The place many of us call Zanzibar is actually known as Unguja by the local population. It is the largest island of the Zanzibar archipelago, which also comprises Pemba, its northern sister, Mafia and a myriad of small islets including Changuu, Tumbatu, and Mnemba. Zanzibar lies in the Indian Ocean, a mere 40km off of Tanzania. Over the centuries, traders from Arabia, Asia, and Europe have alternately intermingled with the local Bantu tribes and shaped its history. Enduring waves of trade in spices, metals and slaves have left their marks on the island but today Zanzibar has built itself a reputation as an idyllic honeymooning and an exceptional diving destination.

Stone Town, the heart of Zanzibar City, was constructed during the 19th century and remains largely unchanged: labyrinths of alleys, palaces, mosques and old Arab houses will tell you its story. The narrow and bare streets, allowing only enough space for pedestrians, bicycles and the occasional bike, contrast in style with the elaborately carved wooden doors. The capital is a typical East African hub, rich in history, busy, and sometimes noisy.  It’s a lively, vibrant atmosphere (so don’t expect calm and quiet). You will find some good diving a few miles off shore: dive boats will take you to the several wrecks close by and to Boribu, an impressive reef where you can spot whale sharks during the season.

The Fumba peninsula, south of Stone Town airport is definitely the most relaxed and friendly corner of the island. A few kilometres offshore is Chumbe Island: this tiny coral island, privately owned, is part of a marine park that has successfully preserved some of the most beautiful coral gardens ever. The reef crest being between 1-3 meters deep, snorkelers can see what is usually reserved to divers. There is a possibility to stay overnight and enjoy fully the natural environment. Although scuba diving within the Chumbe reef sanctuary is permitted only for research and filming activities, it is still possible to enjoy diving on the nearby reefs.

On the far north side of Zanzibar, the village of  Nungwi has become the touristic centre of the island. The place has always been reputed for its dhow-building industry. However, over the last decade the ramshackle fishing village has become one of Zanzibar’s busiest beach areas. 

Tumbatu island, is only two kilometers from shore and a ferry service (an open boat) insures the transit of goods and passengers to and from Mkokotoni village. However, the secretive island inflexibly keeps its distances; unless you have been invited by a local, you won’t be able to put foot on shore: Tumbatu isn’t open to tourism and its surrounding reef keeps it somewhat isolated from the rest of Zanzibar. However it is possible to dive the shallow waters around the mysterious island, when taking a boat excursion from Nungwi.

The east coast of Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful powder-white beaches. There are a variety of places to stay for all budgets, from Matemwe to Jambiani and you are minutes away from most of the dive spots on the barrier reef. Dive centres offer regular diving and snorkeling trips around the private Mnemba Atoll. Resident dolphins regularly come play in the wake of the boats waves and it is not uncommon to see them underwater while diving.

The Michamvi Peninsula and the South East corner of Zanzibar that stretches south of Chwaka Bay are very similar in character to the east coast. The area has the same pristine beaches lined by coconut trees, good diving opportunities and …plenty of space. The area was once the busiest beach scene of the island but the low budget travellers have moved to the north, leaving this part of the coast to the kite surfing fanatics. The reef is amazing and you may have some unexpected and unforgettable encounters.