Also known as the Spice Island, this pearl of Indian Ocean on Africa’s east coast is full of culture and history, blended with magnificent landscapes of white-sand beaches shaded by palms swaying on a sea breeze. All this together makes Zanzibar excellent place to for full relaxation and discovering its hidden gems.

Thanks to its fantastic climate, magnificent beaches and fascinating attractions, Zanzibar is the essence of tropical Africa and the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar has some of the best beaches anywhere in Africa and arguably the world, the best of which are to be found along the east coast on the northern part of the island. The beaches in this region are protected by off shore coral reefs and have fine white coral sand

It is characterized by beautiful, white, sandy beaches edged with coral reefs, forests, and the magic historic Stone Town – possibly the only ancient town in East Africa that is still functioning. Zanzibar archipelago is approximately 35km off shore from the Tanzania mainland and only six degrees south of the Equator.

It is comprised of two main Islands, Unguja (also called Zanzibar Island), and Pemba, along with many smaller islands and atolls. These provide miles and miles of palm lined beaches and colorful coral reefs perfect for diving or just soaking in the laid back atmosphere.

Stone Town and its port are predominate in the west coast,  with the beaches of Mangapwani and the slave caves visible at low tide are less than half an hour drive. You should also spend a night or two on the East or North cost is well rewarding of the extra hour drive to get there. The Chole Island Marine Park next to the Stone Town, and nearby Prison, Grave and Snake Islands, form a refreshing day trips and splendid break from exploring narrow streets of the old city.

South coast of Zanzibar is reserved for Menai Bay Conservation Area, protected area for the endangered marine species that come to breed on the island. On the roads to South coast you should definitely  take a break at the famous Jozani Forest, habitat of the rare Red Colobus monkeys and a good number of other primates and small antelope species.

Bagamoyo, once a mighty center of trade along the East African Coast,  is a world class Historical site and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, opulent in cultural remains and ruins just waiting you to explore.

Bagamoyo is multi ethnical community, with indigenous tribes such are  Wakwere, Wazaramo and Wazigua creating majority of its population. There are also  Arab descent coexist in Bagamoyo, making the town a peaceful and friendly place for visitors from all over the world.

During German colonial times Bagamoyo was the economic and administrative capital of German East Africa. Since that time, the town has been in decline, with architecture of European origin slowly crumbling, but still pretty impressive to see and explore. We should not fail to mention that Arabic influence on local architecture is also very significant.

Bagamoyo port was the terminal of slave and ivory caravans travelling on foot all the way from Lake Tanganyika. From here, the slaves and ivory were shipped by dhow to Zanzibar, from where they were dispatched all over the world.

In another time, Tanga was once of the stopping points  for caravans on their way to the central Africa in searching for ivory and slaves. It was also a centre of Germans colonial administration, during their occupation in the early 20th century. German influence can be found even in the city’s architecture today, but only few historical landmarks can be found in area today.

Tanga region is a remarkable diverse destination, and it has a lot more to offer than it meets the eye. It is a surprisingly safe and friendly place to visit, enriched with an splendid mixture of different cultures and some of top destinations on the coast to explore. This diversity is distinctly notable in the region’s breathtaking landscapes, unique culture and friendly people.

One of the first things that any visitor will notice is tranquility and prosperity that is noticable, and how good it feels to bask in the sun bathed narrow streets of Tanga, with most of the city roads as good as perfect.

Self-drive holidays in Tanga are exceptional, with roads well signposted and easily navigated, but you should never underestimate the value of a good local guide, who will show you parts of the area you may not discover on your own.

Pangani is a small town nested at the Indian ocean coast of Tanzania, 45km South of Tanga. Unlike busy Stone Town and generally crowded island of Zanzibar, Pangani is much more quieter, its resorts are more secluded and the beaches are unspoiled by people, which makes it a splendid destination for total relaxation and leisure. It’s name originates from the Pangani river that flows through the northern part of this historical town, forming on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Pangani has  a long history influenced by Arabic, German, Asian and British Colonial rules over time.

This picturesque town was once the center of the Swahili trade with the African mainland, but today it is a sleepy community with a few memories of its former glory. The old German administrative boma still defies the time, hidden behind the tall trees and the former prison. Old colonial houses along the main road provide the glimpse of traditional Swahili architecture, but they are deteriorating slowly, standing against the monsoon winds.