Zanzibar Stone Town
Description: Stone Town is said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa. It was an ancient trading port of the sultans of Oman in the 19th century.
During your stay you can take a tour (self-guided or guided) of the historic sites such as the Arab Fort, the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum – all taking you back in time. It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings.
This neighborly rivalry is particularly reflected in the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors – there are more than 500 different examples of this handiwork. Most people enjoy ‘getting lost’ in the maze of Stonetown’s narrow, winding and criss-crossing streets.
Location: Off the coast of Tanzania, a 2 hour ferry ride from Dar es Salaam or fly in to Zanzibar via the Northern Parks, Arusha, Dar es Salaam or the Southern Parks
Things 2 Do:Spice Tour, Museum Visits, Visit Jozani Forest, and Visit Changuu Island’s Giant Tortoises
Time: Requires at least one day to see most of Stone Town.
Accommodations
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236 Hurumzi
Africa House
Chavda Hotel
Dhow Palace
Mbweni Ruins Hotel
Seyyida Hotel and Spa
Tembo House Hotel
Zanzibar Coffee House
Zanzibar Hotel
$$$
Beyt al Chai/ The Stone Town Inn
Swahili House
Zanzibar Palace Hotel
Zanzibar Serena Inn
“Karen was always ready to listen and address our questions. She has a warm friendly way of connecting with us. I am a bit sad that I didn’t get to meet her in person.
Maningo was most pleasant. I never felt I couldn’t ask a question. He was keen at spotting game and giving details about most any wildlife situation. He provided a reference guide that was fascinating. He drove carefully and respectfully not only of his passengers but also of the environment. He found a school for us to visit in spite of the examinations that made a visit to the public school unavailable.
Nasibu was great. He was patient, attentive to our pace of hiking, and informative. Felt very comfortable with him.
Raymond was with us a short time on the return and again, I commend your organization for having outstanding staff members
The itinerary was perfect. We had hikes at just the right time. Visits to 2 different homes were interspersed to give variety and insight anticipation for the next move.”