DESTINATIONS ZANZIBAR AFRICA
Farley. “The main island, Unguja, is where the mass-market all-inclusive hotels are, strung along the eastern side of the island. However, the beach here is tidal, so at certain times of the day, there is no sand visible. “The north is best for diving and
snorkelling, has beaches less affected by the tide, several local restaurants and accommodation ranging from simple guesthouses to five-star uber-luxury. “Pemba is the second island and much less developed, the ‘Zanzibar of 50 years ago’, so is a lovely option for those who don’t want lots of other people around. Then there are smaller islands like Chapwani and Mafia for those who want a castaway feel.” BEST FOR… VALUE: Zanzibar isn’t cheap, but if clients have blown the budget on a luxury safari camp and need to rein in spending, there are good-value options. The four-star Breezes Beach Club combines a spot on southeast Bwejuu Beach – voted one of the best island beaches by Conde Nast T
raveller –
ASK THE EXPERT
Nick Wilson, destination manager, Hayes & Jarvis:
“While Zanzibar is an ideal addition to a safari in Kenya or Tanzania, we are seeing it become more popular as a standalone destination, and increased air access means it’s even easier to get there. Most of our customers spend at least two nights in Stone Town before heading to their beach resort of choice – it’s always worth it as you gain an insight into the island’s history with the slave trade and importance with the spice routes.”
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with a chilled-out vibe, and is featured by Travel 2, Kuoni and Cox & Kings. It’s the traditional Zanzibari decor of east-coast Bluebay Resort & Spa that make it stand out for Visions of Africa sales manager Lucy Cook, not to mention great-value rates and free- night offers. Likewise, Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort has early booking
Pemba is much less developed and a lovely option for those who don’t want lots of other people around
discounts for reservations made before March 31. “Set in almost 20 acres of beautifully tended tropical gardens, this is a great all-inclusive option for clients on a budget,” says Cook. BEST FOR… LUXURY: There is plenty of choice at the other end of the scale. Breezes sister Baraza Resort & Spa, also on Bwejuu Beach, has just 30 villas and endless individual touches, from Swahili motifs to furniture carved by local craftsmen. Andrew Fulker from Kuoni’s trade sales team, who has just returned from a Zanzibar fam, also highlights the ‘perfect and peaceful retreats’ of The Residence – all private pool villas, Carita spa products and fine fusion cuisine – alongside Zanzibar White Sand and Diamonds Star of the East. If money is no object, Cox & Kings suggests the exclusive Mnemba Island Lodge, a private island three miles off the northeast shore. With just 10
bandas woven from palm tree fronds, each with a personal butler, private veranda and access to pristine waters where tropical fish flit between coral reefs, this is the most exclusive address on the islands. BEST FOR… ROMANCE: Zanzibar is a honeymoon favourite, so it’s crucial to have a few romantic retreats up your sleeve. For most, that means going for a small, exclusive resort such as the 15 white-domed pavilion-style rooms of Elewana Collection hotel Kilindi, on the northwest Nyungwi Beach, where plunge pools, rain showers and intimate dining spots are the order of the day.
LEFT: Baraza Resort & Spa BELOW: Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort
PICTURES: KUONI; COX & KINGS; KILINDI ZANZIBAR
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