Kisiwa House

Habitat and Wildlife

Zanzibar’s, or more correctly Unguja’s (Zanzibar is the name of the archipelago which includes both Pemba and Unguja islands), history dates back more than 2000 years when the islands traded with ships from Persia, Arabia and India. From about the 10th century, groups of immigrants from Shiraz (Persia) settled on the island and mixed with the local people. In the 16th century, the Portuguese established a trading station before being ousted by Omani Arabs a couple of centuries later. In 1840, the Sultan Said moved his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar with the Omani Arabs forming an elite group of landlords and rulers. Indian settlers formed a merchant class and the island became an important centre of regional politics and the focus of the slave trade.

In 1890, Zanzibar became a British protectorate before gaining independence in 1963. In 1964, the Sultan was overthrown and nearly all Arabs and Indians expelled. Later that year, Zanzibar and Tanganyika combined to form Tanzania. Since then, many of the expelled peoples have returned.

In Zanzibar’s Stone Town (the old quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage site), a fascinating maze of narrow streets and alleyways lead past numerous old houses, mosques, ornate palaces, shops and bazaars reflecting the various influences through the ages – Arab, Persian, Indian and European. Many of the buildings date back to the 19th century and depict the wealth of its builder. Arab houses have plain outer walls with large doors leading to an inner courtyard. Conversely, Indian houses have a more open facade and large balconies with railings and balustrades. Take the chance to savour the atmosphere by dining at one of the rooftop restaurants.

The area outside the Stone Town is called Michenzani (New City), a failed attempt at becoming a modern city.

Depending on where you are staying on the island, there are a number of interesting excursions to consider. Visit a Spice Plantation, take a trip to the Jozani Forest (southern part of the island) where the rare red colobus monkey is found or visit Chumbe Island Coral Park (either as a day trip from Stone Town or overnight). Sundowner trips by traditional sailing dhow are available out of Stone Town. Due to environmental concerns, we no longer recommend swimming with dolphins.

Please remember that Zanzibar, like much of the East African coastline, has a strong Islamic culture, and that you should dress appropriately when in public areas and the Stone Town. During the month of Ramadan, further courtesy should be shown to those observing their faith, particularly in respect to service which you may find slower than usual.

The best beaches on the island are those found on the north and east coasts. However, please note that there are large tidal movements and sea swimming from most beaches during low tide is difficult. The best snorkelling is found around the Mnemba and Chumbe islands, but snorkelling is available along the length of the east coast where it is usually necessary to go out by boat to enjoy the best locations.

Like most of East Africa, the islands are affected by the monsoon winds – the Kuzi (or sometimes Kisi) which blows from April to September/October is a south-easterly which brings choppy sea conditions and seaweed to the shorelines, whereas the Kaskasi blows from the north-east from October/November to March producing calmer seas and slightly higher temperatures.

Activities

Kisiwa House is perfectly positioned for exploring Stone Town on foot, but guided tours and days trips to the wider island can all be arranged locally or in advance at extra cost.

Seasons

Kisiwa House is open year round, though Zanzibar is best avoided during the main rainy season in April and May.