Stone Town is the historic heart of Zanzibar City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow streets, coral-stone houses and carved wooden doors reflect centuries of trade across the Indian Ocean, with Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences layered on top of each other.
It is a living town, not a museum. People live, work and pray in these buildings, and the markets and waterfront are busy every day. That is what makes it rewarding to walk through, ideally with a local guide who can explain what you are seeing.
Stone Town also carries a painful history as a centre of the East African slave trade. The former slave market site, now a memorial and museum beside the Anglican cathedral, is an important and sobering stop. Most visitors combine Stone Town with a beach stay on the Zanzibar coast.
The old town occupies a small triangular peninsula on the west coast of Unguja Island. Streets are too narrow for cars in many places. The waterfront has the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens, with dhows moored offshore.
Stone Town is a cultural destination rather than a wildlife one. For marine life, see Mnemba Atoll; for giant tortoises, take the short boat trip to Prison Island.
Guided walking tour through the old quarter
Former slave market memorial and Anglican cathedral
Darajani market for spices, fruit and fish
Evening food stalls at Forodhani Gardens
Spice farm tour just outside town
Boat trip to Prison Island to see giant tortoises
Mornings and late afternoons are the most comfortable times to walk; midday is hot and humid. Getting slightly lost in the lanes is part of the fun, but a guide helps you understand the history. In the evening the waterfront fills with locals and visitors eating grilled seafood.
Year-round. The long rains, roughly March to May, bring heavy showers and humidity. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight is discouraged and some restaurants close until evening.
Read our full guide: How to Combine a Safari With Zanzibar: Flights, Timing and Nights »
Zanzibar's airport is a short drive from Stone Town, with flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Nairobi and other hubs. Ferries also run from Dar es Salaam.
Boutique hotels in restored historic houses, many with rooftop terraces, plus simpler guesthouses. You can also visit as a day trip from a beach resort.
Cover shoulders and knees when walking in town, out of respect for local custom
Ask before photographing people
Carry small notes in local currency for markets
Use registered taxis or arranged transfers after dark
A half-day guided walk covers the highlights. A night lets you enjoy the evening waterfront and explore at a slower pace.
Most travellers are glad they went. It adds history and culture to a beach holiday and is easy to reach from most resorts.
Tell us your dates and we'll build an itinerary that includes it.
