It’s minus 10 degrees and an ice cold cocktail and tanning on a beach is the furthest thing from your mind. Are you shivering while you are trying to hold that coffee mug waiting for a train travelling home or to work? Here I am in sunny Africa melting in the heat and wishing I could tell you “Come to Africa, its warm over here!!!”
Most people see wildlife, plains and savannahs when they think of Africa. I would like to change that perception and remind everyone that we have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world dotted around the African coastline, in particular Zanzibar with its pristine beaches and unspoilt beauty. Tanzania really offers the best of beaches AND game viewing where you can view wildlife and end your trip on a white sandy beach.
Zanzibar, known as the 'Spice Island', offers incredible value for your dollar or dime. Accommodation ranges from budget for the avid backpacker, to 5 star for the honeymoon couples or those looking to spoil themselves a little. Zanzibar's main industries are spices, raffia, and tourism. In particular, the islands produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper. For this reason, the islands, together with Tanzania's Mafia Island, are sometimes called the 'Spice Islands'.
Zanzibar is popular for its SCUBA diving and snorkeling and boasts some of the best reefs around the East African coast. One or 2 dives, half day and full day Dhow safaris and introduction dives are available and the only thing holding you back is your time frame. The famous Mnemba Atoll is a popular tropical fish wonderland and is not to be missed. Why not sail out there on a traditional Dhow to get the full Zanzibar experience?
Zanzibar has much to offer the overlander with lazy days spent on the beach or taking a tour of this island with a guide or renting a moped and exploring on your own. Moped Hire and Motorbike Hire in Zanzibar is easier than you might think. Licenses and helmets come with the bike and a little experience is necessary. Cruise around Zanzibar Island at your own pace stopping where you like to absorb the colours and cultures of this ancient island. This is not an adrenaline sport: merely a lovely way to spend the day – plus the red dirt roads won’t let you go too fast!
Add to that masses of history and culture, sultans and sheiks, ancient slave traders and vibrant people and you have arguably the best beach destination around!
Get your backpack and a good book and head out now!
