Enjoying Zanzibar during Ramadan

What visitors should know about the Holy Month

By Winnie Mollel

Contrary to what some people may think, Zanzibar is not off limits to tourists during Ramadan. In fact, the most holy month of the Muslim calendar can be an especially enlightening time.

Ramadan (also written Ramadhan) is the fasting month in Islam, a time when many Muslims worldwide abstain from any food and drinks, including water, from dawn to sunset, dedicating themselves to prayer, reflection and community. It marks the ninth month of the Muslim calendar when prophet Muhammad is believed to have received the first revelation of the quran in a cave near Mecca. More than just a fasting time it is about self-discipline, but also about generosity and spiritual growth. It ends with Eid al Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast), a joyous celebration of gratitude and togetherness – when new clothes are bought and presents exchanged, somewhat similar to Christmas celebrations. At its core, Ramadan is a time to strengthen faith, purify the soul, and reconnect with God and humanity.

Do’s and Don’ts for visitors during Ramadan in Zanzibar

If you have been to other Muslim places like Dubai, with its lively Ramadan markets and opulent food stands, you will notice that Zanzibar is rather particular and strict about its fasting month when the mood turns somber and daily life unfolds even more pole-pole.

Yes, you can!

• Eat in places that are inside, covered, or discreet
• Enjoy tours and excursions as usual but be more discreet with food and drinks

Grab the chance if you are invited for a private iftar, the fastbreaking meal at sunset. It’s a delicious feast with a big variety of food such as pilau, biryani and cooked bananas. It usually starts with some dates and a sip of black coffee. Good hotels offer iftars for their guests (see sidebar)

Be charitable, and give back especially to the less fortunate

Don‘ts:

• Eat or smoke in the streets during fasting hours
• Wear immodest clothing in public; in hotels, on the beach and at
  poolsides there are no restrictions
• Play loud music or have parties in public
• Drink alcohol in public areas

The saying goes: When in Rome do as the Romans do – sticking to that and adjusting your behaviour in public will leave a good impression during Ramadan.

Tours as usual?

Popular excursions like the Spice Tour, Safari Blue, Prison Island and Jozani Forest are all available. You can go diving and explore Zanzibar’s rich history, stunning nature and vibrant culture with many tour operators such as Zanzibar Tours & Travel, Eco & Culture Tours, Colors of Zanzibar, OneOcean and Fisherman Tours. To make the most of your experience, it’s best to book in advance and to be mindful of prayer times, as some activities may pause briefly.

Tour information and bookings:

www.fishermantours.com, www.zanzibaroneocean.com/

Special treats for iftar – Your private iftar

If you want to have an iftar meal for guests, family or yourself, some agencies set up entire buffets with food, table, chairs and a festive decoration.

Recommendable:

• BM Event Planners, +255 773 980 591 Insta/Fb: bm_eventplanners

Hotels

During Ramadan, several larger hotels in Zanzibar offer special experiences to enhance your stay. This might be a nice opportunity to enjoy luxury at a discounted price!

• Zuri Zanzibar – 10% OFF Complimentary Full Board Upgrade – website: www.zurizanzibar.com/  Kendwa, Zanzibar.
• Baraza Hotel & Spa – 10% discount on bookings , website: www.baraza-zanzibar.com/ Paje , Zanzibar

Restaurants

Iftar in Zanzibar, observed after Maghrib prayer at sunset, is offered in markets, restaurants, as well as in some hotels.

• Shanga, Paje –  Iftar Mon-Sun from 6pm.
  For information and reservations + 255 620 545 764
• Serena Hotel, Stone Town – known for lavish iftars, +255 752 999 008
• Park Hyatt Hotel, Stone Town, + 255 774 129 676
• Lukman, local food classic – a favourite for iftar, +255 778 939 710
• Kwetu Kwenu Chill, Fumba Town – remains open during Ramadan Tue-Sun from 5pm.