Stone Town

Stone Town –  old part of the Zanzibar Town – the capital of the island of Zanzibar, is a maze of streets with local shops and tiny squares where locals meet for afternoon coffee, and great, however quite run-down, houses built from coral during Arabic and colonial times. This multicultural town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its beautifully ornamented doors, its slave market, and the house which Freddie Mercury was born in. During this trip we will see the House of Wonders built by the Sultan in 19th century, Old Fort, and Forodhani Gardens which fill up with numerous food stall after sunset.

During our stay in Zanzibar it is hard to miss a visit to one of  spice farms, which hundreds years ago the island used to be worldwide famous for. During our visit to a farm you will be given the opportunity to see sun-ripening coffee beans, grains of pepper, cardamom, to touch fresh cinnamon bark, reach nutmeg fruit branches, or taste delicious fruits like lychee, durian or breadfruit. But most importantly you will be enchanted by the variety of the aromas coming from the farm. Spice Tour is an interesting experience that tickles the senses and imagination. It is also opportunity to try freshly picked coconut. The price includes a snack consisting of seasonal fruits, which are also one of the sources of Zanzibar`s wealth. The trip will also give a great chance to purchase fresh spices.

Prison Island is located 20 minutes boat ride from Stone Town. Its name originated in the 19th century, when the prison facility was built there. However, the facility never became an actual prison.  Later, the building was converted into a hospital and a quarantine facility. Today, nothing but the walls remained, and this place is best known for Aldabra tortoises brought here form Seychelles at the beginning of 20th century. At present, the tortoises are the island`s biggest attraction. They can weigh up to 400 kg and live up to 250 years. Incredible coral reefs can also be found in the island`s vicinity, which makes it perfect for diving, swimming and sunbathing.

Trip agenda:

  • Departure from the hotel – around 9.30 a.m.
  • Spice Farm (around 2 hours)
  • Arrival to Stone Town approximately 01.00 p.m.
  • Boat trip to Prison Island (ca. 2 hours)
  • Lunch break
  • Sightseeing Stone Town – town streets, Old Post Office, House of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, Old Fort, Zanzibar Doors, Jaws Corner, Catholic Church, time for shopping,
  • Return to the hotel: around 06.30-07.00  p.m.

How to prepare for the trip:

Before going to the town, what needs to be taken into account is that vast majority of Zanzibar`s population is Muslim. In areas popular among tourists the dress code is less formal, however, when visiting the town what needs to be considered is covering your shoulders and avoiding scanty clothing. The trip will also involve a lot of walking, so make sure you take comfortable footwear. The Prison Island is accessible by boat – it would be advisable not to be wearing long trousers or skirts, so it does not get wet.