Zanzibar Walking Stone Town Guided Tour With Prison Island

Zanzibar City, Tanzania
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Duration6h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, French
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This trip is a half-day adventure where you can explore a historic street made of coral stone from the 19th and 20th centuries. Stone Town, where the street is located, is a lively place where Arabic, African, Indian, and European cultures mix together happily. You'll walk through narrow streets filled with mosques, churches, and temples.

Your guide will take you on a journey through the city's history and culture. You'll visit places like the old slave market, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, Sultan’s Palace, Darajani market, and Forodhani Gardens.

Then, you'll hop on a boat to Prison Island which is about 5 km away. The island used to be a prison but is now a hotel. You'll get to see a sanctuary giant tortoises imported from the Seychelles in the late 19th century. Some of these tortoises are over 150 years old and weigh about 200 kg.

For the rest of the trip, you can snorkel around the coral reefs near Prison Island or just relax on the beach before heading back to Stone Town.

Options

Pickup any hotel in zanzibar

Pickup any hotel in zanzibar: this include pickup from any hotel from zanzibar
Pickup included

Pickup Stone Town Hotels

Pickup included

What's included

  • Hotels Pickup and Dropoff
  • Snacks
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Lunch

What to expect

  1. Anglican Zanzibar Diocese
    50m · Admission ticket included
    The Zanzibar Old Slave Market, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, was one of the largest slave markets in East Africa during the 19th century. It played a central role in the Indian Ocean slave trade until it was abolished in 1873. Today, the site features the Anglican Cathedral, built to commemorate the end of the slave trade, and preserved slave chambers where captives were held in inhumane conditions. Visitors can also see a memorial monument and a museum that provide historical context and education on the slave trade and its lasting impact.
  2. Freddie Mercury Museum
    Pass by
    Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen, was born Farrokh Bulsara on September 5, 1946, in Stone Town, Zanzibar. His early years on the island, before moving to India and later to the UK, contributed to his unique cultural perspective. Today, Zanzibar celebrates its connection to Mercury with landmarks such as his birthplace in Stone Town, which attract many fans. This connection highlights the island's rich cultural heritage and Mercury's diverse background.
  3. The Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)
    30m · Admission ticket included
    The Zanzibar Old Fort, also known as Ngome Kongwe or the Arab Fort, is a historic site in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Built by Omani Arabs in the late 17th century to defend against invasions, it features massive stone walls and towers reflecting Arab and Swahili architectural styles. Over the years, it has served as a military garrison, prison, and railway depot. Today, it is a cultural center and major tourist attraction, hosting events like the Zanzibar International Film Festival and housing craft shops and an amphitheater. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing Zanzibar's rich history and cultural heritage.
  4. Darajani Bazaar
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Darajani Market, located in Stone Town, Zanzibar, is a bustling and vibrant marketplace central to local life and popular with tourists. It features a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, spices, seafood, meat, clothing, and household items. Known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural experience, the market showcases the daily trading practices of Zanzibari people. It is a key destination for those wanting to experience the local culture and purchase Zanzibar's famous spices.
  5. Prison Island - Changuu Private Island
    3h · Admission ticket included
    Prison Island Adventure

    Escape to Prison Island (Changuu Island) for a day of history, wildlife, and relaxation. Just a short boat ride from Stone Town, explore the island’s historic prison ruins, meet the famous Aldabra giant tortoises, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs. Relax on pristine beaches, soak up the island breeze, and enjoy panoramic ocean views. A perfect mix of adventure and tranquility awaits!

Additional information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$120.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by Riser tours and safaris Zanzibar · Booked through Viator
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