“The waters ringing Zanzibar appear as a spectrum of blues, running from ice to indigo...Earth’s most beautiful beach.”

Melissa Biggs Bradley, Author

Zanzibar is an archipelago of tropical islands located about 35 km from the East African coast and is reached by either a short air flight or by ferry boat.
During the colonial period, Zanzibar was governed by Sultans. Spices, ivory and slaves have historically been the main source of income, but now the island is know mainly for its beautiful white coral beaches and crystal blue warm water. The port of entry into Zanzibar is Stonetown, the historic trading capital of the Omani Sultanate. Today, Zanzibar is an international tourist destination, with international hotels and ocean activities such as diving, sailing, windsurfing and deep sea fishing. But Zanzibar is also a fascinating historical and cultural treasure. Even today, Stonetown is a living scene right out of 1,001 Arabian Nights. Many people carry on their traditional lifestyles from ages past, and fishing is a major source of income for a majority of islanders. Between the world class beaches, the historical sites and the exotic blend of cultures, Zanzibar is a place that fascinates everyone.

Zanzibar has made a strong effort to protect its valuable marine resources. Traditional fishing villages are being aided in their efforts to practice sustainable fisheries by the tourism industry which has provided capital and the impetus for protection of marine resources. There are now five marine reserves and two marine parks designated under the Marine Reserves Act. Divers will find very high biodiversity, with up to 40 different coral genera and 350 fish species found in these waters.

“We snorkled, read books on our thached beach bed, circled the island at low tide, watching ghost crabs schuttle in the shadows and reveled in having nothing to do on Earth’s most beautiful beach.”

Melissa Biggs Bradley