Overview
Just 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania lies the spice-scented isle of Zanzibar, with its ancient Swahili-Arab culture. For centuries, the Sultans of Oman ruled this tiny island and the Arabic influence is still very strong. Snorkeling, diving, bicycling, windsurfing, and the amenities of the resort's spa are just a few of the many optional activities available. Accommodations in Stone Town are at the Serena Inn; on Days 2-3, enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the sounds and sights of the Indian Ocean with a stay at The Palms or upgrade to the elegant Baraza Resort and Spa. Early booking is recommended due to limited availability.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Stone Town, Zanzibar / Zanzibar Serena Inn
Fly to Stone Town, capital of Zanzibar. Upon arrival, you are met and driven to the lovely Serena Inn, a haven of tranquility on the seafront in Stone Town. Stone Town’s architectural heritage reflects Zanzibar’s position as a crossroads of trade between Africa and the Arab world. Explore the town on your own, or book an optional spice tour, city tour, or Jozani Forest excursion. Overnight at the Serena Inn...B
Stone Town, Zanzibar / Zanzibar Serena Inn - Day 1
Zanzibar Serena Inn
Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Day 1 (1 night)
The Zanzibar Serena Inn occupies two historic seafront buildings that have been masterfully restored. The interiors echo the rich Arabian influences as well as indigenous East African roots. Guest rooms are fully air conditioned and elegantly furnished. The Serena’s Baharia Restaurant, with its views of lateen-sailed dhows passing by, is furnished with Persian rugs and bright Swahili artifacts and serves a variety of cuisine including fresh-caught seafood.
Days 2-3
The Palms / Baraza Resort and Spa
This morning, your transfer brings you to The Palms (or upgrade to Baraza Resort and Spa). The Palms and Baraza Resort and Spa are both located on an exquisite and unspoiled stretch of white-sand beach on Zanzibar’s east coast surrounded by azure waters, both boast gorgeous Indian Ocean sunsets. These days are free to relax and swim and snorkel in the ocean, or enjoy the amenities of the resorts, which include optional windsurfing, scuba diving, and spa treatments...BLD each day
The Palms / Baraza Resort and Spa - Days 2-3
The Palms (First Class Option)
East Coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania
Days 2 to 3 (2 nights)
Set on an unspoiled white beach, The Palms offers luxury and privacy in its six spacious private beachside villas, air-conditioned with a master bedroom, en suite bathroom, walk-in changing room, extra bedroom with en suite bathroom, and a large furnished terrace with a view of the ocean. Each villa also has its own thatched open-air cabana with a Zanzibar-style outdoor bed, a shady private retreat for lounging and gazing at the sea. The dining room serves a four-course dinner. Cuisine is a blend of fresh-caught fish, fresh produce, and the spices of Zanzibar’s ancient island cultures. The pool bar and terrace serve cocktails and lunches, while the evening bar serves drinks accompanied by jazz music and candlelight. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming in the lovely pool, and optional spa treatments. Additional facilities such as a fitness center, tennis court, windsurfing, and scuba diving are available at extra cost (divers should be sure to bring their Dive Certification Cards).
Baraza Resort and Spa (Deluxe Option)
Bwejuu Beach, Tanzania
Days 2 to 3 (2 nights)
Located on the Bwejuu beach where a wide coral reef stretches out along the coast, the 5-star Baraza Resort and Spa is an island haven, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. Thirty villas, contrived by skilled local craftsmen with a blend of Arabic, Swahili, and Indian design, each include an en-suite bathroom, freestanding bathtub, walk-in dressing room, living room, large terrace with lounge chairs, and a private plunge pool. The hotel’s restaurants range from an open-air terrace where daily breakfast is served, to the Ocean Lounge for light lunch fare, and the Sultans Dining Room, which alternates between a buffet dinner and the chef’s daily creations. Head to the outdoor bar for a cocktail under the sway of palm trees, and unwind at the spa, which has a lap pool infused with underwater music, relaxation rooms, a fitness center, and a tennis court.
Day 4
Dar / Depart
Transfer to the airport and fly to Dar es Salaam, where you will be assisted with your homeward-bound flight. A dayroom can be arranged (at extra cost) at the Southern Sun Hotel (available until 6:00 pm) to shower and relax for those travelers with late night flights...B
