Zanzibar · UNESCO World Heritage Site

Stone Town

Carved doors, spice markets and sunset dhows

Size

Compact, walkable old town

Location

West coast of Unguja island

Best time

Jun–Oct and Dec–Feb

Known for

Swahili history · Food · Markets

About the town

The old heart of Zanzibar

Stone Town is the historic centre of Zanzibar City, a maze of narrow lanes, coral-stone houses, mosques, churches and bustling bazaars. Its architecture blends African, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.

For centuries it was a hub of the Indian Ocean trade in spices, ivory and, painfully, enslaved people. Today a walk with a local guide brings that history to life, from the carved wooden doors and the Old Fort to the former slave market and the House of Wonders.

Highlights

Why visit Stone Town

Guided heritage walk

Discover hidden courtyards, carved doors and centuries of history.

Forodhani food market

Grilled seafood and Zanzibar pizza by the sea every evening.

Spice farms

See how cloves, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg are grown.

Sunset dhow cruise

Sail along the waterfront as the sun sets.

When to visit

The dry seasons, June to October and December to February, are the most comfortable. March to May brings the long rains. During Ramadan some restaurants close in the daytime, and evenings are especially lively.

What you'll see

The Old Fort, House of Wonders, Darajani market, the Anglican Cathedral on the former slave market site, Freddie Mercury's birthplace, rooftop cafés and the busy dhow harbour.

Getting there

About 15 minutes by road from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Fast ferries from Dar es Salaam take around 2 hours, and short flights connect with Arusha and the safari parks.

Visit with Asili

Trips that include Stone Town

5 days

Plan your Stone Town stay

Spend a night or two in Stone Town before the beach. We'll arrange a local guide, a spice tour and a sunset dhow.

Enquire now