About Zanzibar

Zanzibar Island, whose local name is Unguja, is one of two main islands that make up the semi-autonomous state of Zanzibar. It is a partner state in the United Republic of Tanzania, the largest country in the east coast of Africa.

Zanzibar is located in the Indian Ocean, about 35 km off the coast of mainland Tanzania, at Longitude 39 degrees East and Latitude 6 degrees south of the Equator. The highest point of the island is 150 meters above sea level.

The Island’s capital, also known as Zanzibar, is one of the oldest cities in Africa and boasts of a World Heritage Site in its collection of some of Africa’s most valuable ancient architecture. It was established and for centuries ruled by Omani Sultans who reigned supreme in the east coast of Africa before the Portuguese and later the British came calling.  

Famed for centuries for its cloves markets, Zanzibar is still the pre-eminent spice market in eastern Africa.

Getting to Zanzibar

The East African Safari Air, Kenya Airways and KLM fly into Zanzibar daily from Nairobi, Kenya, which is the region’s largest city with air-links to virtually every major world city.

Many other international airlines fly to Dar es Salaam, a city on the coast of mainland Tanzania, from where you can take a local flight to the island or choose to cross over by ferry.  The trip by sea last approximately 2 hours.

A number of European tour operators also operate regular weekly charter flights directly to the island.

Facts About Zanzibar