Swahili Coast

For many centuries, Persians, Arabs, Chinese, Indians as well as European explorers have sailed the Indian Ocean heading to the coasts of “Zinj” and Zanzibar, creating a true mosaic of different influences and styles. The Swahili culture was born there in the seventh century. Later, Kiswahili became the Lingua Franca throughout East Africa and parts of Central Africa.

Stone Town is the ideal place “to feel” the atmosphere, and soul of Zanzibar. Elegant trader’s houses, old coral stone buildings set behind large carved doors, some with Koranic inscriptions in Arabic, narrow alleyways with covered balconies, wonderful shops and tiny stalls, selling local handicrafts; spice and fish market, and in the evening sounds and smells from the Forodhani Gardens where fish and lobster are grilled on barbecues.

Zanzibar is known as the Spice Islands and was once the world’s leading producer of cloves. A guided tour to spice farms and plantations is an option here. Here you can see, smell and taste aromatic species, scented plants among them, guava, mangoes, vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, chillies, black pepper and cinnamon.

Zanzibar is an idyllic beach holiday island, its pristine reefs, sandy white beaches and clear blue waters are among the best in the world.