Zanzibar for The Slow Weekenders: a Friday-to-Monday weekend
Cloves, coral, and a town of carved doors.
The weekend as rest. A hotel worth staying in, a hammam or a thermal bath, one unhurried sight each day, lunches that run into the afternoon, and early nights.
Friday: A slow arrival
- Forodhani Gardens
A gentle stroll in the gardens with a coconut water; the sea breeze arrives around five and the light turns golden.
- Africa House Hotel
Sundowners on the terrace with the harbour in front; stay for the sunset, which is the only event of the evening.
- Mercury's Restaurant
A quiet seafront dinner of grilled fish, and an early night; the walk back is short and well-lit.
Saturday: One sight, one long lunch
- Hamamni Persian Baths
The cool, quiet baths, where the domes keep the heat out and the guide takes his time; a gentle forty-minute visit.
- Emerson Spice Tea House Restaurant
A long lunch at the rooftop restaurant, with spice tea and a slow Swahili seafood menu; nobody will hurry you.
- Sunset dhow cruise
A short dhow ride at sunset with the sail up and the old town lit gold; bring a layer for the breeze.
Sunday: A day by the water
- Nakupenda sandbank
A slow boat out to the sandbank for a swim and a seafood grill; shaded, calm and easy to do at your own pace.
- Lazuli
Back in town, a café afternoon of fruit juice, cake and a book in the courtyard.
- Livingstone Beach Restaurant
An early beachfront dinner with the harbour lights and sand underfoot; a few tables are right at the water's edge.
Monday: Unhurried departure
- Zanzibar Coffee House
A late breakfast in a courtyard house with eggs, juice and coffee; there is no reason to hurry.
- Old Fort
A final, shaded wander round the fort's courtyard; free and flat, with benches in the shade.
- Jaws Corner
One more coffee at the old stand before the transfer to the airport.