The name Tanzania conjures up images of wildebeest stampeding across the savannah, forests teeming with monkeys and birdlife, and plains brimming with legions of game. All of these natural wonders and more are on offer in this diverse African nation. Visitors typically visit Tanzania to partake in at least one of the three popular Tanzanian tourist experiences: an exotic seaside vacation on the island paradise of Zanzibar, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Whichever of these holidays you choose, you will be welcomed by friendly locals who, despite being divided into 120 different ethnic groups and cultures, live in harmony with one another.
The only functioning historical town in East Africa, Stone Town is a melting pot of cultures, people and lifestyles. The lively town is a maze of narrow, twisting streets and alleyways, radiating history from every nook and cranny. A trading centre for nearly 2 000 years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its range of architectural styles, eclectic collection of languages, and the tastes, smells and sights of many diverse cultures. Stone Town is the ideal base for exploring some of the island’s most well-known tourist attractions including many spice farms, Prison Island and Jozani Forest.
Fumba is a village on the Tanzanian island of Unguja, the largest and most populated in the Zanzibar Archipelago. The town lies just 30 minutes southwest of the historic capital, Stone Town. It also lies at the end of the Fumba Peninsula on one of Zanzibar’s most secluded beaches, overlooking the Menai Bay. The peninsula, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty by the World Wildlife Federation, forms a significant part of the Menai Bay Conservation Area, an impressive marine haven with pristine and colourful coral reef systems and abundant sea life.
Kigomani lies on Zanzibar's northeastern coast and is known for its endless stretch of powdery white-sand beach, which meets crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors can engage in an array of thrilling adventure activities, and enjoy a visit to the local fish market. Other popular activities include snorkeling the offshore coral reef, diving, boating, wildlife watching and island hopping near Mnemba Island. The sunsets here are spectacular - make sure to bring your camera. This destination is generally quiet - the perfect place to escape the crowds - you'll probably see more cows than people.
Once little more than a fishing village, Nungwi has been transformed into one of the island’s busiest beach destinations. Situated on the northernmost tip, Nungwi is blessed with some of Zanzibar’s most idyllic swimming beaches as the water surrounding the area is fairly deep and mostly unaffected by the changing tides. The village is also renowned as a party hot-spot with a boisterous nightlife and thriving social scene hosted by the array of bars and restaurants. Spend your days lazing on the spectacular beaches, floating in the idyllic waters or discovering the underwater life on a scuba-dive. As the sun sets, join the revellers as the town comes alive with cocktails flowing freely and the beach bonfires blazing.
While similar in size to its neighbouring Unguja Island, Pemba is far less developed and touristy. As a result, this island paradise has a remarkably remote, authentic and unspoilt feel to it - and the coastline is lined with gorgeous mangroves and secluded beaches. Known throughout East Africa as a centre for practicing and learning the ancient arts of traditional African healing, the island has a rich and fascinating history that the notoriously friendly locals seem eager to share with visitors. Pemba is home to three main towns and boasts a wide range of attractions. Spend your days exploring the indigenous Ngezi and Ras Kiuyu Forests, both brimming with an abundance of unusual bird and wildlife; scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters (home to a variety of marine life including mantas and turtles), or exploring the incredible Ras Mkumbuu Ruins which date back to the 11th century.
