The historic Zanzibar Stone Town is gazetted as a World Heritage Site. No Tanzania safari is complete without a visit to this historical and cultural center. The famous narrow streets of Zanzibar Stone Town literally pulse life, and a wander through the atmospheric old town leaves you amazed at the ancient architecture and wide-eyed from the sights and sounds of a bustling African town. There are also many excursions from the town to visit the endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys, relax on the white sand beaches or to swim with dolphins.
Zanzibar Stone Townis also known as Mji Mkongwe, in KiSwahili translating literally to "ancient town". Stone Town is the old part of Zanzibar City, the capital of the island of Unguja (commonly referred to as Zanzibar). It was the center of the Spice, Slave, Gold and Ivory Trades for the region and the starting point of many European adventurers' expeditions including David Livingstone's.
Stown Town is built on a triangular peninsula of land on the western coast of the island. The oldest part of the town consists of a maze of narrow alleys with houses, shops, colourful bazaars, and mosques. Cars are too wide to drive in most of the alleyways but motorcycles and scooters need to be watched out for.
The eclectic architecture of Stone Town incorporates elements of Arab, Persian, Indian, European and African styles. The old Arab houses have ornately carved square wooden doors and enclosed wooden verandas whereas rich Indians had ornate arched doors. The studs on the doors are traditionally from India, designed to repulse elephants.
The site of Stone Town has been occupied for at least three centuries with Stone buildings being first constructed in the 1830s.
Two large buildings dominate Stone Town. One is Beit-El-Ajaib or the House of Wonders (built by Sultan Seyyid Barghash as a palace). The other is the Old Arab Fort which is on the site of a former Portuguese camp and became a fort during the 18th Century.
There are several great restaurants in Stonetown, for example Emerson & Green's rooftop, and Mercury's. The exciting sensory overload that is Forodhani Gardens' numerous fresh food stalls provides a culinary delight for the more adventurous diner, and is worth a visit even if you are not eating. Unless arranged otherwise your accommodation in Stone Town will be on a Bed & Breakfast basis only.
For further information on visiting Zanzibar or staying at Historic Stone Town, please Contact us. Our field staff will help you design your own personal visit to Zanzibar
Al Johari more info ->
Nestled in Zanzibar, in the Historic Stone Town, Al Johari provides budget accommodation for those wishing to visit the jewel that is Zanzibar. Offering 15 spacious rooms, to accommodate all requirements.
Asmini Palace more info ->
Located in the Historic Stone Town, Asmini Palace is central to most of the attractions in town. Just a short walk from the House of Wonders Museum, and the world famous Mercury Restaurant.
Chavda Hotel more info ->
The Chavda Hotel is a pleasant and comfortable hotel located right in the centre of the ancient and atmospheric Stone Town. All rooms have been authentically decorated using original Arabic and Indian influence furnishings, including beautiful four-poster beds with mosquito nets . The Chavda is famous for its rooftop bar and restaurant
Clove Hotel more info ->
Conveniently situated in the Historic Stone Town lies the Clove Hotel. Perfect for relaxation and sightseeing as it is close to the House of Wonders, as well as the beach, with amazing sunsets brining new meaning to the word unforgettable. The Hotel is just a short walk from the port, ideal for travelers not wishing to travel far before reaching a comfortable bed.
Dhow Palace Hotel more info ->
Situated in the Historical Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar, Dhow Palace Hotel was originally owned by a rich merchant and has now been restored to its former glory. The Dhow Palace Hotel is close to all the sights of Stone Town, all within an easy walk to view.
The Africa House more info ->
Africa House is located along the Indian Ocean, in the Historic Stone Town. Formerly a house for royalty, Africa House has been renovated and is now one of Zanzibar's most popular hotels.
Zanzibar Coffee House Hotel more info ->
The Zanzibar Coffee House can be found deep in the twisting alleys of the old part of Stone Town. Built in 1885 by the Wazir to Sultan Said Bargash, Sir Tharia Topan, it was one of the first buildings in Stone Town. Today the building is owned by the Zanzibar Coffee Company Ltd, and has been converted to a comfortable and stylish hotel, which teams good furnishings and service with ancient architecture to conjure the old days of the Zanzibari Sultans.
Zanzibar Palace Hotel more info ->
In the heart of Stone Town, recapture the wonder of Arabian Nights in the recently opened Zanzibar Palace Hotel. The nine bedroom boutique hotel combines Zanzibar charm with modern luxury. The rooftop suites are ideal for honeymooners, and one of the suites has an incredible open-air bathroom offering 360 degree views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean beyond
Zanzibar Serena Inn more info ->
Situated on the beach front in Historical Stone Town, Zanzibar Serena Inn makes for a must visit when visiting this heritage site, with its restored antiques each with its own story to tell, your sure never to have a dull moment.
