Stone Town Tour in Zanzibar

Explore Stone Town

The city is a mixture of Arabic, African, Indian and European cultures which have coexisted there for ages, and still do. The name of the town derives from the ornate houses built with local stone. There are buildings made of coral and mortar which retained its old style from the XIX century, when Zanzibar was an important trading center in the Indian Ocean.

Explore Zanzibar (2024) : All yo need to Know about Stone Town

Stone Town is a city vibrant with life. You will see the special atmosphere of the Town – the labyrinth of streets, which are too narrow for cars to pass, the ancient slave market, mosque, temples and churches side by side. The tour will cover most interesting sides. You will go to the Anglican cathedral which stands on the site of the former slave market, incredibly moving place. Also, you will visit Darajani market place, go to the residence of the last Sultan of Zanzibar, the Old Fort and the Sultan’s Palace. You will see UNESCO heritage treasures in Zanzibar (the town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000). Its architecture, mostly dating back to the XIX century reflects the historical influences and unique character of the city.

There no more beautiful doors than those of Zanzibar. While walking in the ancient streets, you will see plenty of beautiful buildings with colorful, exquisitely carved doorways with metal studs. At the end of our Stone Town Tour, will head to Forodhani Gardens where you will be able to try large variety of Tanzanian street food and fresh blended juices, Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Sunset Dhow Cruise in Zanzibar. As the sun gracefully descends beyond the horizon, enjoy stunning views of Stone Town while indulging in delicious, locally sourced snacks and refreshing beverages. This remarkable journey blends the island’s natural beauty with its rich cultural heritage, making it an essential experience for every traveler looking to create cherished memories

The 6 Best Stone Town Tour and Excursions

Important places that you must visit in stone town; this are the places that you don't have to miss-out when you visit stone town in Zanzibar

The House Of Wonders in Stone Town

The House of Wonders was once the most modern building in East Africa. It was the first building to have electricity and an elevator and it mixes elements of European style and Zanzibari tradition by including cast iron columns, elaborate door carvings, coral rag, open central courtyards, and mangrove ceilings that together form a truly unique architectural achievement.

The House of Wonders presents exhibitions dedicated to Swahili culture and the Palace Museum highlights its ties to Zanzibar’s Omani history.

Image of House of wonders

Former Slave Market

Slave Market is said to be as the last slave market in East Africa which was closed in 1873. It is located in Stone Town Zanzibar at Mkunazini street.

In 1879, the British missionaries built Christ Church Cathedral (Anglican church), and today it is the most significant tourist attraction in Stone Town

Image of Slave Market

Darajani Market Tour

If you stay in Stone Town or want to visit Stone Town, then this is very important local market to experience the livelihood of Zanzibar locals or if you want to buy some gifts for your loved ones when you go back Home.

This is the Historic, unique and the biggest Market in Zanzibar. Darajani Market is the main Bazaar located in Stone Town Zanzibar, was built under Sultan Ali bin Hamud who was the eighth Sultan of Zanzibar from 1902 to 1911.

Image of Darajani Market

Old Fort /Ngome Kongwe / Arab Fort

The Old Fort, also known as Arab Fort and ‘Ngome Kongwe’ by the locals. Is one of the Historic and oldest buildings in Stone Town, Located next to House of Wonders facing Forodhani Park. The Fort was built by Omani Arabs rules after expelling the Portuguese in 1699.

Around the 19th Century it was used as a garrison and prison, and during 1905-28 officially used as a terminal of the Zanzibar railways which was connecting Stone Town and Bububu village. Now it is one among the tourist attractions in Stone Town

Image of Old Fort / Ngome Kongwe

Freddie Mercury Museum

Located in the same house where Freddie and his family stayed in his childhood at Gizenga Street, Stone Town Zanzibar. The museum is small but it is worth visiting especially if you are a fan, this is one among the must visit places in Stone Town, you will have more information of Freddie Mercury’s childhood life in Zanzibar.

Amazing paintings inside the museum and different handwritten lyrics. Within our Historical Stone town trip, you will also have a time to see this place and our guide will provide you with more information about the place.

Image of Freddie Mercury

Forodhani Garden / Park

Forodhani Park is one of the best free places to chill and watch the sunset in Stone Town, it is located in front of House of Wonders and Zanzibar Old Fort.

The park is facing the Indian ocean which creates an amazing breathtaking atmosphere in the Garden. Normally, this is the last place to visit in our Stone Town tour.

In the evening, there is a special Night Market where you will have a variety of fresh cuisines like Zanzibar Pizza, Chapati, Grilled Lobsters, Octopus, Squid, Fish, and many more

Image of Forodhani Garden

3 Things not to miss when you visit stone town

Seafoods at Forodhani Night Market

This is the best thing to do in Stone Town Zanzibar at night. If it is your first day in Stone Town and looking to get something to eat during the night time, then Forodhani night market is your stop.

This is a nice place to explore what the seafoods Zanzibar can offer.

Watching Traditional Music

You can pass time at Dhow Countries Music Academy to watch different Zanzibar cultural music known as Taarab and Kidumbak. This music academy is located near the Palace museum close to Mizingani Seafront Hotel. Entrance fee is 10000 TZS which is

Learning About Zanzibar Doors

Learning about Zanzibar doors and Stone Town architectural design is among the reasons why many tourists visit Stone Town.

There is a lot to learn from the History of Zanzibar doors. These doors are not just doors, but they also were used to indicate socio-economic status, ethnicity and customs of the owners

Here are 3 Best Things you can Buy in Stone Town, Zanzibar:

Tanzanite jewelry
Stone Town is a great place to buy Tanzanite jewelry, which comes in a variety of designs including rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and necklaces. Some recommended shops include Blue Gems Zanzibar, Tanzanite Gallery, Zenj Treasures, and Johari Treasures.
Spices
Darajani Market, the main bazaar in Stone Town, is a great place to buy spices.
Paintings
Many painters in Zanzibar open their shops in Stone Town, so it’s a good place to buy paintings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth visiting Stone Town?

Absolutely yes! It is worth visiting Stone Town because it is the easiest way to explore the livelihood of Zanzibar locals. There are many other places to see and visit which are very crucial when it comes to Zanzibar history and cultures.

Why should I visit Stone Town?

Zanzibar Islands are known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear water, snorkeling, swimming with Dolphins. But there are many other things Zanzibar is known for which are the reasons why tourists visit Zanzibar, things like History, culture, traditions, Spices. All this you can explore in Stone Town

Best time to Visit Stone town?

If you are in Zanzibar already and looking for the best time to visit Stone town, then we would recommend you to visit in the morning around 9:00am – 11:00am, or in the evening 16:00 – 21:00. These are the best times because it’s not sunny.

What to wear in Stone Town Zanzibar?

Remember that, Zanzibar is a country with high Muslim population. Therefore, at least you can wear clothes that cover knees and shoulders, you can even wear modest clothes if you want to show more respect.

Is there a beach in Stone Town?

Yes, there is a beach in Stone town. Stone Town beach is a departure place for Prison Island, Bawe Island, Chapwani Island, Nakupenda Sandbank. Also, the ferry terminal is located in Stone Town..

How much time to spend in Stone Town?

You should plan to spend 2 Days in Stone Town, Zanzibar, and spend the rest of your time at the beach villages. otherwise you can plan to see Stone Town in a half day