Zanzibar

For those adventurous couples looking to honeymoon in an exotic location, the island of Zanzibar will provide a rich and romantic experience. Influenced by the spice trade as well as the culture and traditions brought here from the Portuguese, the Omani Arabs and the English, Zanzibar is a destination like no other.

Located off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar was an independent country until 1964 when it and several smaller islands became part of the United Republic of Tanzania. Tourism is a growing industry here, with efforts being made to attract visitors yearning to explore multiple cultures, diverse cuisine, pristine coral reefs, deep sea game fishing, or simply a chance to experience the allure of a Sultan's ancient palace.

Romance will blossom as you wander the narrow, shaded streets of Stone Town, the capital city, on a sultry afternoon. Here you can almost catch the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove in the air as you hear the call to prayer that beckons from one of the city's 50 mosques. The chance to relive the allure of long ago can be yours as you and your spouse set sail from Kilele Square in a traditional wooden Dhow for some of the small islands off Stone Town.

Though your journey here may be far, the rewards will be great. Nature will exhibit a spellbinding display as you view the acrobatics of bottlenose dolphins, the magnificence of cresting whales, or schools of multi-colored fish that scurry just beneath the water. You can also explore the Jozani Forest – a wildlife haven - to view the rare Red Colobus monkey that only exists on Zanzibar, or take a leisurely stroll through the refurbished Forodhani Gardens at sunset as many of Stone Town's resident do.

Magic and mystery intertwine in Zanzibar, along with the warm and generous spirit of its people. Through song, dance, and ritual -- both ancient and modern -- your heart and soul will be forever changed here.

Stay
Tips
See
Dine
Destination Weddings

WHERE TO STAY:

Baraza Resort and Spa

Baraza Resort and Spa is located on the south eastern coast of Zanzibar, along the Bwejuu beach which has been voted one of the top 30 island beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

This beautiful 30 villa boutique resort evokes the heritage of Zanzibar dating back to the era of the Sultans. All accommodation villas feature classic Swahili architecture with dramatic arches, cement Baraza benches and intricate cement decorations. The luxurious interiors, accented with beautiful fabrics, hand carved furniture and brass lanterns, also offer large bathrooms with luxury fittings as well as a spacious terrace and private plunge pool.

Another exceptional amenity is the Frangipani Spa which provides a wide variety of facial and body treatments ranging from rejuvenating to detoxifying & hydrating therapies, plus a wide array of specialized massage techniques, including the renowned Thai massage. All are designed to stimulate your senses and add a very special touch to your honeymoon experience.

And what could be more enduringly romantic than to celebrate a wedding here on a pristine beach on this mystical spice Island, complete with a mesmerizing view of the Indian Ocean? Or honeymoon at Baraza and experience unique rose-colored sunsets while listening to the same exotic music once heard in the court of Sultan bin Said. Baraza is sure to be a sublime once-in-a-lifetime romantic adventure!
Telephone: +255-774-440-330/1
For Reservations: +254-020-269-9-796
Email:
Website:
Breezes Beach Club and Spa

For centuries, the island of Zanzibar has evoked a mystical and magical dream. And there's no better place to experience the magic of Zanzibar than at Breezes Beach Club and Spa. It is the ultimate retreat for those looking to get away from it all.

This beautiful resort is situated along a pristine beach stretching as far as the eye can see and considered one of the top 30 beaches in the world. With great attention to detail, unique charm, personalized service and warm hospitality, Breezes offers all newlyweds an unparalleled experience.

Known for its romantic ambiance, Breezes Beach Club is undoubtedly the most popular honeymoon and wedding destination on the Island. We can provide personalized assistance with the planning of your special day and arrange a private "Island Ceremony" that will match the wedding of your dreams. For honeymoon couples, in addition to our full range of exceptional amenities, we offer an evening "under the stars" for those who book one of our suites. During this enchanted evening, a bed is placed on your private balcony for you to experience the glorious expanse of sky and the romance of moonlight dancing over the Indian Ocean.

All rooms at the Breezes are tastefully decorated in ivory tones, with cotton throws, teak wood finishes and Zanzibar carvings. Rooms are fully air-conditioned with ensuite bathrooms. Suites also offer a walk-in dressing room.

Our exceptional facilities include the Water Club where daily snorkeling trips depart, as well as the Rising Sun Dive Center (PADI 5 star) which is the only National Geographic affiliated Dive Center in East Africa. Our Frangipani Spa has a team of professional therapists from Thailand, Bali and India, who offer a world-class selection of massages and health and beauty treatments, including the signature Après Safari Treatment Package and Sultan's Bath Experience.

The concept behind Breezes is to offer all our guests a honeymoon with a unique personal touch! We look forward to welcoming you!
Telephone: +255-774-44-0-883/884
For Reservations: +254-20-269-9-796
Email:
Website:
The Palms Zanzibar

Nestled between tropical gardens and white sandy beach, The Palms offers beautifully appointed facilities in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The Palms consists of six private villas each with a bedroom, living room, full en-suite bathroom, walk-in dressing room, an extra room with its own en-suite bathroom and a large furnished terrace.

Additional features include a private outdoor plunge pool, a Mini-bar, Satellite TV, tea and coffee making services, DVD player, telephone and air-conditioning as well as the very private, Sanctuary Spa.

In addition to tours and excursions offered through Guest Relations, a highlight of your stay at the Palms will be activities specifically designed to explore this area of Zanzibar, and opportunities to interact with the community at large. Informal classes in Swahili, the History of Zanzibar as well preparing local cuisine are also offered.

This beautiful resort is an ideal retreat for honeymoon couples as well as those desiring a private and exotic venue for a unique wedding celebration with family and friends. The romantic charm of The Palms mixed with the allure and mystique of Zanzibar is sure to provide a truly memorable experience for all.
Telephone: +255-777-437-007
For Reservations: +254-020-2699796
Email:
Website:

ZANZIBAR HONEYMOON TIPS:

POPULATION: Approximately 1,00,000 for both Zanzibar and Pemba Island.
LANGUAGE: The official languages are Swahili and English.
RELIGION: Zanzibar is predominantly an Islamic society. However, Hindu and Christianity are also practiced here.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Passports and Visas are required for all visitors. Check with any Tanzanian High Commission or Consulate.
WEATHER: Zanzibar experiences ideal holiday weather for most of the year. The heat of summer is often cooled by pleasant sea breezes. Temperatures average 77-84◦ Fahrenheit (25-29◦ Centigrade).
ELECTRICITY: 220 - 240 volt AC.
CURRENCY: The Tanzania shilling is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
INTERNATIONAL DIALING CODE: +255

ZANZIBAR HONEYMOON HINTS:

DRESS: Since Zanzibar is predominately Muslim, tourists are advised to dress conservatively outside of the resort areas. Loose fitting, non-transparent clothing is recommended. Women should try to have both shoulders and legs covered.
SHOPPING: Head for Stone Town where you can shop for items from around the globe. Gold, handmade beads and silver, antiques, textiles, spices, wooden carvings and much more can be found here. Just be sure to avoid purchasing anything made from endangered species, such as shells, ivory and tortoiseshell.
GETTING AROUND: Arranging for a car rental is relatively easy in Stone Town. Just make sure you have a valid International Driver's License. You may also need to purchase a permit to drive. Taxis can also be hired in Stone Town.

For the adventuresome, Dala dalas (mini-buses) are readily available for travel to some of the more rural areas of Zanzibar. They are also less expensive than taxis. However, they are typically very crowded.

DON’T MISS:

VISIT THE HOUSE OF WONDERS. Located on the waterfront in Stone Town, and originally built in 1883, this building is one of six palaces built by Barghash bin Said, the second Sultan of Zanzibar. One of the most prominent buildings in the area, the House of Wonders is now home to a museum which exhibits many items reflective of the diverse Zanzibari culture.
EXPERIENCE DEEP SEA FISHING. Renowned for its excellent game fishing, a honeymoon in Zanzibar can provide an exhilarating deep sea adventure as you hunt for yellow fin tuna, billfish, blue marlin and other fish native to the local waters. Half day and full day charters are available from the Pemba Channel Fishing Club (www.pembachannel.com), or Fishing Zanzibar (www.fishingzanzibar.com).
CHECK-OUT THE FILM FESTIVAL. If you plan to go to Zanzibar in summer, time your visit to coincide with the Zanzibar International Film Festival – East Africa's largest film, music and arts festival. This event presents African film, music and art at its finest. Main events are held in Stone Town with some also held on Pemba Island and mainland Tanzania. (www.ziff.or.tz)
SAIL ON A DHOW. Take a romantic sunset cruise with the Original Dhow Safaris Company. Leave by the jetty at Dolphin View Paradise on a dhow, a hand-crafted wooden sailing vessel similar to those that have navigated the coast of Africa for centuries. With cocktails in hand, you can view a stunning sunset together.

For those planning a destination wedding, you can also sail away to a sandbank just off Stone Town where a "chapel" will be built for your private ceremony before you and your guests sail back to shore for a joyous wedding reception at one of the local hotels or restaurants. (www.dhowsafaris.net)

DINING ON YOUR ZANZIBAR HONEYMOON:

Many of the hotels in Zanzibar offer quality restaurant dining that is delicious, satisfying and convenient. Typically, a selection of local and international cuisine can be found not only at the hotel restaurants, but also at many of the places in and around Stone Town.

RAINTREE RESTAURANT AND MANGROVE BAR: Located in the Mbweni Ruins Hotel south of Stone Town, this restaurant is set on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Here you'll find wonderful international cuisine prepared with a fusion of many of the typical exotic flavors of Zanzibar.

Tel:+255-24-223-5478/9
Email:hotel@mbweni.com
SERENA MANGAPWANI RESTAURANT AND WATERSPORTS CENTER: Located about 30 minutes from Zanzibar's Stone Town, the Serena Mangapwani Restaurant and Watersports Center is a lovely place to go for the day. Enjoy the fresh seafood barbecue while sitting in the shade under a makuti bandas. Guests can also enjoy fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and catamaran rides at the water sports center.

Tel:+255-24-2-233587
Email:zanzibar@serena.co.tz
LA FENICE, is a restaurant in the Shangani district of Stone Town. Here the ambiance reflects both Arabic and Swahili cultures. There is a sea-front terrace where you may order both Italian and Swahili cuisine. It's a wonderful place to enjoy the sunset as well as star-gaze in the evening. Don't leave here without indulging in their outstanding gelato!

Tel:+255-77-7-413062
LAZULI: A small, lovely restaurant which offers simple, fresh and healthy meals in a colorful and inviting setting. A great place for a late breakfast or lunch. Located in the Shangani district of Stone Town.
THE DHOW: A rooftop restaurant housed in the Dhow Palace Hotel. Come here to dine on seafood as well as local and international cuisine while viewing the scenic panorama of Stone Town and the beauty of the Indian Ocean.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS:

Baraza Resort and Spa

Baraza Resort and Spa is located on the south eastern coast of Zanzibar, along the Bwejuu beach which has been voted one of the top 30 island beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

This beautiful 30 villa boutique resort evokes the heritage of Zanzibar dating back to the era of the Sultans. All accommodation villas feature classic Swahili architecture with dramatic arches, cement Baraza benches and intricate cement decorations. The luxurious interiors, accented with beautiful fabrics, hand carved furniture and brass lanterns, also offer large bathrooms with luxury fittings as well as a spacious terrace and private plunge pool.

Another exceptional amenity is the Frangipani Spa which provides a wide variety of facial and body treatments ranging from rejuvenating to detoxifying & hydrating therapies, plus a wide array of specialized massage techniques, including the renowned Thai massage. All are designed to stimulate your senses and add a very special touch to your honeymoon experience.

And what could be more enduringly romantic than to celebrate a wedding here on a pristine beach on this mystical spice Island, complete with a mesmerizing view of the Indian Ocean? Or honeymoon at Baraza and experience unique rose-colored sunsets while listening to the same exotic music once heard in the court of Sultan bin Said. Baraza is sure to be a sublime once-in-a-lifetime romantic adventure!
Telephone: +255-774-440-330/1
For Reservations: +254-020-269-9-796
Email:
Website:
Breezes Beach Club and Spa

For centuries, the island of Zanzibar has evoked a mystical and magical dream. And there's no better place to experience the magic of Zanzibar than at Breezes Beach Club and Spa. It is the ultimate retreat for those looking to get away from it all.

This beautiful resort is situated along a pristine beach stretching as far as the eye can see and considered one of the top 30 beaches in the world. With great attention to detail, unique charm, personalized service and warm hospitality, Breezes offers all newlyweds an unparalleled experience.

Known for its romantic ambiance, Breezes Beach Club is undoubtedly the most popular honeymoon and wedding destination on the Island. We can provide personalized assistance with the planning of your special day and arrange a private "Island Ceremony" that will match the wedding of your dreams. For honeymoon couples, in addition to our full range of exceptional amenities, we offer an evening "under the stars" for those who book one of our suites. During this enchanted evening, a bed is placed on your private balcony for you to experience the glorious expanse of sky and the romance of moonlight dancing over the Indian Ocean.

All rooms at the Breezes are tastefully decorated in ivory tones, with cotton throws, teak wood finishes and Zanzibar carvings. Rooms are fully air-conditioned with ensuite bathrooms. Suites also offer a walk-in dressing room.

Our exceptional facilities include the Water Club where daily snorkeling trips depart, as well as the Rising Sun Dive Center (PADI 5 star) which is the only National Geographic affiliated Dive Center in East Africa. Our Frangipani Spa has a team of professional therapists from Thailand, Bali and India, who offer a world-class selection of massages and health and beauty treatments, including the signature Après Safari Treatment Package and Sultan's Bath Experience.

The concept behind Breezes is to offer all our guests a honeymoon with a unique personal touch! We look forward to welcoming you!
Telephone: +255-774-44-0-883/884
For Reservations: +254-20-269-9-796
Email:
Website:
The Palms Zanzibar

Nestled between tropical gardens and white sandy beach, The Palms offers beautifully appointed facilities in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The Palms consists of six private villas each with a bedroom, living room, full en-suite bathroom, walk-in dressing room, an extra room with its own en-suite bathroom and a large furnished terrace.

Additional features include a private outdoor plunge pool, a Mini-bar, Satellite TV, tea and coffee making services, DVD player, telephone and air-conditioning as well as the very private, Sanctuary Spa.

In addition to tours and excursions offered through Guest Relations, a highlight of your stay at the Palms will be activities specifically designed to explore this area of Zanzibar, and opportunities to interact with the community at large. Informal classes in Swahili, the History of Zanzibar as well preparing local cuisine are also offered.

This beautiful resort is an ideal retreat for honeymoon couples as well as those desiring a private and exotic venue for a unique wedding celebration with family and friends. The romantic charm of The Palms mixed with the allure and mystique of Zanzibar is sure to provide a truly memorable experience for all.
Telephone: +255-777-437-007
For Reservations: +254-020-2699796
Email:
Website: