Not everyone comes to Zanzibar for the sand. This short trip focuses on the island's history and the trade that built it.
On day one you walk through Stone Town with a local guide - the alleys, markets, carved doors and waterfront of a town shaped by centuries of Indian Ocean trade. The guide also covers the slave trade, which is an unavoidable and important part of the story. On day two you drive out to a spice farm, where the guide shows you cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and other plants growing, with chances to smell and taste along the way.
There is no beach time in this itinerary. It suits travellers with a short layover, people continuing to a beach resort afterwards, and anyone who simply finds history more interesting than sunbathing.
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STONE TOWN
Guided walking tour of Stone Town's old quarter
Spice farm visit with tastings
Hotel in or near Stone Town, so you can explore on foot in the evening
Easy to combine with a beach stay or a mainland safari
After you arrive and check in, your guide takes you through Stone Town on foot: the market, the merchants' houses, the carved wooden doors and the waterfront, with the town's trading history explained as you go, including its role in the slave trade. The evening is free - the waterfront is lively after sunset.
A short drive out of town to a working spice farm. A guide walks you through the plantation, pointing out cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and other plants, with chances to smell and taste them. Afterwards you are transferred on for your onward journey.
Planning tip: see our guide on Planning a Family Safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
Accommodation: One night at a mid-range hotel in or near Stone Town, bed and breakfast.
Vehicle: Private tour vehicle
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.
Full Stone Town destination guide »
It covers Stone Town and a spice farm comfortably but includes no beach time. Many travellers add a few nights at a beach resort afterwards.
Light clothing that covers shoulders and knees for Stone Town, comfortable shoes for uneven streets, and a hat for the spice farm.
Send us your travel dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and pricing.
