31 day Desert Delta & Spice. Windhoek to Zanzibar

Day 28: Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar

A ferry from Dar es Salaam takes you to the "Spice Island", where you will spend three nights on this legendary island during your African overland tour.  Zanzibar is steeped in history and was one of the major starting points for most East African explorers in their quest for new lands. Breakfast is included.

Please note: Accommodation can be organised for you whilst on Zanzibar, although many have felt the need to explore the island on their own. Therefore accommodation and food is for your own account whilst on Zanzibar.

Days 29 & 30: Zanzibar

History aside, Zanzibar offers a wealth of experiences for the visitor.  Today the quiet streets of the old Stone Town still retain their Arabic influence, from the Medina-like shops to the palaces of the Sultans, who founded their vast empires on the spoils of the slave and ivory trade.  The island is still famous for its spices, and tours around a spice plantation can be organised. 

Other options include a trip to the nearby Prison Island with its giant tortoises, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Or perhaps you would enjoy the opportunity to hire a motorbike and explore the more remote areas of the island.

Zanzibar is a seafood lover’s paradise.  Numerous restaurants offer a great variety of the freshest catch from the ocean - giant lobsters being a popular speciality.  Alternatively, joining the locals for dinner in the waterfront market is an experience not to be missed.  The market stalls offer an unusual selection of fast food African style at a very reasonable cost.

Day 31: Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Leaving Zanzibar you take the ferry back to mainland for an overnight in Dar es Salaam.  There may be an opportunity to visit one of the craft markets offering an extensive range of exquisite ebony products (where prices depend on your bargaining skills) and where the goods are made on-site. 

It is possible to observe the carvers at work and understand the skill, which has gone into making even the simplest trinket. Dinner is included.

Optional Excursions: