Simply Zanzibar (superior)

Arrive into Zanzibar Airport/Harbour. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the heart of Stone Town where your hotel is located.

Zanzibar has a rich history and it became a centre of trade once it was settled by the Portuguese in the 16th and 17th Century. Zanzibar once held the title of being Africa's major hub of trade before the mainland became more settled and tamed (if Africa could ever be considered tamed). Zanzibar is also known as the 'Spice Island' due to this period when spice was its major trade followed closely by the slave trade and ivory. Zanzibar still today flourishes with the trade of spices, its most common exports being cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper.

UNESCO listed Stone Town is rich in history and culture, with a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling bazaars and ancient buildings. The architecture is a fascinating mix of Swahili, Arab, Persian, European and African styles, testament to the influence that trade brought to the region.

This morning you will be met by a local guide and taken on a guided tour of historic Stone Town and a spice plantation en-route to the beach.

Follow the trail of the sultans, slaves and explorers through the winding streets of Stone Town and learn about events which shaped Zanzibar, while walking through the buildings where it all happened. These historic buildings include the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, the Sultans’ Palace Museum, and the Old Arab Fort and Dispensary. You will also have the opportunity to explore the markets and residential areas, with the opportunity to stop for a rest at The Zanzibar Coffee House.

Then visit a spice plantation and see the process involved in harvesting these perfumed ingredients. Today we take spices for granted but they were once as precious as gems or gold with pirates often cruising the coast pilfering ships for their precious spice cargo. On the tour of the spice farm you can feel, smell and taste different spices and tropical fruit. These spices and fruit include vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, and many others. Then shop for spices at a local market and partake in a Swahili cookery lesson from skilled chefs.

After the guided tour transfer to your beach hotel near Dongwe, on the east coast of Zanzibar. Dongwe is surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation and features an offshore coral reef brimming with colourful tropical fish and diverse marine life. The area is home to a variety of well-equipped beachfront resorts. Visitors can indulge in numerous activities such as swimming with wild dolphins, embarking on captivating forest excursions, and savouring the delicious local cuisine, renowned for its array of aromatic spices.

Spend the next two days at leisure, relaxing on one of Zanzibar's beautiful white sands and soaking up the sunshine.

For those feeling active, there's a wide range of excursions available. Perhaps opt for a spot of snorkelling or scuba diving to see the incredible coral reefs teeming with exotic fish and perhaps the odd dolphin in the azure waters. Other activities in or above the water include fishing, windsurfing or various boat trips. Traditional dhow cruises are offered by the locals and are a great way to see the local lifestyle or island hop to some of the smaller uninhabited islands. Also consider a day trip to Jozani Chwaka Bay national Park - home to the rare Kirk's Red Colobus Monkey, Syke's Monkey and Ader's Duiker.

This morning you will be met by your driver and driven to Zanzibar Airport for your flight home.