The image of a dhow sailing across the sunset is a typical postcard scene, and these simple wooden sailboats are dotted along the coastline of Zanzibar. These boats have been used since the 18th century, and are still used now, both as a tourist activity offering tours around the island, and as a source of local transport.

Whilst it is easy to find a dhow trip around Zanzibar, the best route to take is to the north of Zanzibar to visit the small island of Mnemba, to view its beautiful untouched and secluded coast.