The fascinating island of Zanzibar is an atmospheric melting pot of Portuguese, Arab and Swahili influence. In Old Stone Town, twisting streets wide enough only for a laden donkey link picturesque old merchant houses, Portuguese ruins, mosques and the Sultan’s Palace. Spice plantations that provided the island’s wealth still operate whilst the coast has some of the best beaches in the world. Similarly famous for its spices, Pemba Island is paradise for beach lovers and divers, as is the mainland coast. Deserted beaches, the warm clear waters of the Indian Ocean, coral reefs harbouring a wealth of colourful fish and world-class diving and fishing are complemented inland by tropical coastal forest brimming with animal and birdlife.
Recommended accommodation
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Fundu Lagoon
Set on the west coast of Pemba Island just north of Zanzibar, Fundu Lagoon is an escapist fantasy surrounded by miles of white beach, crystal clear waters and pristine coral reefs.
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Matemwe Bungalows
Matemwe Bugalows on Zanzibar’s East Coast is a peaceful resort that also offers amazing food, great diving and simple but stylish accommodation.
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Mnemba Island
Voted by Condé Nast as one of the three most romantic destinations in the world, Mnemba is the height of understated luxury. The ten wooden ‘bandas’ are enchantingly furnished.
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Ras Kutani
A two hour drive or 20 minute flight from Dar es Salaam on the Swahili Coast, Ras Kutani lies on two and a half miles of beautiful, undeveloped Indian Ocean beach.
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Ras Nungwi
Situated on a gleaming expanse of empty beach at the northernmost tip of Zanzibar, Ras Nungwi is a small luxury hotel of great charm. It lies on a lagoon protected by coral reefs.
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The Palms
Set on a peaceful white beach and surrounded by tranquil gardens, it offers the charm and privacy of five star villa living with all the facilities of a top hotel.
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The Residence, Zanzibar
Set in isolated splendour on the South West coast of Zanzibar, on 32 hectares of pristine land once occupied by the Shirazi Princes, The Residence Zanzibar is a dream fit for a Sultan.
Sample itinerary
DAY 1 LONDON/DAR ES SALAAM
Schedule overnight flight London to Dar es Salaam.
DAY 2 DAR ES SALAAM/OLIVER'S CAMP
On arrival in Dar es Salaam connect by light aircraft to Arusha. Transfer with private guide and vehicle to Oliver's Camp, Tarangire for a 2 night stay.
DAY 3 OLIVER'S CAMP
1 day of activities including game drives, guided walks and optional overnight fly-camping.
DAY 4 OLIVER'S CAMP/NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE
Transfer with private guide and vehicle to Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for a 2 night stay.
DAY 5 NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE
1 day of activities including game drives into the Crater and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
DAY 6 NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE/KUSINI
Transfer with private guide and vehicle across the Serengeti Plains to Kusini for a 3 night stay.
DAY 7 - 8 KUSINI
2 days of activities including game drives in the Serengeti and guided walking safaris.
DAY 9 KUSINI/THE PALMS
Transfer by light aircraft to Zanzibar. Road transfer to The Palms for a 4 night stay.
DAY 10 - 12 THE PALMS
3 days of activities including water sports, scuba diving, tennis and massages.
DAY 13 THE PALMS/ZANZIBAR SERENA
Road transfer to the Zanzibar Serena for a 1 night stay in the legendary Stone Town.
DAY 14 ZANZIBAR SERENA/LONDON
Early transfer by light aircraft to Dar es Salaam to connect with the schedule flight to London. Arrive London late afternoon.
Price from £4,700 excluding flights and some meals and drinks at Zanzibar Serena.
Please call us for a bespoke itinerary and quotation.
