It’s no wonder that Zanzibar gets the lion’s (sultan’s?) share of attention on the Zanzibar Archipelago. Its old Stone Town pulsates with a mesmerising mix of influences and it’s an easy ride between here and the island’s heavenly beaches. So bag yourself a moped and zoom around Zanzibar – it’s the only way to travel.
Stop 1: Fortify yourself for the day’s adventures with a fruit smoothie or a strong brew from the Zanzibar Coffee House.
Stop 2: Take a walk through Darajani market in the morning, when everything is still fresh. This chaotic market’s dark and narrow passageways assault the senses. Brace yourself for occasional whiffs of spices mixing with the stench of fish, the clamour of vendors hawking their wares, brightly coloured piles of fruits and vegetables and dozens of small shops selling everything from plastic tubs to auto spares.
Stop 3: Jump aboard your moped. Stop by Dhow Countries Music Academy and arrange drumming lessons.
Stop 4: Visit the old slave market. The Anglican cathedral was built on the site of the old slave market alongside Creek Road. While nothing remains of it today, it remains a sobering reminder of the not-so-distant past.
Stop 5: If it’s the weekend, watch an afternoon football game at Mnazi Mmoja Sporting Grounds. Zanzibaris are passionate football fans, and watching a game is a good introduction to island life.
Stop 6: Zoom across the width of the island to Pongwe Beach and spend the afternoon paddling in its luminously clear waters. The quiet arc of the beach is dotted with palm trees and backed by dense vegetation, and is about as close to heaven as you can get.
Stop 7: Head back to town to watch the sunset from Forodhani Gardens. The grassy plaza comes alive with dozens of vendors serving up such delicacies as grilled pweza (octopus), plates of goat meat, Zanzibari pizza (rolled-up, omelette-filled chapati), a thick, delicious local version of naan, piles of chips, samosas and much more.
Stop 8: Head back to your hotel to rest your weary head.
Further information
Get your hands on our custom guide to Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast or download the Zanzibar chapter from the Tanzania guidebook.