STONE TOWN TOURS
Walk the streets of Stone Town, where carved wooden doors whisper tales of sultans, merchants, and explorers. Known locally as Mji Mkongwe, this cultural gem on Zanzibar’s western coast is alive with history and vibrant with life.
Its maze of narrow alleys leads to vibrant markets, ancient mosques, and stunning architecture shaped by Arab, Indian, Persian, and European influences.
With Stone Town Tours, you can dive into Zanzibar’s rich culture—stroll through Stone Town’s historic streets, relax at Nakupenda Sandbank, visit Prison Island’s Giant Tortoises, and discover the fragrant spice farms.
From tasting local street food to uncovering Zanzibar’s heritage, the things to do in Stone Town offer an authentic glimpse into the island’s vibrant culture.
Stone Town Walking Tour
This Stone Town Walking Tour lets you travel across the historic street of Stone Town with our knowledgeable guide. While strolling across the streets, you will hear fascinating anecdotes about the island’s past, present, and future as you visit its most well-known attractions and cultural sites. Also, we can provide transportation for you if you are staying outside of Stone Town. Popular Attractions and Activities that you’re going to see are:
House of Wonders
Visit the Grand House of Wonders, also called Bayt el Ajaib. Built in 1883 by Sultan Barghash, it was the first building in East Africa with an elevator. Its mix of coral rag, concrete, and steel showcases the unique architectural history of Zanzibar.
Former Slave Market and Christ Church Cathedral
Explore the haunting history of the Slave Market, once the last slave market in East Africa, closed in 1873. The Christ Church Cathedral, built by British missionaries in 1879, now stands as a poignant reminder of this dark chapter.
Freddie Mercury House
Dive into the life of music legend Freddie Mercury at his childhood home on Gizenga Street. The museum offers a glimpse into his early days, with handwritten lyrics and striking artwork.
Darajani Market
Experience the hustle and bustle of Darajani Market, Zanzibar’s largest bazaar. Built during Sultan Ali bin Hamud’s reign, this vibrant market is perfect for experiencing local life or shopping for unique gifts. Also, you can purchase a variety of spices at this market like Cinnamon, Cardamon, Vanilla, Nutmeg, Cloves and so on.
Old Fort (Arab Fort)
Visit the Old Fort, known locally as Ngome Kongwe, Zanzibar’s oldest building. Constructed by Omani Arabs after driving out the Portuguese in 1699, it served as a garrison, prison, and even a railway terminal in the 20th century.
Forodhani Gardens
End your tour at Forodhani Gardens, a serene spot facing the Indian Ocean. Relax as the sun sets or explore the vibrant night market, offering delights like Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood, and more.
Prison Island
Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is located about 25 minutes by boat from Stone Town Beach and provides visitors with a fascinating combination of history, animals, and relaxation.
Visitors are encouraged to wander about this small island and discover its natural beauty as well as its rich history. Popular attractions and activities to do on Prison Islands are as follows:
- Meet the Giant Aldabra Tortoises. They are the longest-living creatures on Earth and mostly live up to 2 centuries.
- Dive into clear waters and explore the vibrant marine life surrounding the island with our snorkelling tours.
- Visit historical structures built in the 19th century, initially designed as a quarantine station and later as a central prison.
- Discover peacocks and dik-diks, adding a unique charm to the island’s ecosystem.
- Learn why this peaceful place is called Prison Island and its role in controlling past epidemics.
Visit Prison Island as part of your Stone Town Tours to take them to the next level! Come into a world of natural beauty and experience old-fashioned charm.
Relax at Nakupenda Sandbank
Close to Stone Town, Nakupenda Sandbank is a stunning escape for relaxation and ocean adventures. This beautiful spot offers soft sands, clear waters, and unforgettable memories on your Stone Town Tours.
The most popular activities you can partake on the sandbank are as follows:
- Swim and Snorkel in the clear waters filled with vibrant marine life.
- Relax on the Sandbank and relish the peaceful surroundings.
- Feast on seafood or vegetarian dishes prepared on-site.
- Try tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, watermelons, and bananas for a refreshing treat.
- Enjoy sunbathing as you relax under the warm, golden Zanzibar sun.
Visit Nakupenda Sandbank on your Stone Town Tour! Swim, relax, and enjoy fresh seafood in a picture-perfect setting.
Spice Farm Tours Near Stone Town
Just 35 minutes from Stone Town, spice farms offer a fascinating glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich agricultural heritage. A visit reveals why this tropical paradise is lovingly called the “Spice Islands.”
Some popular activities include:
- Walk Through Spice Farms and discover how iconic spices like cloves and nutmeg are grown.
- Learn Cultural Uses of spices See how they are used in cooking, medicine, and daily life.
- Savour exotic fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and jackfruit.
- Hear stories about Zanzibar’s spice history from experienced guides.
Combine your Stone Town tour with a spice farm visit to get a taste of Zanzibar’s essence. Enjoy a fragrant adventure where history and taste intertwine beautifully!
Make plans for your Stone Town tour right now!
Feel the history of Zanzibar, taste its flavours, and take in its beauty on our Stone Town Tours. Here, every corner holds a story, an experience, or a moment that you will always remember.
STONE TOWN TOURS FAQs
Is visiting Stone Town worth it?
Yes, absolutely! Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar’s culture and history. It’s the perfect place to experience local life, explore historic sites, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the island.
How long should I spend on a Stone Town tour?
A Stone Town tour typically takes about 3 hours to explore its highlights. However, staying for 1-2 days allows you to immerse yourself in its culture and visit nearby attractions like Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank.
What should I wear for a Stone Town tour?
Since Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population, it’s respectful to wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees. Comfortable footwear is also recommended for walking the narrow streets.
When is the best time to visit Stone Town?
The best times to visit are in the morning between 9:00 am and 11:00 am or in the late afternoon from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. These times are cooler and more comfortable for walking around.
Can I combine Stone Town with other activities?
Yes! Stone Town tours can be combined with visits to Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank, and Spice Farms, creating a full day of exploration and adventure.
Is there a beach in Stone Town?
Yes, there is a beach in Stone Town. It’s a great spot to start trips to places like Prison Island and Nakupenda Sandbank. The ferry terminal is also located here for travel to and from the mainland.
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