Stone Town (Zanzibar) Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, getting around, day trips, safety, and food—how to plan Stone Town (Zanzibar) in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Stone Town is a compact historic quarter with carved doors, narrow lanes, and coastal sunsets—perfect as a 1–2 day add-on to Zanzibar beaches. This guide focuses on the decisions that make a trip smoother: where to base yourself, how to move around, and how to structure 2–4 days without overplanning.
Best areas to stay
- Old Stone Town core — Stay central for walking access—expect some noise.
- Near the waterfront — Great sunsets and boat access; good for short stays.
- Quieter edges — Better sleep while still walkable to the center.
Tip: choose accommodation with clear reviews on noise, walkability, and late-night transport—those details matter more than star ratings.
Getting around
Use a mix of ride-hailing, metered taxis (where reliable), and walking in dense districts. Build buffers for traffic and plan a “two-anchor” day: one major activity in the morning, one in the afternoon, with flexible time between.
Top things to do
- Start with a walking orientation: markets, main squares, and a museum/gallery to understand the city’s story.
- Schedule one “viewpoint” or waterfront/elevated spot for golden hour photos.
- Pick one signature experience (cooking class, live music, crafts, or architecture tour).
Neighborhoods and local culture
Think in zones: a historic core for sights, a modern district for restaurants and cafés, and a quieter base for sleep. If you’re visiting on a weekend, confirm what closes early and plan an indoor option in case weather shifts.
Day trips and extensions
- Spice tour or cultural half-day tour (book with clear inclusions).
- Sunset dhow cruise if seas are calm.
- Beach extension: pick one beach area and stay put to avoid constant packing.
If you’re tight on time, pick just one day trip. Two day trips often turns a 3-day city break into a transport-heavy sprint.
Common scams, safety, and etiquette
Getting lost is part of the fun—just keep your phone secure and avoid empty alleys late at night. Dress modestly in historic areas and ask before photographing people. Keep valuables out of sight, use reputable transport at night, and avoid “too good to be true” offers for tours or currency exchange.
Food highlights
- Seafood is strong—choose busy waterfront spots for freshness.
- Try a few Swahili coastal dishes and fresh fruit juices.
- Street food is tempting; go for high turnover vendors in the evening.
For a confident first meal, choose busy restaurants with clear menus and strong hygiene reviews. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask what’s hot and what’s mild.
Suggested 2–4 day itinerary
- Day 1: Orientation walk + signature market + one museum.
- Day 2: Neighborhood day + food highlights + sunset viewpoint.
- Day 3: One day trip (or a second museum + slow café day).
- Day 4 (optional): Shopping, wellness, or a short excursion before onward travel.
Sources and references
For up-to-date advisories and logistics, cross-check official sources such as national tourism boards, municipal transport sites, and your embassy travel advice before departure.