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This island on Tanzania’s north coast has lured travelers for centuries,
and it was the influence of the Shiraz Persians and the Oman Arabs that
has lingered mostly on the island. Known as the spice island and the largest
producer of cloves, Zanzibar’s east coast beaches are superb you
can explore the spice and fruit plantations and visit Jozani Forest.
Best of all is the old stone town of Zanzibar. It's a cluster of winding
streets lined with whitewashed coral houses, bazaars, mosques, fortresses,
two former sultan's palaces, two huge cathedrals and faded colonial mansions
all vividly evoking the islands long history.
Zanzibar best known as the 'spice island' was the center for the slave
trade in east Africa and base for David living stone's expeditions into
the unexplored African interior. Smell full of the aroma of cloves and
other spices, which still provide a livelihood for many people of Zanzibar.
Also known as 'Prison Island’, it's the most famous of the offshore
islands. An Arab who used it for rebellious slaves once owned this island.
Later it was sold to general Mathews who converted it into a prison. However
it has never been used as such. The island is also home to giant tortoises,
which are supposed to have been brought over from aldabra - an atoll off
the Seychelles. The small beach disappears at high tide, but it is superb
to swim in the crystal clear water with splendid coral reefs. The island
itself is well forested, nice for a walk, an ideal place for a day trip.
A small national park centrally located on the island. It is the last
remaining sanctuary for the red colobus monkey.
A safari depicting the true wild of Northern Tanzania
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