Historical Stone Town Tour

This is a wonderful introduction to Zanzibar and gives you a feeling of the rich cultural heritage. One gets a comprehensive view, history and walk of the Stone Town, magnificent architecture, narrow alleys, sand and stone ancient built houses where some of them are over 200 years old and have Arab/Indian carved doors.
Around 9:15 am Our tour will start at the main City market which was opened in 1904, where tropical fruits, vegetables, spices and fresh fish from the island are sold.

Anglican Church:

Our next stop is the Anglican Church of Christ which was built by Bishop Steers in 1873 on the site where slaves used to be auctioned.
The Anglican Cathedral of Christ Church was built in Stone Town (the old part of Zanzibar city) in the place where the biggest slave market of Eastern Africa operated. Its altar was placed exactly where the slaves for sale were whipped. On the floor, among the benches, there are black cobblestones as a remembrance of the dungeons used for slaves in the basement.

Sultan’s palace museum:

We shall then move to the Sultan’s Palace which is one of the main historical buildings of Stone Town, Zanzibar. It is a 3-story building with merlon-decorated white walls, located in Mizingani Road, on the seafront, between the House of Wonders and the Old Dispensary.

House of Wonders:

The palace was built in 1883 for Barghash bin Said, second Sultan of Zanzibar.[2][3] It was intended as a ceremonial palace and official reception hall, celebrating modernity, and it was named “House of Wonders” because it was the first building in Zanzibar to have electricity, and also the first building in East Africa to have an elevator.[4] The design of the palace is attributed to a British marine engineer and indeed its form introduced new architectural elements into the Zanzibar repertoire, including the wide external verandas supported by cast-iron columns, which allowed for uniquely high ceilings. The construction materials consisted of an original combination of coral rag, concrete slabs, mangrove shoots and steel beams.
We will also explore the Old Fort, which is situated few meters away from House of Wonders

Africa House:

This famous landmark, which was once a royal residence before becoming the English Club, has been beautifully restored and renovated to become one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful hotels. Retaining an atmosphere steeped in history, The Africa House is tastefully furnished throughout with Persian carpets, antiques, original photographs and paintings by local artists. The impressive marble staircase dates back to 1896. Combining the charm of Old World elegance and the comforts and conveniences of today, the hotel attracts both business and leisure travelers.

Tippu Tip House:

Tippu Tip’s House is a historical building in Stone Town, Zanzibar, located in Suicide Alley in the Shangani ward near the Africa House about 15–25 minute walking time from the Old Fort and Forodhani Gardens. It is the house where the powerful merchant and slave trader Tippu Tip lived

Forodhani Gardens:

The last stop of our excursion will be at Forodhani Garden, this is a small park in the historical city of Stone Town. The gardens are located along the main seawalk of Stone Town, just in front of the most famous buildings of Stone Town, i.e., the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.
It is the perfect spot where you can spend your evenings leisurely watching the brilliant sunset

Pickup/drop off:

Please advise your pickup point/hotel name so that we may quote the price accordingly

What’s Included:
Friendly and Experienced Professional Tour guide
Pick up and drop off from your hotel
Waiting Charge, Fuel Surcharges & Service Fees
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Mineral Water During the Tour
Entrances Fees

What’s Excluded
Medical Insurance
Gratuities for Tour Guide or Driver
International & Domestic Flights
Personal Expenses
Visa Fee

Airport Transfers:

Airport transfers are not included in the price of this tour, however, you can book for an arrival transfer in advance. In this case our representative will be at the airport to greet you. To arrange this please contact our customer service team once you have a confirmed booking.

Our Advice:

Wear decent (conservative/appropriate) clothes when walking around town
Bring your Sun lotion/cream, Sun hat and sun glasses
Comfortable closed walking

Categories

• Free Walking Tours

Features

• Free cancellation
• Local Tour Guide
• Meet with Guide
• Mobile ticketing

Regions

• Tanzania

Location