Taking a break after our safaris in Kenya & Tanzania, we headed to the beautiful and laid-back island of Zanzibar. A melting pot of cultures, Zanzibar is mostly known for its spices and beaches, the latter being our main drawn to the island.
Stone Town
The historical center of Zanzibar city, Stone Town is cute and old, all stones and narrow alleys. Wandering around the maze of town and taking a peek at the local shops and architecture kept us busy for hours.
Old fort in Stone Town, Zanzibar
Some buildings had really intricate and fancy doors - the famed doors of Zanzibar. They came in different flavors, some are Swahili, others Omani or Indian style.
Carved door in Stone Town, Zanzibar
Our favourite part of town was the waterfront park that became a street food night market. We went there every night to savour all the different local dishes. Zanzibar pizza, zanzibar mix, grilled meat and seafood, fresh fruit juice... yum!
Zanzibar pizza on the works, Zanzibar
The sunsets also added to the whole tropical paradise atmosphere.
Sunset over the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar
Paje
Paje was just one of the many nice beaches on the east coast of Zanzibar we had the chance to visit. Long stretches of very soft, white sand and beautiful turquoise water all along it.
Paje, Zanzibar
We spent the day chilling on the beach and watched all the kitesurfers do their tricks. Paje was a great spot for kitesurfing with strong winds.
Kitesurfers in Paje, Zanzibar
Kwale Island
We couldn't leave without a snorkeling tour to Kwale Island. The rock formations of the island were beautiful and very unique. We enjoyed the view from a double arch formation at one of the snorkeling points.
Rock formation on Kwale Island, Zanzibar
Double arch rock formation, Kwale Island
To end the snorkeling trip, there was a stop at a gorgeous sand bank before we sailed back. Zanzibar was the break we desperately needed! But the tropical paradise continued onto our next destination - Seychelles!