Stone Town,Spice Tour&Prison Island Private Tour

Dar es Salaam , Tanzania

Stone Town,Spice Tour&Prison Island Private Tour

Active

(42 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is a perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor—only found in Zanzibar. Walk through the winding alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Swahili-Arabic charm and rich stories. Explore Prison Island, home to giant Aldabra tortoises and colonial ruins, with stunning views of the turquoise ocean. Finally, awaken your senses on a Spice Tour, where you’ll see, touch, and taste Zanzibar’s world-famous spices straight from the source. With a local guide, all entrance fees, and transport included, this is the ultimate way to connect with the real Zanzibar in just one day.

Available options

Stone Town,Spice Tour&Prison Island Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar through a guided walk in Stone Town. Discover its narrow streets, old buildings, lively markets, and famous sites like the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and the former slave market. It’s a great way to learn about the island’s rich history and local life in just a few hours.

Stop 2

Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, is located about 5 kilometers from Stone Town, Zanzibar. In the 19th century, it was used by Arab slave traders to detain enslaved people. Later, in 1893, the British built a prison on the island, but it was never used for that purpose. Instead, the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever and other diseases. Today, Prison Island is a popular tourist attraction, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and the giant Aldabra tortoises that live there.

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island” because of its long history of growing spices. During the 19th century, under Omani rule, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper became major exports. Spice farms were created across the island. Today, visiting a spice farm is a popular activity where tourists can see, smell, and taste fresh spices, and learn how they are grown and used in Zanzibari culture

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

41 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and its commercial hub, offering a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful coastal scenery. As the gateway to Zanzibar and the southern circuits of Tanzania, it combines modern urban life with Swahili coastal charm.

Top Attractions

Coco Beach

A popular beach in Dar es Salaam with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local seafood.

Beach Half day Free (Food and activities extra)

Mbudya Island

A small island located just off the coast of Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature Full day Moderate (Boat ride and activities)

Dar es Salaam National Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Tanzania, including exhibits on natural history, ethnography, and the country's struggle for independence.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (Entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali and Nyama Choma

Ugali is a staple food made from maize flour, often served with grilled meat (Nyama Choma).

Main Course Vegetarian options available (Ugali with vegetables)

Pilau

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Mishkaki

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salsa).

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving Island hopping Beach relaxation Spa treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours and fishing excursions Spice tours in Zanzibar

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Dar es Salaam is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Julius Nyerere International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Dar es Salaam Central Station

By bus

Ubungo Bus Terminal, Tegeta Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Dala Dala are minibuses that are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They can be crowded and chaotic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kariakoo Oyster Bay

Day trips

Zanzibar Island

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day or overnight

Zanzibar offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures.

Bagamoyo

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day

A historic town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its role in the slave trade and as a center for Swahili culture.

Festivals

Dar es Salaam International Film Festival (DIFIFF) • July Sauti za Busara • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation.
Visit the Kariakoo Market early in the morning for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Book ferry tickets to Zanzibar in advance, especially during peak season.