Zanzibar: Quick Facts

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Last updated

Nov. 8, 2026

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Map showing the island of Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, including major towns such as Zanzibar City, Bububu, and Chwaka, as well as nearby islands, reefs, and key geographic features. An inset locates Zanzibar along the eastern coast of Africa.

Zanzibar red colobus monkey

Historical map of eastern Africa around 1850 showing major states such as Kefa, Buganda, and the Sultanate of Zanzibar, along with minor states, stateless peoples, and the Maasai. Red lines trace major trade routes connecting inland regions to the Red Sea, Arabian Peninsula, and Indian Ocean, while green arrows indicate directions of expansion by groups like the Oromo and Maasai. Major lakes, rivers, and mountain landmarks are labeled throughout the region.

Historical map of eastern Africa around 1914, showing the region divided among British, German, French, and Italian colonial powers. Different territories are color-coded by colonial ruler, with key locations such as British East Africa (Kenya and Uganda), German East Africa (including present-day Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi), Italian Somaliland, and French Somaliland labeled. Major lakes, rivers, and cities are also marked.

The Sultan's palace in Stone Town, Zanzibar City, features whitewashed walls, arched windows, a red-tiled roof, and a palm tree in front.

Video thumbnail image shows British forces in front of the sultan's palace after the bombardment during the 1896 Anglo-Zanzibar War.

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Mount Kenya in Mount Kenya National Park is the highest mountain in Africa. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Giant Lobelia in foreground. (Mt. Kenya; Mt. Kenya National Park; mountains; rugged mountain; African geography, African landscape, stratovolcano)

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