Zanzibar is an independent journey

This paradise of wildlife is of great interest to almost everyone who has heard anything about him. Snow-white beaches with turquoise water, giant land tortoises, a rich underwater world on coral reefs - all this can be seen on the island of Zanzibar . It is an autonomy within Tanzania and is washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean. To the mainland is not very far - just 40 km or about half an hour flight on local plane-corn aircraft. However, by booking here a tour through travel agencies, those wishing to visit the island usually overpay a third of the real cost. Therefore, in this article we will try to figure out how to independently organize a trip to Zanzibar .

Preparatory stage

First of all, you need to protect yourself in the medical plan. You should definitely get vaccinated against yellow fever and typhoid, no later than 10 days before your departure, and also get drugs against malaria that you need to drink throughout your stay. With a need to grab a first aid kit, providing it with drugs such as antipyretic, enterosorbents and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Do not do in Zanzibar and without sunscreen, and without ointments from sunburn. From household goods, adapters to sockets, as well as various sprays and spirals from mosquitoes, will be useful.

It is first necessary to get acquainted with the elementary rules of behavior in a Muslim country, because the people of Zanzibar profess Islam. For example, representatives of the weaker sex should not wear too frank outfits, and men should not pay close attention to Zanzibar women.

Organization of the flight

Starting a journey from the territory of the CIS countries, you will have to make at least two transplants. Most travelers choose a dock in Istanbul and a direction to Dar Es Salaam . Direct flights to Zanzibar you will not find, because from the mainland to the island there are small planes for 12-20 seats. Tickets for domestic flights are best booked in advance, as this will also save some money. Upon arrival, you will need to pay a visa of $ 50, as well as an airport tax of $ 20. However, as some travelers suggest, you can pass this window by indicating a firm confidence in your actions on your face. From the airport to the place of residence can be reached by taxi, in case of successful bargaining at the same time knocking down the price three times.

Accommodation in Zanzibar

As a rule, planning a trip to Zanzibar independently, as a place of settlement, tourists choose hotels or small villas on the numerous beaches of the island. The village of Paget is very popular. There are many hotels here, there are hostels and private houses. A lot of demand for housing on the northern part of the island - Nungvi beach. Here you can put up a tent without any unnecessary problems and even not forbidden to kindle bonfires.

When choosing a house, be sure to take into consideration such a moment as the air conditioning in the room. Ordinary windmills can not be saved from the heat - they will simply chase the same stuffy air around the room. Book accommodation in advance, so that later there are no unpleasant incidents that could spoil the impression of rest.

Money in Zanzibar

On the island in the course of the Tanzanian shilling and behind the scenes is the American dollar. The most profitable exchange rate is right at the airport. ATMs on the island are few, most of their mass is deployed in Stone Town . As for American dollars, the notes are older than 2001 (and in some places in 2006) they do not accept the issue either. This issue should be taken care of in advance, and when visiting a bank in your home country, ask to give out the bills you need. By the way, a trifle you also come in handy - to pay for the services of a porter or to give for tea it is quite possible American dollars, and not just Tanzanian shillings.

Meals in Zanzibar

Even if you do not have money in Zanzibar, you will not be left hungry - the fruit here grows almost at every step. Are rich in various food products and local markets, there you can also find variations of local fast food. The freshest fish can be bought directly from fishing boats and then baked on the grill. In a few supermarkets of the island, food products are mainly in the form of canned food. In restaurants and cafes of national cuisine, they are tasty, abundant and relatively inexpensive.

Very carefully, you need to go around Zanzibar with water. You can drink only bottled, it also cleans your teeth, and also used for ice. Water from the pipeline can be used only after boiling, and even in this case - at your own peril and risk.

What to do on the island of Zanzibar?

The main advantage of Zanzibar is its white sandy beaches. You can lay down on the ocean for days, basking in the warm sun. Around the island under the water there are many coral reefs, so you can try your hand at diving . There are also local attractions , the main one being Stone Town , it's also a Stone Town. You can please yourself with one of the excursions , for example, go to the plantation, where you grow cloves, cinnamon or nutmeg.

If you want to enjoy the flora and fauna of Zanzibar - certainly worth a visit in the forest of Josani, which is home to the friendly monkeys to tourists, or visit the Turtle Island and see the giant land tortoises. And you can rent a boat, hire a local escort and go in pursuit of dolphins. There will be a lot of positive impressions from such a walk! In general, believe me - having decided on an independent trip to Zanzibar, you definitely will not be bored!