The Island of Zanzibar

Located in the Indian ocean and a two-hour boat ride from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar?s city Islands of Ungunja and Pemba are collectively referred to as Zanzibar. In 1963 Zanzibar got its independence from Britain. In April of the same year, Zanzibar merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania, commonly known as Tanzania. To date, Zanzibar is a special province of Tanzania with its own state like government complete with a president and a popularly elected house of representatives, but it remains part, and under the umbrella of Tanzania.
Fishing and agriculture and tourism are the foundations of the local economy. Cloves along with coconut products and spices are a major export earner while tourism is the primary foreign exchange earner. Although many residents of Zanzibar are Moslems, there are significant numbers of Christians, Hindus and people of other faiths.

Climate of Zanzibar

Zanzibar experiences warm tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity all the year round. The average temperature is 25? C (77 F), but it can be as hot as 39? C (102 F). Because of the ocean breezes during daytime and the continental wind in the night the condition are more comfortable. February is the warmest month while August is the coolest. There are two rainfall seasons, the heaviest in March to June and lesser rains in September to November.

Important Zanzibar Attractions

Zanzibar is a tourist?s paradise, with lots of old architectural sites to behold, warm quiet waters to swim, dive or snorkel in, wetland ecosystems, spice farms, expansive and white sandy beaches and a most friendly people. Among the Islands attractions are:
Stone Town: Zanzibar?s really old town with important sights such as the House of Wonders; the Palace Museum (People?s Palace); Dr Livingstone?s House; and the Arab Fort. Stone town is also famous for its bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors. Stone Town has some excellent gifts shops with plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from.

Spice Plantations: Zanzibar is Africa?s home of spices and lots of spice farms and gardens abound on this Island. Cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper and many other spices are grown in the city.