4 DAYS ZANZIBAR IN 5 STAR

Day notes

Zanzibar, an exotic island paradise lying 25 miles off the coast of Tanzania, still reflects the influences of the European, Persian and Arab spice merchants who, for centuries, traveled through this world crossroads of trade. You will experience the hospitality of the soft-spoken residents, and thrill to the sight of dhows, the traditional Arab sailing vessels, as they engage in the centuries-old trade of spice and precious woods. Upon arrival at the hotel, you can relax in your room or on the palm-fringed, unspoiled beach. If you are feeling more energetic, you can take advantage of an array of beach activities. Zanzibar’s proximity to the equator means the island is warm year-round, making it a popular destination for African tours. Sea breezes cool the island even at the height of summer, which peaks in December.

You may enjoy the next day at leisure, on the beach or take one of two optional tours. You can decide to explore the narrow, winding streets of the ancient city on foot, though minibuses and taxis are plentiful if being driven is your preference. Cars, motorbikes, scooters and bicycles are also available for rent. You can experience a fascinating and informative tour of the fabled Spice Gardens of Zanzibar as an optional tour. You will breathe the intoxicating scents of the spices for which Zanzibar is so well known while exploring spice plantations, private gardens and forests, and have the opportunity to examine the spices in their raw form in their native climate. Alternately, a cultural tour of Stone Town in the old part of Zanzibar City will provide a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the island. You can delight in the beauty of historic buildings carved out of red coral stone, and absorb the local culture from an exotic mix of bazaars, shops and restaurants. Admire Swahili architecture and the massive, elaborately carved and studded doors unique to Zanzibar.

You can enjoy yourself on the beach or take an optional tour on your third day. A trip to the Jozani Forest Nature Reserve may provide sightings of the Kirk's red colobus monkey, one of the rarest primates one can see on an African tour. The Jozani Forest is one of the few places in the world to harbor the endangered animal, which you may see leaping through the trees in troops of up to one hundred monkeys. The Jozani Forest, which lies 24 kilometers southeast of Stone Town, is the only forest on the island not lost to agriculture or construction. Alternately, you can visit the neighboring island of Pemba and enjoy world-class diving, fishing and snorkeling in the famous Pemba Channel. The channel’s deep waters are home to barracuda, sting rays, sailfish and sharks. Beautiful coral formations and other forms of exotic sea life abound in the shallower waters. Diving in Pemba is best from June to October.

Day notes

A day that seemed a long way off just a few short days ago has come much too soon. Business, work and home await, and it is time to return to that other world and bid your travel companions goodbye. After you enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel you will be put on a flight that will take you to Nairobi, where you will catch your flight home, and you will say 'Kwaheri' to East Africa – at least for now. At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will connect with your outbound flight home, carrying a lifetime of memories from your African tour back with you.