Spice Island Wanderlust: From scented gardens to travel, aviation conversations in Zanzibar

Even before the aircraft’s wheels touched down on the runway, I sensed that Zanzibar was going to be something special. 

The view from above – lush palms swaying in the breeze, turquoise waters lapping against white sands and the sun casting a golden sheen over centuries-old rooftops – promised an experience that would be not merely travel, but discovery.

This was my first time on the fabled Spice Island I had heard so much about. Like many first-time visitors, I arrived with a mix of curiosity and excitement – eager to immerse myself in its storied heritage, sample its famed aromas, and, of course, take part in the business that had brought me here: AviaDev Africa 2025, the continent’s foremost aviation development forum.

Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of two main islands – Unguja (often referred to simply as Zanzibar) and Pemba – along with several smaller islets (53 to be precise) scattered across the Indian Ocean.

Its unique blend of cultures reflects centuries of maritime trade that brought together African, Arab, Indian and European influences.

Today, the islands are celebrated for their white sandy beaches, coral reefs, spice plantations and the historic charm of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

United republic

Politically, Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania but enjoys a special semi-autonomous status.

Francis Doku moderating the panel on collaboration between airlines, airports and destinations to drive connectivity at AviaDev Africa

It has its own president, legislature and legal system for internal matters, while defence and foreign affairs are managed by the union government in Dodoma. 

This dual governance model allows Zanzibar to tailor its policies – particularly in tourism, aviation and investment – to meet the archipelago’s distinct economic and cultural needs.

Determined to explore the cultural soul of Zanzibar, I arrived with an informal checklist of must-see sites in the island’s historic heart – Stone Town.

The itinerary included wandering through the colour and chaos of Darajani Market, stepping into the shadows of the Old Fort, admiring the iconic façade of the House of Wonders and paying tribute at the Freddie Mercury House, where the Queen frontman’s story began.

No visit would be complete without experiencing the sobering history of the former slave market and Anglican Cathedral.

I also hoped to take in the quiet beauty of narrow alleyways, capture the ornate designs of carved wooden doors and perhaps sip Zanzibari coffee at Jaw’s Corner or enjoy breakfast at the Zanzibar Coffee House.

At the time of writing, I had only managed to check off one never-to-be-missed experience when in Zanzibar – but what an experience it was.

Spice Farm

I embarked on a guided Spice Farm Tour, and for a moment it felt like stepping into a living apothecary.

The scent of cloves, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemongrass and vanilla hung thick in the warm air as I walked through lush rows of greenery bursting with flavour and folklore.

I was introduced to jack fruit and breadfruit and I tasted freshly picked tropical fruits, learnt the origins and uses of various spices and witnessed first-hand how they are cultivated and processed.

The visit ended on a playful note – I was crowned the ‘King of Spice’, a tradition that added a touch of charm and fun to an already enriching afternoon.

But the trip wasn’t all leisure. My purpose in Zanzibar was professional – and purposeful.

AviaDev Africa 2025 brought together aviation stakeholders from across the continent – airlines, airport authorities, tourism boards, investors and government officials – all united by a common goal: improving intra-African air connectivity.

The energy in the room was palpable.

Beyond commercial deals and route planning, there was a deeper focus – a shared vision of a more connected, accessible and economically vibrant Africa.

The forum was officially opened by the President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who delivered a keynote speech that laid out a bold vision for the island to become not only a top-tier tourism destination but also an aviation hub for the Indian Ocean region.

With 26,000 weekly seats and over 440 scheduled flights now serving the archipelago, Zanzibar is making strategic investments – particularly in expanding the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport – to position itself as a vital regional gateway.

Agenda

As part of the conference agenda, I had the honour of moderating a panel session on collaboration between airports, airlines and destinations – a crucial dynamic in unlocking Africa’s air travel potential.

The discussion was rich and engaging, exploring how shared goals, data integration, tourism alignment and co-investment models can collectively drive route development and sustainability.

Across the forum, several key themes consistently emerged: the need for public-private partnerships, the importance of data-driven planning and the central role of tourism in driving air traffic demand.

Speakers tackled difficult but necessary topics – from excessive operational costs and aviation taxes to talent drain and the frustratingly slow implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Yet the prevailing mood wasn’t one of despair – it was one of determination.

Delegates shared case studies of success, debated bold ideas, and most importantly, committed to thinking differently. 

In this way, Zanzibar proved the perfect host. Historically a melting pot of African, Arab, Indian and European influences, the island represents both connection and transformation – ideals that lie at the very heart of Africa’s aviation ambition.

Its reinvention from spice capital to tourism powerhouse now includes a credible bid to become an aviation and investment hub for the Indian Ocean.

Before I leave, I hope to carve out time for a boat trip to Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises and the haunting remains of a former quarantine station.

If time allows, I’ll chase the famous Zanzibari sunset from Nungwi or Kendwa, where the horizon glows pink and orange over the Indian Ocean’s tranquil waters.

But even if I don’t manage it all this time, I leave with one truth: Zanzibar inspires wonder and demands a return for a proper tour.