Stone Town, Zanzibar
Stone Town, Zanzibar is the UNESCO-listed historic heart of Zanzibar, a maze of Swahili, Arab, Persian and Indian heritage, spice markets and carved doors.
Altitude
Sea level
Location
Zanzibar (Unguja), Indian Ocean
Best Time
June–October & December–February
Stone Town is the old city of Zanzibar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a labyrinth of narrow alleys, coral-stone houses, ornately carved doors and bustling bazaars that tell a thousand years of Indian Ocean trade. Its mix of African, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences makes it utterly unique.
Highlights include the former slave market and Anglican cathedral, the House of Wonders, Forodhani night-food gardens, and spice-farm tours in the surrounding countryside. It is the cultural gateway to Zanzibar's beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stone Town worth visiting?
Yes — as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stone Town offers rich Swahili history, spice markets, carved doors and Forodhani's night-food gardens, ideally combined with a beach stay.
How many days do you need in Stone Town?
One to two days is enough to explore the old town and a spice farm before heading to the beaches in the north or east of the island.
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