Stone Town is a maze of narrow coral-stone lanes where African, Arab, Indian and European worlds met over centuries of trade. Get lost on purpose among the carved wooden doors, spice shops and crumbling palaces.
Visit the former slave market and Anglican cathedral, the House of Wonders and the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, then watch the sun set over the harbour from a rooftop café.
In the evening, the Forodhani Gardens fill with grills serving fresh seafood — the perfect end to a day of wandering.
📌 Practical info
| 💶 Currency | Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) / USD widely accepted |
| 🗣️ Language | Swahili, English |
| 🛂 Visa | Visa on arrival (~$50, 90 days) |
| 🕐 Time zone | EAT (UTC+3) |
| 🔌 Power plug | Type D/G, 230V |
❓ Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?
June-October (cool dry season) and December-February (hot dry season). Avoid March-May (long rains) and November (short rains).
Do I need a visa for Zanzibar?
Yes — Tanzania visa required. Visa on arrival ~$50 for most nationalities (90 days). E-visa online available.
Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?
Yes — generally safe. Stone Town and beach resorts welcoming. Dress respectfully in Stone Town (mostly Muslim population) — covered shoulders/knees off the beach.
What is Zanzibar famous for?
White sand beaches (Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje), Stone Town (UNESCO), spice tours (cloves, vanilla, cinnamon), diving and snorkeling (Mnemba Atoll), kitesurfing (Paje), Freddie Mercury's birthplace.