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The Swahili Experience in Zanzibar
The More You Learn… The Greater The Fascination
School Swahili-Style
After savoring the delights of Swahili cuisine, you might be intrigued to recreate these flavors at home. Join one of our chef's masterclasses to delve
into the secrets of spice, seafood, and coconut used in these dishes. Alternatively, you can immerse yourself in our Swahili School, where lessons take
place under the shade of palm trees, guided by a local Mwalimu (teacher) who can teach you both the Swahili language and Zanzibar's rich history. For an authentic
Zanzibar cultural experience, consider attending a beach-class on palm weaving, where you can craft your very own sun hat.
Additionally, we regularly organize cooking classes with our skilled chefs, allowing guests to learn how to prepare classic Swahili dishes.
During these sessions, our chefs will share insights about local spicesand their significance in the cuisine.
Spice Isle Remembered
To capture vivid memories of your enchanting stay on the magical Spice Isle, our Guest Relations Desk offers an array of tours and day trips.
Additionally, we have some special family favorites that we'd like to recommend. These unique and personalized experiences not only offer fantastic
photo opportunities but also allow you to genuinely engage with the locals and gain insights into the rich heritage of Zanzibar.
The Zanzibar Experience
Go Local, Learn About Authentic
Zanzibar Life
This distinctive encounter provides an genuine and seldom-encountered insight into the Zanzibari lifestyle. Come along with us on a trip to the nearby village of Bwejuu, where we will explore the school and mosque, receive a warm welcome into a traditional Swahili household, and take a leisurely walk to savor the local market's offerings. Additionally, we're thrilled to share that the earnings from this tour directly contribute to the village fund, empowering the community to establish their own healthcare, educational, and financial amenities.
Cooking Demo
Cooking demo are organized upon request, with an extra charge. Guests learn to prepare some classical Swahili dishes with our excellent chefs who talk about the local spices and their use and importance.
Be a Bao Master
If you're interested in enhancing your abilities during your vacation, why not take the opportunity to learn the ancient game of Bao? Originating in East Africa, this game can be observed being played in various town squares throughout the archipelago. Bao is a sophisticated and intellectually stimulating game played on a mancala board featuring four rows, each with eight pits—referred to as "mashimo" (holes) in Swahili. Zanzibar is renowned for its skilled "bao bingwas" (masters), and one of them would be thrilled to guide you through the game. For further details, please don't hesitate to contact our Guest Relations Desk.
Coral Reef Exploration
If you're interested in gaining a deeper understanding of our untouched coral reef, why not consider participating in our reef safari? Led by an expert guide who possesses unparalleled knowledge of coral formations and marine ecosystems, this excursion begins at low tide and offers a blend of physical activity, breathtaking vistas, chances for photography, and an unparalleled up-close experience with the underwater world.
Drift Down the Coast on a Dhow
Embark on the ultimate day of Zanzibari delight by stepping aboard our exquisite Swahili dhow, setting sail for a leisurely journey along the mesmerizing coastline and into the distinctive mangrove swamps that define the island's character. These tranquil yet vibrant mangroves, teeming with avian life, serve as a vital resource for sustenance and building materials in the traditional Swahili households. Engage in the art of traditional hand-line fishing, and upon returning to the hotel, collaborate with our Chef to customize the presentation of your catch for a delectable dinner.
Watch the experts climb a Palm tree
Our gardeners do it all the time!!
Watch as they expertly scale these narrow trees with nothing more than their own bare feet and a simple length of rope. They can also help you weave your own sun-hat, a great take-home memory of your Zanzibar sojourn.
The Rising Sun – A Dive School With a Difference
With pride, we present the sole PADI five-star Gold Palm and RAID diving certified Dive Centre in Zanzibar. Additionally, we hold the distinction of being the pioneering dive experts to unveil the untouched wonders of the southeastern shoreline. With 19 years of expertise at our Rising Sun Center, we assure you of not just unwavering professionalism, but also a profound commitment to safeguarding the immaculate ecology of this incredibly vibrant marine ecosystem.
Unmissable Stone Town
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands unparalleled as the most enduring embodiment of Swahili Culture at its pinnacle. An enchanting fusion of Sultan's palaces, meandering streets, bustling markets, vintage emporiums, and age-old forts, this cultural haven is a realm of marvel that one must witness to grasp its significance.
Our Zanzibar Collection
Spanning three generations, our tightly-knit family has nurtured The Zanzibar Collection over a 25-year relationship with Zanzibar, which we hold dear. We take immense pride in the fact that our properties truly encapsulate the essence of an authentic Zanzibar experience.
Meticulously crafted yet delicately distinguished in their individual traits, the Collection is tailored to attract both families and couples, offering a diverse range of prices and atmospheres. This ensemble sets the standard for excellence, all the while upholding our commitment to environmentally-friendly practices at the highest level.
Red Colobus Monkeys & Forest Trails
Explore one of the few remaining tropical forests left on Earth at the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, which stands as the sole national park on the island (soon to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Within, pathways guide you through both lush woodlands and enchanting mangrove swamps, all accessible via well-maintained boardwalks.
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