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Traditional dhows off the coast of Zanzibar

Things to do in Zanzibar Archipelago

The Zanzibar Archipelago is just 30 kilometres off the Tanzanian coast, but is a world away in terms of things to do. From exploring mysterious Stone Town with its history of magic and folklore to searching for the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey in the Jozani Forest, the archipelago’s islands have an eclectic mix of activities on offer.

For beach-based activities, take a boat trip through the aquamarine seas aboard a traditional dhow, keeping your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins, or simply surround yourself with pink sea anemones, butterflyfish and parrotfish as you snorkel among the region’s protected coral reefs.
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Ideas for experiencing Zanzibar Archipelago

Experiences you have as you travel often hold the longest memories. As part of their research trips, our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know Zanzibar Archipelago, and the best local guides. These activities reflect some of their best-loved experiences.

  • Diving in Pemba
    Diving around Pemba

    Diving in Pemba

    Pemba Island

    Diving in Pemba

    A conservation area was set up around Misali Island in 1998 following El Niño which had a bleaching effect on corals elsewhere in the Indian Ocean. Misali retained its dense coral cover and coupled with its dramatic drop-off reefs have made it a fantastic location for diving.

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  • Sailing Safari
    Traditional dhow, Zanzibar

    Sailing Safari

    Stone Town

    Sailing Safari

    The bay has a number of uninhabited islands and sandbanks and is frequented by humpback and bottlenose dolphins.

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  • Jozani Forest Tour
    Kirk's red colobus monkey, Jozani Forest Tour

    Jozani Forest Tour

    Stone Town

    Jozani Forest Tour

    You walk through the nature trail of the forest which is a habitat for many species of animals and birds. It is famous for its red colobus monkey — a very rare species.

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  • Dolphin Safari
    Dolphin, Pemba Island

    Dolphin Safari

    Pemba Island

    Dolphin Safari

    You leave Fundu at around 7.30am and head off in a speedboat to look for spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Spend some time with the dolphins and then return to Fundu for breakfast.

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