Article by HolidayHorizon.net
Zanzibar’s history is remarkably vibrant and reflects the patterns of colonialism which dominated the region up to the turn of the 20th century. The Portuguese Empire laid control to Zanzibar for over 200 years, being then replaced, in 1698, by the Sultanate of Oman. This was the beginning of a strong trade and spice development which led to the region being referred to as the Spice Islands. A darker historical fact was the vibrant slave-trade which flourished on the island until it was abolished by the British Empire during the 19th century. In 1890, the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty between the German and British Empire formalized the standing of the British Empire’s control over Zanzibar. The Zanzibar islands gained independence from Britain in 1963, and during 1964, the Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba were established, later being included as a sub-autonomous region under the creation of the Republic of Tanzania.
Zanzibar Island – A Tropical Region With Abundant Wildlife and Superb Reefs
Being situated off the coast of Tanzania, East Africa, the Zanzibar islands are very close to the equator, with the typical wet season during the early summer months, and a balanced, year-round warm climate. Zanzibar is considered an archipelago made up of the main and largest Zanzibar island (known to the locals as Unguja), as well as, the Pemba islands. There are no large wild animals in the island, yet, the diversity of the small animals and vegetation, provide an abundant variety to this region. The Jozani Forest is home to many of the islands local wildlife, including the Zanzibar red Colobus monkey, antelopes, civets, and even the tale-fraught Zanzibar leopard. Especially the East coast can boast a remarkable marine diversity with magnificent coral reefs and large areas of untouched Zanzibar beaches and coastlines.
Many historical sites and places to see around Zanzibar City
A visit to Stone Town is recommended by all, and with the recent World Heritage Site declaration, Stone Town offers visitors a unique blend of architecture and traditions all blended into a potpourri of winding alleyways, shops, eateries, and exciting submersion into a cultural past uniquely identified with Zanzibar history. With the spice cultivation still an important trade income source, there are ample tours to spice farms, where clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, and kukurma are grown, and can be seen close-up and tasted on several spice plantations. The Jozani National Park and Zanzibar Butterfly Center offer magnificent attractions for viewing the regions´ local animals, while also supporting important local development projects for sustaining the habitat. For those seeking special the water experience, the East Beaches and Kendwa beach, provide a veritable trove for Zanzibar diving, and white-sand beaches, offering genuine, tropical coast impressions and memories.
Travelling to Zanzibar Island by Air or Water
The main access is provided by the island hoppers; smaller, regional airlines flying from the Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salam to the Zanzibar main island. Many of the international carriers fly into Dar es Salam and there are also select direct flights from international locations. There are similar options to travel by boat or catamaran, if one is prepared to consider longer travel times needed using a Zanzibar ferry. Bear in mind, there are the usual scalpers, so be selective when buying tickets on the spot, especially those with return options. Check in advance any visa requirements required for your citizenship, to ensure all of the necessary documents are on-hand.
The Zanzibar Culture – Awareness and Customs
The local Zanzibar inhabitants speak Swahili, with the usual English dispersion common to tourist enclaves. The predominant religion on the Zanzibar island is Muslim, therefore, in view of the tropical surroundings, it is recommended to choose the proper attire, especially amongst the women, when moving out and about the city and surroundings. The Holy month of Ramadan is observed as well, which, among others, is characterized by fasting during daytime, therefore, remember this is a very special religious occasion for those who observe this.
Zanzibar offers a rich history and present-day, colorful culture and people, to discover and absorb, with many of the historical landmarks available to experience first-hand by travellers. Set within a beautiful tropical locale, the Zanzibar beaches offer any visitor the full satisfaction of an incredible vacation backdrop, without the need to worry about moody Zanzibar weather surprises. With still a special, almost insiders´ air of discretion, Zanzibar will offer you a true historical journey, combined with some of the most scenic, natural beauty, only an archipelago can claim in its own right.