Zanzibar (Tanzania)

Zanzibar is a major port city and a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania (East Africa, Indian Ocean). The city is located approx 50 km (30 mi) off the coast of mainland Africa and also includes 2 large islands (Unguja and Pemba) plus many small isles. Zanzibar City is on Unguja Island and is archipelago's capital, with population over 1,3 million.

City's largest industries include raffia palms, spices, tourism. The islands produce nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, cloves. For this reason, Zanzibar Island are sometimes refered to as Spice Islands (the term is also associated with Maluku Islands Indonesia). The archipelago is home of the endemic species Zanzibar servaline genet, Zanzibar red colobus monkey and Zanzibar leopard.

The annual International Film Festival (aka Festival of the Dhow Countries) is held in July. Major architectural sights in Stone Town (dowtown Zanzibar) include Livingstone House, House of Wonders, Guliani Bridge, The Old dispensary and The Old fort. Kidichi town is popular for its Persian Baths.

Port Zanzibar

On the islands Pemba and Unguja are located all 5 seaports - all developed and managed by Zanzibar Ports Corporation. The principal / largest port is Malindi - handling around 90% of the country's trade.

The port was built in 1925 and rehabilitated in 1989-92 with financial assistance from European Union. The Italian company Salini Impregilo (industrial group specializing in major construction and infrastructure projects) built the port's new wharves with 60 years guarantee. However, the facilities started to deteriorate just after 11 years as the contractor deviated from the technical specifications. Following the long legal battle, in 2005 the company paid Zanzibar USD 11,6 million in damages.

Between 2004-2009, the port was rehabilitated again with EUR 31 million grant. The contract was awarded to the Danish company E. Pihl & Son. The contractor suggested the port's rehabilitation would last at least 50 years, but it still faces problems, especially with sinking.

Zanzibar is also the cruise port to Serengeti National Park. The fastest way of travel is by flying - there are charter flights from Zanzibar Airport to various airstrips in the park, including Seronera and Fort Ikoma. Follows the drive to the lodge and the safari tours in the park.