To experience Zanzibar's dreamy beaches, steal away from the city bustle to the coast. The palm-lined beaches and warm Indian Ocean waves lapping the sand is nothing short of idyllic. Water sport activities abound, with snorkelling and diving the gateway to bright coral reefs and vivid marine life, while a number of luxury resorts dot the coast. To take-in the best holidays to Zanzibar Island have to offer, the East Coast is a sure bet for picture-postcard beauty, with the area around Chwaka Bay particularly noteworthy. Sticking to the coast, travel to the southwestern end of the island to Kizimkazi; the main attraction here is the chance to see bottlenose dolphin - best seen from October to February.

Travelling inland you'll find Jozani Forest, a unique attraction on the island. Housed within the Chwaka Bay National Park the forest is all that remains of the lush vegetation that once carpeted most of the island. There's a real sense of history attached to it and plenty of walking trails to explore. Jozani's main draw is Kirk's red colobus monkey, a colourful primate that remains endangered. It's hardly the only inhabitant however, with the rare Ader's duiker, Sykes monkey and a plethora of birdlife to take-in.