Private Stone Town and Zanzibar Spice Tour

Karatu , Tanzania

Private Stone Town and Zanzibar Spice Tour

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About this experience

Discover the heart and soul of Zanzibar in this beautifully curated experience that combines the rich history of Stone Town with the sensory wonders of a Spice Plantation.

Begin your guided walking tour through the UNESCO-listed Stone Town, exploring the Old Slave Market, Sultan’s Palace, House of Wonders, and more, as your local guide unveils centuries of Swahili-Arab culture. Then, escape to a nearby spice farm where you’ll see, smell, and taste Zanzibar’s world-famous spices and exotic fruits. A perfect blend of culture, heritage, and flavor, this tour is ideal for curious travelers seeking a deeper connection with the island.

Available options

Private Stone Town and Zanzibar Spice Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fee

In-person Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Historical & Cultural Landmarks
House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib) – Iconic building once used as a sultan’s palace, now a museum (under renovation).

Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) – 17th-century fort built by the Omanis, with shops, local performances, and exhibitions.

Palace Museum (Sultan’s Palace) – Former royal residence showcasing Zanzibari royal history.

Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral – Powerful historical site marking the end of East Africa’s slave trade.

Freddie Mercury’s House – Birthplace of Queen’s lead singer, a must-see for music fans.

Guided Tour Through the Farm
Walk through lush plantations of spices, herbs, and tropical fruits. See, touch, and smell live plants such as:
Cloves – Zanzibar’s top export, harvested from evergreen trees.

Nutmeg & Mace – Sourced from a single fruit with a bright red lacy outer shell.
Cinnamon – Known as the "tree of many uses" (bark, leaves, roots all smell different).
Vanilla – A delicate climbing orchid.
Cardamom, turmeric, black pepper, lemongrass, and more.
Sample fresh seasonal fruits like pineapple, jackfruit, passion fruit, mango, starfruit, and bananas right off the tree.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Karatu

Karatu is a charming town nestled in the heart of Tanzania's northern highlands, serving as a gateway to some of the country's most spectacular national parks and conservation areas. Known for its lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and proximity to wildlife reserves, Karatu offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Top Attractions

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Africa. It is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that provides a unique habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Five.

Nature Full day Expensive (conservation fees apply)

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including a large alkaline lake, dense woodlands, and open grasslands. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large populations of elephants and flamingos.

Nature Half to full day Moderate (park fees apply)

Mto wa Mbu Village

Mto wa Mbu is a vibrant village known for its cultural diversity and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore the village, learn about local traditions, and shop for handmade crafts.

Cultural Half day Budget (small fees for guided tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, typically beef or goat, seasoned with local spices. It is a popular dish in Tanzania and is often served with ugali (maize porridge) and kachumbari (tomato and onion salad).

Main course Contains meat

Ugali

A staple food made from maize flour, cooked with water to form a thick, dough-like consistency. It is often served with stews, sauces, or grilled meats.

Side dish Vegetarian

Chai

Tanzanian tea, often spiced with cardamom, ginger, and cloves. It is a popular beverage served throughout the day.

Drink Vegetarian, Vegan

Popular Activities

Game drives Hot air balloon safaris Guided walks Coffee tasting Scenic drives Picnicking Cultural tours Traditional craft shopping

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season, offering ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Karatu is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables
• Use licensed taxis
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Arusha Airport • 45 km

By bus

Arusha Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Dalla-dallas are the primary mode of public transport in Karatu, connecting the town to nearby villages and attractions. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Karatu Town Burka

Day trips

Serengeti National Park

120 km • Full day

Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world, known for its vast grasslands, diverse wildlife, and the annual Great Migration.

Tarangire National Park

80 km • Full day

Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant populations, baobab trees, and diverse birdlife. The park offers excellent game viewing and scenic landscapes.