Stone Town Tours are a must-do when visiting Zanzibar, as this UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history, culture, and charm. Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture that reflects its Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Below is a comprehensive guide to planning and organizing Stone Town tours, including highlights, itineraries, and tips for travelers.

1. Why Visit Stone Town?

Stone Town is not just a destination—it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s worth exploring:

- Rich History: A melting pot of cultures with influences from African, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European settlers.

- Architectural Beauty: Iconic buildings like the House of Wonders, Sultan’s Palace, and intricately carved wooden doors.

- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its cultural and historical significance.

- Vibrant Markets: Bustling bazaars selling spices, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

- Cultural Immersion: Opportunities to interact with locals and learn about Swahili traditions.

2. Key Highlights of Stone Town

Here are the top attractions and experiences to include in your Stone Town tour:

A. Historical Landmarks

1. House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)

   - A former sultan’s palace and one of the first buildings in Zanzibar to have electricity and an elevator.

   - Offers panoramic views of Stone Town from its upper floors.

2. Sultan’s Palace (Palace Museum)

   - Learn about the life of the Sultans of Zanzibar and their opulent lifestyle.

   - Displays artifacts, furniture, and photographs.

3. Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe):

   - Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century to defend against invaders.

   - Now hosts craft markets, performances, and events.

4. Anglican Cathedral:

   - Located on the site of the former slave market, it serves as a symbol of hope and freedom.

   - Features a poignant memorial to the victims of slavery.

5. Freddie Mercury Museum

   - Celebrates the life of Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen, who was born in Zanzibar.

   - Includes memorabilia and exhibits about his early life.

B. Cultural Experiences

1. Forodhani Gardens

   - A lively waterfront area where street vendors sell Zanzibari delicacies like grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza, and sugarcane juice.

   - Perfect for sunset views and people-watching.

2. Spice Tour

   - Although not in Stone Town itself, many tours depart from here to nearby spice plantations.

   - Learn about Zanzibar’s spice trade and taste fresh spices like cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla.

3. Darajani Market

   - A bustling local market where you can shop for fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.

   - A great place to experience daily life in Zanzibar.

4. Carved Doors of Stone Town

   - Admire the intricately carved wooden doors, which are iconic symbols of Zanzibar’s architectural heritage.

   - Many doors feature brass studs and Islamic inscriptions.

C. Unique Activities

1. Walking Tours

   - Guided walking tours are the best way to explore Stone Town’s narrow streets and hidden gems.

   - Learn about the town’s history, architecture, and cultural diversity.

• The use of helmets is mandatory at all times

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

• Drivers must be at least 16 years old and must bring a physical valid driver’s license.
• Passengers must be at least 16 years of age and must have proof of age.
• Guests under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older.
• 450 pounds combined weight limit for each ATV.

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO WEAR

• Closed toe shoes
• Long pants are recommended
• T-shirt
• Sunglasses
• Bathing suit must be worn underneath your clothing

Drivers and passengers must be at least 16 years old to participate. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older

Description

Join us on an exhilarating one-hour ATV ride through the foothills of El Yunque National Forest! This invigorating ride exposes you to the spectacular scenery of Puerto Rico’s east coast as you roam through towering trees, tread through creeks, climb hills, and coast through vast rugged rainforest terrain on our 600cc ATVs!

What’s included

• 60-min ATV ride
• Safety instructions

What’s not included

• Food and drinks

Highlights

• 10-minute introductory session on ATV operation and safety instructions upon arrival.
• Exhilarating ATV tour through the rainforest, river splashing, and a unique stop at Mameyes River for a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters.

Check-in details

Please arrive 45 minutes prior to your activity's start time to check in. At check-in, you are required to present the credit card that was used to pay for your booking and matching valid photo identification. The name listed on your credit card must be identical to the contact name listed on your booking.

What to bring

• Valid driver’s license (for drivers only)
• Closed toe shoes (sneakers or boots are required)
• Long pants or trousers
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Bathing suit

Restrictions

There is no refund if a guest does not meet the following requirements at check-in:

• Driver minimum age of 16 with a valid driver’s license
• Driver and passenger minimum height of 60 inches tall
• Guests under 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 or older
• 480 lbs. combined weight limit for each ATV
• Pets and service animals are allowed but for safety reasons they can not participate in any of the activities

Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No refunds or changes will be made to reservations that are booked within 24 hours before the tour departure time. No-shows will be charged the full price.

• Passengers will be measured upon arrival
• Passengers who do not meet the 52 inches will not be able to participate, and no refund will be granted.
• Family Friendly!
• Easy to Drive!
• UTVs that accommodate up to 3 people are 700lbs
• UTVs that accommodate up to 6 people are 1000lbs
• The use of helmets is mandatory at all times

UTV ADVENTURE (seats 2-4)

You’ll explore stunning panoramic views aboard our premium 4x4 off road touring vehicles. Carabalí offers exhilarating one and two-hour UTV Side by Side rides through its 600-acre ranch located at the foothills of the El Yunque National Rainforest. During this invigorating ride, riders experience the spectacular scenery of Puerto Rico’s east coast on our top of the line Honda Pioneer off-road machines. 

Upon arrival, riders will be given a ten-minute introduction on how to operate the vehicle, including safety instructions and will be provided with helmets as a safety precaution. You will feel safe and secure, whether you are an experienced rider or a first timer. You can be sure of an exciting trip.

On our two-hour tour, guests will have time to relax and swim for 30 minutes in the crystal clean waters of the Mameyes River, which originates in El Yunque.

• Swimming in the river is weather dependent

• Pets and service animals are allowed but for safety reasons they can not participate in any of the activities.

Our vehicles have the capacity to accommodate up to 4 guests - making this tour perfect for families and large groups. We offer rates for 2, 3 and 4 people, although a solo option is available paying the minimum of 2 people.

Guide Driven Vehicle


For those not interested in driving their own vehicle, we do offer a Guide Driven Option where guests can ride along in one of our UTV’s with a park guide counting as an additional passenger. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No refunds or changes will be made to reservations that are booked within 24 hours before the tour departure time. No-shows will be charged the full price.

This is a wonderful introduction to Zanzibar and gives you a feeling of the rich cultural heritage. One gets a comprehensive view, history and walk of the Stone Town, magnificent architecture, narrow alleys, sand and stone ancient built houses where some of them are over 200 years old and have Arab/Indian carved doors.

The tour starts at the main City market which was opened in 1904, where tropical fruits, vegetables, spices and fresh fish from the island are sold.

Our next stop is the Anglican Church of Christ which was built by Bishop Steers in 1873 on the site where slaves used to be auctioned.

Other highlights on the historical stone town tour are visits to:

•      Sultan’s Palace Museum - Built in the late 1890’s for members of the Sultan’s family.

•      House of Wonders - Built in 1883 as a Royal Ceremonial Function Palace.

•      The Africa House - Formerly the English Club.

•      Forodhani Park - Where you can spend your evenings leisurely watching the brilliant sunset while sipping freshly squeezed sugarcane juice or enjoy charcoal barbeques and locally made dishes.

•      The Old Fort - Built by Arabs for defense against the Portuguese.

Additional Information

•      The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide

•      A moderate amount of walking is involved

•      Not recommended for participants with back problems

•      Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost.

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

Its primary objective is to give you a complete picture as to why this beautiful island is known as “The Spice Island”

Our tour starts with a drive through a profusion of greenery in the countryside seeing, smelling and tasting a variety of spices and mouthwatering tropical seasonal fruits such as jack fruit, pineapple, banana, green coconut juice, dourian, love apple, litche, soursop etc. Spices such as cloves, cardamon, cinnamon, black pepper, turmeric, nutmeg - are as exotic as their flavours….etc.

A full tour involves much more than spices and you will also have a chance to see the iodine plant, heena bush, ylang-ylang, the lipstick tree, cocoa, and coffee bean trees.

 Highlights:

•      Kidichi Persian Baths - built in 1850 by Seyyid Said bin Sultan for his Persian wife Princess Sheherezade granddaughter of the Shah of Persia.

·       Walking tour of Zanzibar spice farms and plantations

·       Cooking class option in the spice farm is available on request

·       Get a glimpse of local life by exploring on foot

·       See spice and fruit cultivation

·       Tasty tropical fruits & spices

·       Learn about Zanzibar history and culture

·       Perfect time to shop for spices

Additional Information

•      Tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide

•      A moderate amount of walking is involved

•      Cooking class in the spice farm option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

•      Not recommended for participants with back problems

•      Good walking shoes would be ideal

•      Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

Kizimkazi Dolphin Tour offers you the experience of a lifetime, a chance to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. The seashore of the fishing village Kizimkazi is the home of several pods of humpback and bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins are officially protected by the 420 km2 Menai Bay Conservation Area, which was set up in 1997 to stop the rapid depletion of fish stocks. We will depart from the shores of Kizimkazi fishing village in search of dolphins. Snorkeling gear is available for you. The boat will take you out into the clear turqoise blue Indian Ocean where the odds of meetings dolphins are about 80%.

We give contribution to the protection of dolphins in the waters of Kizimkazi. We encourage our skippers not to chase the dolphins and we advise visitors to enter the water away from the dolphins with as little disturbance as possible, staying close to the boat, avoiding sudden movement and allowing the dolphins to come to you. On busy days with many tourists this however is not possible. After the exhilarating experience of swimming with the dolphins, you can also do snorkeling for a while before we will head back to shore. The trip takes about 4 hours starting very early in the morning.

Tour Highlights

·        Watch for dolphins on a motorboat cruise

·        Snorkel off the Zanzibar coast

·        Popular choice with kids

·        Visit the Oldest Mosque in East Africa

Additional information

·       Tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide

·       Not wheelchair accessible

·       Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions

·           You are welcome to bring your Swim wear, towel and water resistant shoes for walking over coral

·           Bring Water resistant bag for cameras and other valuables

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

This half-day trip is the perfect getaway. Our traditional dhow boat or speedy boat takes you out snorkeling and swim with dolphins after which we have a beach relaxations! With low tide, we can visit the beautiful sandbank next to Mnemba. The white sandy beach and clear blue water make your pictures look like the most perfect postcard. Explore the colorful reefs of Mnemba atoll during the snorkeling session in the warm and clear water of the Indian Ocean! On the boat, we serve soft drinks, fruit and delicious local snacks. Take pictures on the stunning sandbank (only by the low tide). There is time to relax on one of the most beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.. This is the most popular snorkeling spot in Zanzibar and dozens of boats go there each day. Watch out for other snorkelers and swimmers when you are in the water.

Tour Highlights

•       Watch for dolphins on a motorboat cruise

•       Snorkel off the Zanzibar coast

•       Popular choice with kids

•       Observe the best snorkel spot in Zanzibar

Our Advice

·    Apply sunscreen early: At least 30 minutes before entering the water and choose reef-safe products to protect marine life

·    Listen to your snorkeling guide carefully: They know the safest spots and can help you spot hidden marine creatures.

·    Respect marine life: Look, don’t touch. Avoid standing on or kicking the coral

·    Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after snorkeling

·    Bring a change of clothes: You’ll be more comfortable after your water activities

·    Keep your distance from dolphins: If you're lucky to see them, enjoy from afar to avoid disturbing them

·    Watch your step on the boat: Decks can be slippery when wet

·    If you’re prone to motion sickness: Take medication 30–60 minutes before departure

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

Nungwi is located at the North tip of Zanzibar island, 1 hour 15 minutes drive from the Stone Town. Nungwi has crystal clear waters, an excellent place for diving, snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing. This trip leads you through the Fukuchani ruins and caves The Fukuchani Ruins are near the edge of the Fukuchani village and are the remains of a 16th-century coral rag house. The ruins date to the 16th century, but it is thought that there was a Shirazi settlement located here before and the remaining structure was constructed by the Portuguese. You will then proceed to Nungwi for the village tour. At Nungwi there are number of very interesting things to see and do including, the natural aquarium which is a home to endangered sea turtles and a variety of fish. The aquarium itself is a natural formation carved out from the coral bedrock by the erosion of millions of waves crashing against the shore. The depth of the water rises and falls with the tides providing a natural environment for its inhabitants.

While watching the white sails of the Dhows go by, you might wonder how these impressive boats are made. The Nungwi Boat Yard is a riveting (if you’ll pardon the pun) experience where you’ll meet the ship yard owner and learn how the dhows are built; from the sourcing of the wood to the joints used and how they are launched.

Our Advice:

·    Dress Light: Wear light, breathable clothes and comfortable shoes to stay cool and enjoy walking and beach activities in warm weather, ensuring you feel relaxed and comfortable all day.

·    Bring Swimwear: Pack a swimsuit and towel so you can fully enjoy swimming in the clear waters or relaxing on the soft, beautiful sands of Kendwa Beach, making the most of your beach day.

·    Sun Protection: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly and bring sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from Zanzibar’s strong, intense sun, especially during midday when UV rays are highest.

·    Carry Cash: Some local stalls or beach bars may not accept cards, so small cash can be handy.

·    Charge Devices: Ensure your phone or camera is fully charged for capturing the stunning coastline.

·    Respect Culture: When visiting Nungwi village, dress modestly to respect local customs and always ask for permission before photographing locals or their homes to ensure cultural sensitivity.

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

A Full day trip is dedicated to Prison Island’s giant tortoise visit, snorkeling, sunbathing, the taste of Seafood, and seasonal fruits. The adventure starts from Zanzibar Port, with our local motorboat we ride toward Prison Island, an island the natives calls “CHANGUU” that means “GIANTS TESTUDINAL”. 20 minutes across the sea, we visit the tortoises and the island, then our adventure will continue forward for snorkeling off Prison Island, viewing a stunning array of colored corals and tropical fish of the islands before reaching our dream place Nakupenda. A place where brilliant birdlife exists, white sand, and limpid and crystalline water.

You would live in the natural reserve that is hospitable by its natural beauty and the proper pearls of the Indian Ocean. The language of the white sands and their alternative sea appear and disappear. Enjoy our seasonal fruits, sand bathing, and our Seafood lunch. Relax on the sandbank or discover marine life around the sandbank before riding our motorboat or sailing back to Stone Town.

Trip Highlights

•      Feed and Pet Aldabra Giant Tortoises while at Prison Changuu Island

•      Go off-shore to experience a beautiful, trash-free Zanzibar beach

•      Relax on the white sands of the Pange Sandbank

•      Round-trip transport provided

•      Seafood lunch features Zanzibar flavors

•      Soft Drinks

•      Fresh Fruits

•      Snorkeling to the Beautiful Coral Gardens

Our Advice:

·     Protect Your Skin: The tropical sun can be intense! Apply reef-safe sunscreen generously and reapply after swimming. A hat and sunglasses are highly recommended.

·    Pack Light: Bring only the essentials — swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for your electronics. Most of the day will be spent barefoot on sand or boat decks.

·    Stay Hydrated: Although drinks are provided, it's always a good idea to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially after swimming and sunbathing.

·    Be Camera Ready: This tour is packed with stunning scenery, wildlife, and ocean views — perfect for photos! Waterproof cases or GoPros are great for capturing underwater moments.

·    Respect the Wildlife: The Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island are gentle giants. Please follow your guide’s instructions, don’t climb on them, and feed them only with approved food provided on-site.

·    Foot Wear: Sandals or flip-flops are best. Avoid heavy shoes, as you’ll be hopping in and out of boats and walking on sandbanks.

·    Weather Awareness: Tours are weather-dependent. In case of rough seas or rain, we may reschedule or offer alternative arrangements for your safety and comfort.

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost. 

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

After breakfast our tour will start with a drive to a very popular village – Kizimbani, known for its various, spice growing and tropical fruits, seeing, smelling and tasting some of the tropical fruits and variety of spices such as cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, turmeric, nutmeg..etc. Most of the spices were introduced to Zanzibar by Asian, Arabs and Portuguese traders and are still being used as condiments in food and as medicine by the locals to cure certain maladies.

You will then get an opportunity to visit a local village house to experience the real insight of Zanzibar’s cuisine and get a chance to see how local dishes are prepared using traditional and local utensils and cooked with various spices mixed with coconut milk that will give you a superb flavor and taste of Zanzibar Flavours. The food that will be cooked during the lesson will be served to you for lunch

Tour Highlights

• Hands-on cooking lessons
• Suitable for individuals and groups
• Introduction to local spices grown on the Island
• Walking tour of Zanzibar spice farms and plantations
• Designed for those who want to create delicious Swahili meals
• Learn about spices, local herbs, origins and the medicinal uses
• 
  

Our Advise

•  Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothes, as cooking over open flames or stoves can get warm, especially in Zanzibar’s tropical climate.
• Bring a Notebook: Take notes on recipes, spice mixes, and cooking tips — You’ll learn traditional techniques worth remembering.
• Arrive Hungry: You'll prepare and enjoy multiple dishes during the class, so it’s best to come with an empty stomach!
• Ask Questions: Your host has plenty of culinary knowledge—don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients, traditions, or stories behind each dish.
• Mention Dietary Needs: Let your host know in advance if you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or spice preferences so they can adjust accordingly.
• Embrace the Spices: Swahili cooking is rich in spices like cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon—be open to bold and aromatic flavors.

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost.

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants

After breakfast, we will drive you to Fumba Village to the South-West of Zanzibar (25 minutes drive from the Stone Town) where you will board a dhow with other guests to experience the beautiful Minai BayConservation Area and enjoy the tranquility of cruising by sail in one of the traditional hand-built wooden dhows. Get a chance to see the dolphins, swim at one of the pristine sandbanks, visit the islets, and snorkel at the coral reefs.

 The Safari Blue trip includes the use of snorkeling equipment with guides and instructors, ice-cold sodas, mineral water, and beer. You will also enjoy a legendary seafood barbeque which includes fish, calamari & slipper lobster served hot from the grill. Seasonal fresh fruits, halua & coffee will also be served. During the trip, you will get a chance to join the crew on a thrilling ride in a ngalawa – a local outrigger canoe carved from a single mango tree. When the tide is high you will also explore the mangrove lagoon hidden inside Kwale Island, where you will get a chance to swim in this lagoon. We round the day off by returning to Fumba by a traditional lateen sail where your vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. It is advisable to take swimwear, a towel, a water-resistant bag (for the camera and other valuables), sunscreen, and a hat.

Tour Highlights

·        Sail to Kwale Island in a Traditional Wooden Boat

·        Swim in a natural lagoon with coral formations

·        Climb a centuries-old baobab tree

·        Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch on the island

·        Vegetarian lunch option available

·        Snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks provided   

Our Advice

·      Bring Water Resistant Bag: To protect your camera, phone, and other valuables from water and sand while boarding the dhow or relaxing on the sandbank

·           Bring reef-safe Sunscreen: The sun is intense, and regular sunscreen can harm marine ecosystems

·          Pack Water Shoes or Sandals: There are sea urchins in some areas

·           Expect to get wet: You’ll board the dhow from shallow waters

·         Be respectful of marine life: Don’t touch coral or sea creatures 

·      Be respectful of marine life: Don’t touch coral or sea creatures

·     Go Early: Mornings are calmer and less crowded

Note: Our price starts with the hotels in stone town, if your hotel is not available in stone town, write your exactly pickup location and we will reach you out at additional cost.

Price will also be reduced according to the increasing number of participants