STONE TOWN GUIDE TOUR

Overview:
Stone Town is the cultural hub of Zanzibar Island and encompasses the old city area of Zanzibar City that is situated on the western coast. The name "Stone Town" derives from the numerous multistory buildings constructed from stone that define the landscape of the historic district. However, these structures are not entirely made of stone; they are constructed with a combination of mortar and corals. Despite the corals being an easily accessible and suitable building material, they are also susceptible to damage. As a result, some of the houses in the area are in poor condition. To preserve the original glory of the town, the Stone Town Conservation Authority is responsible for coordinating their restoration.

The tour starts at 9:00am but can start later as well. Our tour will take us to the fruit market, which has been open since 1904, where we can find a delightful assortment of tropical fruits and spices. We will then head to the Anglican Cathedral at Mkunazini, constructed in 1874 on the former site of the slave market. Here, our knowledgeable guide will share the history of the city's slave past and take us to the spot where slaves were once auctioned.


Our journey will then continue to the National Museum of Zanzibar, also known as the Peace Memorial Museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of natural history and artifacts from the island. Afterward, we will stroll through the Forondhani Gardens, where we can admire the former British Consulate. This was a hub for explorers such as Dr. Livingston and Stanley before embarking on their expeditions.

We will also visit the Old Fort, located just a few meters away, and the House of Wonders, the first t tallest building in East Africa. This stunning building was constructed by the Sultan as a ceremonial and administrative center. Lastly, we will take a refreshing walk through the narrow streets.