Overview
Steeped in history, Stone Town in Zanzibar was once the biggest business centre of East Africa. In its earlier days it was the hub for trading ivory, spices and slaves. Power has changed hands numerous times over the years; the Portuguese, Arabs, Sultans of Oman and English have all had their influence on this unique and fascinating town which has created an incredible mix of architecture and culture.
Stow town is an UNESCO heritage site and during the tour you will witness a wide variety of sights, smells and sounds. Included in the tour is:
Stow town is an UNESCO heritage site and during the tour you will witness a wide variety of sights, smells and sounds. Included in the tour is:
- The House of Wonders – Is a very large square shaped building, with several stories, surrounded by ties of Sultan Barghash and was the one in Zanzibar to have electricity light and electric lift. Not surprisingly when it was built, the local people called Bait el Ajab which means House of wonders today.
- The Palace Museum – Is a large white building with castellated battlements and was built in the late 1890’s for member of the Sultan family. Visitors can see much of the sultan furniture’s and other possession that served revolution.
ZANZIBAR EXCURSION - Dr Livingston’s House (who was pivotal in ending the slave trade) It was built around 1860 by Sultan Majid and was used by many of missionaries and explores as a starting point. Dr Livingston lived in that house before commencing his last journey to the mainland.
- The Arab Fort – Is situated next to house of wonder and was built between 1698 and 1701 by the Busaidi group of Oman Arabs. It is large building with high, dark brown walls. Topped by castellated battlements. The fort is open to visitors and now contain various shops.
- Zanzibar’s bustling market – Is a very good place to visit where people they sell and buy different needs of their special interest. Is always busy during the day.
- The Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ: Cathedral’s altar stands on the location of the whipping post from the island’s largest slave market. There is a cross made from the tree beneath which Livingstone’s heart was buried at Chitambo where he died.
The Cathedral was built by Edward Steere, Third Bishop of Zanzibar 1874 to 1882. When he died of a heart attack in the building next door, he was buried behind the altar. The Cathedral took exactly 10 years to build and its strange barrel vault roof was Steere’s own peculiar invention and though the population of Zanzibar were convinced that it would never hold but it still stands today. - The typical carved doors of Zanzibar –
It is a fascinating look into the history and culture that has shaped this island and is something that should not be missed.
The City Tour takes 2 – 3 hrs, and is also a good opportunity to hone your haggling skills when picking out souvenirs from the brightly coloured and adorned shops. Be very careful while walking as motorcyclists are briskly driving across.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
