How to Spend a Weekend in Stone Town, Zanzibar - Discover a fusion of culture and history!

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town situated towards the western region of Zanzibar city is a location not to be missed! Here are some tips to make the most of your trip to a place of incredible history and diversity.

Thobani Gumede, Parked vehicles outside Old Fort, CC BY-SA 4.0

About Stone Town

Also known as Mji Mkongwe is among the ancient quarter of the capital Zanzibar City in Tanzania. The more modern section is called Ng'ambo and means the 'other side' in Swahili. Stone Town is located on a promontory on the west of Unguja, an island part of the western coast of the Zanzibar Archipelago. When it comes to accommodation are quite a few Zanzibar beach resort to take your pick from as well.

Heritage Trail

On the first morning of your stay wander around Mizingani Road which is located towards the east of the taxi depot. The Indian Ocean will be onto your left, whilst some of the most amazing buildings will be featured on the right. The town is easily traversable by foot, as it is less than one sq km. The Old Fort dating back to the 17th century, which is one of the oldest buildings in the town. Also head to the Old Dispensary, it is quite the landmark adorned in green. Grab some Tanzanian coffee whilst on your walk, head to the Zanzibar Coffee House to savour some of their delicious brews. If you sit on the rooftop, you will be treated to 360-degree views of the town. After which you can continue to explore alleys and street corners of this unique quarter of town.

Ocean views and yummy food

After all that walking and exploring, and mind you it will be hot in the afternoons the best way to relax in the evening is to head towards the sea. The African House Hotel is a favourite for many and offers fantastic views of the setting sun amidst the dhows, which are the traditional boats. Grab a nice drink and take in the atmosphere and the beautiful sunset. If you want you can have dinner there itself or head towards the coastal road, which is well-known for its street food. There is a night market at Forodhani Gardens, that is usually packed with locals. Ask for some recommendations, and they will gladly direct you towards the best dishes.

Darjani Bazar

After a good night's rest and some breakfast head to the Bazar to do some shopping. Go there early morning, as it will get hot towards the day. There is a lot of produce on offer and is the best place to grab some souvenirs. The Spice Market is filled with all kinds of spices, joss sticks, scented soaps, and fragrantly spiced coffees. It is recommended to bargain for a suitable price, however, be warned the traders can get too insistent when it comes to making purchases. If it's not for you don't get pressured to buy stuff.

Discover Zanzibar's history

Spend your afternoon at the Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, which has been built on the location of the last slave market. Inside the premises is the East African Slave Trade Exhibition, which recalls the history of Zanzibar as a centre of the slave trade in East Africa. For lunch head to Lukmaan for a tasty and affordable meal and some exotic smoothies made from soursop and baobab.

Listen to traditional music

For dinner, you can book a five-course menu at the Tea House at the Emerson Spice Hotel. The bookings have to be done before your intended arrival at Stone Town preferably. Following which you can end your stay in grand style by attending a live music event performed by The Dhow Countries Music Academy that uses traditional styles of music such as taarab. Check their website to see what's in store. If anything, special isn't happening at that end, head to Livingston Beach Restaurant for some Jazz music evenings. If you are looking for some places to stay whilst there, try the likes of The Residence Zanzibar next time you are there.