If you’re ever in need of a beautiful destination that is filled with vibrant colors, friendly people, phenomenal food, and just an all around amazing time - consider Tanzania and the quiet, cozy, island of Zanzibar for your next adventure. Last November, I had an opportunity to explore the east African country and it’s tiny island of Zanzibar.
November was the optimal time to go as the weather was perfect (hot but not scorching) and it was "low season" (read: not many tourist and cheaper rates).
Tanzania and Dar Es Salaam is truly about relaxing and taking in the sites. I took this opportunity by leaving MacDaddy (my laptop) at home, limiting cell phone usage, and genuinely enjoying the sights, smells, and sounds of this gorgeous, East African country.
Sunset Over CoCo Beach in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
1) The official language of Tanzania is Swahili. However, there are over 120+ languages spoken fluently. No worries if you’re visiting, most of the people you have an opportunity to interact with will speak English.
However, learning the following phrases will easily allow you to easily connect with the locals people as they will appreciate your effort for attempting their language:
- "Karibu!” meaning “Welcome!"
- “Habari?” meaning “How are you?”
- "Asante Sana!” meaning “Thank you!"
- You’ve seen ‘The Lion King,' you know the drill!
2) The capital city of Dar Es Salaam is busy and bustling, with a lot to see and do. If you want a fantastic city tour to go with Kanuth Adventure Safaris! They are professional, Tanzanian owned, and reasonably priced! Not to mention, Kanuth responds quickly to any inquiries.
Amazing City Tour We Took With Kanuth Adventures
3) FUN FACT: Tanzania is twice the size of California!
4) The national dish of Tanzania is ‘ugali’ which is porridge made of corn flour. For you Southern folks, think lumpy grits made into a cake-like thing (best way I can describe it!).
Views from The Tea House Restaurant at Emerson on Hurumzi. Stone Town, Zanzibar
Without a doubt, Zanzibar lives up to its reputation of being a slice of paradise in the heart of Africa. Coined as “The Spice Island,” Zanzibar has tons of history from, pristine beaches, and simple, delicious food.
5) There are several ways to get from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar. If you’re on a budget, consider taking the ferry (about $35 each way), or if you want a little more adventure and beautiful sites from up high, take a 20-minute charter flight. At about $50 each way, you can grab tickets online. You’ve been warned. This is a very authentic experience. The Pilot jokingly said, “I hope you all can swim!” and the boarding passes are handwritten. GOOD LUCK!
Not For the Faint at Heart! Small Charter Flight to/from Dar Es Salaam to Zanzibar.
6) While the entire island is beautiful, the best beaches and the most amazing sunsets are north of the island in Nungwi.
7) Known as ‘The Spice Island,' Zanzibar had tons of aromatic spices and known for nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon! If this is your thing, make sure to take a spice tour.
8) Explore Stone Town. This was one of the world’s last open slave markets in the world. The architecture in Stone Town is Arab, Indian, and European influenced. Take time to walk around Stone Town and enjoy the architecture, friendly people, and quiet back streets.
Views From The Hotel on Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar
9) Although we did not get a chance to experience it first hand, make sure to explore the Night Market in Stone Town to enjoy a taste of the island!
10) The beaches are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling! There are tons of dive shops on the island with great reviews! If you want a more ‘budget’ option, you can always negotiate snorkeling with the guys that will hassle you on the beaches (and by negotiate I mean pay 1/3 of what they’re offering!)
11) You can do lots of local shopping on the island, but remember barter, barter, barter! Negotiating is key; never go with the first price - ever!
12) Hands down, one of the BEST meals I have ever eaten in life was at Emerson on Hurumzi and the Tea House Restaurant. OMG! Everything on the lunch menu was life changing! We had an opportunity to take a tour of the hotel too, and it was absolutely stunning. No doubt, this is where you should stay when visiting Zanzibar!
One of the Most AMAZING Meals I Have Ever Eaten at Emerson on Hurumzi!
For more information on traveling the world like a boss on a budget check out RachelTravels.com.
* Special thank you to Kanuth Adventures Safari for the city tour and Emerson on Hurumzi for the amazing lunch. All opinions are my own.