A Zanzibar vacation takes you to the Spice Islands: Zanzibar (Unguja), Pemba, and Mafia. Just mentioning them brings to mind bustling spice markets, palm-fringed white-sand beaches, and traditional dhows gliding on turquoise waters. And the reality is just as magical. A short journey from mainland Tanzania, these islands sit at the crossroads of ancient trade routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. This history shaped their unique culture, architecture, and cuisine. On Zanzibar (Unguja), you can join spice tours, sample local dishes, and wander the winding streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vibrant markets, historic coralline stone buildings, and mangrove timber tell the story of a bustling Swahili trading hub. Beyond Stone Town, Zanzibar offers secluded rocky shores, private jetties, and the lush Jozani mangrove forest. Pemba, Mafia, and the smaller islands boast some of Africa’s most beautiful beaches and world-class diving spots.