This island has stunning beaches, a historic old town and a hot and sunny climate in February (Image: Getty)
With the cold, wet and miserable weather of the UK showing little sign of relenting anytime soon, many Brits will be scouring the internet for a winter sun holiday destination that will give them that much-needed boost of Vitamin D, without breaking the bank. With the Northern Hemisphere still in the grips of winter, wannabe holidaymakers are having to look a little further afield to find the hottest destinations.
Luckily, there is a gorgeous island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of East Africa, that ticks all those boxes, with the added bonus of being several hours closer to home. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, which is famous for its beautiful beaches, spice trade history and unique blend of African, Arabian, Indian, and European cultures, centred around the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Zanzibar’s Stone Town boasts winding alleys, carved doors and historic buildings like the Old Fort (Image: Getty)
It comprises two main islands, Unguja (Zanzibar) and Pemba, with Zanzibar City being its capital. Unguja is the main and most populated island, where you’ll find the historic Stone Town, boasting winding alleys, carved doors and historic buildings like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, the oldest in town. Freddie Mercury was also born here and there is a dedicated to the legendary Queen frontman, located in his childhood home.
Pemba Island, found to the north of Unguja, is known for its lush hills and clove production. Also known as “The Green Island”, Pemba is quieter and less developed, offering an authentic escape with world-class diving, pristine beaches on offshore islets and rich Swahili culture, a stark contrast to busier Unguja. It’s a haven for nature lovers seeking untouched coral reefs, diverse marine life in the deep Pemba Channel, including sharks and turtles, and quiet exploration of farming villages, accessible by small plane or ferry from Zanzibar.
Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park is the island’s only national park and the only place on Earth to see the Red Colobus Monkey. If this is not enough wildlife, head to Mnemba Island, a private islet surrounded by a conservation area with some of the best coral reefs and dolphin-spotting opportunities.
Daytime temperatures in Zanzibar in February are often around 32-34C with warms seas (Image: Getty)
February in Zanzibar is hot, sunny and dry, making it a prime time for those craving a beach holiday, with daytime temperatures often around 32 to 34C and warm seas perfect for water activities. Expect clear blue skies, pleasant evenings around 24 to 25C, minimal wind and only occasional short rain showers before the main rainy season begins in March.
If you’re still stuck between Zanzibar, the Maldives, and the Seychelles, the biggest difference isn’t just the landscape—it’s the price tag. According to Numbeo, while a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant without drinks may set you back £26.50 in Male in the Maldives, the same in Zanzibar can be enjoyed for just £16.80. Meanwhile, a half-litre of domestic draft beer can be bought for just £1.50 in Zanzibar, while in Male a non-alcoholic alternative (as alcohol is strictly prohibited here) will set you back £3.50.
Accordng to Skyscanner, return flights with RwandAir are available in February for as little as £555, departing from Heathrow Airport and arriving in Zanzibar (ZNZ) with a stop in Kigali (KGL) during the just under 14-hour journey. The airport is then just a short journey – about three to five miles from the city centre.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
