Zanzibar - Facts

Where is Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of Unguja, Latham, Mnemba and Pemba Islands, and several islets. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast and 6° south of the equator.

Fishing and agriculture are the main economic activities and Zanzibar is the world's largest producer of cloves, which together with coconut products and spices, are still the major exports of the country.

Cruiser Highlights for Zanzibar:

Unguja

Known internationally as Zanzibar, Unguja is 60 miles long and 20 miles wide and has beautiful beaches with fringing coral reefs. The capital city is Zanzibar City, which is made up of two parts, Ng'ambo and Stone Town. This historic town is so-named because of the ancient stone buildings that are crowded together on the waterfront, with small lanes and streets full of every type of sale. It has lots of excellent cafes and restaurants, charming lodges and inexpensive hotels.

There are cruising destinations scattered all around the western side of the island. The diving and snorkelling are average to good, depending on when and where you dive. Humpback whales are sighted daily in the season, which runs from October to March. Whale sharks are sometimes spotted but are best seen on Mafia Island in October.

Pemba Island

Renowned for its lush, green hills and clove plantations, Pemba is home to several dive sites, with steep drop-offs, untouched coral and very abundant marine life. The main town is Chake Chake, but Mkoani remains the most friendly of the ports in Pemba.  However, cruisers are advised to familiarise themselves with the locations of the designated Marine Parks and Conservation Areas as fees and charges vary.  See this report from SV Excelsior for 2024 information:

A Cruising Family's Guide to Marine Parks and Reserves

Location:

06 ° 08 "15 'S 39 ° 12" 23' E (Azam Marina Entrance Zanzibar, Stone Town)