Zanzibar and the coast

The south coast of Tanzania is a wild and beautiful region with miles of unspoilt beaches, spectacular coastal forest, great river estuaries and ancient Arabic settlements. The islands of Zanzibar lie in the Indian Ocean, just 20 minutes by air off the Tanzanian coast. Stone Town, the capital, has a distinct Arabic feel, having risen to prominence as the ancient spice and slave capital of the East African coast. This fascinating old town is a maze of narrow streets, old leaning houses and colourful spice markets. To the north and south of Unguja, the main island, lie Pemba Island and Mafia Island respectively. Both offer excellent diving and are great destinations for those wanting to get away from it all.