Zanzibar , Tanzania

Stone Town Walking Tour in Zanzibar

Active

(40 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Stone Town, the atmospheric cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar City, on this 3-hour walking tour with a guide. Constructed from coral stone in the 19th and 20th centuries, Stone Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.

Stone Town is a very lively place where you’ll find a mixture of Arabic, African, Indian and European cultures living comfortably together. As you walk through the labyrinth of streets too narrow for cars to pass, you can see mosques, churches and temples side by side.

While you wonder around the city, your guide will take you on a historical and cultural journey through the old slave market, Darajani market place, the Old Fort and the Sultan’s Palace.

Forodhani Gardens is definitely worth a visit, especially at night when it comes alive as one of the best street food markets in East Africa.

Tour can include a lunch in a restaurant or in a local house, if booked beforehand.

Available options

Stone Town Walking Tour in Zanzibar

What's included

Bottled water

Pickup from hotels located in Stone Town

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will visit the Old Fort inside and hear about it's history

This park is the heart of Stone Town nightlife, but also has an important historical role.

Also called the People's Palace, this place is now a museum but used to be the home of the sultan of Zanzibar.

You will get a tour of the old slave market area and visit the church built in its place.

Stop 5

We will walk through the bazaar area and see the different sections of the market

This little square is famous for it's political gossips and coffee service, as well as the big graffiti.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Transfer from other parts of the island (tour starts in Stone Town)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR DE RU EN IT PL FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

35 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Meeting point

In front of the Old Fort main entrance, in Forodhani, Stone Town

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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.