A flat, palm-clad coral atoll, the spice island of Zanzibar has shallow coral reefs and sloping banks with over 350 species of Indo-Pacific marine fauna. The islands of Mafia and Pemba are more off the beaten track, and therefore a little quieter.
Whale sharks migrate through Zanzibar’s waters from August to September and February to March, whilst August also sees the migration of humpback and sperm whales. Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage is much in evidence; Stone Town remains largely unchanged and is characterised by a labyrinth of narrow streets, bazaars and the grand residences of Omani Arab traders.
The most northerly of the islands in the Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba is still untouched by commercial tourism and continues to be mostly ‘undiscovered’ by visitors to Tanzania. The island is famous for its clove production, but it is also home to some of the best beaches in East Africa and sometimes you may even have one of these beaches to yourself. Pemba also has some excellent diving and snorkelling which provides chances to see things such as green turtles, spotted eagle rays and exciting coral reefs.
The more southerly of Tanzania’s offshore islands, Mafia Island is reminiscent of Zanzibar three decades ago. Mafia has pristine sandy beaches and a relaxed, personable atmosphere, which are both perfect for some rest after a safari. The waters around the island are famous for having some of the richest reefs in the world with a huge diversity of corals and tropical fish. More than 350 marine species have been recorded off the shores of Mafia, but between the months of November and March whale sharks are particularly prominent here.
Key info
- Where: Coastal islands, Tanzania
