How to Plan Your Stone Town and Prison Island Private Day Trip in Zanzibar Archipelago

If you’re looking for a unique and immersive experience while in Zanzibar, taking a private day trip to Stone Town and Prison Island is an excellent option. This tour will take you through the historic streets of Stone Town and give you a glimpse into the local life before heading to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island. This guide will provide you with everything you need to plan your perfect day trip, including details of the experience, highlights, what’s included, and what to expect.

Experience

Your day trip will start with a pickup from your hotel in Zanzibar. From there, you’ll head to the city of Stone Town, where you’ll explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city. The tour guide will take you through the narrow streets of Stone Town to see the local life and visit Lloyd Mathew’s monument. You’ll also see the National Museum of Zanzibar (rebuilt in 1883) and the Arab fort while passing along bazaar streets towards the famous Freddie Mercury house. Don’t miss seeing the old slave market, fruit market, and spice market. The classic Zanzibar curved doors decorating the Stone Town are also worth admiring.

After exploring Stone Town, you’ll have an opportunity to take a short break before heading to Prison Island. Here, you’ll get to see the giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old, and learn about the history of the island. It was once used by some sultans of Zanzibar to detain enslaved people. You can also enjoy some beach time on the clean and white sand beach of Prison Island.

Highlights

One of the significant highlights of this private day trip is exploring the narrow streets of Stone Town and seeing the classic Zanzibar curved doors. The walking tour of the city provides a unique experience where you can see how the locals go about their daily lives. Additionally, visiting the National Museum of Zanzibar and the Arab fort offers historical insight into the island’s past. It’s also fascinating to see the giant Aldabra tortoises and learn about the island’s usage in the detention of enslaved people.

What’s Included

Your Stone Town and Prison Island private day trip includes:

– Pickup and drop-off from your hotel
– Entrance fees
– Transport waiting charge
– Experienced professional tour guide
– Taxes fuel surcharges and service fees
– Beverages

What to Expect

It’s essential to understand that this private day trip is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and rocky in some places. Also, bring sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water.

The tour starts from your hotel, and you’ll have a private guide with you throughout the day. The tour guide will take you through Stone Town, and you can decide how much time you’d like to spend at each of the stops. You’ll then head to Prison Island, where you can enjoy seeing the giant Aldabra tortoises and relax on the beach for some time.

To book your Stone Town and Prison Island private day trip, visit book the tour here. You’ll receive confirmation of the tour booking along with the pickup and drop-off timings from your hotel.

In Conclusion

Taking a private day trip to Stone Town and Prison Island is an excellent way to explore the local life of Zanzibar and learn about the island’s history. The walking tour of Stone Town, along with visiting the National Museum of Zanzibar and the Arab fort, is an immersive experience that you shouldn’t miss. Additionally, visiting Prison Island and seeing the giant Aldabra tortoises is a unique experience that you’ll cherish for a long time. Plan your perfect Stone Town and Prison Island private day trip today!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Stone Town and Prison Island in Zanzibar Archipelago

Zanzibar is a beautiful and fascinating island destination known for its pristine beaches, exotic spices, and rich history. The capital city of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for any traveler to the island. While the popular Prison Island is often on the itinerary, there are many hidden gems that only the locals would know. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Stone Town and Prison Island in Zanzibar Archipelago.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Most tourists flock to the well-known sites such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and Forodhani Gardens, but the city has many other amazing places that are often missed. One such gem is the Ismaili Jamat Khana in Vuga, where you can admire stunning architecture, mosaics, and stained-glass windows. To learn more about Zanzibar’s maritime history, visit the Palace Museum, and be sure to check out the Tippu Tip House, a restored Swahili mansion.

Another hidden gem is the Maruhubi Palace ruins, which was once the residence of Sultan Barghash and served as a harem for his 96 wives. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and you can still see the pools that were used for the sultan’s pet hippopotamuses.

Dining Spots: Indulging in Local Cuisine

Zanzibar cuisine is a delightful mix of African, Arabic, and Indian influences, and your trip to the island is not complete until you have tried some of the local treats. For the best seafood, head to Lukmaan Restaurant, where you can feast on grilled octopus, prawns, and lobster tails. The Zanzibar Coffee House is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and traditional Swahili dishes such as biryani and pilau.

For a sweet treat, do not leave the island without trying Zanzibar’s famous spice ice cream. Head to the Night Market at Forodhani Gardens, where vendors sell a variety of flavors, including cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the City

Zanzibar is steeped in history and culture, from its Omani and Portuguese influences to its Swahili heritage. To get a glimpse into the city’s past, visit the Livingstone House, where explorer David Livingstone once stayed, and the Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of a former slave market.

You can also attend a traditional taarab music performance at the Dhow Countries Music Academy, which combines Arabic, Indian, and African rhythms. If you’re lucky enough to be in Zanzibar during the annual Mwaka Kogwa festival, be sure to join the locals in the celebrations, which involves feasting, drinking, and mock fights with banana stems.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

Zanzibar has a captivating past, and there are many interesting stories to be discovered. One such story is that of Tippu Tip, a notorious Arab slave trader who controlled the ivory and slave trade in East Africa during the 19th century. You can visit his former residence, the Tippu Tip House, and learn about his life story.

Another fascinating tale is that of Freddie Mercury, the lead vocalist of Queen, who was born and raised in Zanzibar. You can visit his childhood home, which has been turned into a guest house, and see the museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, take a trip to Chumbe Island Coral Park, a nature reserve that boasts pristine coral reefs and a dense forest. You can snorkel, swim, or hike while taking in the breathtaking views. Another unusual activity is taking a spice tour, where you can learn about the island’s famous spice trade and even pick your own fresh spices.

Finally, to truly immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s culture and way of life, consider staying in a traditional Swahili house, such as Kholle House, or taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.

In conclusion, Stone Town and Prison Island have so much to offer beyond the tourist hotspots. Discovering hidden gems, indulging in local cuisine, immersing yourself in the city’s culture and history, and experiencing unique activities will make your trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Zanzibar Archipelago like a local!