Just a short journey from mainland Tanzania, these islands sit at the historic crossroads of ancient trade routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Asia—resulting in a rich cultural blend that’s reflected in their architecture, cuisine, and way of life. On the largest island, Zanzibar (or Unguja), visitors can immerse themselves in spice tours, sample authentic local dishes, and explore the winding streets of the historic Stone Town. A World Heritage Site, Stone Town thrives with vibrant markets and rich flavors, all set against a backdrop of unique coralline stone and mangrove timber architecture that tells the tale of its past as a Swahili trading hub