Everything You Need to Know About a 3 Hour Stone Town Walking Tour in Zanzibar Archipelago
The Zanzibar Archipelago is part of Tanzania and is a group of islands in the Indian Ocean. It’s known for its blue waters, white sandy beaches, and ancient ruins. It’s also the perfect spot for a 3-hour walking tour, which takes in the endless beauty of Stone Town, the islands’ historical and cultural center.
Whether you’re a first time visitor to the islands or a returning guest, a 3-hour walking tour of Stone Town is a great way to get to know the area’s vibrant culture, Edna architecture, and exciting markets. You’ll get to explore the sights and sounds of Zanzibar from a local’s perspective, with plenty of fascinating stories and hidden gems to uncover along the way.
So, what is included in a 3-hour Stone Town tour? In this guide, we explain what you can expect on a Stone Town tour and how you can book your experience.
What is Stone Town?
Stone Town is an ancient city located on the northwest coast of Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago. The area has been inhabited since the 19th century and was once the capital of an African trading nation. The town was originally divided into four quarters: old city, Makutya, Pwani, and Ndogo. Today, Stone Town remains an important cultural center, with its heritage recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The area is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant markets. Take a stroll through the narrow alleyways and discover traditional doors, hidden courtyards, and bustling bazaars. There are also a number of mosques, churches and temples to explore.
What a 3 Hour Stone Town Tour Could Include
A 3-hour Stone Town tour offers an opportunity to learn about the area’s history, culture and attractions. During your tour, your knowledgeable guide will take you through some of Stone Town’s most interesting places. Here are some of the sites you could visit during your tour:
- House of Wonders Museum
- Old Fort
- Gizenga’s House
- The Slave Market
- Roman Catholic Cathedral
- Livingstone’s House
- Old Dispensary
- The Beit El-Ajaib
Your guide will also be able to tell you about other highlights in the area such as Zanzibar’s permanent wax museum, traditional mkeka (weaving) workshops, orchids and gardens blooms, and other local curiosities. You may also have an opportunity to visit a few traditional Guruma (traditional medicine men) shops or a workshop that produces local delicacies from cashew nuts.
Steamers (baked dishes with local delicacies) are usually found at the end of your walking tour. This traditional dish can be found in many local restaurants throughout Stone Town.
How Much Does a 3 Hour Stone Town Walking Tour Cost?
Most 3-hour walking tours cost around $50 USD per person. A private guide can cost more depending on how many people are joining you. In some cases, discounts are available for families or large groups.
How to Book a 3 Hour Stone Town Walking Tour
Booking a 3-hour Stone Town Walking Tour is easy – just search online for tour operators and book your spots directly on their website or through a marketplace such as GetYourGuide*. Prices vary so it’s worth shopping around. You will usually get confirmation from the tour company within 24 hours of booking.
* Book your 3 Hour Stone Town Walking Tour Here!
What to Bring on Your Tour
Before embarking on your tour, it’s important to make sure you bring everything you need. Here’s what you should bring:
| Item | Suggested |
|---|---|
| Comfortable shoes | Trainers or sandals |
| Water bottle | Bottled water or drinks |
| Protection from sun | Hat, sunblock & sunglasses |
| Protection from mosquitos | Insect repellent & long sleeve clothing |
| Money & Identification | Small amount of cash & ID card |
It’s also important to dress appropriately for the sightseeing walking tour – locals would normally wear more conservative clothes such as long pants and covered shoulders (for both male and female). Your guide will be available to answer any questions you may have during the tour and provide interesting information about the sites you visit.
Why You Should Take A Stone Town Walking Tour
When visiting Zanzibar, it can be tempting to spend every morning and afternoon lying on the beach or by the pool. But, taking a 3-hour tour of Stone Town can offer an unforgettable insight into one of East Africa’s oldest cities. Not only will you get a behind-the-scenes appreciation for what makes Stone Town so special, but you’ll also get coverage of some of Zanzibar’s best cultural gems – from flavorsome local foods to fascinating stories from locals in residences that date back centuries.
A 3-hour Stone Town Walking Tour is the perfect way to explore one of East Africa’s most enchanting cities in style! Why not book yours today at GetYourGuide here.
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