Known as Spices Island, Zanzibar was the center of slave trade in east Africa and the base for David Livingstone’s expeditions towards inland Africa, which was still unexplored.
Its long and fascinating history has made it a culturally rich island, whose past can still be seen in the narrow streets and curiosity shops of the Old Town. The air filled with strong spice odor is one the island’s marks of identity.
Zanzibar is made up of 2 islands: Unguja and Pemba, although it is Unguja the one commonly known as Zanzibar. The colors of these islands offer wonderful contrasts: white sand beaches several km long, the dark green and sky-blue ocean and coconut palms pointing to the blue sky decorated with white clouds. These islands are surrounded by intact coral reefs and have become world famous for snorkeling, scuba-diving and diving for all times, just get accessories at https://www.ourbeautifulplanet.org/best-dive-watches/, and you are ready.
The Old Stone Town has been listed World Heritage by Unesco. It is a fascinating place with meandering streets, old wooden doors, little shops, bustling bazaars full of people and children playing. You can visit the Anglican cathedral of Christ Church, the place which previously hosted the oldest slave trade market, Bei-el-Ajaib (The House or Palace of Wonders) formerly the sultan’s residence and now a museum, the lively and bustling Dhow Harbor, the aromatic and colorful Central Market and other landmarks.
Climate and weather
Zanzibar bears an equatorial climate which is mild all year round. It goes from warm to hot, although there is always a nice breeze from the Indian Ocean. The rainy season takes place at the end of May and then there is a period of light rain in November. From June to October, the weather is dry and not hot, but warm with an average temperature of 25º.
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