Stone Town

Overview

A Historic Charm and Enchanting Soul

Stone Town, also known as Mji Mkongwe, is the historic heart of Zanzibar City located on the western coast of Unguja Island, the largest island in the Zanzibar Archipelago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living museum of Swahili culture and history, where winding alleys, coral stone buildings, and intricately carved wooden doors transport visitors to another era. Once the capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate, it thrived as a major hub for the spice and slave trade in the 19th century. Today, Stone Town stands as a vibrant blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences—an essential destination for travelers interested in culture, architecture, and history.

City Attractions

Stone Town is packed with fascinating landmarks and attractions, many of which are within walking distance of each other:

Forodhani Garden Market – A lively evening food market offering Zanzibar pizza, grilled seafood, and fresh sugarcane juice.
Darajani Market – Bustling morning market ideal for spices, produce, and a slice of local life.
Old Slave Market & Christ Church Cathedral – A powerful memorial built over the site of the island’s largest slave market.
Sultan’s Palace (Beit al-Sahel) – Historic residence of Zanzibar’s sultans, now a museum.
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) – A 17th-century fortress now hosting shops, art galleries, and cultural performances.
Hamamni Persian Baths– Early public baths built in the late 1800s by Iranian architects.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral – French-built landmark known for its twin spires.
Mtoni Palace Ruins– Historic ruins featuring cultural events, guided tours, and traditional Zanzibari cuisine. city

When to Visit

Plan Zanzibar has a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the best time to visit Stone Town is during the dry seasons:

June to October – Pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing.
December to February – Warmer months with lots of sunshine, great for cultural festivals.
Avoid the long rains (March to May) and short rains (November) if you prefer dry walking tours.

Excursion and Activities in Stone Town

Stone Town offers immersive experiences that dive into Zanzibar’s cultural and historical richness:

Take a walking tour to explore the maze-like alleys and hear stories of traders, sultans, and colonialists.
Join a spice tour to discover the flavors that gave Zanzibar its "Spice Island" nickname.
Attend the Sauti za Busara Music Festival in February for a celebration of African music.
Visit coffee houses for traditional Zanzibari brews and social experiences.
Explore local galleries and craft markets for handmade souvenirs and art.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Stone Town caters to all budgets, often housed in charming heritage buildings:

Luxury: Park Hyatt Zanzibar, Emerson Spice Hotel, Zanzibar Serena Hotel, Malia Zanzibar
Mid-Range: Tembo House Hotel, Dhow Palace Hotel.
Budget: Lost & Found Hostel, Jambo Guest House.

Where to Eat

Stone Town is a culinary delight, especially for those interested in spices and seafood:

Street Food: Forodhani Gardens is perfect for local snacks.
Seafood Restaurants: The Rock Restaurant (a bit outside town), Lukmaan Restaurant, Mercury’s.
Cafes & Local Eateries: Zanzibar Coffee House, Emerson on Hurumzi Rooftop Restaurant, and Taperia Wine & Tapas Bars

How to get around

Navigating Stone Town is best done on foot, but other options are available:

Walking – Ideal for exploring the narrow streets and hidden gems.
Bicycles & Scooters – Available for rent and great for short trips.
Taxis & Daladalas – Affordable transport for moving in and out of Stone Town.

Getting there

Stone Town is easily accessible by both air and sea:

By Air:

Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is just 10 minutes from Stone Town, with regular flights from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Arusha, and international hubs.