with altitude and location, but it’s usually a fine, clear sky and sunny weather – it’s a great time to visit Zanzibar.
Health: Visit a Travel Clinic for more details before you travel/ Malaria is prevalent in most areas. Vaccinations against Hepatitis A, B, polio tetanus and Typhoid may also be recommended
Travel Insurance: We highly recommend travel insurance (Please ask consultants for a copy of the policy we recommend)
Visa: It is recommended to apply for a visa beforehand. The tourist visa is valid for 3 months and costs R670.
KITE SURFING
Zanzibar is a great place for kite surfing. Here we have the perfect conditions for beginners and experienced riders. Bright blue waters and sandy soils constant winds make Zanzibar an idyllic spot for kitesurfing. The reef is far out and the first part of the water is shallow, ideal for beginners and freestylers. The reef itself gives you amazing waves for experienced kitesurfers. Do not forget the playful backdrop of endless blue Indian Ocean, you will find beautiful white sand beaches, African villages, mention where the pace of life around it apparently has for over 50 years has not changed.
The people are friendly and welcoming, curious, but mostly they teach us what we have lost in the fast western world … Hakuna Matata (no problem) and Pole Pole (it go slowly) Zanzibar is a unique place for extreme sports combine with relaxing or exploring the rugged beauty of this relatively untouched island. We can not wait to share our knowledge of this fantastic sport with you, so the water and environment!
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