Also known as Miji Mkongwe, Stone Town is not only the oldest part of Zanzibar, but also its principal city. The former capital of the Sultanate of Zanzibar, this magnificent city has remarkably preserved its urban landscape dating back to the 19th century. Located on the western side of Unguja island in the Indian Ocean, Stone Town invites you to a journey marked by discovery and adventure. Its architectural monuments and distinctive culture make this historic city a must-see destination during your Tanzania circuit.

History

The Zanzibar Revolution led to the sultan's ousting from Stone Town in 1964. Following this, a socialist government led by the Afro-Shirazi Party (ASP) took the sultan's place. More than 20,000 people, predominantly Arabs and Indians, were killed during this period. Refugees fled Stone Town in the revolution's aftermath. The houses left behind by Arab and Indian residents were converted into public buildings.

Stone Town retained its status as capital and seat of government after Zanzibar united with Tanganyika to form present-day Tanzania. In 1964, it became a semi-autonomous part of the new nation. With its countless 19th-century architectural treasures, Stone Town was designated in 2000 as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Exploring Stone Town

Situated on East Africa's coast, Stone Town presents itself today as a unique urban destination. It holds numerous historic sites bearing witness to remnants of the past. Built from coral stone and mangrove wood, bound with thick lime mortar and plaster finishes, these buildings showcase a magnificent blend of architectural styles: Swahili, Arab, Indian, Persian, European and African.

As Zanzibar's capital, Stone Town has much to offer in terms of attractions and exploration. During your visit, you'll discover narrow streets lined with minarets, intricately carved doors and more. Among the monuments and sites worth visiting are the Old Fort, the Palace Museum, the House of Wonders, Livingstone House, the Old Dispensary, the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the Hamamni Persian Baths and the Forodhani Gardens.

Stone Town also offers an engaging experience to observe the daily life of Zanzibaris. Every morning, locals gather at the city's hub of activity to sip coffee and discuss politics while playing board games. Furthermore, this city promises an enjoyable shopping experience. Merchants and vendors flourish throughout the city's streets. Discover an array of items: spices, t-shirts, sculptures and solid wood chests.

In the evening, food enthusiasts can indulge their cravings for excellent cuisine by discovering local flavors: Zanzibar pizza and a wonderful variety of freshly caught seafood. The experience continues on the beach, where you can enjoy a perfect sunset view with traditional dhow boats as your backdrop.

Stone Town has one airport: Zanzibar International Airport. It's well-served by flights via Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Kilimanjaro and other African and European airports. For sea travel, Stone Town can be reached by boat from Dar es Salaam or Pemba.