Full-Day Stone Town and Prison Island Tour in Zanzibar
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Delve into the history of Stone Town, an atmospheric city that has served as the cultural heart of Zanzibar. Constructed from coral stone during the 19th and 20th centuries, it was later declared a World Heritage site. With your guide you'll also visit Changuu, aka Prison Island, once used to accommodate prisoners obtained from World War II and now home to giant tortoises.
Available options
From North/South East and West
Pick up from North Hotels, North East, South East and South West Hotels to the Spice and Prison Tour. Lunch NOT Included. Minimum of 2 people<br/>Pickup included
From Town Hotels
Pick up from Town Hotels to the Spice and Prison Tour. Lunch NOT Included. Minimum of 2 people. Please make sure you have selected the correct pick up location otherwise you will pay the difference.<br/>Pickup included
From Central, Fumba,
Pick up from Central Hotels, Fumba, Mangapwani and Chuini Hotels to the Spice and Prison Tour. Lunch NOT Included. Minimum of 2 people<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
All activities
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After hotel pickup from your hotel, set out with your guide on a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Stone Town, Zanzibar's historical center. Explore some of the world's narrowest streets during your introduction to the cosmopolitan archipelago, which combines African traditions with cultural influences from around the world.
What's not included
Drinks
Lunch (meals range from USD $15-30)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
3.8
8 reviews
5★
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
To avoid delays, please make sure you have selected the correct hotel, otherwise you will be asked to pay the difference upon pickup in cash
Please verify your hotel in the list below and select your package according to your hotel location: STONE TOWN HOTELS: Al Johari Hotel, Asmini Palace Hotel, Dhow Palace, Khole House, Kisiwa House, Maru Maru Hotel, Mashariki Palace, Park Hyatt, Tembo House, The Swahili House, The Zanzibar Grand Palace, Zanzibar Palace, Zanzibar Serena Inn, Africa House, Tausi Palace Hotel, Hiliki house, Double Tree by Hilton (stone town) NORTH HOTELS: African View, Amaan Bungalows, Diamond Gemma Del Est, Diamond Star of the East, Double Tree by Hilton Nungwi, Essque Zalu Zanzibar, Flame Tree Cottages, Gold Zanzibar, Hideaway of Nungwi, Kilindi, Nungwi Inn, Ras Nungwi, Royal Zanzibar, Tanzanite Beach Resort, The Z Hotel, The Zanzibari, Mnarani, Sun Set Kendwa NORTH EAST HOTELS: Bluebay Beach resorts, Che Che Vule, Dream Of Zanzibar, Kasha Boutique Hotel, Mapenzi Beach, Matemwe Beach House, Matemwe Logde, Matemwe Retreat, Melia Zanzibar, Neptune Pwani Beach Hotel, Ocean Paradise, Shooting Star, Sultan Sands, Villa Kiva, Azanzi SOUTH HOTELS: Swahili Beach Resorts, Karamba Beach Resorts, Unguja Lodge, Breezes Beach Club, Baraza, Arabian Nights, Arabian Nights Annex, Casa Del Mar, Kichanga Lodge, Dongwe Ocean View, The Palm, Bahari View Lodge, Spice Island Hotel, Ras Michamvi, The Residence, Karafuu Beach Resort, Kisiwa on the Beach, Konokono, Sea View Boutique, Dhow Inn CENTRAL HOTELS: Tamarind Hotel, Pongwe Beach Hotel, Pongwe Bay, Uroa Bay FUMBA & MANGAPWANI HOTELS: Fumba beach lodge, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa, Hakuna Matata
Important notes
• Lunch is not included in the cost. You will be taken to a restaurant where you can easily choose any a la carte menu at your own expense. meals range from USD15-30
• To avoid delays and embarrassing incidences, please make sure you have selected the correct hotel otherwise you will be asked to pay the difference upon pick up in cash
• Please check your hotel location on the additional information tab and select package as per your hotel location
•
STONE TOWN HOTELS:Al Johari Hotel, Asmini Palace Hotel,Dhow Palace, Khole House, Kisiwa House, Maru Maru Hotel, Mashariki Palace, Park Hyatt, Tembo House, The Swahili House ,The Zanzibar Grand Palace, Zanzibar Palace ,Zanzibar Serena Inn, Africa House, Tausi Palace Hotel, Hiliki house, Double tree by Hilton (stone town)
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NORTH HOTELS: African View, Amaan Bungalows, Diamond Gemma Del Est, Diamond Star of the East,Double Tree by Hilton Nungwi, Essque Zalu Zanzibar, Flame Tree Cottages, Gold Zanzibar, Hideaway of Nungwi, Kilindi, Nungwi Inn, Ras Nungwi, Royal Zanzibar, Tanzanite Beach resort, The Z Hotel,The Zanzibari, Mnarani, Sun Set Kendwa
•
NORTH EAST HOTELS::Bluebay Beach resorts, Che Che Vule, Dream Of Zanzibar, Kasha Boutique Hotel,Mapenzi Beach, matemwe Beach House, Matemwe Logde, Matemwe Retreat, Melia Zanzibar, Neptune Pwani Beach Hotel, Ocean Paradise, Shooting Star, Sultan Sands, Villa Kiva, Azanzi
•
SOUTH HOTELS::Swahili Beach Resorts, Karamba Beach Resorts, Unguja Lodge, Breezes Beach Club, Baraza,Arabian Nights, Arabian Nights Annex, Casa Del Mar, Kichanga Lodge, Dongwe Ocean View, The Palm, Bahari View Lodge, Spice Island Hotel, Ras Michamvi, The Residence, Karafuu Beach Resort, Kisiwa on the Beach, Konokono, Sea view boutique, Dhow Inn
•
CENTRAL HOTELS: Tamarind Hotel, Pongwe Beach Hotel, Pongwe Bay, Uroa Bay
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FUMBA & MANGAPWANI HOTELS:Fumba beach lodge, Sea Cliff Resort & Spa, Hakuna Matata
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
About Zanzibar City
Zanzibar City, also known as Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural heart of Zanzibar. This historic city offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and vibrant markets. With its narrow alleys, ornate doors, and bustling bazaars, Zanzibar City is a captivating destination for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Stone Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its narrow alleys, ornate doors, and rich history. It's a labyrinth of culture, history, and architecture.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Forodhani Gardens
A popular waterfront area that comes alive in the evenings with food stalls, street performers, and local crafts.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free, food and crafts for purchase
Prison Island (Changuu Island)
A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and beautiful beaches. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxing.
Nature
Half day
Moderate (includes ferry ride and entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Zanzibari Pizza
A local version of pizza with a thin crust and topped with spices, meat, and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Urojo
A spicy soup made with potatoes, peas, and meat, served with rice or chapati.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk and spices, often served with fish or meat.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Dolphin tours
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Yoga
Exploring Stone Town
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with pleasant weather and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Arabic
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zanzibar City is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used by locals. Can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stone Town
Malindi
Day trips
Nungwi
60 km from Zanzibar City • Full day
A popular beach destination with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.
Kizimkazi
40 km from Zanzibar City • Half day
A village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.
Festivals
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July
Mwaka Kogwa • July
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Stone Town's history
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Visit the spice farms to learn about Zanzibar's spice trade history
- Explore the island's beaches and enjoy the crystal-clear waters
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in religious sites
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
