World-famous for its picturesque white sandy stretches, colorful marine life, and fun water adventures, the Maldives, one of the best places to visit in January for an unforgettable holiday, is a bucket-list destination for many. But it’s not the only tropical paradise you can see in the Indian Ocean – Zanzibar, Africa’s number one beach destination, right off the coast of the African mainland, makes the perfect alternative. With its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, breathtaking sunsets, and overwater villas, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives. Please keep reading to find out how it offers a similar feel.
What To Know About Zanzibar, Tanzania
The island has a rich history – it’s been inhabited for at least 20,0000 years
Zanzibar stands out for its perfect white sand and crystal-clear waters, but it boasts a long history worth exploring. Humans have inhabited the island for at least 20,000 years – the beginning of the Later Stone Age. Overall, Zanzibar’s geographical position has shaped its history in many ways. Its location on the Indian Ocean trade routes led to its rapid growth, as it was easily accessible to traders and colonists from the African mainland, South Asia, and Arabia. By the end of the 10th century, the island was among the top central Swahili trading towns.
Africans were the island’s first immigrants, followed by Persians, and the two populations later formed Islam. Arabs’ influence was the most paramount on the island, thanks to its convenient location, which made it a major entry port for Arabs’ Indian Ocean slave trade operations. The Arabs later became Zanzibar’s aristocracy. The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century, conquering the island and all the Eastern African coast’s seaports, including Mombasa on Kenya’s coast and portions of the Arabian coast.
The Portuguese remained in power for two centuries until the Omani Arabs took over in 1698. In 1832, the Sultan of Oman moved his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar, which became an independent sultanate in 1861. The British took control of the island from 1890 until it gained independence in 1963. It became a republic in 1964, which later united with Tanganyika to form what’s now called Tanzania.
Today, you can discover the island’s rich history in many places, including the Stone Town’s Sultan’s Palace, which gives an insight into the early lives of the sultans of Zanzibar. Stroll through the Slave Market to catch a glimpse of Zanzibar’s role in the Indian Ocean slave trade. Don’t miss the island’s architectural wonders like the Old Dispensary and the House of Wonders.
Zanzibar Is A Great Alternative To The Maldives
With similar white sandy beaches, sunsets, luxury accommodations, and more, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives
Although Zanzibar’s geography and culture differ, it’s one of the tropical islands to visit in Africa instead of the Maldives. The allure of this island is hard to resist; with the unique blend of powdery white sand, serene atmosphere, and breathtaking sunsets, the island loves honeymooners. Whatever you are looking for, this mystic destination guarantees a romantic adventure in an exotic location. Like the Maldives, it’s a tropical paradise with some of the most breathtaking beaches in Africa. White sand, coconut palms, and turquoise waters are some similarities you’ll immediately notice when you visit both destinations.
The Maldives is most known for its vibrant diving scene, which is incredibly diverse, from reef dives to ocean and drift dives. Similarly, Zanzibar’s pristine waters and colorful underwater world make it one of the best diving destinations in the world. Other water activities include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and fishing.
- Best beaches in Zanzibar: Paje Beach, Jambiani Beach, and Matemwe Beach
With the incredible variety of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives
The Maldives is known to be a luxurious island destination, with lavish overwater bungalows, five-star hotels, and extravagant spa experiences. This is part of the reason it’s seen as a playground for the rich and famous. Zanzibar’s accommodation scene might not be as glamorous as the Maldives, but it offers plenty of excellent options. You’ll enjoy spending time in many luxury accommodations, including luxury private villas, beach resorts, boutiques, and more, usually at a fraction of what you’ll pay in the Maldives.
- Best luxury accommodations: The Mora Zanzibar, Melia Zanzibar, and Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
Also read: This Is The Best Time To Visit Cape Town, South Africa
Must-Have Experiences In Zanzibar
Take a helicopter tour of the island
Beyond exploring the beaches and diving adventures, Zanzibar has many amazing experiences that will appeal to many vacationers. If you are after an exclusive tropical vacation and unmatched views of the island, a helicopter tour should be on your bucket list. Flying over Zanzibar’s spectacular sandy stretches, the historic stone town, rolling hills, lush forests, mountains, and rivers is one of the most mesmerizing experiences you can have on the island. If you are unsatisfied with what you’ve seen, a helicopter tour will make a difference. You can finally see why this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives.
With one of the most diverse cultures in the Indian Ocean, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives
One of the major differences between Zanzibar and the Maldives is the cultural experiences. Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures—its Swahili culture is more diverse, as it’s a fusion of different influences, including Arabic, Indian, British, Persian, and African. This cultural diversity is reflected in various traditions, architecture, and the general lifestyle. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of Zanzibar’s cuisine.
Note: The island’s arts and crafts scene is also worth seeing. Whether you are interested in pottery or wood carving, there is something for everyone.
Spot some wildlife in Jozani Forest
This hidden gem in Tanzania is an excellent alternative to the Maldives because of its endless sightseeing opportunities. Wildlife spotting at Jozani Forest should be your next stop after a day of swimming and lazing on the pristine beaches. Despite being relatively smaller, the lush greenery and cool shade guarantee a refreshing forest adventure. You can spot many incredible animals there, including the Ader’s duikers and red colobus monkeys, which are unique to Zanzibar and a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.
With so many beautiful experiences – from stunning beaches to diving opportunities to diverse culture and wildlife spotting opportunities – all at a lower cost, this hidden gem in Tanzania is a great alternative to the Maldives, especially for budget travelers looking for an affordable option.
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