Zanzibar has been blessed with one of the best beaches in Africa. The white beaches and turquoise waters are sites that one should always aspire to witness at one time in one's lifetime. There is a lot to see in Zanzibar it's just not about the beaches, they also have a good number of wild animals. The Island offers both relaxation and adventure, relaxation at the beach and adventure at the wildlife safari tour. The wildlife safari tours offer a chance to see the wildlife such as the elephants. In addition, Zanzibar is the best place you can have an experience with the Swahili culture and learn more about it.
Zanzibar beach
Zanzibar Best Safari Sites.
The best beach and Safari holiday. After experiencing the mainland parks for a classic African safari, Zanzibar will offer the classic tranquil beaches of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is strategically located just a short distance from the major Tanzania National parks such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro craters, Lake Manyara, and the Selous Game Reserve. It can be easily accessed by flight from the mainland of Tanzania.
- Unique Wildlife on the Island.
Zanzibar has an intriguing wildlife experience. Johazi forest in the centre of Unguja which is Zanzibar's main island. This place is the home of the red colobus monkey. A species that is unique to this place. Nature lovers will have a good chance to observe the birds and also interact with nature at its best. Other animals include bush babies, butterflies, and many chameleon species.
- Jozani forest tour:
An experienced guide will take you through the forest as you watch the red colobus monkeys in their natural habitats.
- Dolphin Tours in Kizimkazi
In the southern Village of Kizimkazi, you can enjoy viewing the dolphins in the early mornings. It is a good place for photographing and lovers of nature and serenity. Dolphins are one of the cleverest animals.
A dolphin in the waters.
- Spice Farm Visits:
The name given to Zanzibar is Spice Island due to the many spice plantations on the Island. This tour will give you a chance, to learn about the many species' farming techniques.
- Stone Town Safari
This place is the ultimate Swahili culture center. The traditional architecture of Swahili includes narrow pathways and carved wooden doors. In this safari you can also sample the various food of the swahili people.
Types of Safaris at Zanzibar
Serengeti Natonal Park
Combine a visit to Zanzibar with a visit to Serengeti National Park and view the Wildebeest Migration. Serengeti is just one and a half hours away from Zanzibar.
Ngorongoro Crater
This crater has one of the largest numbers of wildlife due to its huge plant population which offers rich nutrients for the animals. At the Ngorongoro crater, you will see animals such as elephants, lions, hippos, and many more.
A lion resting
Seoul Game Reserve
Referred to as the Nyerere National Park. It's one of the world's biggest protected areas. It is a place for walking safaris and spotting wild dogs. You can get here through a direct flight from Zanzibar.
Mikumi National Park
Also known as the smaller Serengeti, a short flight from Zanzibar will get you to this destination. It is also accessible from the roads through a long drive from Zanzibar. In this place, you get to see lions, cheetahs, and zebras, and has a smaller population of tourists.
Best time for a Zanzibar Safari
Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania may be visited any time but the experience may differ depending on the season.
June to October
It is ideal for game drives as the Island has less vegetation thus seeing the animals is easier.
November to December
Short rains season
The short rainy season is still a good time to visit with fewer tourists in the parks.
Long rains
The long rains are more heavy and may disrupt the game drives and beach activities.
Planning a Zanzibar Safari Holiday
Planning a safari and beach holiday in Zanzibar will require planning a few things.
Start by choosing the type of Safari you want.
- Fly-in Safari this is a comfort safari flying from Zanzibar direct to the safari destinations like Serengeti or Selous.
- Overland Safari: This is more affordable and good for those seeking a more intense experience. Usually, take a flight to Dar es Salaam or a ferry and then drive to the parks.
A sample of a 10-day Zanzibar itinerary.
- Day 1-3: Arrive in Zanzibar relax on the beach and visit Stone Town.
- Day 4: Explore Johazi Forest and the spice farms
- Day 5-7: Serengeti, enjoy daily game drives.
- Day 8: Visit Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 9: Return to Zanzibar
- Day 10: Leisure day and departure
Travel Tips in Zanzibar
- Book a Safari with a reputable Safari operator
- Pack the best form of wear for your safari.
- Get the right kind of visa
- Consider travel insurance.
- Choose operators that are focused on sustainable tourism.
Zanzibar is the best place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in nature with a mix of culture and the serenity of the sea. In addition, wild animals are close by and you can watch them from the comfort of your tented camp.