Honeymoon Guide | Zanzibar

The majestic spice islands of Zanzibar

Location
Is what it’s all about

Situated in The Indian Ocean, approximately 40 kilometers off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa.

Why choose Zanzibar as your honeymoon destination?
Coral reefs and swimming in crystal waters, it’s perfect

Known as the Spice Islands, Zanzibar is a honeymooner’s paradise; an archipelago made up of Zanzibar Island (Unguja), Pemba Island and several smaller islets. Spend hours together discovering coral reefs and swimming in crystal waters or take a stroll on the beach whilst sipping on a coconut-based sundowner. Interesting historic buildings add a touch of romance to the islands too.

When to go
To be, or not to be in doors

With its tropical climate, Zanzibar offers ideal weather for most of the year. The humid summer months of December to February can see temperatures rise as high as 35¬∞C. The months of June-October are more favourable with temperatures ranging between 23-30¬∞C -still hot but not scorching! If you don‚Äôt want to spend each day of your honeymoon indoors, we recommend that you avoid the rainy months of March till May. And you may wish to rethink this destination if you are getting married during Ramadan. During this fasting month, tourists are required to respect the local Muslim population by not eating or drinking in public. Ramadan dates vary each year as it is a ‚Ä'moving holiday‚Ä' so make sure to find out the dates before booking your honeymoon getaway.

Currency
What your shilling is worth

The Tanzanian shilling. US dollars are also widely accepted.

Language
Communication is the key

The most commonly spoken languages are Swahili and English.

Safety
Keep it real

Zanzibar is a low crime area but tourists are advised against carrying valuables and walking around Stone Town at night.

Popular Resorts
You’ll be spoilt for choice

• Blue Bay Beach Resort and Spa (North East Coast)
• Breezes Beach Club and Spa (South East Coast)
• Dream of Zanzibar (North East Coast)
• Karafuu Hotel Beach Resort (South East Coast)
• Mnemba Island Lodge (Mnemba Island)
• Neptune Pwani Beach Resort and Spa (South East Coast)
• The Manta Resort Hotel (Pemba Island)
• Zamani Zanzibar Kempinski (North East Coast)

What to see and do
Depending on how busy you want to be

Besides mastering the art of doing nothing while lazing on Zanzibar’s¬† tropical beaches, newlyweds may want to explore the island. Spice tours are highly recommended and you‚Äôll get to sample different foods and dishes using popular spices produced on the island. Explore the narrow streets and markets of historic Stone Town where there are plenty of photo opportunities for the creative eye. ¬†Jozani forest is another place you may like to visit – here you will see the rare and endangered Red Colobus Monkey. If you just feel like keeping to the beach, then a romantic boat cruise off the southern tip of the island is often rewarded with the sighting of bottle nosed dolphins.

Flying time from SA
A hop, skip and a jump away

Four and a half hours from Johannesburg

Vaccinations or medication necessary?
Hakunamatata- which means no worries, but take precautions

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers coming from an area classified as an endemic zone by the World Health Organisation. Travelers are also advised to take precautions against malaria.