Tanzania and Zanzibar: Destinations

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar-es-Salaam is the capital city of Tanzania. For a big city it doesn’t quite have the hustle and bustle of all those mega crowds, and is quite relaxed with a scenic port and multi cultural atmosphere. Lots of bargains are to be had in the Ilala market and Ocean Road fish market.Top sites to see include the National Museum for archeology lovers, Coco Beach, and the nearby forests of Pugu Hills, where you can spot bush babies and crowned eagles.

For travellers nightlife, the hottest place in town where all the ex-pat hang out, Smokies, is a great place to indulge in plenty of eating, drinking and merry making – the mainstays of ex-patriot life. Although dominated by Brits and South Africans, an increasing number of ex-pats are from Scandinavia, but, they all speak the international language of alcohol.

Zanzibar Town, Zanzibar

Zanzibar town on the island’s west coast is the first port of call for travellers and is historically the centre of the east African slave trade. North of the town you’ll find a collection of remote and beautiful beaches like Bweju, Paje and Uroa. The most famous area in the town is Stone Town, it’s the heart of the island.

Because of the small roads the best way to get around is on foot or bike, but make sure you have got a springy saddle because the roads are dodgy. The town is such a maze, it’s easy to get completely lost, but pretty soon you’ll end up by the seafront. There are lots of brilliant things to see – Children of African, Arab and Indian descent playing in the shade of the Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of the former slave market – in fact Stone town is a great site for people spotting. To discover the town, the best thing is to get lost in the maze of cafes, stores, and vendors. Top sites to see in the city include the House of Wonders (a 19th century Sultan’s Palace) and the Old Fort, a 17th century Fort turned theatre.