Actually comprising dozens of varying size islands, Unguja is the main island that draws travellers every year to its stunning white sandy beaches, loads of sun and a laid back island atmosphere. Stone Town is a World Heritage Site and former 19th century trading centre, replete with carved doors, former Sultan’s Palace and fascinating history from its Islamic & Swahili influences.

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The island of Pemba offers exclusive resorts but, to the south, Unguja offers a wonderful range of budget to high end hotels, guest houses and resorts. Top snorkelling & diving is to be had mainly in the north west off Mnemba Atoll, while spice tours remain popular. Nungwi in the north is widely regarded as the best beaches on Unguja and are not as affected by the tides as the east coast beaches.

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Being on the equator lends itself to Zanzibar being a perfect beach holiday getaway on its own, or combined with a safari in nearby Tanzania, or Kenya. The best weather is around July – Feb each year as heavy rains fall in April – May.