This travel guide of Zanzibar tells you everything about historic Stone Town, pristine beaches, coral reefs, thrilling water adventures, and exotic spice tours of this
Island Paradise
Located 22 miles off the coast of mainland Tanzania, the 53-mile-long island of Zanzibar has been a cultural and trade crossroads for centuries. From exploring the historic Stone Town to visiting the island’s famed spice farms, you can easily lose yourself in this island paradise for a week or two.
How to Get There and When to Go
Zanzibar is easily accessible via connecting flights from major international airports. Kenya Airways offers connecting flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to Nairobi. Direct flights to Zanzibar are also available from Europe with airlines like Air France, KLM and Qatar Airways.
To visit Tanzania you need a tourist visa. The visa costs $100 for Americans and $50 for citizens of other countries. You can conveniently obtain the visa online in advance or upon arrival.
Zanzibar experiences two high seasons. The first high season falls between June and October, boasting dry and slightly cooler weather. The second high season occurs from December to February, with warmer and more humid temperatures.
What to Know Before You Go:
Swahili is the main language spoken in Tanzania, but English is widely understood and spoken throughout the country. As Tanzania is predominantly Muslim, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly. Especially in Stone Town and villages this is important. However, head coverings are not mandatory, and most beach attire is acceptable. Alcohol is readily available at restaurants and bars.
The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, but US dollars are widely accepted. Many tourist establishments list prices in dollars. We advise you to bring cash. ATM’s are limited outside of Stone Town.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Guide to Stone Town
No visitor to Zanzibar can truly experience the island without exploring Stone Town. This captivating coastal city,designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a unique blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences.Labyrinthine narrow lanes lined with elaborate historic homes, beautifully carved doors, and a vibrant market beckon exploration. For a truly enriching experience, consider embarking on a guided tour.
These tours offer insightful glimpses into Zanzibar’s fascinating history, which encompasses both the island’s darker chapters, such as its involvement in the slave trade, and its more upbeat stories, including the surprising fact that it was the birthplace of legendary rock singer Freddie Mercury from the band Queen.
Prison Island
After exploring the vibrant Stone Town harbor, a short 20-minute boat ride whisks you away to Prison Island. Despite its name, this island served a different purpose in the past. Originally a quarantine station for yellow fever cases, it now offers a unique encounter with nature. The island is home to a colony of endangered giant Aldabra tortoises. Some of them are estimated to be nearly 200 years old! You will witness these gentle giants roaming freely.
Spice Tours
Zanzibar’s rich history as a trade hub is evident in its nickname, “Spice Island.” Imagine the aromatic blend of spices carried aboard Arabian, Malaysian, and Indian dhows that docked in Zanzibar, a gateway to East Africa. Spice tours offer a fascinating glimpse into this legacy.
Led by local cooperatives, these tours typically take place within a picturesque setting – a tropical oasis brimming with palm trees and fruit trees. Immerse yourself in the world of spices, learning about their cultivation, harvesting, and traditional uses. Many tours offer the opportunity to enhance your experience by adding a delicious lunch or even participating in a hands-on cooking class, allowing you to create culinary delights using the island’s fragrant treasures.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Ship Ahoy, come aboard!
Zanzibar, a captivating island paradise, naturally boasts an abundance of water-based activities. Here, you can embark on unforgettable adventures amidst the turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Sailing in Style: Dhow Cruises
Another exciting experience awaits aboard a traditional dhow, a majestic mahogany sailboat. Private charters can be arranged from any beach. The northwest coast in particular offers breathtaking sunset cruises. Imagine gently gliding across the crystal-clear waters as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with a fiery palette of colors – a truly unforgettable experience.
A Day on the Ocean: The Safari Blue Experience
For a full day of aquatic adventure, consider the exhilarating “Safari Blue” experience. This excursion takes you on a journey of discovery, including a visit to a protected conservation area. There you can learn about the island’s delicate ecosystem and snorkel amongst vibrant coral reefs. The itinerary also includes a relaxing stop on a pristine sand dune for a delicious barbecue lunch. With a touch of luck, you might even encounter playful dolphins along the way.
Underwater Delights
The coral reefs near Mnemba Island, off the northeast coast, are a haven for snorkelers and divers alike. Here, a dazzling array of marine life awaits, promising an unforgettable exploration of the underwater world.
Wind and Waves
For those seeking thrills on the water, kitesurfing is a popular activity, particularly along the east coast. The consistent winds and gentle waves create ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers alike.
Whether you seek a romantic sunset cruise, a day of adventure on the open water, or an exploration of the vibrant underwater world, Zanzibar’s aquatic experiences offer something for everyone.
Swimming with horses
Another very special adventure is swimming with horses. Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters alongside these majestic creatures, the sun warming your skin and the sound of waves lapping against the shore creating a symphony of tranquility. However, this thrilling adventure is best suited for experienced riders.
But fear not, even if horseback swimming isn’t your forte, Zanzibar offers a more relaxed alternative. Embark on a scenic beach ride, the gentle rhythm of the horse’s hooves matching the beat of your heart as you explore the island’s breathtaking coastline. Feel the cool ocean breeze caress your face and lose yourself in the moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Red Monkeys in the Jozani Forest
While Zanzibar’s stunning beaches and turquoise waters are undeniable draws, the island also offers a treasure trove of experiences for those who venture beyond the coastline. To connect with the island’s unique interior nature, a visit to the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a must.
Jozani Forest is located on the way to the popular beach destinations of Paje and Jambiani. This 20-square-mile protected reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park is most famously known for its population of red colobus monkeys, an endangered species found only on Zanzibar. Guided tours led by the park’s knowledgeable staff offer the best chance to spot these fascinating creatures swinging through the trees.
The park’s wonders extend beyond its primates. The tour also includes a walk through the park’s otherworldly mangroves, a unique ecosystem teeming with life. Prepare to be awestruck by the intricate root systems and the diverse plant and animal species that call this special habitat home.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Guide to the West Coast
While Zanzibar’s east coast boasts pristine beaches that draw in crowds, the west coast offers a unique and unexplored side of the island. However, this travel guide of Zanzibar will unveil the wonders waiting to be discovered on Zanzibar, including western shores.
The west coast, located to the north of Stone Town, is primarily home to industrial and fuel depots, military bases, and government buildings. Given their nature, these areas are considered highly sensitive, so it’s advisable not to take photographs or venture too close to these properties. On the other hand, the coast road also meanders past the ruins of historic palaces. There are some surprisingly good beaches, as well as interesting caverns and caves. Moreover, the best parts of the West Coast are easily accessible for an enjoyable day trip from Stone Town.
West Coast History
Sultan Said and his sons cherished the luxury of having a fine country residence within easy reach of the town and chose to build their palaces along this northern stretch of the coast. Approximately 3 kilometers along the coast road, you’ll find the ruins of Maruhubi Palace on the left-hand side. Sultan Barghash built this palace in 1882 to house his extensive harem, which was reputed to include 99 concubines and one true wife. Unfortunately, the sultan was notorious for his lack of kindness, and many dramatic rumors surround the palace and its grounds, where it is said he spilled the blood of any concubine or wife who displeased him.
According to stories, the autocratic Sultan would select six concubines at a time, and if they failed to satisfy him, they risked death. These women were then replaced to maintain the harem’s statutory number of ninety-nine. Concubines were also reportedly offered to passing Arab guests, only to be killed afterward to prevent them from bearing the children of other tribes.
The palace burned down!
Tragically, the palace burned down in 1899, destroying the ornate wooden verandas and craftwork that once adorned it, leaving only the supporting stone pillars standing. The Peace Memorial Museum features a photograph of the palace when it was still intact at the end of the 19th century. It’s also featured in “Historical Zanzibar, Romance of the Ages,” including a collection of photographs from the Zanzibar Archives.
Since the palace’s demise, the surviving marble has been stolen from the once-fine baths, but visitors can still explore the sultan’s bath and the women’s cubicles. The remaining stone structure offers an eerienglimpse into the pnst, while the extensive groves of mango and coconut palms and the wide round water ponds provide a sense of the environment where the concubines and eunuchs once spent their days.
Historical Sights on Zanzibar’s West Coast
A Journey Through Time
Our exploration of Zanzibar’s west coast begins a little further north at the ruins of Mtoni Palace. This used t be a favorite residence of Sultan Said. Built between 1828-34, this two-story structure boasted a mosque, bathhouses, and an elegant tower for private contemplation. Princess Salme, Sultan Said’s daughter, described a bustling palace with staff, visitors,and a menagerie of exotic birds. Sadly, a 1914 fire ravaged Mtoni, and today only remnants remain.
Bububu’s Enigmatic Name
Continuing north, we arrive at the quaint village of Bububu. Theories abound about its name’s origin. Some say it stems from two mute boys who lived there (“Bubu” meaning “mute” in Swahili). Others attribute it to the onomatopoeic sound of the now-defunct Bububu railway (1904-1929). Alternatively, the name might reference a nearby freshwater spring, historically a vital water source for the island.
Beaches, Baths, and Spice Plantations
Bububu offers a delightful detour: a small track leads west to the pristine and popular Fuji Beach. This place s perfect for a relaxing break. The village also serves as a gateway to the island’s renowned spice plantations, where tours unfold inland. Here, you’ll find the well-preserved Persian Baths of Kidichi, built by Sultan Said’s second wife, Schesade. These beautiful decorated baths were designed to relax after her horseback riding adventures. A few kilometers further lie the similar, yet less-ornate, baths of Kizimbani.
Mangwapani’s Dark Secret
A chilling reminder of Zanzibar’s slave trade history awaits near Mangwapani. Here, a hidden subterranean chamber served as a holding cell for illegally captured slaves. A removable bridge led them into the darkness, where a heavy wooden door served as their prison. A path, now blocked by fallen rocks, once facilitated the transportation of prisoners to the sea without detection.
Natural Wonders and Spiritual Significance
In contrast to the somber site at Mangwapani, a natural limestone cave on the opposite side of the track offers a cool,refreshing pool of spring water. Legend has it that a young slave discovered this hidden gem while searching for a lost goat. The cave is believed to possess spiritual powers, serving as a place for offerings and seeking solace.
A Glimpse into the Past
Our journey north concludes at Mkokotoni, a village facing the intriguing Tumbatu Island. En route, you pass the ruins of Mvuleni and Fukuchani. You’ll see the leftovers of 16th-century coral rag houses built by the Shirazi and possibly even the Portuguese. These historical remnants offer a glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich past.
This captivating west coast adventure unveils a blend of historical intrigue, pristine beaches, and hidden natural wonders. An unforgettable experience.
Royal History of Zanzibar’s West Coast
Tumbatu Island boasts a long, royal history, but pirate attacks by Arabs brought their reign to a sudden end. The ‘Mwana Mwena,’ queen of Tumbatu, further lost favor by gifting the island to the Portuguese and converting to Christianity.
Despite this, the WaTumbatu people, renowned for their sailing skills, have endured. They speak a distinct Swahili dialect and their 13th-century Shirazi heritage is evident in the ruins of a large mosque and houses at Makutani on the island’s southeast tip.
Historical records mention a 15th-century pirate attack on Makutani that diminished the royal family’s power. However, the resilient Tumbatu people simply established a new settlement on the island’s north.
Visiting Tumbatu requires a permit from Mkokotoni’s police post and transportation by dhow. Introductions from a local are recommended due to island customs.
Tumbatu is believed to be one of the earliest Shirazi settlements in Zanzibar. Beyond their Islamic faith, the WaTumbatu hold strong beliefs in African magic, particularly regarding boat travel. Superstitions emphasize cleanliness, with restrictions for menstruating women and men who haven’t washed after intimacy. Recent tragedies are attributed to breaking these customs, though their intensity is reportedly weakening.
Mkokotoni, the gateway to Tumbatu, is a bustling fishing village with a lively market and dusty shops. A wide beach serves as a dhow harbor, while remnants of a British colonial station and even ancient Chinese coins hint at the village’s rich history.
Tumbatu Island offers a captivating blend of historical significance, enduring traditions, and a glimpse into local life, making it a unique and unforgettable destination.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Guide to the East Coast
Pristine Beaches & Diverse Options
The eastern shores of Zanzibar boast a magnificent succession of long, palm-fringed beaches. As you venture south,these beaches transition from more developed areas in the north to wilder, natural landscapes. While some hotels meticulously clean their beach sections, the early months can see fluctuations in seaweed deposits. Nevertheless, the east coast captivates with its remarkably fine, clean sand and seemingly endless stretches of pristine shoreline, perfect for relaxation under swaying palms.
Navigating the Coast
The east coast naturally divides into northern and southern regions, mirroring the coastline’s formation and followed by the main roads. Turnings lead from the central road to the northern reaches of Matemwe (Pwani Mchangani),Kiwengwa, and Chwaka, while a separate route guides you to the southern beaches of Paje, Bwejuu, and Jambiani.
Accommodation options for every traveller
This coastline offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
Chwaka Bay
Chwaka Bay is a lesser-known tourist spot, once favored by the colonial government for beachside relaxation. Today, a few old double-storey, balcony-clad structures remain, now dilapidated and used by the Zanzibari government as rest houses for ministers. Despite its past prominence, the area is rarely traveled, with sandy roads and pathways leading to a millpond-smooth ocean, protected by a sandy peninsula.
In this quiet atmosphere, the Chwaka Bay Hotel stands among palm trees. The hotel features 10 round, white-washed bungalows set in tropical gardens around a central makuti restaurant and bar. Run by a mix of Swedish Zanzibari and local management, the hotel is popular with European groups.
The northern part of Zanzibar is truly stunning. For beach lovers, it is paradise, with translucent waters over fine coral sands and wide views of the Indian Ocean. Here, on the most northern tip of the island, the air feels fresh and the sand forms fine, sinkable drifts. The beach changes with the tide, allowing long walks and bathing in warm, shallow pools when the tide is out.
Local life flourishes here. Crabs scuttle among shells and coral, while women sing and gather around their fishing nets, knee-deep in turquoise waters. Their tin pots catch the sun’s gleam, and their songs rise and fall with the wind. The beaches are vital to nearby villages, with children gathering shellfish and women fishing in the shallows.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Guide to the North Coast
The northern region was once the domain of the WaTumbatu, ruled by the Mwana Queen of northern Zanzibar. Notably, there are several historic ruins at Fukuchani and Mveleni on the road to Nungwi. Initially thought to be a 16th-century legacy of the Portuguese, these ruins likely have much older Shirazi remains beneath. Interestingly, the name Ras Nungwi is straightforward, as “Ras” means headland and “Nungwi” means north in Swahili. The headland consists of several coves and beaches around the sprawling Ras Nungwi village.
Due to the coral rock landscape, farming is challenging here, and life on the peninsula can be tough despite its natural beauty. Nevertheless, the people of Nungwi have developed a strong reputation for their political engagement. Unfortunately, their affiliation with the opposition party has allegedly led to a reluctance from the ruling party to provide basic amenities such as water, electricity, and roads. Consequently, many areas remain largely undeveloped, despite the sudden growth of tourist facilities in certain spots.
On the brighter side, the finest and most upmarket accommodation in this area is the Ras Nungwi Beach Hotel. Located on a wild and unspoilt stretch of beach to the northeast of the peninsula, it offers acres of low bush extending to the horizon. Moreover, a 30 to 40-minute walk west around the headland takes you past Nungwi lighthouse to a growing cluster of budget lodges, known as a popular ‘backpacker village’ around a good but generally crowded beach. In this lively area, a wide choice of restaurants, bars, and dive centers attract an energetic crowd ready to party, especially after sundown.
What to do at the North Coast?
Continuing westwards, a further 30-minute walk around the headland brings you to the lesser-visited haven of Kendwa Rocks. This area is a special retreat for budget travelers seeking peace and natural calm, offering clear beaches, pristine seas, and a quiet life—epitomizing the Zanzibar island idyll.
Besides its natural allure, Nungwi offers several local areas to explore at leisure and is popular for diving, snorkeling, and fishing around the nearby reefs. Primarily, the villages here are fishing communities. To the northwest of the peninsula, you’ll find one of the main centers for Zanzibar’s traditional dhow-building industry. On a beach just beyond the village, boat builders still occasionally craft the ‘sewn boats’ that puzzled Marco Polo, weaving wide planks together with rope made from coconut husks. Remarkably, these elegant crafts are made from natural materials, especially the hardwood timbers from nearby trees.
The Turtle Sanctuary
Further east, at the point where the road diverges on each side of the peninsula, you’ll find the old Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary. This natural rock pool, formed in a coral inlet, has been transformed into a protected aquarium tended by local people. Though recently enclosed within the grounds of the Baraka Beach Bungalow Annex, the management claims to be amenable to allowing visitors in. The colorful pool serves as a sanctuary for small green and hawksbill turtles. Their livelihood is severely threatened because local sea turtles have traditionally been used as a food source. Moreover their shells are sold for ornaments.
Fortunately, the locals earn some money from donations, which helps raise awareness about the need for turtle preservation. Zanzibari turtles are now critically endangered and further threatened by on-shore developments. These developments confuse the turtles’ sense of time with lights that mimic the full moon, luring them onto the beach to lay their eggs at the wrong times of the month. However, there are signs of giant sea turtles on the Nungwi beaches, leaving trails as wide as a caterpillar tractor in the sand as they emerge from the sea at dawn to lay and bury their eggs. Tourists can contribute to the preservation of the species around these islands by avoiding the purchase of goods made from tortoiseshell.
Diving at the North Coast
For those yearning to witness the majestic grace of turtles gliding through the ocean depths, along with the potential to encounter playful dolphins and a kaleidoscope of reef fish, Nungwi offers a haven for divers. PADI-certified dive centers on either side of the peninsula cater to all experience levels.
Resident dolphin pods are frequent visitors during dives or boat trips to the dive sites. If they’re feeling sociable, these intelligent creatures offer an unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside them.
For experienced divers seeking an adrenaline rush, wall dives, night dives, and drift dives are all readily available. Simply inform the dive center in advance to ensure they cater to your specific preferences. Deeper waters unveil breathtaking sights of lush coral gardens stretching far and wide. Here, barracuda, kingfish, tuna, and wahoo hunt alongside giant Napoleon wrasses, graceful manta rays, and even sharks. Meanwhile, the shallows teem with vibrant Indo-Pacific coral gardens teeming with a dazzling array of colorful tropical fish.
Whether you’re a novice diver or a seasoned explorer, Zanzibar’s east coast promises an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Unveiling Zanzibar’s Scenic Coastline: Exploring at Low Tide
The dramatic tidal changes around Zanzibar Island create stunning opportunities for scenic walks, especially along Nungwi’s headland at low tide. Here, vast expanses of sand dotted with translucent pools unfold, offering a captivating landscape.
During low tide, a leisurely 30-minute walk connects lodges to the eastern beaches. Alternatively, explore Kendwa Rocks, roughly 3 kilometers southwest of Nungwi village. This area boasts beautiful reefs for snorkeling and usually retains a beach even at high tide.
Reach Kendwa Rocks’ pristine beauty by road or the daily scenic boat taxi.
Travel Guide of Zanzibar: South East Coast
This southeastern coastline retains a sense of undeveloped wilderness, especially as you venture further south. The main road initially leads to Paje village, roughly halfway along the coast. Here, a shift occurs. North of Paje, you’ll find newly built, larger, and more luxurious hotels like Breezes, the Italian Venta Club Resort, Sultan’s Palace, and Karafuu.
In contrast, south of Paje, the scene transforms into a network of small, rural villages and clusters of charming budget guesthouses scattered along the secluded beaches.
A Historic Journey
The route to the southeast coast from Stone Town offers a glimpse into history. A long avenue of mature mango trees lines the road, providing shade for travelers. This straight, narrow road, designed for horse-drawn carriages in the era of Sultans, whispers tales of a bygone era.
The enchanting Mango Avenue
Legend says Princess Bikhole, Sultan Said’s beautiful daughter, planted this avenue. Whispers surround its creation. One story claims she planted each tree with a different handsome slave! Another suggests she wanted it to reach Stone Town but ran out of time, resources, or maybe even men.
The truth is unknown, but one thing’s for sure: no two mango trees are the same! This delightful variety creates a colorful,year-round display, adding charm to this historic route.
History South East Coast
Further along the southeast coast, a captivating historical landmark awaits: the ruins of Dunga Palace, the former residence of the Swahili Great Lord, also known as the “Gazetted Monument of the Mwinyi Mkuu.” Despite its age, the palace remains sufficiently well-preserved to be an evocative and worthwhile stop. Strolling past the thrones and water features, the Mwinyi Mkuu’s past opulence becomes clear.
The Legacy of the Mwinyi Mkuu
The Mwinyi Mkuu system of rule played a significant role in Zanzibar’s history. Established in the 13th century, it remained dominant until the arrival of the Omani Arabs. The exact origins of the Mwinyi Mkuu remain somewhat shrouded in mystery. Historians believe the first leader was Hassan Bin Abubakar, followed by a line of successors. Ahmed bin Mohammed, who reigned between 1785 and 1865, stands out as the most powerful and renowned of these Great Lords, and it was he who commissioned the construction of Dunga Palace.
A Palace Steeped in History
Construction of the palace spanned a decade, primarily between 1845 and 1856. The Mwinyi Mkuu’s rule is said to have extended across “every part of Unguja” (Zanzibar’s main island), although some areas like Tumbatu had their own subordinate rulers. However, the arrival of the Omani Sultans significantly diminished the Mwinyi Mkuu’s domain. By the reign of Sultan Barghash, the once-powerful Great Lord was essentially reduced to a village governor, despite the immense respect and reverence he once commanded.
The ruins of Dunga Palace serve as a testament to these bygone days of grandeur. Among the few remaining items from this era, an impressively hand-painted porcelain bowl of possible oriental origin, now resides in the national museum.
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Travel Guide of Zanzibar: Event Calendar Zanzibar
January
Zanzibar Revolution Day takes place annually on 12 January. This day commemorates the end of 200 years of Arab rule. At midnight, gun salutes and horns come from boats moored at the waterfront.
February
- Sauti zu Busara (Sound of wisdom) – This festival takes place in mid-February. This is one of the best music festivals in East Africa. Sauti za Busara attracts about 400 musicians from Tanzania and other African countries. It also features a carnival-style street parade, music films and documentaries, workshops as well as concerts and screenings.
- Zanzibar Cultural Festival – This vibrant event is a great way to learn about local culture, music and dance traditions. It takes place at various locations and there are many different activities, such as canoe races and carnivals.
April
Easter – Although Easter is by no means celebrated by everyone in Zanzibar, as a large proportion of the island’s residents are Muslim, Good Friday and Easter Monday are days off.
May
Labour Day – A national day off in Zanzibar celebrated on 1 May every year.
June
Zanzibar International Film Festival – Generally held in June or July. This is the biggest film event in East Africa. It showcases a lot of musical creativity both from Africa and beyond. A host of screenings, workshops, events and performances for children are part of the activities.
July
Mwaka Kogwa – This festival, held in 7 villages of Zanzibar to celebrate the start of the new Shirazi year, takes place in mid-July. The best place to watch the spectacle is on the south-east coast of the main island of Unguja. The event originated in Persia (Iran) and marks the beginning of a new year according to the Shirazi calendar. The festival includes ancient rituals including symbolic fires and “mock” fights that are believed to help with peace for in the new year. The men in the fights defend themselves with banana tree branches, while the women dress up and sing.
August
Eid – al – Fitr – On 19 August. This 4-day festival at the end of the holy month takes place to celebrate the end of the fast. This festival is the biggest event of the year and is a time of gift-giving. Because the Islamic calendar is different from that in Europe, the date of this fasting month and festival changes by about 11 days every year. Many restaurants close during these 4 days.
Jahazi Literature and Jazz Festival – From late August to early September, a weekend of al fresco concerts, poetry readings and debates at various venues in Stone Town.
September
Tanzacat Open – late September to early October, a sailing competition organised by the Dar es Salaam Yacht Club. It includes “Round the Marks Bay Racing” and the “Zanzibar Raid”.
October
Visa 2 Dance Festival – begins early October in Dar es Salaam, with an additional event in mid-October on Zanzibar.
November
Eid-al-Hajj (Festival of Sacrifice) – Annual Islamic festival concluding the pilgrimage to Mecca.
December
Zanzibar Island Run – This event is in Stone town early December. The programme includes a half-marathon race and a shorter distance for recreational runners.
Christmas – Is celebrated in Tanzania. Many hotels offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Christmas celebration.
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