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Zanzibar
Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Island best known as the 'spice island'.
Zanzibar was the center for the slave-trade in East Africa and base for David Livingstone's expeditions into the unexplored African interior. Its long and fascinating history has resulted in an island rich in culture and the past still exists in the ancient narrow streets and curio shops of the Old Town. The air is heavy with the aroma of cloves and other spices which still provide a livelihood for many people of Zanzibar.
There are two main islands making up Zanzibar, Unguja and Pemba, but Unguja is popularly refered to as Zanzibar. The colours of these islands hold wonderful contrasts: mile-long untouched beaches with white sands, the deep green azure of the of the ocean, coconut palm trees against the blue sky with its ornamental white clouds. The islands are surrounded by unspoiled coral reefs, and are becoming famous for the spectacular scuba diving and snorkeling .
The old Stone Town of Zanzibar has been made into a world heritage site. It is a fascinating place with narrow winding streets, old Zanzibari wooden doors, small shops, busy bazaars, people and children playing. You may visit the Anglican Church of Christ, situated on the site of the old slave market, Beit-el-Ajaib (House of Wonders) which was built as a Sultans Palace, and is now a museum, the lively and bustling Dhow Harbour, the colourful and aromatic Central market and other fascinating parts of the rich history and everyday life of the people.
Climate and Weather
Zanzibar offers a comfortable equatorial climate all year round. The climate varies from warm to hot, though there is always a pleasant fine breeze from the Indian Ocean. The heavy rainfall is from March to end May and further short rains fall in November. The relatively cool, dry period from June to October is particularly pleasant, with average temperatures of 25 degrees centigrade with cool long breezes of the southeast monsoon prevailing.
When to visit
The optimum period for diving is from October to April.