Stone Town Guided Historical Walking City Tour

Nestled within the historic city of Stone Town, Zanzibar, Forodhani Gardens, also known as Forodhani Night Market, is a charming park located along the primary seawalk. Positioned in front of two iconic landmarks, the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. It offers a picturesque setting for visitors to unwind and soak in the local ambiance. If you explore Stone Town in the morning until 16:00, you'll have the opportunity to leisurely stroll through the garden. However, if you opt for an evening visit, you'll be treated to the vibrant atmosphere of the Forodhani Night Market. As the sun sets, the market springs to life, drawing a diverse crowd of tourists and locals alike. During this lively period, the main square transforms into a bustling food street market, offering an array of delectable Zanzibari cuisine. From the iconic Urojo (Zanzibar Mix) to grilled seafood, samoosas, Kahawa (coffee), cassava, Zanzibar pizza, and sweet potatoes, there's something to tantalize every palate.

The Bayt al-ʿAjāʾib, or the House of Wonders, the famous landmark in Stone Town. Situated along Mizingani Road, it faces Forodhani Gardens, gracing the seafront of the old town with its imposing presence. As the largest and tallest structure in Stone Town, it holds a position of significance in the architectural landscape. Nestled between the Old Fort and the Forodhani Mosque and Palace Museum (formerly the Sultan’s Palace), this architectural marvel bears witness to Zanzibar's rich history. Commissioned by Barghash bin Said, the second Sultan of Zanzibar, it is one of six palaces constructed during his reign. During your visit, our knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the former sultanate system, shedding light on the House of Wonders' role as the state house of Zanzibar. Explore the intricate details of this historic landmark and unravel the stories of its past, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and legacy of Zanzibar's royal heritage.

The Old Fort, also known as Ngome Kongwe in Swahili, stands as a testament to Zanzibar's rich history and cultural heritage. Situated in the heart of Stone Town, it holds the distinction of being the oldest building in the area and remains a cherished tourist attraction. Built by Omani Arabs following the expulsion of the Portuguese in 1699, the Old Fort served various purposes over the centuries. Initially used as a garrison and prison during the 19th century, it later functioned as a terminal for the Zanzibar railways from 1905 to 1928, connecting Stone Town to the village of Bububu. The Old Fort is one of the popular tourist attractions in Stone Town, here you will be able to do sourvenirs shopping such as paintings, sculptures, Traditional clothes; it also has an open-air amphitheatre where live dance and music shows are held during the festival such as ZIFF and the Sauti za Busara.

Explore the roots of music legend Freddie Mercury, the iconic lead singer of Queen, who was born in Zanzibar in 1946 under the name Farrokh Bulsara. Growing up in Stone Town, Freddie's family, with his father serving in the British colonial service, resided in various locations throughout the area. At Freddie Mercury's childhood home, you'll have the opportunity to glimpse the exterior and uncover the history of this iconic figure. For those eager to delve deeper, an optional additional fee allows entry into the house, where you can immerse yourself in the surroundings that shaped Freddie's early years. Discover the legacy of one of music's most influential figures and gain insight into the life and upbringing of Freddie Mercury, a true Zanzibari icon.

As part of the tour, you'll stroll through the streets of Stone Town, where architectural wonders and street stores await your exploration. Here, you'll have the chance to acquire souvenirs and local items, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Zanzibar. Additionally, you'll delve into the rich history behind the iconic Zanzibar doors, gaining insight into their significance and symbolism.

On the way to Darajani Market, you will firstly visit to the renowned old slave market nestled in Stone Town along Mkunazini Street. This historic site served as a harrowing reminder of a dark chapter in history, where slaves were once bought and sold. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, you'll delve into the profound history of the slave trade, gaining valuable insight into its workings and impact. Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as you confront the sobering realities of the past and honor the resilience of those who endured.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the bustling Darajani Market, the heartbeat of Stone Town, Zanzibar. Also known as Estella Market or Marikiti Kuu, this vibrant bazaar holds a rich history dating back to its construction in 1904 by Bomanjee Maneckjee for Sultan Ali bin Hamud. As you wander through its bustling aisles, you'll encounter a cornucopia of sights and scents, from fresh seafood and meats to an abundance of fruits, grains, and spices. While Darajani Bazaar is renowned for its food offerings, you'll also find shops selling an array of goods, including consumer electronics and clothing. At your final destination, immerse yourself in the vibrant marketplace atmosphere and gain insight into Zanzibar's spice trade, fruits, and vegetables. Here, you'll have the opportunity to purchase spices as cherished gifts for your loved ones, carrying a piece of Zanzibar's essence back home with you.