Stone Town Private Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
It's fascinating to explore historic Stone Town - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - but it's easy to lose your way in the area's maze-like, narrow streets. To stay oriented and ensure you don't miss key highlights, join a private guide with deep knowledge of local history, cultural heritage and architecture. It's fully personalized to your preferences, whether you're shopping for local textiles, interested in history, knowing about everyday life, or learning about Stone Town's unique architecture!
Available options
Private Tour In French
Tour Without Entrance Fees: This option is performed by a French speaking Tour Guide and does not include entrance fees to the Old Slave Market Site
In French With Entrance fees
Entrance fees included: This is a private tour option guided with a French speaking guide, and includes entrance fees to the Old Slave Market site.
Private with Entrance Fees
Entrance fees included: This option includes a ticket admission to the old slave market site
Private without Entrance Fees
Entrance fees not included: This option price includes a private walking tour without entrance fees to the old slave market site
What's included
Professional tour guide
Pick up from Stone town hotels: (Please request and send us a message in advance)
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour will give you an excellent way of familiarizing yourself with Stone Town’s geography, history, architecture and culture. This fascinating excursion leads you through a maze of narrow streets that boasts more than 2000 limestone buildings, covering an area of 50 hectares and with a population of 18000 living in the suburbs. With its defined and overlapping African, Arab, Indian, Persian and European elements, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
Zanzibar and Stone Town are truly cosmopolitan. After a visit to the Anglican Cathedral (former slave market), House of Wonders (national museum), Palace museum, the Old Fort, Darajani market, Hamamni Baths, Catholic Cathedral, Freddy Mercury house and experiencing the hustle and bustle of the streets, the bazaar full of coffee drinkers and the beautiful doors of Zanzibar, you too will bear witness that Stone Town is a cultural crossroads and that it is worthy of its world heritage title. Also take the time to explore the markets where local people purchase their daily requirements and also a market street full of colourful textiles.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, architecture, renovation work, or just a shopaholic, your guide can adapt your tour to your needs. They will share amusing, but also cruel stories, about the life and culture of the old times in Stone Town and then safely deposit you back where your tour started/ the place you were met.
What's not included
Transfers from other parts of the island (tour starts in Stone Town)
Food and Drinks
Tips/Gratuities for the guide
Any cost of personal nature
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
122 reviews
5★
111
4★
7
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
265 reviews
5★
256
4★
6
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is Infront of the Old fort at the main entrance.
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
