We recently took a trip to the Zanzibar archipelago off the coast of Tanzania. All I can say is that you find yourself on an idyllic piece of land surrounded by the always warm Indian Ocean – absolute paradise! The resort we stayed at was amazing – but more on that in another post. One of the highlights of the trip was the tours we went on, who knew there was such variety on this small island. One tour we took involved walking tour of the spice plantations (Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island). This was both an educational and entertaining experience and I’ll share more about it later.
While the stunning beaches are usually the biggest draw for Zanzibar, I was enticed by the multi-cultural experience of exploring Stone Town – the capital city. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with historical architecture that is currently being restored with materials that were originally used. It is such a mix of different cultures and the whole town vibrates with such energy and many friendly greetings (Jambo).
Darajani Market
The first thing that catches your attention as you get off the bus near the market, is the strange mix of smells, both pleasant and unpleasant. As we made our way through this market, generally used by locals, we were overwhelmed by noise, colour and smell. This changed according to which part of the market you were in. We chose to avoid the meat and fish market.
The Former Zanzibar Slave Market
Zanzibar was one of the main slave trade ports in East Africa and it was a dark period on the island. This was the last open slave market which now has a large Anglican Cathedral on its site to mark the triumph over inhumanity. This market was started by the Portuguese and finally outlawed by the British thanks to David Livingstone’s campaign. There is a statue of chained slaves as a reminder of what happened here. You can also ask a guide to show you around the Cathedral, they are knowledgeable and able to discuss all the symbolism that was included. There are also guides that will lead you down into the last remaining holding cells – it is quite unpleasant in these small holes and can only take a few people. It will make you feel truly grateful for your life of freedom.
Winding Alleys, Tiny Shops, Crazy Bikers, Grand Architecture and Famous Doors
Stone Town is best explored on foot and wandering through its narrow winding alleys can be quite exciting. You will find many interesting shops along the way and there is something new to see around every corner. Just beware, these tiny alleys can be quite hazardous, especially when bikers come speeding down on you. When you hear a horn behind you, make sure to get out of the way, as they do not slow down or stop for any reason, not even tourists! Make use of a guide if you are worried about getting lost, but don’t worry the locals are friendly and willing to help. As you wander, make sure to look up and admire the detailed balconies and beautiful buildings. As you go along you will also notice many of the famous Zanzibari doors with intricate carvings and different meanings to each of the cultures they stem from.
Freddy Mercury and David Livingstone
As Queen fans we were quite eager to visit Mercury House. This is where the lead singer, Freddy Mercury was born and lived for the first decade of his life. Unfortunately there is not much to see, as the house has been turned into a hotel and only guests can enter. Photos at the entrance with a board of band photos was well worth it though. For lunch our guide led us to a little gem of a spot right on the coastline – you can sit at tables with your feet in the sand, enjoying a view of the ocean while you eat.
As it turned out, this awesome old building (with the most amazing spiraling wooden staircase) was lived in by David Livingstone during his many stays in Zanzibar. The food was so tasty and the atmosphere relaxed and comfortable – we even made friends with two local cats while enjoying our lunch.
The Old Fort
This massive structure is hard to miss and is a large fortification along the waterfront. It was built in the 18th century as defense against attacks on the island. It was later used as a prison, but is now in use an event location for musical and theatrical performances. Inside we found colorful stalls selling clothing, jewellery and food. The fort is a historical spot that was once a vital part of Zanzibar and definitely worth a visit.
Forodhani Gardens and the House of Wonders
In between the Old Fort and the ocean you will find Forodhani gardens, a local park. During the day it is a green, shady and calm spot to relax in. Every night though the whole garden is transformed into a busy night market. It is a buzz of activity as locals and tourists alike are attracted to delicious smells and the warm glow of oil lamps. Right next the gardens is the House of Wonders with its unmissable white clock tower. Unfortunately it was closed for renovations when we were there, but it was still remarkable from the outside. The huge front doors were built to be big enough for the sultan to pass through on an elephant, as the story goes. It was also the first building in East Africa to have electricity, running water and an elevator.
I found Stone Town to be a vibrant and interesting place, with much more to see and experience than I have mentioned! It would take a day or two to explore the whole town properly and I have many other sites that I plan to visit the next time I’m in Zanzibar.
Comments (32)
Jasmine
May 6, 2017 at 6:04 pm
This place looks magical! I love the market and Freddy Mercury’s house, I would love to see that! The most I’ve seen of Africa is Morocco, next on my list is Egypt!
Daniella
May 7, 2017 at 10:11 am
The whole island was magical! You should definitely go to Zanzibar if you can. I would love to experience Morocco, did you enjoy it there? Egypt is on my list too!
Jocelyn
May 7, 2017 at 4:53 pm
The scenery and market look so great! I love strolling through far away towns like a local!
Daniella
May 8, 2017 at 8:50 am
It was a really amazing experience! Which far away town is your favorite?
Regina Garson
May 8, 2017 at 6:31 pm
What a wonderful write-up to include both what must be done and what one really should know about the area. It leaves me wanting to pack my bags now. I also put one more must see on my list. Informative and compelling article.
Daniella
May 9, 2017 at 1:57 pm
Thank you so much Regina, I am glad you enjoyed it! I would most definitely recommend adding it to your list! 🙂
anne -onedeterminedlife
May 11, 2017 at 4:05 am
This looks like a beautiful place to travel!
Daniella
May 11, 2017 at 8:44 am
It really is stunning!
Emily
May 12, 2017 at 2:02 am
I honestly never thought about adding Zanzibar to the list of places I would like to travel, but after reading your post I’m adding it! The spice markets look incredible!
Daniella
May 12, 2017 at 8:48 am
I’m glad I could convince you Emily! Zanzibar is now one of my favorite places to visit! Definitely add it to your list!
Becky
May 12, 2017 at 7:07 pm
I loved stone town, I think you have captured everything too. Spice tour was really good and I learnt a lot as well as having my face decorated ?
Daniella
May 13, 2017 at 10:49 am
Thanks Becky, I’m glad you enjoyed it too! I really found the experience to be so much fun! 🙂
Obligatory Traveler
May 12, 2017 at 7:26 pm
Great Post. I think this looks like such a beautiful place that not many people think about visiting. The architecture looks lovely.
Daniella
May 13, 2017 at 10:50 am
Thank you! I hope this post inspires more people to visit this amazing place!
Fumiko
May 13, 2017 at 3:20 am
Slave Market seems interesting! I want to see it. And I want to visit Mercury house.Thank you for sharing.
Daniella
May 13, 2017 at 10:50 am
My pleasure, I hope you plan to visit this awesome place?
Carissa
May 15, 2017 at 5:19 pm
Zanzibar is on my bucket list! The pictures you took are amazing and I never knew that Freddy Mercury lived there. Amazing, thorough post, that makes me want to visit Zanzibar even more.
Daniella
May 16, 2017 at 9:58 am
Thank you so much Carissa! I’m so happy you enjoyed the post! 🙂 Definitely visit as soon as you get a chance, this was one of the best trips I have taken!
Ben goes places
May 15, 2017 at 5:21 pm
You just made me add Zanzibar on my bucket list! I enjoyed reading your article 🙂 Great pictures too!
Daniella
May 16, 2017 at 9:58 am
Thank you! I am so glad I inspired you to visit, it is such a wonderful experience! 🙂
Victoria
May 30, 2017 at 11:25 pm
Zanzibar is a destination that I was thinking of lately. So glad that I found this article to see not only the beaches of the island, but it’s cultural part as well. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Victoria
http://www.thenewelegant.com/
Daniella
June 2, 2017 at 9:19 am
My pleasure Victoria! Don’t get me wrong, the beaches are amazing, but I like a bit of adventure on my holidays. That’s what I loved about Zanzbar is that there is something for everyone, and I would definitely suggest that you visit Stone Town while on the island!
Celine
June 4, 2017 at 2:09 pm
It looks breathtaking ! If I ever go to Africa (and I wish I will) I think that Tanzania would be my first destination…
Daniella
June 5, 2017 at 8:51 am
That is a great idea, I hope you get to travel through Africa soon! While you are at it, I would recommend stopping in South Africa too!
Miruna
June 6, 2017 at 11:11 am
This article makes me dream of visiting the place one day 🙂
Daniella
June 6, 2017 at 2:37 pm
I am so glad! I hope to inspire more travel to Africa! I hope you get to visit soon!
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June 12, 2017 at 12:33 pm
Gorgeous captures all!
Daniella
June 13, 2017 at 9:44 am
Thank you very much! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Sylvie Hanes
July 14, 2017 at 6:34 pm
Wow – such history. Loved the pictures that truly shows the evolution over time. Sad to see the slaves pit, and reminding those of what passed is an important part of the history of man. Thanks for sharing.
Daniella
July 19, 2017 at 9:08 am
My pleasure, I’m glad you enjoyed it! I hope I inspired you to visit Zanzibar if you ever have the chance?
shehroz
July 16, 2017 at 8:50 am
wow thats cool thankyou very much i love to read your blog posts
Daniella
July 19, 2017 at 9:09 am
Thanks so much for your kind words!!! 🙂
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