Zanzibar Attractions

Pemba

Although it gets just as much sunlight, Pemba has long been overshadowed by Zanzibar, its larger and more politically powerful neighbour to the south. The two are only separated by about 50km (31mi) of water, and yet relatively few travellers venture across to Pemba.

Those who do aren't disappointed; verdant and hilly, while the water has some of the best diving in the archipelago. The island smells good too, as cloves are still the main crop. Pemba also has long been renowned for its voodoo and traditional healers.

Zanzibar Island

The king of the archipelago, Zanzibar island is an unusual melange of the Africa of the imagination, conservative Muslim tendencies and coastal glamour, and will enthral most travellers. The most interesting part of Zanzibar Town, on the western side of the island, is Stone Town.

The name may be unimaginative, but Stone Town is an enticing place to spend a languid afternoon. Meander through the narrow alleyways and marvel at the town's unique architecture that fuses Arabic, Indian, European and African influences (and rest assured not all the buildings are made of stone).