When it comes to exploring Africa, many people naturally gravitate toward well known destinations like Cape Town, Marrakech, or Nairobi. These iconic cities are undeniably worth visiting, each offering unique experiences and incredible landscapes. However, the continent deserves far more recognition than just these few popular spots. It’s home to other stunning destinations that are also captivating and deserve to be appreciated in their own right.
One such hidden gem is Zanzibar, recently crowned Africa’s most underrated city to visit in 2024 by the finance website, Insider Monkey. This ranking was based on a detailed evaluation using multiple travel resources, including articles from CN Traveler, The Travel, and Insider Monkey’s own guide on Africa’s cheapest cities.
Cities were assessed on two fronts, how frequently they appeared in recommendations and a composite score factoring in safety, visitor reviews, and feedback from platforms like Reddit.
Zanzibar is often described as a destination that truly “has it all.” At its heart is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with vibrant spice and textile markets and a maze of limewashed alleyways. This town is a prime example of the Swahili coastal trading cities of East Africa, with its original layout and architecture largely intact.
Over a period of more than a thousand years, it has blended cultural influences from Africa, the Arab world, India, and Europe into a unique and harmonious identity, all helping it earn its UNESCO World Heritage status.
Beyond Stone Town, visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Old Fort and House of Wonders, centuries-old churches and mosques, and relax on stunning white-sand beaches fringed with swaying palm trees, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life.
This paradise island has some of the bluest waters and powdery white beaches where you can even swim with dolphins and turtles and experience some of the best snorkeling in the world. The most popular beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, Page Beach, and Jambiani.
Another major draw is its affordability, with a beer costing just 5,000 Tanzanian Shillings which comes to about £1.45, according to Numbeo.
Emmy-winning TV host and travel expert, Oneika Raymond, recently wrote on Instagram about her trip to Zanzibar: “I thought the beaches I went to in Zanzibar were nicer than the ones I visited in the Seychelles & Mauritius…”
Someone else commented on the post: “I also thought Zanzibar had the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen.”
Travel TikTokker, Izzie, also posted a video featuring crystal-clear waters and wrote: “The BLUEST water you will ever see is found in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
“This is a place that has been on my bucket list for so long and I am desperate to go back already. There is so much to do and see on this island, the people are so welcoming and friendly and the marine life is so diverse.”
