Stone Town – The Historic Heart of Zanzibar
Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of East Africa’s most culturally rich destinations. A place where Persian traders, Omani sultans, explorers, and African heritage blend into a timeless labyrinth of narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, carved wooden doors, and centuries-old mosques. It is the cultural soul of Zanzibar and the birthplace of legends such as **Freddie Mercury**.
The Story of Stone Town
The history of Stone Town stretches back over 1,000 years. It began as a Swahili fishing village and grew into a trading hub connecting Africa, Arabia, India, and the Persian Gulf. Its strategic location made it famous for spices, ivory, and sadly, the East African slave trade.
Stone Town’s architecture tells this entire story — a blend of Arab mansions, Portuguese fortresses, Indian balconies, British colonial buildings, and Swahili coral-stone houses. Even today, the echoes of dhow sails, call to prayer, and old trading markets create an atmosphere that feels frozen in time.
Why Visit Stone Town?
• Unique world heritage architecture
• Deep history & cultural immersion
• Museums, forts & old palaces
• Rooftop cafés & sunset restaurants
• Close to Prison Island & Spice Farms
Perfect For
• Culture & history lovers
• Photographers & storytellers
• Food explorers & spice enthusiasts
• Couples & solo travelers
Best Time to Visit Stone Town
June – October (Best Season)
Cool, dry weather. Ideal for walking tours, photography, and historical exploration.
December – February
Warm and vibrant with festivals and holiday events.
March – May
Rainy season — fewer crowds, dramatic skies, best for cultural touring.
Highlights of Stone Town
House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)
The grandest building in Stone Town, once the ceremonial palace of the Sultan. Known for being the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator.
Sultan’s Palace Museum
Explore the royal lifestyle, personal belongings of Sultans, and historical royal chambers.
Old Fort
A 17th-century fortress built by the Omanis. Today it hosts cultural shows, music events, and local markets.
Darajani Market
The beating heart of local life — spices, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, fabrics, and street snacks.
Freddie Mercury’s Birthplace
A small museum dedicated to the legendary Queen vocalist who was born in Zanzibar in 1946.
Forodhani Gardens
A beautiful waterfront square famous for its **Zanzibar night food market** — grilled lobster, octopus, urojo soup, sugarcane juice, and Zanzibar pizza.
Top Things to Do in Stone Town
✔ Guided Walking Tour
Discover hidden alleys, ancient mosques, local markets, Arabian mansions, and the full story of Zanzibar’s Swahili culture.
✔ Prison Island (Changuu) Tour
Visit the historic island and meet the **giant Aldabra tortoises**, some over 150 years old.
✔ Spice Farm Experience
Learn about Zanzibar’s spice history, taste fresh spices, and explore aromatic plantations.
✔ Sunset Dhow Cruise
Sail along the Indian Ocean on a traditional dhow as the sun paints the sky over Stone Town.
✔ Food & Cooking Tours
Perfect for food lovers — learn Swahili cooking techniques and enjoy authentic dishes.
✔ Cultural Museums
Visit the Slave Market Memorial, Old Dispensary, Hamamni Baths, and historical mosques.
Getting to Stone Town
By Air
Fly into Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ), only 10 minutes from Stone Town.
By Ferry
Daily high-speed ferries from Dar es Salaam (2 hours).
Local Transfers
Private car transfers are recommended for safety, comfort, and convenience.
Where to Stay in Stone Town
Luxury Options
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar
- Emerson on Hurumzi
- Mizingani Seafront Hotel
Mid-Range Hotels
- Tausi Palace Hotel
- Tembo House Hotel
- Dhow Palace Hotel
Budget Stays
- Lost & Found Hostel
- Kiponda B&B