Stone Town City Tour
Active
2h - 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
No visit of Stone Town is complete without doing a guided city tour. The beautiful UNESCO world heritage city is home of many magnificent buildings and other sights, which reflect a period of over 1000 years of colonisation. Elements of Arab, Indian, African and European create a unique and fascinating townscape, which is still intact today. Our multilingual and experienced guides will show you the most prominent sights of Stone Town and some hidden treasures, while giving you detailed information to the history of these fascinating places.
Available options
Stone Town City Tour
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Upon its abolishment in 1873, slavery was a very lucrative business in Zanzibar, conducted by Arabs, Europeans and Indians. An estimated number of 17 million slaves was deported from Zanzibar, making it one of the main slave markets worldwide. Nowadays a museum is reminding everybody of this inhuman chapter of Zanzibarian history. You can see the chambers, where they were kept as prisoners, as well as the Anglican Church on the opposite site of the museum, which was built by English missionaries after the abolishment of the slave trade.
2
Being one of the most finely decorated buildings of Stone Town, the Old Dispensary symbolises the multi-cultural architecture and heritage of the city.
3
Stop 3
Built between 1698 and 1701 by the Busaidi group of Omani Arabs, the Lld Fort is a large building with high, brown walls topped by castellated battlements. It was used by the Arabs to defend themselves against the Portuguese and against a rival Omani group. In recent years it has been partially renovated and it is now home to the Zanzibar Cultural Centre.
4
Stop 4
The House of Wonders is surely one of the landmark buildings of Zanzibar. After the building was finished in 1883, itt was intended to be a ceremonial palace and official reception hall. It was the first building in Zanzibar to have electricity, and also the first building in East Africa to have an elevator.
5
Stop 5
One of the best ways to experience local life is to explore the local Darajani bazaar/market. There is a market for spices, fruits, fishes... you'll discover pop-up vendors selling all sorts of interesting things. This lively place never gets boring.
6
The Forodhani Garden, located at the waterfront of Stone Town is a popular place for tourists and locals. You can sit at the beautiful Forodhani Park for an amazing view of the sea as well as a nice breeze to cool you down.
7
Walking through the narrow streets is like wandering in a wonderland. The historical city, now a UNESCO world heritage site, is a maze with endless fantastical buildings and beautiful architecture.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Just wait in front of the Tembo House Hotel. Somebody in a blue Serenity Experience shirt will pick you up. Call or send a WhatsApp message to Francis Baritango Lucas (our Tour Manager) if you have any questions: +255 656 721 501
About Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Top Attractions
Stone Town
The heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Prison Island
A small island known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and historical significance as a former slave prison.
Historical/Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and boat ride)
Nungwi Beach
One of Zanzibar's most famous beaches, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Full day
Free to access, activities vary
Jozani Forest
Zanzibar's only national park, home to the rare Red Colobus monkey and diverse birdlife.
Nature
Half day
Moderate (entry fee and guide)
Kizimkazi
A historic village known for its ancient mosques and dolphin tours.
Cultural
Half day
Moderate (dolphin tour fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Urojo
A spicy Zanzibari soup made with cassava, potatoes, and sometimes meat or seafood, served with coconut and chili sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian option available
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fish or meat.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Zanzibar Pizza
A local street food item made with a thin, flaky pastry filled with eggs, meat, and vegetables, cooked on a griddle.
Snack
Customizable to dietary preferences
Biriyani
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables, influenced by Indian cuisine.
Main
Vegetarian option available
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Diving
Island hopping
Spice tours
Dolphin tours
Beach relaxation
Sunset cruises
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Arabic, Indigenous languages
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Use common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport • 5 km from Stone Town
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but can be crowded. Useful for reaching popular destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Stone Town
Nungwi
Kendwa
Jambiani
Day trips
Pemba Island
100 km • Full day to overnight
Known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and spice plantations, Pemba Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Chumbe Island
12 km • Full day
A small island known for its coral reef sanctuary and lighthouse, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Mafia Island
150 km • Overnight
Known for its remote beaches, excellent fishing, and whale shark sightings, Mafia Island offers a more secluded and adventurous experience.
Festivals
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) • July
Mwaka Kogwa • July
Zanzibar Carnival • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Hire a local guide for spice tours and historical sites to gain deeper insights.
- Visit the Forodhani Gardens night market for a taste of local street food.
- Book a sunset cruise for a romantic and memorable experience.
- Explore the island's diverse regions, from the bustling Stone Town to the serene beaches of Kendwa and Jambiani.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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