I can't contain my excitement as I invite you to join me on this incredible journey to this captivating destination. Zanzibar has long been on my travel bucket list, and now the time has finally come to share my experience. Let your wanderlust guide you as we escape on this journey to one of Africa's most captivating destinations.

Staying at Baladin Zanzibar Hotel

Arriving at Baladin after a long-haul flight, we were greeted with warm smiles and a seamless transfer from the airport. The 1.5-hour journey was well worth it as we discovered the tranquil oasis that awaited us. This boutique hotel, with its intimate ambiance and impeccable service, made us feel right at home. Nestled amidst lush surroundings, Baladin is the epitome of relaxation, boasting plenty of cozy spots to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink.

The hotel comprises only eight bungalows and four rooms, ensuring an intimate and exclusive stay. Due to its popularity, it's recommended to book well in advance to secure your spot. One morning, we opted for a special breakfast experience in a secluded area on hanging chairs at the beach, accompanied by a bottle of champagne. The whole atmosphere was simply delightful, setting the tone for a day filled with culinary delights.

Speaking of cuisine, Baladin takes pride in serving delectable dishes, with a strong emphasis on Italian and seafood specialties. The generous portions and impeccable flavors left our taste buds craving for more. We relished in the succulent shrimp, and I personally fell in love with the parmigiana—a delightful surprise that introduced me to a new favorite dish.

Zanzibar Blue Lagoon Snorkel Tour

Located in Pingwe, Baladin sits in a serene area right by the beach. We took the opportunity to book a snorkeling tour to the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon. For a nominal fee of $20 per person, we had a private boat at our disposal, guiding us to a small reef teeming with vibrant fish. The next spot on the tour was equally captivating as we marveled at the sight of hundreds of majestic starfish in various colors, including blue, red, and yellow.

Rent Transparent Kayak in Zanzibar

To further explore the turquoise waters, we decided to rent a clear kayak from Baladin for just $10 per hour—a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings.

Rent a Car in Zanzibar

To truly experience the wonders of Zanzibar, we rented a 4WD car from Baladin to explore the northern parts of the island, particularly Nungwi. The rental cost was $35 per day, and there was an additional fee for arranging the driver's license permit—a necessary requirement due to regular police checks.

Zanzibar Horse Club

While in Nungwi, I had the opportunity to indulge in a unique activity—swimming with horses. The crystal-clear waters provided the perfect setting to take a refreshing dip alongside these magnificent horses. It's worth noting that swimming with horses in Nungwi is only possible during high tide, so be sure to check the tide schedule for the optimal experience.

Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary

For a meaningful wildlife encounter, I visited Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation during high tide. You can easily explore the tidal pool and observe the rehabilitated turtles up close. This non-profit conservation project was the first of its kind in the area and focuses on releasing turtles back into their natural habitat. The staff provided me with seagrass to feed these gentle creatures, and it was heartwarming to witness their conservation efforts firsthand. Make sure to time your visit during low tide for the best experience.

The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar

One of the perks of staying at Baladin is its proximity to the famous restaurant, "The Rock." We reserved a table several days in advance and had the opportunity to visit during high tide. A complimentary boat transfer was provided, adding to the charm of this culinary adventure. Booking at high tide for sure give you the best views, check the tide schedule ahead to plan for lunch or dinner. The stunning location, combined with the incredible food, made it an afternoon to remember. I highly recommend trying the grilled lobster dish—it's a true indulgence.

Staying at Bamboo Zanzibar Hotel

When it was time to bid farewell to Baladin, we embarked on a short taxi ride to Bamboo. This relatively new luxury design hotel immediately captivated us with its breathtaking views. As we entered the property and caught a glimpse of the restaurant overlooking the azure ocean, we knew we were in for an extraordinary stay. We arrived just in time for lunch and were in awe of the panoramic vistas that stretched before us.

Bamboo exceeded our expectations as we were upgraded to a plunge pool suite with ocean views. The spacious and beautifully appointed room provided a haven of comfort and luxury. The attentive and friendly staff went above and beyond to ensure that every moment of our stay was memorable.

The culinary delights at Bamboo were nothing short of extraordinary. With a daily-changing menu, we were treated to a gastronomic journey that showcased the best of local and international flavors. From sumptuous crab dishes to tantalizing breakfast spreads, every meal was a feast for the senses. We relished the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes, ranging from sweet and healthy options to traditional and oriental delights. The freshness and quality of the ingredients were evident in every bite.

Our days at Bamboo were filled with relaxation and indulgence. We spent countless hours by the pool, sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun. One of the unique features of Bamboo is that during low tide, you can take a short walk from the beach out onto the sandbanks, in the mornings you can witness local women collecting seaweed—an intriguing glimpse into the island's daily life. The hotel's small size created an intimate atmosphere, making us feel as though we had the entire property to ourselves. Whether we were enjoying open-fire barbecues or simply lounging by the pool with music playing through the speakers, Bamboo effortlessly catered to our every need and desire.

Mtende Beach and the Eden Rock Restaurant

If you're looking to explore the surrounding area, consider a visit to Mtende Beach and Eden Rock Restaurant. A short taxi or motorcycle ride from Bamboo, these destinations offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Keep in mind that the best views at Mtende Beach are during low tide, so plan your visit accordingly. We also had the pleasure of encountering wild monkeys in this area, adding an unexpected touch of adventure to our day.