Zanzibar, while part of Tanzania, is considered semi-autonomous and many of the locals still feel that Zanzibar is its own country. No matter, as your Tanzanian visa will get you here as well. From the charm of Stone Town to the beaches of the east coast this is an island that can't be missed.
Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar and where flights will arrive, as well as the ferry from the mainland; so you will pass through here one way or another. Fisherman in the morning wake you with the call of whatever fresh caught treat they have, local bars are a great place to meet locals, and there fancier rooftop restaurants from which you can watch the sunset over the Zanzibar Channel.
Most travelers head to Zanzibar for a beach vacation similar to an all-inclusive feel you might have in Latin America. Most resorts are small, intimate locales where clocks are unnecessary and sun is plentiful.
It should come as no surprise that this island has access to some of the best fishing in the continent. That fact translates to amazing seafood including soft-shell crab, lobster, and tuna. Take advantage of the locale and consume as much of the delicious seafood as you can. We also strongly recommend a visit to the local Stone Town fish market in the evenings as various vendors will cook freshly caught fish right in front of you, leading to one of the most delicious picnics you've ever had. Careful though as some vendors reuse food from the previous day; rather, only buy from those cooking the fish entirely in front of you.
Winter is May - August but when you're this close to the equator there isn't much of a change in temperature.
Summer is December - March with the rainy season starting in March and going through May.
