Imagine stepping into a maze of narrow, winding alleys where the air is thick with the scent of cloves, cinnamon, and the salty breeze of the Indian Ocean. Coral-stone buildings rise on either side, their intricately carved wooden doors telling stories of sultans, traders, and explorers from centuries past.
This is Stone Town Zanzibar – the UNESCO World Heritage Site that pulses with history, culture, and an irresistible charm that has captivated travelers for generations.
At Primate Holidays, we specialize in crafting memorable East Africa adventures, from gorilla trekking in Uganda’s
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to chimpanzee tracking in Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains. But one destination always steals the show as the perfect cultural finale or mid-trip escape: Stone Town Zanzibar.
Whether you’re adding it to your Serengeti safari, combining it with a Rwanda gorilla trek, or making it the beachy reward after spotting red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest, Stone Town delivers the perfect blend of history, flavor, and wonder.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to experience Stone Town Zanzibar like a local – with insider tips, must-see attractions, and why it’s the ideal extension to any primate or wildlife safari. Ready to fall in love with East Africa’s most captivating town? Let’s dive in.
The Fascinating History of Stone Town Zanzibar
Stone Town Zanzibar (also known as Mji Mkongwe, or “Old Town” in Swahili) isn’t just a pretty backdrop – it’s a living museum of East African history. Built primarily from coral ragstone in the 18th and 19th centuries, the town was once the capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate and the epicenter of the Indian Ocean spice and slave trades.
- Swahili roots: The foundation dates back over a millennium, blending African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences.
- Omani golden age: In the 1800s, Sultan Seyyid Said moved his court here, making Zanzibar the world’s leading clove producer.
- Colonial layers: Portuguese, British, and German influences left their mark on everything from architecture to cuisine.
Today, Stone Town’s 19th-century buildings, bustling markets, and vibrant community make it one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Tanzania and the perfect contrast to the wild primate forests you’ll explore with us.
Top 10 Must-Do Experiences in Stone Town Zanzibar
Stone Town is compact and walkable – perfect for a 2-4 day stay. Here are the best things to do in Stone Town Zanzibar that every traveler raves about:
1. Marvel at the Legendary Zanzibari Doors
Stone Town is famous for its over 500 hand-carved wooden doors – each one a masterpiece of Swahili-Indian-Arab fusion. Look for symbols: chains for wealth, lotus flowers for purity, and fish for good luck. Snap photos in the early morning light when the alleys are quiet and golden.
2. Wander the Vibrant Darajani Market
Dive into the chaos of spices, fresh seafood, colorful kangas (traditional fabrics), and street food. Bargain for souvenirs like handmade jewelry or antique brass lamps. The market is a sensory explosion – and a great spot to try fresh coconut water straight from the shell.
3. Stroll the Waterfront Promenade at Sunset
From the Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) to the House of Wonders (Beit el-Ajaib), the seafront is magical at dusk. The House of Wonders, once the tallest building in East Africa, is currently under restoration after partial collapse in 2020, but its ornate exterior remains an icon worth photographing.
4. Feast at Forodhani Gardens Night Market
This is Stone Town’s beating heart after dark. Grilled octopus, Zanzibar pizza (a savory crepe filled with eggs, cheese, and veggies), and fresh sugarcane juice under twinkling lights. Arrive hungry and go early to beat the crowds.
5. Visit the Anglican Cathedral and Former Slave Market
A sobering yet essential stop. Built on the site of Zanzibar’s largest slave market, the cathedral features a moving memorial with sculptures of chained figures. The underground chambers where slaves were held are a powerful reminder of the town’s complex past.
6. Pay Homage at Freddie Mercury’s Birthplace
Yes, the Queen frontman was born in Stone Town in 1946! The modest house is now a small museum with photos, memorabilia, and a café serving “Bohemian Rhapsody” cocktails. A fun, musical detour.
7. Take a Traditional Dhow Sunset Cruise
Sail on a wooden dhow boat as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean. Sip cocktails, listen to taarab music, and watch the Stone Town skyline light up. We often include this in our Zanzibar packages – it’s pure romance.
8. Explore Jaws Corner
A tiny square covered in political graffiti and posters. It’s a window into Zanzibar’s lively (and sometimes fiery) political scene – and a great photo op.
9. Day Trip to Prison Island (Changuu)
Just a 30-minute boat ride away. See giant Aldabra tortoises (some over 100 years old) roaming freely, then snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The island’s eerie prison ruins add a touch of mystery.
10. Discover Zanzibar’s Red Colobus Monkeys at Jozani Forest
As primate specialists, this is one of our favorites! Just 45 minutes from Stone Town, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is home to the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey – found nowhere else on Earth. Walk the mangrove boardwalk, spot playful troops leaping through the trees, and learn about conservation efforts. It’s the perfect “primate fix” to complement your gorilla or chimp trek.
Best Time to Visit Stone Town Zanzibar
- June to October: Dry season – perfect weather for exploring without the rain.
- December to February: Warm and sunny, ideal for beach days after your Stone Town adventure.
- Avoid: April and May (long rains) and November (short rains).
Practical Travel Tips for Stone Town Zanzibar
- Getting there: Fly into Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) or take the ferry from Dar es Salaam. We handle all transfers in our packages.
- Dress code: Modest clothing is appreciated in the old town (cover shoulders and knees).
- Currency: Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) – but USD is widely accepted.
- Safety: Stone Town is generally safe, but stick to main paths at night and use reputable guides.
- Sustainability: Support local artisans and avoid single-use plastics – we’re big on responsible tourism at Primate Holidays.
Where to Stay in Stone Town Zanzibar
Immerse yourself in history with these top picks (all bookable through us):
- Tembo House Hotel: Beachfront luxury with stunning views and a rooftop pool.
- Emerson on Hurumzi: Boutique charm in a restored 19th-century mansion – think Arabian Nights vibes.
- Zanzibar Serena Hotel: Elegant and central, with a beautiful courtyard.
- Park Hyatt Zanzibar: Modern luxury right on the waterfront.
For a more intimate feel, we recommend smaller guesthouses tucked in the alleys.
Why Combine Stone Town with Your Primate Safari?
At Primate Holidays, we don’t just plan trips – we create seamless journeys. Imagine:
- 7 days gorilla trekking in Uganda → Fly to Zanzibar for 4 days in Stone Town + Jozani Forest.
- Serengeti wildlife safari → End with spice tours, dhow cruises, and red colobus spotting.
Our expert guides, priority permits, and 24/7 support make it effortless. Plus, every booking plants trees and supports conservation.
Ready to Experience the Magic of Stone Town Zanzibar?
Stone Town isn’t just a stop on your itinerary - it’s the soul of your East Africa adventure. The laughter of children in the alleys, the call to prayer echoing at dusk, the taste of fresh spices on your tongue… it stays with you forever.
Dream it, we'll plan it