Top Things to Do in Zanzibar’s Stone Town

8 days Zanzibar beach holiday tour

Zanzibar’s Stone Town is a cultural and historical gem that offers an incredible blend of Arabian, Indian, Persian, and European influences. From wandering through its narrow streets to exploring its historical landmarks, Stone Town is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Tanzania. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top things to do in Zanzibar’s Stone Town.

8 days Zanzibar beach holiday tour

1. Visit the Historic Slave Market

One of the most sobering experiences in Stone Town is visiting the Old Slave Market. This site provides a poignant reminder of Zanzibar’s role in the East African slave trade. The Anglican Cathedral now stands where slaves were once bought and sold, and the museum attached to it offers an in-depth look at this dark chapter in history.

Learn more about the historical impact of the slave trade at The Smithsonian.


2. Explore the House of Wonders

The House of Wonders, or “Beit al-Ajaib,” is the largest and tallest building in Stone Town, showcasing a blend of Swahili and Omani architecture. Originally built by Sultan Barghash as a palace, it was the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator. Although the building is currently undergoing restoration, it’s still worth walking by for its historical significance.

For more about the architectural wonders of Zanzibar, read this detailed piece from National Geographic.


3. Walk Through Forodhani Gardens

Forodhani Gardens is a beautiful seafront park where you can relax and enjoy local street food. At night, the park comes alive with food vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to Zanzibar pizzas. It’s the perfect place to mingle with locals and taste the island’s cuisine. Check out CNN Travel for their guide on where to eat in Zanzibar.

Learn more about the significance of Forodhani Gardens from Lonely Planet.


4. Discover the Old Fort

The Old Fort is one of the oldest buildings in Stone Town, constructed by the Omanis in the 17th century to defend against Portuguese invasions. Today, the fort hosts a cultural center where you can shop for local crafts or watch traditional music and dance performances.

Find out more about Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage at Cultural Trip.


5. Experience the Spice Tour

Zanzibar is often referred to as the “Spice Island” because of its long history of producing cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and other spices. A Spice Tour is an excellent way to experience the island’s agricultural riches and learn about the role spices have played in Zanzibar’s trade history.

For more on Zanzibar’s spice trade, visit World History Encyclopedia.


6. Take a Dhow Cruise

One of the most popular activities in Stone Town is sailing on a traditional wooden dhow at sunset. As you glide along the Indian Ocean, you’ll see the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the town. This relaxing experience is a must for any visitor to Stone Town. For more on dhow cruising, check out Travel + Leisure.


7. Visit the Sultan’s Palace Museum

The Sultan’s Palace is a great way to learn about the life of the Zanzibari Sultans and their influence over the island’s culture and politics. Located on the waterfront, the museum contains artifacts that tell the story of Zanzibar’s royal history and its connections with Oman.

For more on Zanzibar’s royal history, visit World Monuments Fund.


8. Discover the Freddie Mercury Museum

Did you know that Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen, was born in Zanzibar? The Freddie Mercury Museum celebrates his life and legacy, with exhibits detailing his early years in Stone Town and his rise to fame. Fans of the iconic musician should not miss this museum, located in the house where Mercury spent part of his childhood.

Learn more about Freddie Mercury’s Zanzibari roots at Rolling Stone.


9. Stroll Through Darajani Market

For a truly local experience, head to Darajani Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to spices and textiles. It’s a bustling place where you can shop like a local and get a taste of Zanzibari life. The market is especially lively in the mornings when locals come to buy their daily goods.


10. Visit the Hamamni Persian Baths

The Hamamni Persian Baths were built in the late 19th century by Sultan Barghash. Although they are no longer operational, they offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Zanzibar’s elite during the Sultanate period. These baths are a unique piece of history in the heart of Stone Town.

For more on the architectural history of Zanzibar, check out Architectural Digest’s guide.


Final Thoughts

Zanzibar’s Stone Town is a vibrant, historically rich destination with endless experiences to offer. From its architecture and historical landmarks to its rich culture and culinary delights, Stone Town is a must-see for anyone traveling to Tanzania. Whether you’re visiting the Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist or embarking on a safari with Eddy Tours and Safaris, Stone Town is the perfect addition to any Tanzania itinerary.


Useful Backlinks for Further Reading

  1. History of Zanzibar
  2. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town
  3. Travel Guide to Zanzibar
  4. Lonely Planet Zanzibar Travel Guide
  5. World Travel Guide: Zanzibar
  6. Cultural Heritage of Zanzibar
  7. BBC Travel Guide: Zanzibar
  8. The Culture Trip – Zanzibar’s History
  9. Atlas Obscura – Zanzibar
  10. CNN Travel – Zanzibar’s Best Places