How to Plan Your Tour of Zanzibar City: Guided Tour of the Stone Town District

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, one of the most fascinating places to visit is Stone Town, the old part of Zanzibar City. This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with winding alleys, old stone houses, and fascinating history to explore. One of the best ways to experience Stone Town is with a guided walking tour, where you can see the sights through the eyes of a local guide. In this post, we’ll give you everything you need to know to plan your tour of Zanzibar City’s Stone Town district.

Experience

On this walking tour, you’ll immerse yourself in the true Stone Town by meeting locals and exploring the maze of alleyways lined with old stone houses. You’ll see where the famous Queen singer Freddie Mercury spent part of his childhood, and take in key landmarks such as the Old Fort temples, Hamman baths, and more. Your local guide will show you the best of Stone Town and give you recommendations on where to go and what to see next.

Highlights

Some of the tour highlights include:

• Meeting locals on a walking tour
• Exploring the maze of alleyways lined with old stone houses with a local guide
• Seeing where Freddie Mercury spent part of his childhood
• Taking in key landmarks such as the Old Fort temples and Hamman baths
• Getting recommendations on where to go and what to see next from your guide

Tour Description

The guided walking tour of Stone Town begins with a hotel pickup from your hotel, where your local guide will meet you and take you on a fascinating journey through the heart of the old city. You’ll explore the maze of alleyways lined with old stone houses, hearing about the spice island’s history and culture, and discovering the best places to visit on your trip. During the walking tour, you’ll see the Old Dispensary, a beautiful building that was once a dispensary for Zanzibari merchants, and the Old Fort, an imposing structure that was built to defend Stone Town from pirates. You’ll also see the Hamman Baths, a historic bathhouse that dates back to the 19th century, and the House of Wonders, a gorgeous palace that was once the seat of the Sultan of Zanzibar. Of course, no tour of Stone Town would be complete without a visit to the childhood home of Freddie Mercury, the legendary Queen singer who was born in Zanzibar. You’ll get to see the house where Freddie spent part of his childhood and learn about his life in Zanzibar. Throughout the tour, your local guide will be on hand to answer any questions you might have and provide recommendations on where to go and what to see next. You’ll get an authentic taste of Zanzibar’s history and culture, meeting locals and discovering the best places to visit on your trip.

Inclusions

The tour includes:

• A local guide to lead the way
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Not Suitable for

Please note that this tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old.

Booking

To book the tour, visit here. This link will take you directly to the tour page, where you can book your walking tour of Stone Town in Zanzibar City. The tour is conducted by a third-party company, so please direct any questions or concerns to their customer service team.

Book Your Tour Now

A guided walking tour of Stone Town is the perfect way to discover the history and culture of Zanzibar. With a local guide to lead the way, you’ll get an inside look at the maze of alleyways, old stone houses, and fascinating landmarks that make up this UNESCO World Heritage site. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Zanzibar City’s Stone Town district.

Zanzibar City FAQ

Zanzibar City is one of the oldest and most exotic cities in East Africa, located on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar. Here are some frequently asked questions about the city:

1. What is the best time to visit Zanzibar City?

Zanzibar City is a tropical destination, and temperatures remain fairly constant year-round, hovering around 25-30°C (77-86°F). However, the best time to visit is between June and October when the weather is dry and pleasant.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Zanzibar City?

Zanzibar City has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and tourists can enjoy several attractions during their visit. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:

Stone Town:

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the historic center of Zanzibar City, and it’s a maze of narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and ancient mosques and palaces.

The House of Wonders:

This iconic building is one of Stone Town’s top attractions, and it’s a great place to explore the city’s history and culture.

Prison Island:

Located just off the coast of Zanzibar, Prison Island is a popular day trip destination for tourists. The island was originally used as a detention center for slaves, and it’s now home to giant tortoises and a beautiful coral reef.

Sunset Dhow Cruise:

One of the best ways to experience the stunning coastline of Zanzibar is by taking a sunset dhow cruise. These traditional wooden boats take you on a leisurely trip along the coast, where you can enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets in Africa.

3. Is Zanzibar City safe for tourists?

Zanzibar City is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas, so it’s important to take precautions such as carrying your valuables in a secure bag and not walking alone at night.

4. How do I get to Zanzibar City?

The easiest way to get to Zanzibar is by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which is located just outside of Zanzibar City. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the city.

5. What is the local currency, and can I use US dollars?

The local currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian shilling, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry some shillings for smaller purchases or when visiting local markets.

6. What is the local cuisine, and where can I find it?

Zanzibar is known for its fusion cuisine, which combines African, Indian, and Arab influences. Some popular dishes include seafood, grilled meats, and spicy curries. You can find local cuisine at restaurants and food stalls throughout the city, especially in the Stone Town area.

7. What is the dress code in Zanzibar City?

Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim city, and it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting. It’s recommended to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites.

8. Can I swim in the ocean in Zanzibar City?

Yes, Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters in the world, making it a great destination for swimming and other water activities. However, it’s important to take precautions and swim in designated areas, as some beaches can have strong currents and dangerous marine life.

9. What are some cultural norms to be aware of in Zanzibar City?

Zanzibar has a unique cultural heritage, and it’s important to be aware of local customs and traditions when visiting. Some cultural norms to be aware of include:

Respecting elders:

It’s important to show respect to elders and authority figures in Zanzibar, as they hold a significant role in the community.

Removing shoes:

When entering someone’s home or a mosque, it’s customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Public displays of affection:

Public displays of affection are not common in Zanzibar and can be seen as disrespectful in public areas.

10. What are some eco-friendly activities to do in Zanzibar City?

Zanzibar is home to several natural reserves and marine parks, making it a great destination for eco-friendly activities. Some popular activities include:

Snorkeling and diving:

Zanzibar’s coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, and snorkeling and diving are popular activities for tourists.

Cycling tours:

Exploring the city on a bike is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and see the sights at the same time.

Nature walks:

Zanzibar has several nature reserves and parks, such as Jozani Forest, which is home to rare red colobus monkeys and other wildlife.

Visiting spice farms:

Zanzibar is known for its spice plantations, and visiting a spice farm is a great way to learn about sustainable agriculture and support local farmers.

Book Your Tour Now

Zanzibar City is a wonderful destination for tourists who are looking for a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and unique cuisine, Zanzibar City has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic Stone Town, visiting local markets, or relaxing on the beach, Zanzibar City is a must-see destination for any traveler.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Zanzibar City

Zanzibar City, the capital of Zanzibar, Tanzania, has long been a hub of trade and cultural exchange in East Africa. With its unique blend of Arab, Indian, and African influences, there is always something to see and do in this vibrant city. In this guide, we’ll give you some ideas and tips on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Zanzibar City.

1. Visit Stone Town

Stone Town is the heart of Zanzibar City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a maze of narrow alleys, ornate wooden doors, and ancient buildings that bear testimony to the city’s rich history. To get a sense of the city’s past, visit the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the Sultan’s Palace Museum. Take a stroll through the Forodhani Gardens, where you’ll find a nightly food market and stunning views of the sea.

2. Take a Spice Tour

Zanzibar has been a spice producer for centuries and is known as the Spice Island. Taking a spice tour is a great way to experience the island’s fragrant bounty. You’ll get to smell and taste the various spices and learn about their culinary and medicinal uses. Some of the spices you’ll encounter include cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Many tour operators in Zanzibar City offer spice tours, and they can be booked in advance or on the day.

3. Go on a Prison Island Tour

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is a short boat ride from Zanzibar City. It was once a detention center for slaves and later a quarantine station for yellow fever. Today, it is a popular day trip destination where you can see giant tortoises, go snorkeling, and enjoy a picnic on the beach. There are several tour operators offering Prison Island tours, and prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions.

4. Explore Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is Zanzibar’s only national park and is home to the endangered red colobus monkey. The forest is also rich in plant, bird, and reptile life, and there are several walking trails that wind through the lush vegetation. The park is located about 35 km from Zanzibar City, and you can arrange a tour with a local guide or through a tour operator.

5. Relax on the Beach

Zanzibar is famous for its pristine beaches, and there’s no better way to unwind than lounging on the sand. Some of the best beaches near Zanzibar City include Nungwi, Kendwa, and Pongwe. You can easily arrange a day trip to any of these beaches through a tour operator or public transport.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Zanzibar’s cuisine reflects its cultural diversity and is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences. Some of the must-try dishes include pilau rice, biryani, and seafood curry. Also, try the street food in Stone Town, such as Zanzibar pizza and samosas. For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of the many Indian or seafood restaurants in Zanzibar City.

7. Shop at the Market

The Darajani Market in Stone Town is a vibrant and colorful market where you can buy all kinds of items, from spices and souvenirs to fresh produce and seafood. The market is a sensory feast, with vendors calling out their wares and locals bargaining for the best price. Don’t forget to sample some of the local snacks, such as sugar cane juice and grilled seafood.

Book Your Tour Now

Zanzibar City has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just kicking back on the beach. By visiting Stone Town, taking a spice tour, going on a Prison Island tour, exploring Jozani Forest, relaxing on the beach, trying the local cuisine, and shopping at the market, you’ll get a taste of what this vibrant city has to offer. With proper planning and an open mind, your trip to Zanzibar City is sure to be unforgettable.