Zanzibar – the mention of the name brings to mind aromatic spices, bustling bazaars and brilliant glistening white beaches...

Unguja Island, often called Zanzibar, is just off the coast of Tanzania and forms part of a larger group of islands called the Zanzibar archipelago, many of which are uninhabited. This exotic and mysterious island has enticed travelers and traders for centuries.

Zanzibar’s history has been shaped by its geographical position which, being in the middle of the Indian Ocean, has influenced the trade routes of both traders and colonists. Zanzibar became a power to be reckoned with in its early years, supplying parts of the world with slaves, gold, ivory and silks. Trade with the east brought Islam to the islands, making it an important part of the culture. The arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century heralded the end of this golden age and the beginning of a struggle for control of the archipelago. The Omani Arabs took over from the Portuguese in the early 18th century. In 1861, Zanzibar separated from Oman and became an independent sultanate. During Sultan Barghash's rule (from 1870 to 1888), Britain and Germany divided up much of the area, guaranteeing their economic control over the remaining coastal strip. In 1890, the British proclaimed a protectorate over Zanzibar and helped end the slave trade.

Today Zanzibar is a place to escape the pace of the modern world, the turquoise seas provide the ultimate place to reflect and unwind. An idyllic destination for those in pursuit of romance, adventure or simple relaxation.

Weather
Zanzibar’s climate is tropical, with high humidity and temperatures averaging 25-29°C (77-84°F). From December to March, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F). There are two rainy seasons, with the 'long' rains (masika) from mid-March to May, and the 'short' rains (mvuli) are from November to January. The best time to visit Zanzibar is from June to March.

Zanzibar Health Requirements
When visiting Zanzibar it is required that you are inoculated for Yellow Fever. (Don’t forget your inoculation certificate!). Other recommended inoculations include typhoid, tetanus, polio and hepatitus A. Malaria is also an issue on the island, so please be sure to take precautions, and protect yourself from mosquitoes. Please check with your GP or with your nearest travel clinic for more information.

Getting Around
There are no flights crossing the island itself. Converted pick-ups or dalla-dallas (minibuses) link all major towns on Zanzibar Island and are common sight. It's easy to arrange a car, moped or motorcycle rental. An international driving license is necessary in order to rent motor vehicles. Beware of traffic in the Stonetown, even some of the narrowest streets are in fact public roads!

Banking
Credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express and EuroCard are accepted mainly at most major hotels and resorts, as well as travel agents. Traveler’s cheques may be difficult to cash outside of Stonetown. There are ATMs at many of the banks in town. There are many Bureau de Change around Zanzibar that are quick and easy to use.

Visas
It is essential to purchase a visa when visiting Zanzibar. Visas can be obtained before your arrival through your nearest Tanzaninian Embassy or Consulate. It is also possible to purchase a Visitor’s Visa at the International Airport when you arrive in Zanzibar. Please check with your travel agent as to the current cost of the visas before departure.

Ramadan and Eid Eid al-Fitr
Ramadan is the annual month of fasting observed by all Muslims worldwide and occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It begins with the first sighting of the new moon and lasts for around 30 days. During this time Muslims may not eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset.

Visitors to Zanzibar will find most shops, cafes and restaurants closed by day, only to open again after the evening meal, which breaks the daily fast at sunset. Many shops stay open later than usual during Ramadan. You will find some discreet non-Muslim eateries in Stone Town open for business during the day, as well as most of the larger hotels and resorts on the coast.
While visitors are not expected to fast, it is considered offensive to eat, drink or smoke in public during the day.

Eid al-Fitr is the festival that breaks the fasting month of Ramadan. When the new moon of the tenth month rises, Muslims welcome the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the Eid al-Fitr festival, to celebrate the coming year. In Zanzibar, festivities last for four days and mark a time for giving and merriment. Zanzibar’s nightlife comes alive during Eid making it one of the best times to visit the islands.

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