So much of what has shaped Zanzibar derives from its ancient trade in spices. Known as one of the Spice Islands for its trade in cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper, the abundance of such fragrant spices attracted visitors from all over the world. Zanzibar used to be one of the most important trading posts in the Indian Ocean and has a colourful past with the Assyrians, Sumerians, Egyptians, Phoenicians, Indians, Chinese, Persians, Portuguese, Omani Arabs, Dutch and English, all visiting through history.
Stone Town is the historic centre of Zanzibar and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site with over 500 highly decorated doors, displays of their owners’ wealth and status in the town. The town still has a fortress, two sultans’ palaces, colonial mansions and a Persian-style public bathhouse. A walk through the alleyways is a delight playing eye-spy for the most ornate door.
Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
Stone Town is the historic centre of Zanzibar and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site with over 500 highly decorated doors, displays of their owners’ wealth and status in the town. The town still has a fortress, two sultans’ palaces, colonial mansions and a Persian-style public bathhouse. A walk through the alleyways is a delight playing eye-spy for the most ornate door.
One of the palaces is now a museum exhibiting pieces of furniture and artwork, from the time of the sultans, saved from the revolution in 1964. Zanzibar also provided a base for many missionaries and explorers during colonial times. Another site to visit is Livingstone’s House, built in the 1860s, the last residence of Dr Livingstone before he set out on his final, ill-fated expedition to discover the source of the Nile.
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Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
A day trip to a spice plantation is another wonderful way in which to spend time here. They have influenced the food on offer so that it is not only healthy but delicious!
Zanzibar not only had a big trade in spices but also in ivory and slaves. The trade in slaves was finally abolished in the 1820s.
Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
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Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
Had enough of history? Make sure you take some time to relax while you are in this amazing location. Don’t just spend your time running around from one sight to another. Take the time to just lie on one of the many beautiful beaches here. The white sands contrast almost blindingly against the warm, turquoise Indian Ocean. You can dive above beautiful coral gardens and amongst tropical fish or just relax on the warm beach with a refreshing drink.
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Photo by Annelieke Huijgens
Zanzibar is a true tropical island paradise but with the substance of its ancient roots.
Bunnik Tours visit the Zanzibar tour, or why not add Zanzibar as an extension to any of our Africa tours?
