Bravo Kiwengwa Beach Resort, Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Zanzibar's Hidden Gem: A Tropical Paradise with a Few Speed Bumps
summarizeEditor's Summary
We spent 10 nights on the stunning island of Zanzibar, and while it was a tropical paradise, we encountered some frustrating speed bumps, especially at the airport. The heat, hunger, and exhaustion made the initial impression a real challenge. However, the beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm locals made up for the hassle. With a 1-year-old in tow, we were pleasantly surprised by the ease of use and build quality of our accommodations. Overall, it was a great value for money, but we'd advise travelers to be prepared for the airport chaos.
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What's the best way to get to Zanzibar?
The easiest way to get to Zanzibar is by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which receives flights from major airlines like Turkish Airlines and Emirates. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodations.
What's the weather like in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is cooler and drier.
What are the must-see attractions in Zanzibar?
Some of the top attractions in Zanzibar include the Stone Town, the Prison Island, and the Nungwi Beach. You can also take a snorkeling or diving trip to see the incredible marine life and coral reefs.
What's the best way to get around Zanzibar?
The best way to get around Zanzibar is by taxi or shuttle, which can be arranged through your accommodations or a local tour operator. You can also rent a car or scooter to explore the island on your own.
What's the local cuisine like in Zanzibar?
The local cuisine in Zanzibar is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian flavors, with popular dishes like seafood, curries, and flatbreads. Be sure to try some of the local fruits and snacks, like mangoes and coconut water.
What's the best time to visit Zanzibar?
The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from June to October, when the weather is cooler and drier. Avoid visiting during the wet season, from November to May, when the rain and humidity can be overwhelming.
What's the cost of a trip to Zanzibar?
The cost of a trip to Zanzibar can vary greatly depending on the time of year, accommodations, and activities. On average, a 10-night all-inclusive trip can cost around $1,500-$2,000 per person, depending on the package and airline.
What's the best way to stay safe in Zanzibar?
To stay safe in Zanzibar, be sure to take necessary precautions like using sunscreen, wearing insect repellent, and avoiding swimming in areas with strong currents. Also, be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your drinks and food at all times.
What's the best way to get a visa for Zanzibar?
To get a visa for Zanzibar, you can apply online through the Tanzanian government's website or obtain one on arrival at the airport. The cost of a visa is around $50-$100, depending on the type and duration of stay.
check_circlePros
- •The beaches were absolute perfection, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- •Our accommodations were a great value for money, with a spacious room and a private balcony overlooking the ocean.
- •The warm locals were incredibly welcoming and made our stay even more enjoyable.
- •We loved the ease of use of our accommodations, with a convenient layout and all the amenities we needed.
- •The build quality of our room was impressive, with solid doors and a comfortable bed.
- •The all-inclusive package was a great way to save money and try new foods and drinks.
- •We enjoyed the local cuisine, which was a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian flavors.
- •The snorkeling and diving trips were an unforgettable experience, with incredible marine life and coral reefs.
- •The Nungwi Beach was a must-visit, with its stunning sunsets and powdery white sand.
- •The Stone Town was a great place to explore, with its rich history and cultural attractions.
cancelCons
- •The airport was a nightmare, with a 4-hour wait in line for customs and a chaotic atmosphere.
- •The heat and humidity were overwhelming at times, especially for our 1-year-old son.
- •The food options were limited and repetitive, with not enough variety for our taste.
- •The return trip was just as chaotic as the arrival, with long lines and a stressful experience.
- •We encountered some language barriers with the locals, which made communication difficult at times.
- •The island's infrastructure was still developing, with some rough roads and limited amenities.
- •We had to deal with some power outages, which made it hard to stay connected and comfortable.
- •The beach vendors could be pushy and aggressive at times, which was annoying.
- •The island's trash management was a concern, with litter and waste scattered around the beaches.
- •The local transportation options were limited, which made it hard to get around the island.
