beach holidays

Tanzania beach holidays

Tanzania beach holidays. The perfect place to round off a dusty and adventurous safari on the Tanzanian mainland or an exhausting climb up Mt Kilimanjaro is in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Tanzania’s approximately 1,400 km long coastline is blessed with amazing beaches which are perfect for relaxing your mind. But if you are looking for a tropical paradise and some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches in the world, the archipelago of Zanzibar is your perfect choice. These islands are located off the Tanzanian coast, not far from the largest city in Tanzania, the metropolis of Dar es Salaam.

Zanzibar holiday highlights

Zanzibar is a jewel in the Indian Ocean just 60 miles off Africa’s east coast, reached by a two-hour boat journey from Dar es Salaam or the recommended short flight from Dar es Salaam or Nairobi. The historic part of Zanzibar’s capital (Zanzibar Town) is Stone Town – UNESCO World Heritage listed and the cultural heart of the island. This coastal city is a real mix of cultural influences, with labyrinthine alleyways, Sultan’s palaces, weathered historic buildings, intricate architectural details and bustling curio stalls – a real assault on the senses. Visit the House of Wonders, Stone Town’s largest building, built in 1883 for the second Sultan of Zanzibar, and now a museum dedicated to Zanzibar’s history and culture. Wander around the old forts and vibrant markets, and visit the site of the former slave market. Then head to one of the rooftop restaurants for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

Stone Town makes for a great day or two of exploration, but the ‘stay longer’ reason here is Zanzibar’s stunning palm-fringed beaches, lapped by warm Indian Ocean waters. The perfect tonic following a safari, or a beach holiday in its own right, Zanzibar’s beaches offer something special. Amongst the island’s best are beautiful Nungwi at the northern tip of the island, and Bwejuu beach on the south-eastern coast – voted one of the top island beaches by Condé Nast Traveller. Most of the beaches are around an hour away from the airport. Spend your days simply soaking up the sun, enjoying pampering spa treatments, indulging in wining and dining, trying your hand at watersports or snorkelling amongst the colourful corals.