ZANZIBAR SAFARIS
TOURS/EXCURSIONS OLD STONE TOWN TOUR This three and a half hour tour commences with a visit to Zanzibar's colourful market. Alive with the buzz of locals bartering fresh vegetables and baskets of tropical fruit, amongst the heady smell of jack fruit (a nd many other exotic fruits) we continue on to the site of the cathedral built in 1874. The cathedral signifies a potent time in Zanzbar's history and stands on the sight of a past slave market, its high altar standing on the exact site of the whipping post. From here we visit the residence of the late Sultans of Zanzibar, 'Tip Tip House', 'People Palace' and the House of Wonders; full intrigues and vivid history from a bygone era. The tour ends with a stroll through the narrow streets of the old stone town, the heart of Zanzibar' vivacious history . THE SPICE TOUR Guaranteed to woken your senses, we visit spice plantations where you will have the opportunity to pick, smell and savor fruits and spices that you have probably never seen on the supermarket shelf. Commencing at the ruins of the Maruhubi Palace, via the site of David Livingston's house (one of Africa's greatest explores) the journey continues north of town towards the Kidichi Persian Baths. From here we continue to the rural areas were local farmers live and produce some of the worlds most exotic fruits and spices. Cloves star fruit, 'bulls heart', tangerine trees, lemon grass, mangosteen and lip-stick trees to name but a few are what you can we expect to see - according to the seasons. Perhaps you will fancy buying a basket of freshly picked spices to take home with you.
JOZANI FOREST TOUR Jozani Forest is the only remaining natural forest on Unguja Island (which, along with Pemba makes up the islands of Zanzibar). To have a complete your forest tour, you must visit all 3 sections that make up the forest. Parts of the forest have been re-planted with species of trees from across the World (most of which hold mechanical qualities) and are over 100m long. A large section of the forest sustains a wide variety of wildlife and birds, including the rare Red Colobus Monkey, whilst a 10 Kilometer section is swamp forests and evergreen thickets that provide a unique glimpse into a secretive World. The third section of Jozani takes you through natural bush, shadows of huge varieties of mangrove species. Ask your guide about the close association between the witch doctors of Jozani & leopard found in the forest's thickest recesses and mystical tales that have surrounded this Forest Reserve, dating back to when tigers (imported by the Sultans) inhabited the forest.
PRISON ISLAND TOUR A boat ride to the island in a small traditional dhow is a must when visiting Zanzibar. Earning its namesake as a former prison for slaves and a quarantine station for Kenya, Uganda and then Tanganyika, nowadays the island gives you the chance to escape for some peace and quit!. Hundred year old giant tortoises act as unlikely vigilants over the island and you cannot help but wonder what tales they would tell if only they could only talk! Approximately one kilometer long and a quarter of a kilometer wide, the location is perfect for swimming & snorkeling after a stroll round the island. It really is like driving into champagne the water is so clear. NB : Please note that temporary construction is taking place on the island at he moment.
DOLPHIN TOUR This half a day tour takes you to Kizimkazi along the south-west cost of Zanzibar. Upon arrival at the fishing village of Kazimkazi listen to a briefing about the behavior and species of dolphins indigenous to the area before proceeding to the Dolphins location (with a 80% success rate of spotting them). There is a fair chance you will get to play and swim with them. Return to the sea shore in the afternoon.
COASTAL EXCURSION This trip leads you through a spice farm at Mangapwani Village where, in addition to touching and smelling an array of colourful spices and herbs, you will have the chance to visit the famous slave caves in the area; a potent chapter in Zanzibar's vivid history. Continue onto the famous village of Nungwi (on the North Eat Tip of Zanzibar where the beautiful white sandy beaches awaiting you. Enjoy lunch at one of the Nungwi restaurants and a relaxing afternoon on the beach before returning to your hotel.
SWAHILI TOUR This trips leads you through a spice farm at Mangapwani Village where in addition to touching and smelling an array of colourful spices and herbs, you will have the chance to visit the famous slave caves in the area; a potent chapter in Zanzibar's vivid history. Continue onto the famous village of Nungwi (on the North East Tip Zanzibar) where the beautiful white sandy beaches awaiting you. Enjoy lunch at one of the Nungwi Restaurants and relaxing afternoon on the beach before returning to your hotel. Continue to a fishing Village of Nungwi restaurants and a relaxing afternoon on the beach before returning to your hotel.
STONE TOWN BY NIGHT Depart from your hotel at 16:00hrs or 17:00 from your stone town hotel and start your tour in earnest with a sun-downer drink at the former British Club at 06h30, a hub of activity with superb sunset views over Zanzibar's port, before commencing your guided walk through the narrow streets of Zanzibar's historic and old stone town (voted the world heritage site). By night a whole different way life transpires. Small shops open for trade after the evening's prayers, selling their goods by candlelight, whilst the food venues along the pier sell sizzling dishes from freshly cooked and spiced seafood to meat and vegetarian meals. Afterwards proceed for dinner at Serena Hotels, situated on the edge of old stone town, along the water's edge watch all the local fishermen sailing out to sea to fish overnight. Afterwards transfer back to your designated hotel.
FULL MOON/STAR TOUR This tour offers you the unique opportunity to accompany local fishermen on their night fishing trips on the Indian Ocean. At 20:00hrs depart motorized boat from old stone with a picnic dinner on board. Under a full moon watch the local night fishing set their nets by lantern, singing and calling to each other as they drift on the Indian Ocean just the sound of gentle waves accompanying their songs. This is how the local fishermen have been fishing for centuries, admitted without the addition of a motor! Under the night sky look up and see the constellations and enjoy the experience of Serena peace and quit - the likes which you won't experience anywhere else during your Zanzibar visit. The tour lasts approximately 3-4 hours. After your fishing experience you will return to land and be transferred to your designated hotel.
Special Information DEPARTURE TAX Harbour tax $ 5 per person Intl. flight tax $ 25 per person Domestic flight T.sh 5000 per person Note. The tax can only be paid in cash.
EXCHANGE OF CURRENCY Banks, bureau de change and most hotels exchange cash travellers' cheques. USD AND GBP are preferred but and other convertible currencies are accepted. BANKS 8.30am - 4.00pm MONDAY-FRIDAY 8.30am - 2.00pm SATURDAYS CLOSED SUNDAYS
BUREAU DE CHANGE 8.00am - 6.00pm MONDAY -FRIDAY 9.00am - 1.00pm MONDAY-SUNDAY SHOPS 9.00am - 6.00pm MONDAY-SUNDAY
USE OF CREDIT CARD : - Most Hotels, and some curio shops accept major credit cards i.e. VISA, MASTER CARD.
LANGUAGE : - The official language is Swahili, but English is widely spoken.
DRESS CODE : - 97% of the population follow the Islamic religion; we therefore request you to dress accordingly in public.
DRINKING WATER - Bottled mineral water recommended.
DRIVING : - Driving is on the left. A valid international driving licence is necessary to hire automobiles.
HEALTH :- Malaria is endemic in AFRICA and we stress the importance of taking prophylactics prescribed by your Doctor and should be continued during and after your visit; appropriate clothing to assist in covering arms and legs too avoid bites is advised in the evenings.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS : JANUARY 1, JANUARY 12, GOOD FRIDAY, EASTER MONDAY, MAY 1, PROPHET MOHAMMED'S BARTH DAY AUGUST 8, DECEMBER 25, IDD-EL-FITR, IDD-EL-HAJ.
SECURITY :- Zanzibar is no different from other parts of the Africa/World. Excessive displays of jewelery or money will tempt undesirable elements. Do not leave valuables lying around, use the facilities provided by the hotel. Walking around in unfamiliar streets of the Stone Town during evening hours with camera is not recommended.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS :- Facilities for international Telephone and Fascimile are available, but the charges and handiling fees in the hotels or offices can be exorbitant.Facilities at the town post office is recommended.
RESTAURANTS :- Zanzibar Town Hotels offer a wide variety of local and international cuisine, including a delightful array of fresh sea food specialities to satisfy any gourmet's palate. PAGODA - It is the only Chinese Restaurant in Zanzibar. It is located in the heart of stone town, Services here are extremely good. Opening hours are from 12.00am for lunch and 7.30pm for Dinner.
SWEET & EASY - It is the only Thai & Japanese restaurant in Zanzibar and is located along the seafront next to Tembo Hotel. It is within easy reach from any hotel in Stone Town
EMERSON'S - The location is boasts the best aerial view of Stone Town, and situated very close to the Indian mosque. The restaurant serves local and international food and drinks. Emerson's is opened from 6.00pm-10pm for dinner only.
DHOW RESTAURANT: Moored in Stone Town's enchanting harbour, Maarten and his crew serve an elegant feast of grilled lobster, succulent prawns, and an array of island specialities. This culinary experience is uniquely complemented by the surroundings of the lavishly restored dhow. LE SPICES RENDEZ-VOUS - It offers the best Indian and seafood cuisine on the Island. Le Spices is romantic ambience, friendly service and a warm reception.
A TOKEN OF ADVICE: We are here to ensure that your holiday on Zanzibar is memorable and hassle free. Kindly note that Zanzibar has a typical island tempo and we ask for your patience however please do not hesitate to ask questions. We are here to serve you.
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