Stone Town
Stone Town Zanzibar Guide 2025 — History, Tours, Hotels & Top Things to Do
Introduction to Stone Town
Stone Town, the historic and cultural heart of Zanzibar, is one of the most fascinating destinations in East Africa. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this enchanting town is famous for its winding alleys, carved wooden doors, spice markets, and a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Walking through Stone Town feels like stepping back in time, as every corner tells a story of trade, culture, and history.
If you are visiting Zanzibar for the first time, Stone Town is the perfect place to begin your journey. Whether you are wandering through its lively markets, visiting historic buildings, or simply enjoying a sunset over the Indian Ocean, you will find yourself captivated by its charm. Many travelers ask, why is Stone Town famous? The answer lies in its ability to showcase a living history that blends centuries of culture, trade, and heritage in one magical place.
🌦️ Stone Town Weather & Best Time to Visit
The Stone Town weather is tropical, warm, and humid year-round.
Best Months: June to October (cool & dry).
Rainy Seasons: March–May (long rains), November (short rains).
Hot Season: December to February, great for beach holidays.
The best time to visit is June to October when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
Stone Town, Zanzibar Photo Gallery
Explore the charm of Zanzibar’s UNESCO World Heritage Site through our Stone Town photo gallery. From winding alleys and bustling markets to historic doors and stunning sunsets, these photos showcase the rich culture, architecture, and vibrant life that make Stone Town a must-visit destination.
Expert recommendation
As a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar specialist, we strongly recommend spending at least two nights in Stone Town before heading to Zanzibar’s beaches or the mainland safaris. This allows you enough time to truly explore the winding alleys, visit landmarks such as the Old Fort and Freddie Mercury’s House, shop at the famous Stone Town market, and enjoy local dishes at the best restaurants.
Many travelers rush through Stone Town, treating it as just a transit point, but this is a mistake. The town deserves time to be experienced fully. From the stories hidden in its carved wooden doors to the tastes of the Forodhani Night Market, Stone Town is the soul of Zanzibar. Pairing your stay here with a safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire creates the ultimate Tanzania experience—one that combines culture, history, wildlife, and beaches.
👉 Plan your dream Stone Town journey with Tanzania Safari Experience. We’ll help you design a trip that balances exploration, relaxation, and adventure in the most authentic way possible.
Laurent Karume
Tanzania Safari Specialist
Stone Town Highlights
- Wander through a maze of narrow alleys filled with history and charm
- Discover the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and the slave market memorial
- Savor authentic Swahili dishes at local cafés and vibrant night markets
- Shop for spices, colorful fabrics, and handmade souvenirs in lively bazaars
- Experience a mix of cultures where Africa, Arabia, India, and Europe meet
- Enjoy romantic rooftop views and unforgettable Indian Ocean sunsets
At a glance
- UNESCO World Heritage Site & cultural heart of Zanzibar
- Birthplace of Freddie Mercury
- Famous for spice markets & carved wooden doors
- Historic forts, palaces & narrow alleys to explore
- Best enjoyed with guided tours, local food & sunset views
Tailormade itineraries
Every Tanzania Safari Experience adventure is customized just for you—no fixed tours or set dates. Speak with our Tanzania Safari experts to help you plan your perfect Tanzania Safari itinerary.
Why is Stone Town Famous?
Stone Town is not just a city; it is a living museum. The town is famous for several reasons that make it stand out as one of the most visited destinations in Zanzibar.
Firstly, it was once a thriving hub of trade in East Africa, particularly for spices and slaves. Merchants from Arabia, India, and Persia settled here, leaving behind a rich cultural and architectural legacy. This influence is still visible today in the coral stone houses, intricately carved doors, and the narrow maze of streets.
Secondly, Stone Town is well-known as the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of the band Queen. His childhood home remains one of the most visited attractions in Zanzibar, drawing fans from around the world.
Finally, its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site has cemented its importance globally. From spice markets that fill the air with aromas to historical landmarks like the Old Fort and House of Wonders, Stone Town has become a destination that combines history, culture, and modern vibrancy all in one.
📍 Things to Do in Stone Town
Stone Town offers endless attractions and activities, making it the perfect place to spend a few days. Here are some of the best things to do while exploring this historic town:
1. Explore the Forodhani Night Market
Every evening, Forodhani Gardens come alive with the famous Forodhani Night Market. This is a must-visit for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of local delicacies. You can try Zanzibar pizza, freshly grilled seafood, meat skewers, sugarcane juice, and sweet treats. The lively atmosphere, combined with the smell of spices and the sound of the ocean, makes it an unforgettable experience.
2. Visit Freddie Mercury’s House
One of the most popular attractions in Stone Town is the house where Freddie Mercury was born and raised. Known as the “Freddie Mercury House,” it now serves as a museum showcasing his life, photos, and memorabilia. Fans of Queen travel here from around the world, making it a cultural landmark that connects Zanzibar to global music history.
3. Tour the Old Fort
The Old Fort is one of the oldest and most important landmarks in Stone Town. Built in the 17th century by the Omanis, it was originally constructed to protect against Portuguese invasions. Today, the fort is home to cultural events, shops, and a small amphitheater that hosts music and dance performances.
4. Stroll Through Darajani Market
If you want to experience local life, a visit to the Darajani Market is a must. Also known as the Stone Town Market, it is the perfect place to buy spices, tropical fruits, fresh fish, and handmade crafts. The bustling atmosphere gives you a true taste of Zanzibar’s daily rhythm.
5. Admire the Famous Doors of Stone Town
Stone Town is home to over 500 uniquely carved wooden doors, many with brass studs and Arabic inscriptions. Each door tells a story, reflecting the wealth, religion, and status of the family that lived there. These doors have become an iconic symbol of the town’s heritage and are a highlight for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
6. Take a Guided Stone Town Tour
While it is fun to explore the alleys on your own, booking a Stone Town tour Zanzibar with a local guide is highly recommended. Guides know the history behind each landmark and will take you to hidden corners you might otherwise miss. From the slave chambers to the sultan’s palaces, a guided tour gives you a deeper understanding of the town.
7. Visit the House of Wonders
Also known as Beit-al-Ajaib, the House of Wonders was once the ceremonial palace of the sultan. It was the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator, which explains its name. Although currently under renovation, it remains one of Stone Town’s most iconic buildings and a symbol of Zanzibar’s historical significance.
Stone Town Zanzibar Hotels
Where to Stay in Stone Town
Stone Town offers a mix of luxury, boutique, and budget hotels. Whether you prefer oceanfront views or cozy historic stays, you’ll find something perfect.
Melia Zanzibar
All-inclusive resort with stunning ocean views.
Starting From
On Request
Riu Jambo Zanzibar
Family-friendly resort with full of entertainment.
Starting From
On Request
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
- 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);
Connect with our local experts for personalized travel planning
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Frequently Asked Questions About Stone Town
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 famous for its cultural diversity, spice markets, Swahili architecture, and as the birthplace of Freddie Mercury. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the most important cultural destinations in East Africa.
Most visitors find that 2–3 days is enough to experience the highlights of Stone Town, including the markets, museums, and food scene. However, those who love history and culture often stay longer to explore at a slower pace.
The best time to visit is between June and October when the weather is cooler and dry, making it comfortable for walking tours. December to February is also great, though hotter.
Yes, Stone Town is generally safe for visitors. As with any busy destination, it’s important to take normal precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit alleys at night.
Absolutely. Booking a Stone Town tour Zanzibar in advance ensures you get a professional guide who can show you the hidden gems and explain the fascinating history. Tanzania Safari Experience can help you plan and arrange your tour.