Nearby Tanzania, Zanzibar Archipelago consists of lush Pemba in the north and the whole country comprises of numerous smaller islands and islets. The best time to visit Zanzibar is between late June and October. The archipelago produces world-class cloves, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, breadfruit, jackfruit, vanilla and lemongrass. Those interested in architecture will enjoy a tour of the old Stone Town; home to the Arabic, African and colonial buildings.
In addition to the spectacular beaches at the Zanzibar Islands; diving and snorkelling around Zanzibar, Pemba and other smaller islands is among the best available in the world. Jozani Forest spread in 35 kilometres is an adventurous stopover for all the nature and wildlife lovers in Zanzibar. The forest is home to rare red colobus monkeys, Sykes monkeys, bushbabies, Ader's duikers, hyraxes and more species of butterflies and birds.
The archipelago owes some of the magnificent beaches. The best of these beaches is Vumawimbi. The islands within the territory are made for car or motorbike hire and cycling tours. Changuu Island is known for its large family of giant tortoises. Several tiny islets have many coral reefs. The enormous doors that act as a doorway to the elegant Beit el-Ajaib (House of Wonders) are said to be the largest in East Africa. Beit al-Sahel (Palace Museum), the former Sultan's residence until 1964 has now been converted into a museum devoted to the era of the Zanzibar sultanate. The Old Fort and the Zanzibar Cultural Centre with an open-air theatre, an art gallery and a café are other must visits in the Zanzibar archipelago.
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