Zanzibar Town

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Zanzibar Town

Welcome to Zanzibar Town, a vibrant and enchanting archipelago off the coast of Tanzania. This guide will take you through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and other essential information to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Visit

Historical Landmarks

  • House of Wonders: A 19th-century building that once housed a clock tower, a museum, and an observatory. Today, it’s a museum showcasing the history of Zanzibar.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)
    • Admission: 10,000 TSH (~ $6 USD)
  • Slave Market: A somber reminder of the island’s dark past, this former slave market is now a museum and a memorial to the enslaved people who were brought to Zanzibar.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)
    • Admission: 10,000 TSH (~ $6 USD)

Markets

  • The Old Fort Market: A bustling marketplace filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to spices and souvenirs.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Hours: Morning till late afternoon (daily)
    • Tip: Be prepared to haggle!
  • Forodhani Night Market: A vibrant night market offering a wide range of street food, snacks, and drinks.
    • Address: Forodhani Street, Stone Town
    • Hours: 6pm-11pm (every evening except Friday during Ramadan)
    • Tip: Try the grilled seafood and local delicacies!

Natural Wonders

  • Seafront: Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque seafront, enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean, and watch the dhows sailing in the distance.
    • Address: Along the coastline
    • Hours: Anytime (daily)
    • Tip: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views!
  • Nungwi Beach: A tranquil beach on the northern part of Zanzibar, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
    • Address: Nungwi Village
    • Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)
    • Admission: Free

Activities

Water Activities

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the stunning coral reefs and marine life of Zanzibar, including the famous Mnemba Island.
    • Cost: $30-$60 USD per person for a half-day trip
    • Tip: Book with reputable operators to ensure safety and quality experience
  • Fishing: Try your hand at traditional Zanzibari fishing techniques or join a fishing tour.
    • Cost: $50-$100 USD per person for a full-day trip

Cultural Experiences

  • Traditional Dance Performances: Witness the enchanting dance performances of the local communities, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.
    • Address: Various locations (check with your accommodation or local authorities)
    • Hours: 7pm-9pm (daily)
    • Admission: Free
  • Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Zanzibari cuisine by attending a cooking class and preparing traditional dishes.
    • Cost: $20-$50 USD per person

Where to Eat

Local Cuisine

  • Forodhani Night Market: Try the local street food, including grilled seafood, samosas, and more!
    • Address: Forodhani Street, Stone Town
    • Hours: 6pm-11pm (every evening except Friday during Ramadan)
    • Tip: Try the famous Zanzibari-style fried fish!
  • Zanzi: Enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Zanzibari dishes in an atmospheric setting.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Hours: 7am-10pm (daily)

Seafood

  • The Wharf Restaurant: Savor fresh seafood and stunning views of the sea.
    • Address: The Wharf, Stone Town
    • Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)
    • Tip: Try their famous grilled lobster!

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Backpackers Paradise: A cozy hostel with dorms and private rooms, offering a social atmosphere.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Rates: $10-$20 USD per night (dorm) / $30-$50 USD per night (private room)
  • House of Spices: A charming guesthouse with comfortable rooms, close to the historic center.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Rates: $20-$40 USD per night

Luxury Accommodations

  • Four Seasons Safari Lodge Zanzibar: An exclusive resort offering luxurious villas and stunning views.
    • Address: Nungwi Village
    • Rates: $500-$1,000 USD per night (depending on the villa)
  • Mnemba Island Lodge: A luxury island retreat with private villas and unparalleled service.
    • Address: Mnemba Island
    • Rates: $800-$1,200 USD per night

Things to Know

Weather

  • Zanzibar has a tropical climate, with two main seasons:
    • Dry season: April-October (best time for traveling)
    • Wet season: November-March

Language

  • The official language is Swahili, but English and Arabic are widely spoken.
  • Learn some basic Swahili phrases to connect with the locals!

Currency

  • Tanzanian shillings (TSH) are the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in most places.
  • Exchange rates may vary; check current exchange rates before your trip.

Transportation

Getting Around Town

  • Walking: Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
  • Motorbike Taxis: A convenient way to travel short distances, especially during peak hours.
    • Cost: 1,000-2,000 TSH (~ $0.50-$1 USD) per ride
  • Tuk-Tuks: Traditional three-wheeled vehicles that can take you anywhere in town.
    • Cost: 5,000-10,000 TSH (~ $3-$6 USD) per ride

Long-Distance Travel

  • Ferry: The most affordable way to travel between Zanzibar and the mainland (Dar es Salaam).
    • Cost: 20,000-50,000 TSH (~ $12-$30 USD) one-way
  • Flight: A convenient option for traveling to major destinations within Tanzania.
    • Cost: $100-$200 USD per person (depending on the route)

Tips and Essentials

Safety

  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets.
  • Keep valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe.

Respect Local Culture

  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or attending local events.
  • Remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship.

Health and Hygiene

  • Drink bottled water and avoid eating from street vendors that may not maintain proper hygiene standards.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the tropical sun and mosquitoes.

Bonus Tips

Shopping

  • Spice Markets: Visit the Spice Markets in Stone Town for an incredible selection of spices, perfumes, and local delicacies.
    • Address: The Stone Town
    • Hours: Morning till late afternoon (daily)
    • Tip: Bargain smartly!

Nature Reserves

  • Unguja Island Game Reserve: A protected area with diverse wildlife, including tortoises, monkeys, and birds.
    • Address: Unguja Island
    • Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)

Conclusion

Zanzibar Town is a captivating destination that will leave you enchanted by its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Remember to respect the local customs, stay safe, and enjoy the incredible experiences this enchanting archipelago has to offer.

References

  • Official Government of Zanzibar tourism website: www.zanzibar.go.tz
  • Lonely Planet: “Zanzibar Island”
  • TripAdvisor: “Zanzibar Town”