Tanzania · Safari Destination
Everything You Need to Know About Stone Town
- Stone Town
Stone Town is the old heart of Zanzibar and one of the most interesting places you can visit in Tanzania. It is a real town where people still live, work, shop, and cook, but everything around you feels like stepping back in time.
The streets are very narrow and twist like a maze. You can walk instead of driving, and every corner shows something new. Old wooden doors with carvings, small shops, local markets, and children playing in the streets make it feel alive and real. It is not a place built for tourists only. It is a place with real life and real stories.
Stone Town is special because many cultures mixed here for hundreds of years. You can see African, Arab, Indian, and European influence in the buildings, food, and lifestyle. This mix makes it different from anywhere else in East Africa.
There are also many simple but powerful experiences you can enjoy. You can visit the old slave market site and learn history that changed the world. You can walk by the ocean at sunset and see traditional wooden boats sailing slowly on the water. You can also visit spice markets and smell fresh cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom all in one place.
Another fun fact is that this town is linked to famous music history. Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of Queen, was born here. Many visitors like to see his childhood home and learn about his early life.
Stone Town is not just about looking at old buildings. It is about feeling the story of Zanzibar in every step you take. It gives your safari or beach holiday a deeper meaning because you understand the people, history, and culture behind the island.
If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, missing Stone Town means missing the real soul of Zanzibar. It is one of those places that stays in your memory long after you leave.
You can book your Zanzibar experience, including Stone Town tours, with Tanzania Safari Experience.
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Explore PlaceTop Recommended Lodges & Camps in Stone Town
Carefully selected stays that match the safari experience, location, comfort level, and overall value we want for our guests. From charming lodges to authentic tented camps, each option is chosen to keep your journey smooth, comfortable, and memorable.

Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa
Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa is a beachfront resort located on the eastern coast of Zanzibar’s Unguja Island. The resort offers a peaceful setting…
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Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa
Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa is a modern four star hotel located approximately 500 metres from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Its…
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Lux Marijani Zanzibar
LUX* Marijani Zanzibar is a luxurious 5-star boutique beachfront resort located on the stunning shores of Pwani Mchangani, one of the most beautiful beaches…
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Melia Zanzibar Hotel
At Tanzania Safari Experience, we consider Meliá Zanzibar to be one of the most luxurious beach resorts in Zanzibar. Set on Zanzibar’s prestigious north-east…
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Mwezi Boutique Resort
At Tanzania Safari Experience, we recommend Mwezi Boutique Resort for travelers looking for a peaceful beachfront escape on Zanzibar’s southeast coast. Located in the…
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Ocean Paradise Beach Resort
Ocean Paradise Beach Resort is a 4-star mid-range beachfront resort located in Pwani Mchangani on Zanzibar’s northeast coast. The resort sits directly on a…
View AccommodationWe've got you covered
Our tours combine high-quality safari experiences with excellent value. The price provided clearly outlines what is included, such as accommodation, park fees, private safari transport, guide services, selected flights, and transfers listed in your itinerary.
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);

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Stone Town TripAdvisor Reviews
SEE WHAT OUR GUESTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THEIR TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERIENCE.
*For the most recent reviews/testimonials from our guests, please visit our TripAdvisor page and Trustpilot.
mattropolisJuly 31, 2026★★★★★Great Tanzanian vacation
We toured with Tanzania Safari Experience for an eight day trip to Tanzania. Five days of safari and then three days of beach vacation in Zanzibar. They were great to work with and customized everything exactly the way we wanted it. The lodges we were booked in were all incredible, particularly the Lahia Tented Lodge in the Serengeti. Our driver, Jay, seemed to know every road in every national park and as a result the wildlife viewing was unparalleled. There were times where we were the only vehicle seeing lions or hippos. The owner, Laurent, was extremely responsive and any issues we had in-country with our logistics were immediately sorted by him. He genuinely wanted us to have a first-rate experience. The only thing we were unprepared for is that some of the days in the safari vehicle were very long (10+ hours) and the roads can be really rough. But there were plenty of cold drinks in the car and it was worth it to see the wildlife. The safari/beach split was a great way to do the vacation and the beaches of Zanzibar were beautiful with clear blue water.
♡ HelpfulFamily · July 31, 2026Read more
nicolykiardopoul2018June 2, 2026★★★★★Safari May 2026
This company exceeded everything we’d hoped for. From the start, the tour operator had everything covered — a detailed itinerary laid out well in advance, quick responses to any questions, and a genuine attentiveness that made the whole thing feel effortless. The accommodation was seriously impressive. Not what I was expecting at all — comfortable, well-appointed, and luxurious. We also spent time right in the heart of the bush. A proper treat. The two people who really made this trip were our guide Mariki and photographer Agnes. Mariki’s knowledge of the bush and animal behaviour is something else — he always seemed to know exactly where to go, and his instincts paid off every single time. Agnes has a brilliant eye and captured shots we could never have got ourselves. As for the wildlife — we saw far more than we ever imagined we would. Elephants, lions, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippos — the lot. As a first safari, I couldn’t have asked for more. Would recommend without hesitation.
♡ HelpfulFriends getaway · June 2, 2026Read more
370godsongJanuary 3, 2026★★★★★Great Experience with Tanzania Safari Experience
We had an amazing safari with Tanzania Safari Experience, and honestly the whole trip was put together really well by Laurent and his team. From our first message to the last day, they were easy to reach, quick to reply, and clear about everything. The plan made sense, the timing was smooth, and we didn’t have to stress about anything. Uncle J was a big part of what made it special. He knows the parks incredibly well and seems to notice things before anyone else. He’d position the vehicle perfectly for photos and often got us to sightings before the crowds built up. We were lucky to see [your highlights: migration / lions / cheetahs / elephants / a crossing], and every drive felt exciting and different. The vehicle was comfortable and in good shape, and everything ran on schedule. If you’re looking for a well-organized safari with a great guide, I’d definitely recommend Tanzania Safari Experience.
♡ HelpfulSolo travel · January 3, 2026Read more
Everything You Need to Know About Your Safari
Every safari adventure begins with a question. Whether it’s your first or second time, it’s natural to wonder about the best time to visit, what to pack, or how the journey works. Here, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Tanzania safari, so you can plan with confidence and look forward to unforgettable memories.
Stone Town is worth visiting because it is the oldest part of Zanzibar and shows real island history and culture. You walk through narrow streets filled with old buildings, local markets, and everyday life that has stayed the same for many years.
It is also a place where many cultures meet, including African, Arab, and Indian influences. This mix makes the town very unique compared to other destinations in Tanzania.
Most travelers enjoy Stone Town because it gives a deeper understanding of Zanzibar beyond beaches, making the whole trip more meaningful.
Most visitors need at least half a day to one full day to see the main highlights of Stone Town. This is enough time to walk through the streets, visit key historical sites, and enjoy the atmosphere.
If you want a slower and richer experience, staying one night is even better. This allows you to explore in the evening when the town feels more peaceful and beautiful.
A longer stay also gives you time to enjoy local food, sunset views, and cultural experiences without rushing.
Yes, Stone Town is generally safe for tourists, especially during the day and in busy areas. Many visitors walk around freely without problems.
Like any busy place, you should still stay aware of your belongings and avoid very quiet streets late at night.
With basic caution, most travelers enjoy a very safe and friendly experience while exploring the town.
Some of the most popular places include the old slave market site, the House of Wonders, the Sultan’s Palace, and Freddie Mercury’s childhood home.
You will also enjoy walking through Darajani Market, where locals sell spices, fruits, and fresh food in a very lively setting.
The best experience is simply getting lost in the small streets, where every turn shows something new and interesting.
Stone Town can be visited all year round, but the best time is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February.
During these months, the weather is sunny and comfortable for walking around the old streets without too much heat or rain.
Even in other months, the town still has a strong charm, but you may experience more humidity and occasional rain showers.

















