Zanzibar: From a Travel Designer’s Point of View

Dreaming of a tropical escape? Look no further than Zanzibar, an archipelago boasting pristine beaches, captivating history, and vibrant culture. Our Roane Travel Design team members, Michelle and Jennae spent a week exploring the island, meticulously vetting experiences and accommodations to ensure an unforgettable adventure for our clients. Here’s a glimpse of their experience.

Logistics, Experiences and Accommodations: A Seamless Zanzibari Adventure

Our Zanzibari adventure kicked off with a sunny landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Stepping off the plane into the warm, humid air, we were greeted by friendly faces – our local guide and driver holding a welcoming sign. Musa, our guide, wasted no time sharing Zanzibar’s magic. As we drove to our hotel, his insightful commentary transformed the journey into a captivating introduction to the sights and sounds of the island.

Stone Town, Zanzibar’s bustling capital, is within easy reach of most resorts, with a travel time of around an hour. The island itself is delightfully compact, with most attractions conveniently located within a one- to two-hour drive from Stone Town. Getting around Zanzibar is a breeze. The roads are well-maintained, the scenery is breathtaking, and the island vibrates with a contagious energy.

We have compiled a list below of the experiences we had and stand-out accommodations we would recommend considering when designing your itinerary!

Beach Bliss: A Guide to Zanzibar’s Coastlines

• North of the island – Nungwi Beach: Ideal for swimming with its calm, non-tidal waters. Nungwi Beach on the northern tip of Zanzibar is known for its beautiful white sand, clear waters, and abundance of resorts, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving.
• Matemwe Beach: Matemwe Beach on the northeast coast is known for its long stretches of white sand and traditional fishing villages. It boasts some of the finest diving and snorkeling on the island, with Mnemba Atoll, a world-famous island surrounded by pristine coral reefs, located just offshore.
• Paje Beach: Known for its kitesurfing and diving, Paje Beach on the southeast coast is a great choice for water sports enthusiasts. The beach has a relaxed vibe and during low tide the water recedes revealing a vast expanse of sand.
• Kizimkazi Beach: Located on the south coast, Kizimkazi is a haven for tranquility, dolphin sightings, and dhow boat tours.
• Pongwe Beach: Pongwe Beach is located on the eastern coast of the island and is known for its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. It is a great destination for relaxation and swimming

Unforgettable Experiences: Immersing Yourself in the Zanzibari Spirit

• Embark on a Spice Tour at Zito Spice Farm: We explored the Zito Spice Farm’s vibrant plantation, learning about the uses of various spices, and witnessed a traditional palm tree climb for a refreshing coconut which we had the enjoyment of drinking. Don’t forget to browse the on-site shop for unique souvenirs!
• Swim with Gentle Giants at Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium: Contribute to a worthy cause while fulfilling a dream! This special aquarium allows you to swim alongside rescued sea turtles in a stunning natural lagoon. We loved this experience as a whole and learning about Mnarani’s conservation efforts was a highlight! We highly recommend this experience for families with young children.
• Explore the Soul of Stone Town: Immerse yourself in the labyrinthine alleyways of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We were mesmerized by the captivating blend of Arabic and Indian influences seen through intricate carvings and architecture, the bustling local markets, and captivating historical tours which took us to Anglican Cathedral, a beautiful building built on the site of a former slave market, the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens.

Exquisite Accommodations: Your Zanzibar Sanctuary Awaits

For Couples:

• Tulia Zanzibar (East Coast): Immerse yourselves in unparalleled service and luxurious comfort at Tulia. Imagine private villas nestled amidst lush gardens, a refreshing pool, and fabulous spaces to unwind! Savor exquisite meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and witness a captivating 3D culinary experience. 
• Zawadi Hotel Zanzibar (North Coast): Craving intimacy and seclusion? Zawadi Zanzibar boasts only nine private villas, each with a plunge pool and breathtaking ocean views. Personalized service and an all-inclusive experience ensure a stress-free escape while fresh seafood specialties and snorkeling right off the private beach complete your Zanzibar dream. 

For Relaxation Seekers:

• Zuri Zanzibar (East Coast): Embrace barefoot luxury at Zuri Zanzibar. Unwind in standalone bungalows or expansive villas, all leading down to the famed Kendwa Beach. Experience farm-to-table dining with fresh ingredients grown on-site, and appreciate the resort’s commitment to sustainability through solar energy and eco-conscious practices. 
• White Sands Villas (Southeast Coast): Escape to the serene White Sands Villas, boasting a refreshing blend of Scandinavian design and friendly service. Luxurious villas offer privacy amidst tropical gardens, while the beachfront beckons relaxation. Take advantage of the on-site kitesurfing club and explore the turquoise waters on kayaks or paddle boards. 

For Families:

• Melia Zanzibar (East Coast): A perfect all-rounder, Melia Zanzibar is a stunning hotel which offers spacious grounds, direct access to a beautiful swimmable beach, a variety of restaurants, and a plethora of activities for children. Capture Instagram-worthy moments and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, complete with a unique jetty restaurant offering seafood and cocktails. 
• Neptune Pwani Beach Resort & Spa (East Coast): This resort caters to the whole family with all-inclusive packages, spacious rooms with ocean views, and a variety of activities. Neptune features an array of food and beverage offerings and direct access to a pristine beach.

In the heart of Stone Town:

• Park Hyatt Zanzibar: This luxurious beachfront hotel located in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features stunning views of the Indian Ocean and offers guests a variety of amenities, including an infinity pool, a spa, and several restaurants. The hotel’s rooms are elegantly decorated and blend modern design with traditional Zanzibari style.

Our impression of Zanzibar: The perfect addition to a Tanzanian Safari

We LOVE Zanzibar. The island provides an amazing setting for travelers to unwind and relax after an adventurous safari. Picture-perfect white-sandy beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water. Vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Year-round sunshine, rich history and culture and a delightful culinary experience await.