Zanzibar lies South of the Equator crossing and it is remarkably a home to the most beautiful beaches and islands worth relaxing while on African holiday. It is largely an archipelago comprising of magical small islands (especially Unguja and Pemba islands) stretching along the Tanzanian coastline of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is blessed with not only with stunning sandy beaches but also features exotic spices, unique culture and history. This makes Zanzibar a perfect destination for every enthusiastic nature, adventure traveler.
Generally, Zanzibar is a rich cultural and historical destination. History has it that the Northerners-the Phoenicians, Romans and Mesopotamians inclusive traded on Zanzibar’s coast for long. It was during then that Zanzibar was first mentioned as the island of Menouthesias in the 2 landmark Greek documents; the Periplus of the Erythraean sea and Ptolemy’s Geography. Change in this region was experience during the arrival of Islamic Arabs and Shirazi (Persian) settlers in the 8th century that led to rise of Kiswahili language and culture. In the mid-19th century, Zanzibar turned the capital of the whole far-flung Omani Empire and Stone Town.
In the first century, Bantu speakers settled in Zanzibar, engaging in farming and fishing as well as limited long distance trade. By the 10th century, trade was booming, and Zanzibar became the heart of Swahili trade. The very first houses in Zanzibar Island where built with timber, and later on stone and mud, though modified years later with permanent building materials to date.
The line was drawn as the only privileged and rich patricians stayed in houses built on lime and bond stone, developed by the ancient architects. This is a historical fact you should confirm as you visit the island.
Zanzibar grew in wealth and fame, with growth in trade, as Indians, Persians and Arabs traders arrived at the island to get the east African valuable minerals such as the ambergris, ivory, and gold. As the Indian Ocean – shoreline cultures interacted with central African cultures, a Swahili race was formed.
In 1498, Vasco da Gama became the very first European to visit the coast of Zanzibar, as well as paving way for the arrival of several others. Captain Ruy Lourenco Ravasco Marques landed at the island later in 1503, and demanded for a pay from the sultan in exchange for peace, a request granted by declaring Zanzibar a Portuguese Empire. For two centuries, the Portuguese controlled Zanzibar Island. In 1984, there was a brief revolt against the Omani rule, with the local elites inviting the Omani merchants to settle in Zanzibar.
The British Empire took over Zanzibar from the sultans, with the initiation of abolition of slave trade in the 19th century. In 1822, they put pressure on the sultan said to abolish slave trade, and the first Anti-slavery treaties signed by Said Seyyid; stopping slave transport to the south or east Moresby line. In 1890, Zanzibar was made a British protectorate, under the dominion of the sultan of Zanzibar. Forward to 12th January 1964, Jamshid bin Abdullah was overthrown as the Zanzibaris revolted; over 20,000 people lost their lives and several people displaced.
On April 1964, Zanzibar Island got her independence, though merged with Tanganyika; the two names combined as one, and named; Tanzania. Towns in the island are Chaani, chwaka, wete, Mbweni, Nungwi, and Mkoani. Besides spice plantation; tourism is one of the most amazing revenue source for the island of Zanzibar; a destination that has enjoyed peace, and harmony internally and with neighbors.
Where is Zanzibar Island?
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania, located south of the equator. It is an archipelago consisting of Unguja Island (85kms long and 39kms wide, extending up-to 1464sq.kms of land area. Its second extensive island is Pemba and this stretches 67kms by length and 22kms across. Zanzibar makes up part of the beautiful Indian Ocean’s Islands and lies along the Swahili coast just close to Tanzania.
Why visit Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is by far a remarkable destination along the Indian Ocean off Tanzania coast worth exploring. It is popular for its superlative historical, cultural and eco-tourism experiences in East African region. It is a magical archipelago with nearly everything any enthusiastic sightseer would like to explore and experience. Its unique, ethnical history is one incredible thing not to miss as it takes you through its ancient times that it has had for centuries.
Zanzibar’s history without doubt is distinct! The Arabs, Persians, Europeans, Indians and traces of Chinese, each left picturesque landmark of unique architectural styles and culture which presently make it a beautiful destination. The rise and fall of numerous empires which left behind ruins and other remnants across different sides shouldn’t be ignored although their presence is still felt in the blood of the traditional Zanzibarian.
The Zanzibar of today has tremendously changed from cuisines to semantics, spices, fruits, furniture styles, handcraft products, jewelry to fabrics. It is a spectacular natural island which distinguishes it from the rest of island seaside destinations in Africa. It is an area full of beauty, unspoilt white sands and characterized by a lush tropical vegetation cover. Visit Zanzibar and experience the natural splendor and serenity without exception of its dazzling islands.
Is Zanzibar Safe?
Yes, Zanzibar is very safe to travel for a safari. It is one of the safest places for not only group travelers but also for solo female travelers on Zanzibar safaris. It is part of Tanzania which is one of the most peaceful and stable countries in East Africa. The locals are warm welcoming, friendly and free to interact with. But, ensure that you respect their cultures-dress well, do not carry valuables to the beach, protect all valuable safely preferably at the hotel, avoid walking alone at night.
Zanzibar safaris offer the best of African island experiences of a lifetime. While on Zanzibar tour visitors get an exceptional blend of African beauty and Middle Eastern exoticism. Zanzibar is by far a perfect place to enjoy not only the most romantic retreats but also other exciting adventures.