Stone Town Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, where to stay, and more in Stone Town, Tanzania's cultural hub. Read our comprehensive travel guide now.


Introduction to Stone Town

Nestled on the west coast of the African island paradise of Zanzibar, Stone Town is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an exotic cultural experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its historical architecture that showcases the diverse influences of the Arabian, Indian, and European cultures that have shaped this vibrant hub. The town’s winding alleys and bustling markets are teeming with life, and there is no shortage of things to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in Stone Town

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palace Museum (Beit al-Sahel)
  • House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib)
  • Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)
  • Dr. Livingstone’s House
  • The Arab Fort (Ngome ya Kiazi)
  • Christ Church Cathedral
  • Hamamni Persian Baths

Natural Attractions of Stone Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Prison Island (Changuu Island)
  • Forodhani Gardens
  • Stone Town Beach
  • Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
  • Mtoni Palace Ruins

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stone Town

For a unique perspective, hike or bike your way through the city’s streets and to the top of the town’s tallest buildings for a panoramic view of the town and surrounding coastlines.

Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Activities and Tours

  • Walking tours: Walking tours are the best way to experience the town’s historical attractions and the unique fusion of cultures within. Consider taking a cultural walking tour or a spice tour of the island.
  • Water sports: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming are popular activities, with pristine coral reefs, clear waters, and a plethora of marine life.
  • Sunset cruise: Take a sunset cruise to admire the red and orange hues of the setting sun and for a chance to get a glimpse of dolphins.
  • Shopping: Stone Town’s markets and bazaars make it an ideal destination for shopping, where you will find clothing, jewelry, and spices.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stone Town

Day 1: Arrive in Zanzibar and check-in to your hotel in Stone Town. Day 2: Take a guided walking tour through the streets of Stone Town and visit historical sites such as the Palace Museum, House of Wonders, and Christ Church Cathedral. Day 3: Explore the natural attractions of Stone Town by visiting Prison Island, Forodhani Gardens, and Stone Town Beach. Day 4: Take a day trip to Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and hike through the lush forests. Day 5: Book a spice tour to learn about the islands spice farming and agricultural techniques. Day 6: Take a scenic sunset cruise and enjoy the views of the coastline, accompanied by delicious local snacks and drinks. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs at the various markets and bazaars.

Food and Drink Scene of Stone Town

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zanzibar Pizza
  • Urojo (a mix of boiled potatoes, cassava, and chickpeas, a must-try street food)
  • Fish curry (prepared with coconut cream and spices)
  • Biryani (a mixed rice dish served with a variety of meats and spices)

Local Beverages

  • Fresh coconut water
  • Tea (chai) with spices like cardamom and cinnamon
  • Sugarcane juice
  • Local beers such as Kilimanjaro, Safari, and Serengeti

Where to Stay in Stone Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stone Town offers a range of accommodation options from hotels to guesthouses tailored to fit individual budgets.

Luxury:

  • Park Hyatt Zanzibar
  • Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Mid-range:

  • Tembo House Hotel
  • Maru Maru Hotel

Budget:

  • Zenji Hotel
  • Kisiwa House

What to Buy in Stone Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla are the most popular spices in Zanzibar.
  • Tinga-tinga paintings: A brightly colored, popular art style with detailed scenes of African life.
  • Handicrafts: Wooden carvings, jewelry, and textiles such as Khanga and Kangas.

Local Culture and Customs of Stone Town

Local customs and culture in Stone Town are a blend of Islam and Swahili culture. To respect the locals, it is advised to cover shoulders and knees when walking in public places such as the Old Town. Friday is a sacred day in Stone Town, and it is customary for people to dress up in traditional attire and attend Friday prayers at the mosques.

Best Time to Visit Stone Town

The best time to visit Stone Town is during the cooler, drier months from June to October. The rainfall increases from November to May, but it’s usually a good time to visit to experience the vibrant colors of nature and the authentic culture of Stone Town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stone Town

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting cultural and religious sites.
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated if you plan to hike, bike, or be outdoors for extended periods.
  • Bargain before purchasing items at markets.

Don’t:

  • Sunbathe in public places such as Stone Town Beach as it is not culturally appropriate.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stone Town

Stone Town, like most cities and tourist hotspots, has some safety risks. It’s best to avoid walking alone at night and ensure that you always have a form of communication for emergencies.

Health in Stone Town

Before traveling to Stone Town, it’s recommended to take precautionary measures, including vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera. Carry mosquito repellant to avoid any cases of malaria and dengue fever.

Getting to Stone Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Stone Town

Visitors to Stone Town and Zanzibar primarily enter through the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) located in the south-west of Stone Town. The most common method of transport from the airport to the town is by taxi, which takes approximately 15 minutes.

Bus Stations Near Stone Town

Ferry Port is the main bus station and the second entry point to the city which makes it easy to travel by bus to/from Dar-es-Salaam.

Other Options

Visitors also have the option of taking a ferry from Dar-Es-Salaam to Zanzibar or booking a private transfer to and from Stone Town.

How to Get Around in Stone Town

The best way to experience Stone Town is on foot; the town has narrow streets, and most buildings are inaccessible to cars. However, taxis and dala-dalas (local buses) are available for visitors who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Stone Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kendwa Beach
  • Paje Beach
  • Nungwi Village
  • Chumbe Island Coral Park
  • Mnemba Atoll

Conclusion

Visiting Stone Town is an enriching cultural experience, with the towns historical architecture, natural attractions, culinary delights, and vibrant atmosphere, presenting a unique African perspective for tourists. With this comprehensive travel guide, tourists can plan an exciting and rewarding trip to Stone Town, Tanzania.

The Palace Museum The Palace Museum