Over the centuries, Zanzibar has been visited and occupied by explorers, traders and settlers. Persians, Arabs, Indians, and Europeans have all had their time, and left their impression – if not offspring. In 1840, the Sultan of Oman transferred his seat of government to Zanzibar. The introduction of clove plantations and the flourishing of the notorious slave trade saw Zanzibar develop into a strategic trading center, in 1890 the British proclaimed Zanzibar a protectorate and the Sultan’s authority was reduced. Zanzibar became an independent sovereign nation in December 1963, but it was short lived. A revolution took place the following month, and three months later still, it signed an agreement of confederation with mainland Tanganyika forming the United Republic of Tanzania. The name was created by the words Tanganyika, Zanzibar, and “Azania” – being the Greek name for the eastern coast of Africa.

Languages

English is widely spoken, but it’s (and fun) to try some Kiswahili, particularly for greetings and shopping in the market. You may also find some local people are ready to speak Arabic or Italian.

Religion

Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. This is obvious in dress code, greetings and with the call to prayer five times a day. In Stone Town there are over 50 mosques, two cathedrals and few Hindu temples. Tourists are requested to be respectful of local customs and culture. When visiting villages, and also in town, please dress modestly at all times. Also, during fasting hours in the holy month of Ramadhan, avoid consumption of food, drink, and cigarettes, and any immodest behaviour in public places.

Geography

The Zanzibar archipelago is comprised of over 50 islands, nestling in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean; 36 km off the east coast of Africa. The main inhabited islands are Unguja (Zanzibar), Pemba and Tumbatu. The population in 2019 was estimated to be 1.5 million with an annual growth rate of 3.1%. Zanzibar is 6 degrees south of the Equator and enjoys a tropical climate. Temperatures are generally warm all the year around. The hottest months, just before the rains, are February and October. The (relatively) cooler season is May-September when the average temperature is 26 “C.