Zanzibar 

Zanzibar’s location off the coast of Tanzania made it a strategic port, heavily influenced by Persian, Arab, and Portuguese merchants who, along with the Swahili people, produced and traded nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and cloves there for centuries.

The island’s complex blend of cultures is preserved in the ancient streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site—an excellent place to discover the commerce and human history of this Indian Ocean outpost. Visit a dormitory turned interpretive museum where slaves were once housed before being shipped off, where you will learn too about the devastating ivory trade.

Accommodations range from private barefoot luxury islands to boutique properties to traditional beach resorts. White sand beaches, fresh seafood and three million clove trees make Zanzibar a relaxing, sensual, and culture-rich end to your East African safari.