During our 9-month Cairo to Cape Town overland adventure, we stayed in the paradise island of Zanzibar for one month.
The moment we got our first feel of this tropical island and stepped foot in Stone Town Zanzibar, we knew we were hooked.
The food, the people, the architecture, just THE VIBE of the entire place – Stone Town had it all. We can guarantee that you will fall in love with this special town just as quickly as we did.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know for your Stone Town trip and show you all the FREE reasons it is a must-visit.
But first, let’s find out a bit about Stone Town.
Tell Me About Stone Town Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s history is a blend of African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. It holds a rich history shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes in the Indian Ocean.
Persian and Arab Influence: From the 8th century onwards, traders from Persia (modern-day Iran) and Arabia began to settle in the region. Stone Town became a center for trade, culture, and religion, with mosques, palaces, and markets flourishing.
Omani Sultanate: In the 18th century, Zanzibar came under the influence of the Omani Sultanate, which established control over the island and made Stone Town its capital. This period saw significant economic growth driven by the trade in spices, ivory, and slaves.
Colonial Era: In the late 19th century, European colonial powers, particularly the British, sought to control Zanzibar.
Independence and Post-Colonial Era: Zanzibar gained independence from Britain in 1963, and formed the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964. Stone Town remained an important cultural and historical center, attracting tourists from around the world to admire its UNESCO-listed historic quarter, characterized by its narrow streets, intricately carved wooden doors, and bustling markets – we’ll get into this soon!
Throughout its history, Stone Town has been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and influences, which can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Today, it stands as a testament to the diverse heritage of Zanzibar.
Shortest War in History
Have you heard of the shortest war in history?
The Anglo-Zanzibar War of 1896, famously known as the shortest war in history lasting only 38 minutes.
This occurred when the British Royal Navy bombarded the Sultanate of Zanzibar’s palace in Stone Town, resulting in the quick defeat of the Omani Sultanate and the beginning of British control over Zanzibar.
How Do I Get to Stone Town?
Now that you know a little more about Stone Town, and are extra enthusiastic about your trip, let’s find out how exactly you are going to get to Stone Town:
By Air: The most common way to reach Zanzibar is by flying into Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ). Many international flights connect to Zanzibar from major cities in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Once you arrive at the airport, Stone Town is about a 15-20 minute drive away.
Ferry from Dar es Salaam: If you’re already in Tanzania, you can take a ferry from Dar es Salaam Ferry Terminal to Zanzibar Ferry Terminal. The ferry ride takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and once you arrive in Zanzibar, Stone Town is the capital and main city, so it’s easily accessible from the ferry terminal by taxi or public transportation.
We booked our tickets with Zan Fast Ferries at the cost of $35 per person for a one way transfer. You can easily book online with 12go or simply buy your tickets at the ticket office at the Ferry Terminal.
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What are the Best Things to Do in Stone Town – For FREE!
The following Stone Town free things to do are based on our visit to Stone Town and how we enjoyed spending our time there.
Remember, our recommendations are FREE TO VISIT!! We are full-time travellers after all.
At the end of this section, there will be available tours that you can also check out.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Visit the Old Fort
One of the oldest and most famous tourist attractions in Stone Town is the Old Fort/Arab Fort (Ngome Kongwe), built in the late 17th century by the Omanis to defend the island from the Portuguese.
Tourists can walk around this fort and its amphitheater for free. You can even browse around gift stalls and restaurants dotted inside.
There is an annual Reggae Festival held in this unique location. If you are flexible enough to match your trip with this event, that would be pretty awesome.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Wander the Winding, Narrow Streets During the Day
Get lost on purpose. Explore, discover, meander, and revel in a maze of medieval, cobbled streets that is Stone Town.
Immerse yourself in the uncertainty of what is approaching around each corner – it could be a donkey, a cart of vegetables, or a group of local children dashing past.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Find Your Favorite Door
Spoiler – This may take a while!
As you stroll through the old town you will be mesmerized by the array of the most beautifully designed doors, coming from the Omani influence, you have ever witnessed.
We never knew we could be so enthralled with doors before arriving at Stone Town. Don’t laugh until you’ve been there, you’ll see!
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Wander the Winding, Narrow Streets at Night
Wandering the streets of the old town at night is a whole different story and like an entirely different place than during the day.
Get lost on purpose (again). We spent hours wandering these streets and each time we felt like we had never been to this spot before…..but oh we had!
Visit all the doors again to see them lit up, this means your favorite may have changed and you’ll have to start your search all over again!
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Join in a Game of Football
Not sure if you knew this, but Africans, and in particular, Tanzanians LOVE football. In case you are unaware, Kevin from Happy Irish Wanderers also LOVES football. Needless to say, this was a match made in heaven – pun intended!
Given the friendly nature of the locals in Stone Town, you can simply ask to join in one of the many games being played and you will be welcomed with open arms.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Snap, Snap, Snap
No, we don’t mean being cranky, we are referring to photo-taking!
Every step you take will be another photo opportunity. Trust us, you will be moving at a very slow pace in Stone Town and your other half may start to lose patience!
Just make sure you have enough photo storage for your visit here.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Are you a Cat Person?
If so, then you are in luck because there will be lounging, sleepy cats everywhere you look.
If you are not a cat person, then not-to-worry, they will be snoozing and won’t bother you!
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Eat Your Weight in Food at The Night Market
A visit to Stonetown is not complete without a stop at the Forodhani Night Food Market at the waterfront location of Forodhani Gardens.
Arrive before dusk, and watch the space fill up with chefs dressed in all white and tall hats setting up stands and grills.
Local families sitting on picnic blankets in the garden, enjoying dinner feasts is a common sight here.
It is here you will experience a great sense of community and connection in the air. Sit, eat and soak up this good energy.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Visit The Local Bazaar
A lot of your time in Stone Town will be visiting local markets, known as Darajani Bazaar. Each one offering a unique experience and perspective of Stone Town life.
As you wander around the town, somehow you always end up coming across these local markets, this happened to us many times.
Additionally, you can use any map to navigate your way to Darajani Market.
The local fish market offers an extremely local experience and a glimpse into the Stone Town culture and way of life.
It is a marvel to wander and observe the bustle of these local markets and you just might be the only “Mzungu” there!
The Spice market offers a more touristy feel. Revel in the beautiful colors and scents of vanilla, cloves, and cinnamon before you arrive at the fish market that is. That will be a very different scent!
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Shop for Gifts
This will double up with all your wandering around the Old Town. You will be passing many souvenir shops, which will be too tempting not to take a glimpse inside.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Visit Freddy Mercury’s House
Did you know that Freddy Mercury was born in Stone Town? Mercury spent parts of his childhood in this house, located in the Old Town. He lived there with his parents as his father, Bomi Bulsara, was working with the British Colonial Office as a cashier.
In 1964, the family fled to England to escape the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution, which overthrew the Sultan and killed thousands of Arabs and Indians. There, he would form Queen and spend the rest of his years.
This special building which housed the iconic Queen Rockstar, is free to visit from the outside. However, it is possible to venture inside the house and visit the Mercury Museum for a fee.
Best Things to Do in Stone Town: Enjoy the Coastal Views
Whether you are strolling along the promenade or sipping a cocktail in one of the many bars and restaurants, take time to soak in the stunning coastal views of Stone Town.
This activity is particularly special in the evenings for sunset. As with everything else we have mentioned this will include lots of local life, from the youth jumping off the pier, to the local tour guides and fishermen finishing their days work.
You could spend hours watching the goings on around you. That seems to be the common theme of Stone Town – soaking in your surroundings. Not a bad way to spend your time I guess!
Hotels in Zanzibar – Stone Town
The following hotels in Stone Town are recommended based on location, value for money, and reviews.
Budget
Malindi Guest House: Malindi Guest House is where we chose to stay in Stone Town.
We chose this accommodation as it is a walking distance both to the ferry and to the town, throw in a free breakfast and we are sold!
Mid/High Range
Tembo B & B Apartments: Tembo B&B Apartments is attractively situated in central Stone Town.
With an outdoor swimming pool and a buffet breakfast included in the price, we think this is a pretty good deal.
Luxury
Sea Cliff Resort & Spa: Note that this ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY option is 18 km from Stone Town and is more for indulging in luxury at a fraction of what it would cost you else where in the world!
Guests can relax at the Shwari Spa or enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and water skiing. A recreation centre with billiards, table tennis and 2 tennis courts are also available, as well as, a bar on a private beach featuring views of the Indian Ocean.
Make sure to check out booking.com below for more choices of Stone Town Hotels.
*Stone Town comes up as Zanzibar City (Stone Town) on Booking.com.
Stone Town: Final Tips
Lastly, we would like to share some final tips to ensure to have the best possible trip to Stone Town.
Is Stone Town Safe?
Given the amount of wandering we did, both at day and night in Stone Town, our answer to the question “Is Stone Town Safe?” is absolutely! We can honestly say that we felt extremely safe in Stone Town.
We even go as far as saying that the people of Zanzibar, and Stone Town, were some of the most welcoming and friendliest people we have encountered on our travels.
However, as with anywhere else in the world, trust your gut and be smart when it comes to your own safety.
Do I Have to Cover Up in Stone Town?
Stone Town is probably the most traditional part of the island when it comes to observing Muslim traditions. It’s advised that women and men wear longer clothing to respect local traditions.
Nevertheless, we both wore shorts while walking around Stone Town and saw plenty other tourists in similar attire. No one ever gave us looks about it and we never felt uncomfortable.
If you want to be fully respectable to local customs, wear something to cover up the knees and shoulder. If you don’t do it, nothing will happen to you either. The decision is entirely yours.
Enjoy Stone Town Zanzibar!
We are sure it is clear how much we loved Stone Town and enjoyed our visit to this unique and charming town.
This was a great introduction to one of our favorite places in Africa – Zanzibar.
We are confident that Stone Town will captivate you just as it did us and would LOVE to hear how you get in so please feel free to leave a comment below or even better send us a message on our socials.
Slán go fóil
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