Zanzibar, often dubbed the “Maldives of Africa,” is a tropical paradise that perfectly captures the essence of island living with its pristine beaches and vibrant culture.
When planning our itinerary, we thought, “Why not add Zanzibar to the mix?” It turned out to be the perfect decision—after days of exhausting safaris (waking up at dawn every morning!), we desperately needed a serene escape to unwind.
🌈 **Unforgettable Experiences**
* **Stone Town**: Once East Africa’s largest slave-trading hub, this historic district offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s complex past. Book a guided tour (around 300 RMB) on platforms like Booking.com to explore its winding alleys and learn about its rich heritage. The waterfront comes alive at night with bustling markets, though we skipped the food stalls.
Fair warning: Stone Town felt overrated to us—we even encountered a minor scam [🔪]. But history buffs might find it intriguing.
* **Beach bliss**: Nungwi and Paje boast powdery white sands and turquoise waters—pure paradise.
* **Aquatic adventures**: Dive with Matemwe Dive Center or snorkel near Mnemba Island, where playful dolphins often make appearances.
* **Offbeat excursions**: Prison Island (famous for giant tortoises) and rainforest tours didn’t pique our interest, but you can easily book these through hotels or online.
🛵 **Getting Around**
* Navigating Zanzibar’s bumpy roads takes patience—trips between destinations often last 1-2 hours. Taxis exist but aren’t hassle-free (always carry cash; hotels can arrange them). We chose the freedom of a rental car.
* **Car rental**: Snagged a deal at the airport—three days for ~1,300 RMB (insurance included).
Drive cautiously: roads are patchy, unlit at night, and shared with pedestrians and cyclists.
* **Pro tips**: Use Ctrip or local rental sites. Budget $15 cash for the mandatory local driving permit. Fuel up using Tanzanian shillings—USD exchanges are unfair.
🏨 **Where to Stay**
Beachfront resorts abound, but luxury comes at a price.
Steer clear of **Zanzibar Coffee House** in Stone Town [💣]—cramped rooms, unfriendly service, and shockingly overpriced (800-1,300 RMB/night).
Our sanctuary? **Tikitam Palms Boutique Hotel** near Pongwe (~3,000-3,500 RMB/night, meals included).
With just eight spacious villas (80 sqm each), it felt exclusive and tranquil. While breakfast was average, their BBQ dinners were divine. Don’t miss their affordable spa—the skilled masseuse added a touch of elegance to our stay.
💬 **Cultural Insights**
Our Stone Town guide revealed a striking local dynamic: many men don’t work, relying on family support, while women remain largely out of public view post-marriage. The streets teem with idle bystanders—a stark contrast to the island’s beauty.
We were repeatedly warned: “Trust no one” and always demand receipts for payments.
Yet beyond the cautionary tales, warmth exists everywhere. Here’s to Zanzibar—and Africa—shining brighter in the years ahead!
