How to Plan Your Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch

Looking for an interesting way to explore the beautiful Zanzibar Archipelago? Look no further. The Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch is a perfect way to explore the historic city of Zanzibar. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch experience, including all the highlights to make your trip unforgettable.

Experience

The Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch is a cultural experience that takes you deep into the heart of Zanzibar. During this seven-hour tour, you will explore some of the most important and interesting sites in Stonetown, including a local food market with live fish auctions, the Palace Museum House of Wonder, the Old Fort, Freddie’s Mercury’s House, and many more.

Highlights

The Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch includes a visit to the city market, where you can see the biggest market of all the islands. Locals buy and sell all sorts of products here, including the freshest fruits and fish auctions where locals bid on sea food. You will also have the opportunity to explore the historic city of Zanzibar and take in its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and rich history.

Full Description

The tour will start in one of the most important parts of the old slave market site, the Anglican Church, then continue through the narrow streets. The next stop will be at the city market. Here, you can see the biggest market of all the islands. Locals buy and sell all sorts of products here, including the freshest fruits and fish auctions, where locals bid on seafood.

Afterward, the tour will cover the main sights of Stonetown such as the Palace Museum House of Wonder, which is the largest and tallest building in Stonetown and also known as the Bait-al-ajab. You will visit an old fort, the Tippu Tip, and of course, the most famous spot Freddie’s Mercury’s house. Visit the Peace Memorial Natural History Museum and many more.

Your tour will end with a local lunch in a cozy restaurant where you can indulge in fresh, traditional dishes.

How to Book

Booking your Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch is easy. Simply visit the following link: book the tour here, and select your preferred date and time. Once you have made your booking, you will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch is an excellent way to experience the rich culture and history of Zanzibar. With a visit to the local food market, the Palace Museum House of Wonder, and Freddie’s Mercury’s house, you will get a glimpse into the heart of the city. Don’t forget to book your tour in advance to assure a spot on this exciting excursion.

Insider’s Guide to Zanzibar’s Stonetown Historical Walking Tour & Traditional Lunch

Zanzibar is a perfect place to experience untapped African charm, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. It is a serene island located off the coast of Tanzania, East Africa. The enchanting city of Stonetown, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site is known to greet visitors with its vibrant markets, scents of local spices, nautical artifacts and historical landmarks. In this travel guide, you will discover some of the best things to do in Stonetown including a historical walking tour, traditional lunch, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Historical Walking Tour

If you are fascinated by history, culture, and architecture, then a historical walking tour of Stonetown is a must-do activity. Start with the oldest building in Stonetown, the Old Fort which dates back to the 17th century, and check out its exhibitions and cultural events. Next, wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of the city, taking in the towering minarets and ancient Arabic architecture of the Forodhani Gardens. Keep an eye out for notable houses such as the Palace Museum, House of Wonders, and the homes of legendary sultans, traders, and merchants. Your guide will be able to explain the history and importance of each landmark as well as provide insights into Zanzibar’s complex past.

Traditional Lunch

The best way to experience the authentic Zanzibari cuisine is to try Swahili food. A traditional lunch of Swahili dishes which is typically composed of seafood, curries, and biryanis can be savored at Forodhani Gardens which comes alive during the evening with street food vendors. The open-air eateries lined up along the edge of waterside sit promising an unforgettable meal with a stunning view of the Indian Ocean. For the best seafood dishes, visit the famous Lukman restaurant, a favorite spot of both locals and tourists. From octopus curry and fish kofta to jumbo prawns and shellfish, expect nothing less than a sumptuous meal.

Cultural Experiences

Zanzibar’s cultural experiences are rooted in its rich history and traditions. A visit to the House of Wonders, for instance, offers an intimate look into Zanzibar’s history, including stories of the sultanate reign, the East African slave trade, and the island’s cultural melting pot. Other experiences to note include music and dance performances at the Dhow Countries Music Academy, which takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. You can also visit the Zanzibar Spice Garden to learn more about the island’s distinct spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Moreover, don’t miss the popular sunset dhow cruise which involves a traditional sailing boat ride and good vibes, as you take in the end of the day’s serenity with a cool beer in hand.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have more time to explore, take a day trip to one of Stonetown’s many beaches, like Nungwi, Kendwa, or Bwejuu. Visit Jozani Forest Reserve, which is home to the endangered Red Colobus monkey, as well as dozens of other wildlife species. It’s also worth strolling along the marina during sunset or sunrise for a picturesque view over the city, and to see locals going about their daily business. Finally, take some time to visit the Kidichi Persian Baths, which were constructed in the 1850s by Sultan Seyyid Said bin Sultan and offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Zanzibari royals.

In conclusion, a visit to Zanzibar’s Stonetown offers a unique experience where rich history, culture, and natural beauty all come together in one vibrant package. Whether you are here to explore its past, experience its vibrant culture or simply unwind in its beautiful beaches, Stonetown will surely leave you with an unforgettable experience.