Zanzibar: Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour – How to Plan Your Trip

Zanzibar is a beautiful archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of Tanzania. The main island, known as Unguja or Zanzibar Island, includes a historic city called Stone Town. This city is known for its old-world charm, stunning architecture, and fascinating history. If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, you should not miss the opportunity to explore this extraordinary city on foot. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your visit to the Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour.

Experience

The Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour is an excellent way to experience the best of the old city. This tour will take you on a journey that encompasses Zanzibar’s rich history and diverse culture. You’ll get to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, markets, and historical sites. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the origin of Swahili, the language spoken in much of East Africa.

Highlights

The highlights of the Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour include visiting the old slave market, exploring the historical sites, and strolling through the spice and fruit market. You will also visit the Freddie Mercury house, Zanzibar Curio Shop, Jaws Corner coffee shop, the Anglican cathedral, and more.

Full Description

After a greeting and short briefing, you will kick off the tour by visiting the old fort, also known as the Arab fort. This fort has been standing for over three centuries and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You will then proceed to the House of Wonders, which is an imposing building dating back to 1883. This building is well-known for being the first in Zanzibar to have electricity and elevators.

Afterward, you will visit the Forodhani Gardens, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. From there, you will head to the Darajani Fruits and Spice Market, where you will experience the vibrant colors and aromas of the market. This market offers a wide range of spices, fruits, vegetables, and other commodities.

Next, you will proceed to Zanzibar ferry terminal, followed by visits to the Freddie Mercury house, Jaws Corner coffee shop, and Zanzibar Curio Shop. You will also have the opportunity to explore the narrow streets alongside the curio shops.

Finally, you will visit the Anglican Cathedral, formerly known as the Slave Market. Here, you’ll learn about the history of the East African slave trade, which used to take place in the market for centuries. Slaves were hunted and abducted from Malawi, Congo, Zambia, and other parts of East Africa.

The tour will end after three hours, and you’ll have ample time for leisure and exploration.

Inclusions

The Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour includes:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– Guide fee to all the markets
– Entrance fee to Sultan Palace
– Government tax

How to Book the Tour

To book the Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour, please follow the link: Book the tour here. Ensure that you book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit to Zanzibar’s Stone Town 3-Hour Walking Tour. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and architecture. Don’t forget to book in advance, and we wish you a fantastic experience on the tour.

Insider’s Guide to Zanzibar: Explore the Hidden Gems of Stone Town

Zanzibar’s Stone Town is home to a rich history, diverse culture, and a thriving culinary scene. As a local, I am excited to share with you some insider tips on how to make the most out of your visit.

Local Attractions: Uncover the Hidden Gems

While there are many popular tourist spots in Stone Town, there are also some hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the Mtoni Palace Ruins, which is an impressive example of Persian architecture. Another is the Dhow Countries Music Academy, where you can learn about traditional Swahili music and even enjoy a live performance. Lastly, the Maruhubi Palace Ruins offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Sultan of Zanzibar in the 19th century.

Dining Spots: Savor the True Flavors of Zanzibar

Zanzibari cuisine is a unique blend of African, Indian, and Middle Eastern influences. For a true taste of local flavors, head to Forodhani Night Market, which comes alive every evening with street food vendors selling everything from grilled seafood to sweetmeats. You can also try the ever-popular pilau, a spiced rice dish served with meat or vegetables, at Lukmaan Restaurant, a local favorite.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Traditions and Arts of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures, and one of the best experiences you can have is attending the annual Mwaka Kogwa festival, which is a Swahili new year celebration held in late July or early August. Another way to immerse yourself in the local culture is to visit the Old Fort, a 17th-century fortress that has been transformed into a cultural center showcasing traditional dances, music, and handicrafts.

Local History: Discover the Fascinating Past of Zanzibar

Zanzibar has a rich history, and one of the most fascinating stories is that of the Slave Market, which was where enslaved Africans were sold and traded in the 19th century. Today, the site has been turned into a museum, where you can learn about this dark period in Zanzibar’s history. For a lighter experience, visit the House of Wonders, a grand palace built in the late 19th century that today features exhibits on Zanzibar’s culture and history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Your Own Adventure

For the more adventurous traveler, why not try snorkeling at Mnemba Island, just off the coast of Stone Town? Another option is to take a spice tour, where you can learn about the history and cultivation of Zanzibar’s famous spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Finally, for the ultimate Zanzibari experience, spend a night in a traditional Swahili-style beach hut, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to a stunning sunrise.

Zanzibar is a magical place with so much to offer. I hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to go beyond the usual tourist hotspots and explore the hidden gems that make Stone Town such a special destination.