Discover the Stone Town City and Prison Island

Zanzibar , Tanzania

Discover the Stone Town City and Prison Island

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About this experience

You will go to Stone Town, this atmospheric and mystical cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar. It was constructed from coral Stone during the 19th and 20 Century. You will walk through this narrow Street with your guide will you take on Historical Sites and Cultural journey through House wonder, the Old Slave market, Darajani market place, the Old Fort , you can see the mosques , churches , Zanzibar doors and temples side to side and you will learn a lot of the History of Zanzibar. Then, head to prison Island, this is boat trip from stone town to prison island Here you get the chance to see the giant tortoises, and other species, take the photo, and walk around the island and see the prison building.

Available options

PICK-UP FROM NORTH COAST

PICK-UP FROM NORTH COAST<br/>Pickup included

PICK-UP FROM STONE TOWN CITY

PICK-UP FROM STONE TOWN CITY<br/>Pickup included

PICK-UP FROM EAST COAST

PICK-UP FROM EAST COAST<br/>Pickup included

PICK-UP FROM SOUTH COAST

PICK-UP FROM SOUTH COAST<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Waiting Charge, Fuel Surcharges & Service Fees

Entrance Fees

Service of Informative, friendly and Experienced Professional Tour guide

Mineral Water During the Tour

Comfortable Wooden Dhow With Life Jacket

VAT (18% charged by the Government)

Detailed itinerary

The House of Wonders or Palace of Wonders is a landmark building in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It is the largest and tallest building of Stone Town and occupies a prominent place facing the Forodhani Gardens on the old town's seafront in Mizingani Road.

The Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church was built in Stone Town (the old part of Zanzibar city) in the place where the biggest slave market of Eastern Africa.

Stop 3

Darajani Market is one of the central markets in Stone Town, Zanzibar. If you're interested in daily life and culture, make sure you visit the market.

Stop 4

The Old Fort (Arab Fort), also known as Ngome Kongwe in Swahili and by other names, is a former fortification located in Zanzibar Stone Town.

On a small road in Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar, stands what's dubbed the Mercury House. Mercury spent parts of his childhood within this house

Jaws Corner is an outdoor café in Stone Town’s narrow streets, where the locals meet for coffee. It is located in a small courtyard where two paths collide into an intersection and is where the men meet to discuss and play board games over a traditional Arabic brew.

Stop 7

Situated 5.6km northwest of Stone Town, Unguja, Prison Island is a small island in the Indian Ocean which can be visited as part of a Zanzibari adventure.

What's not included

Any domestic connection flights on arrival or departure

Gratuities for Guide/Driver (please tip separately)

All items of a personal nature

Visa

Available languages

Guide guide

AR DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.