Visit Zanzibar and take a step back in time to a colonial Africa of Omani palaces, trading dhows and spice plantations.
My partner and I flew in to explore the island on a 10-day visit, staying on the east, west and north coasts, as well as in the capital, Stone Town. First up, was a lovely, small hotel in the northeast near the village of Matemwe. Azanzi was all wooden decks, makuti (palm-frond) roofs and hammocks, set on a sweep of beach where locals launched their ngalawas (outrigger canoes) and set sail for the outer reefs.
We spent our days lounging beside the pool sipping freshly squeezed tropical juices or using the hotel’s mountain bikes to explore the beaches. When the tide was low, we walked or kayaked out to the barrier reef, where women scavenged for marine titbits. It was the rainy season and bruised thunderheads towered above, occasionally showering us with hot rain. The play of light in the shallows and the sky was mesmerising.
Scuba fish is a diving outfit based at Azanzi. We joined them for a trip to Mnemba Atoll and a day of snorkelling and diving. Our dhow anchored in turquoise water and I tipped over the side, descending to 16 metres where the reef teemed with lion fish, scorpion fish, moray eels, nudibranches and giant groupers. In the deeper water, I spotted Napoleon wrasses, blue-fin trevallies and clouds of dancing bat fish.
This story is from the Winter 2016 edition of Wildside Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Winter 2016 edition of Wildside Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
4 Reasons Experiences Are Worth Investing In
By now, the elation and anticipation of buying the latest Apple product has lost its lustre, and as the bills pile up, buyer’s remorse settles in.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Spectacular coral islands, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, a stunning array of marine life and a multitude of water sporting activities are what make the Maldives the perfect holiday destination.
MEERU ISLAND RESORT AND SPA
PICTURE POSTCARD PERFECT
ADAARAN SELECT MEEDHUPPARU
PERFECT ISLAND ESCAPE
DE HOOP – NATURE UNCHANGED BY TWO CENTURIES
“Ever wondered what it’s like to kick back in a pristine natural coastal environment so ancient and unchanged that it’s become the benchmark for measuring environmental change in South Africa?”
ADAARAN CLUB RANNALHI
PARTY PARADISE
A Practical Guide to Evaluating Captive Wildlife Attractions and Activities
Captive wildlife attractions and interactions remain a complex, contentious and emotionally charged issue.
Valentine's Day ‘Month Of Love' Specials From Around The Country...
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner it’s time to check out the fabulous Valentine’s specials* being offered at top South African hotels around the country – and to check in for that extra-special Valentine’s weekend with your extraspecial someone! *valid for the entire month of February
It's A Dogs Life....
''Beverley Country Cottages, in the beautiful, lush green Dargle Valley is one of Milo’s favourite places along with his owners, The O’Mahony’s!
Why You Need To Plan A Wine Trip To Italy
Italy offers countless options for an unforgettable, luxurious wine holiday