Stone Town City Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the historic Stone Town of Zanzibar, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided, 3 Hours guided tour from Stone Town. With an experienced guide to lead the way, you’ll explore a blend of African, Arab, Indian, Persian, and European cultures, following narrow streets shaded by elegant balconies and verandahs. The Sultan Palace, a series of beautifully-carved wooden doors, Darajani Market also known as Estella Market, the house where Freddy Mercury was born, and an Anglican Cathedral that marks the former site of a slave market.
Available options
Stone Town City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Pick up and drop off from your hotel in private car exclude beach hotel
Transport waiting charge
All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
Experienced Professional Tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
It may not have a particularly romantic name, but Stone Town is the old city and cultural heart of Zanzibar, little changed in the last 200 years.It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings.This one-upmanship is particularly reflected in the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors – there are more than 500 different examples of this handiwork. You can spend many idle hours and days just wandering through the fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways.
Walk by landmarks such as the House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib, a former palace of an early sultan), the Anglican Cathedral built on the site of the Old Slave Market, the Sultan’s Palace (Beit al-Sahel, now a museum), the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe, built to defend against the Portuguese), the house where rock star Freddy Mercury was born, and a local market that sells fruit, vegetables, and fish.
What's not included
Medical Insurance if needed
Gratuities for tour guide
International & Domestic Flights
Visa fee (US $50 / US $100 for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
Airport/Departure Tax
Expenses of a personal Nature
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Wheelchair accessible
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Important notes
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
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
