6 Must-See Sites in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Stonetown, the old part of Zanzibar City, which is the main city of Zanzibar, is a historical area dating back to the 19th century. A major attraction for tourists, Stonetown is characterized by its many narrow alleys filled with bazaars, shops, houses and mosques. Architecture showcases a blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, European and African influences, and the town features many landmarks open to the public. © Olga Koverninska | Dreamstime.com

In Stonetown, you’ll find many streets lined with artists selling Tingatinga artwork. This painting style hails from East Africa and is typically made on Masonite. The style’s signature brilliant and vibrant colors often showcase different aspects of the region, from wildlife to local flora. © Sohadiszno | Dreamstime.com

Zanzibar served as part of the Indian Ocean slave trade, with the last slave market in this network, Stone Town, closing in 1873. Honoring the victims of centuries of slavery in the city and beyond is a monument, erected in 1998, and located next to a 19th-century cathedral. © Tr3gi | Dreamstime.com

Visitors to Zanzibar are spoiled with options for beaches. From Nungwi Beach on the north coast to Makunduchi beach in the south, the hardest part will be deciding which beach to spend the day. One unique beach is Nakuoenda Beach. Although not technically a beach, this sandbank island, only visible during low tide, has crystal-clear waters and white sands, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. © Ventura69 | Dreamstime.com

Another popular beach is Kendwa Beach, on the northwestern coast of Zanzibar. Soak in jaw-dropping sunsets, turquoise waters and soft sand. Palm trees and coral rock formations shape the coastline, and, because it is largely unaffected by strong tidal variations (unlike most other beaches in Zanzibar), all-day lounging and easy swimming makes this a standout beach. © Pixattitude | Dreamstime.com

Witness Tanzania’s wildlife up close at Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, the only national park in Zanzibar. In addition to being home of an array of species, including endangered species, the park holds significant cultural importance. Bantu cultural practices and rituals occur and Islamic shrines exist within the park. Wildlife includes the Zanzibar leopard (once thought to have been extinct) and the Zanzibar red colobus, an endangered species. © Ekrystia | Dreamstime.com