The islands of Zanzibar, hovering off the coast of Tanzania, beckon tourists with their endless beaches and tropical climate. But Zanzibar is so much more than its resorts. The islands’ capital, Zanzibar City, is definitely worthy of a few hours away from the white sands.

This city has been inhabited for millennia and has been colored by a mix of international profiteers. The spices and slaves of the area drew the greedy from around the world. Arab and European conquerors added their cuisine and architecture to an already vibrant culture. Explore this fascinating locale on a city tour of Zanzibar City.

Here's all you need to know about city tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing activities in Zanzibar.

What are the best city tours in Zanzibar City?

Free walking tours

Join a passionate local guide for a free tour of the best of Zanzibar City. Free walking tours in Zanzibar focus on the main spots in Stone Town. See everything you would on a paying tour with the flexibility of matching your tip amount to your enjoyment of the trip.

Small-group tours

Absorb Zanzibar City’s sights in a group of 10 to 15 people. Your guide will introduce you to the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, recount eons-worth of stories and offer tips and advice on other must-do activities during your stay.

Private tours

Take advantage of affordable tours just for you and your choice of people. Private tours in Zanzibar City are hassle-free and assure that no question goes unanswered. Your guide will be happy to customize your outing according to your interests and mobility levels.

Are there any combos available with city tours in Zanzibar City?

Stone Town city tours plus Prison Island

A walking tour of Zanzibar City plus an excursion to Prison Island allows you to take in the best of the area in one day. Enjoy a 3-hour guided exploration of Stone Town before boarding a boat for the approximately 30-minute ride to Prison Island.

While the island is named for its ominous-sounding structure, Prison Island’s main draws are its white sand beaches and resident Aladabra giant tortoises. Tour the colorful prison and grab some lunch at the complex’s restaurant (at your own expense).

Reserve the rest of your time to feed, pet and photograph the tortoises and to snorkel right off shore. The thriving tortoise community features some animals that are well over 100 years old. Tours offer the use of snorkeling gear with the price of the outing.

City tour plus spice farm and Jozani Forest

Ideal for a short stay in Zanzibar, a combination walking tour of the city, stop at a spice farm and jaunt to the Jozani Forest in one trip give you a well-rounded sampling of the southern half of Zanzibar.

Marvel at Stone Town’s highlights before heading out of town to one of the many spice farms near the city. Spy your favorite spices as they grow as part of trees and flowers. Taste seasonings and fruits grown on the farm and watch as skilled farmers scale coconut trees while singing.

Relax on a 1-hour drive through tropical scenery to Jozani Forest. The park shelters a population of about 2,000 red colobus monkeys, a species that was once in danger of extinction. Snap photos with these affable animals as they saunter by.

Finish your visit with a along the boardwalk through a mangrove forest for a glimpse of this vital ecosystem.

Which places are visited?

Old Fort

Witness many of the layers of civilizations who left their mark on Zanzibar at the Old Fort. Enclosed within the 300-year-old walls of the Arab fort, you’ll find excavations of Portuguese colonial ruins and an entire ancient Swahili town.

Slave Market

Stone Town’s Anglican church sits atop the location of one of the world’s last-operating slave markets. Zanzibar’s slave trade continued for decades after other parts of the world deemed it inhumane.

Pause at the memorial of the thousands of people who were bought and sold here, and remember that much of the island’s wealth was at the expense of human lives.

House of Wonders

At the end of the 19th century, the second sultan of Zanzibar commissioned a palace that would be the envy of eastern Africa. The building was the first in Zanzibar to have electricity and the first in eastern Africa to boast an elevator.

The erstwhile palace now houses a museum displaying the objects and stories of eastern African people over the centuries. Exhibits range from Swahili fishing tools and a traditional “mtepe” boat, ornate Arab furniture, Portuguese cannons and artifacts of Zanzibar’s cruel slave trade.

Forodhani Gardens

Stone Town’s cheerful Forodhani Gardens are the center of Zanzibar City’s social scene. The park is criss-crossed with paths lined with flowering plants and affords you great seaside views and people-watching. Come nightfall, the park is a street food venue serving up cheap and delicious eats. Stay for musical and dance performances that spring up around you.

Darajani Market

Stone Town’s Darajani Market has been supplying Zanzibaris with fresh foods for over 100 years. Wandering its warren of stalls can be an overwhelming assault on the senses. Tame the experience with a guide. Learn about products, haggle with vendors and pick up some authentic souvenirs like spices and handicrafts.

How much do city tours in Zanzibar City cost?

Zanzibar City group tours cost around US$30 per person. Private tours cost from US$30 per person to US$100 per person. Higher-cost tours cover admission fees to attractions and pickup from hotels in a private vehicle.

What is included?

City tours in Zanzibar City with a guide are engaging explorations of the town’s highlights enhanced by historical facts and cultural interactions. Paying tours include pickup from your Stone Town accommodation.

Combo tours include car and boat transportation to destinations outside of Stone Town, informative commentary from your guide, and bottled water. Prison Island tours also provide snorkeling gear to use during your outing.

Where does it start?

Zanzibar City tours start at landmarks in Stone Town like the Old Fort, Forodhani Gardens or Darajani Market. However, most tour guides will meet you at your Stone Town hotel for no additional cost.

How long does it last?

Zanzibar City tours last from 1 to 8 hours with most tours lasting around 3 hours. Private tours allow flexible time frames, and combo tours last around 9 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Some Zanzibar City tours are wheelchair friendly while others are not. Check with your tour provider at the time of booking to make sure your needs will be met.

When is the best time for a city tour in Zanzibar City?

The best time for a city tour in Zanzibar City is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October. During this period, the weather is generally comfortable for exploring the city and its attractions. However, keep in mind that Zanzibar is a tropical destination, so even during the dry season, there may be occasional showers.

If you prefer to avoid crowds, it's advisable to plan your city tour in Zanzibar City during the shoulder seasons. These months generally have fewer tourists compared to the peak season - December to February - and can offer a more relaxed experience.

Travel tips

Carry a water bottle with you in order to stay hydrated.
Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim region, and it's respectful to dress modestly, convering both shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites
The sun in Zanzibar can be intense, so it's important to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Zanzibar is a tropical destination with mosquitoes, so it's advisable to use mosquito repellent, especially during the evening and early morning when mosquitoes are most active.
Bargaining is a common practice, so feel free to negotiate prices with vendors to get the best deal at the local markets.
Be cautious of your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
Take the time to engage with locals, learn about their culture, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

City Tours in Zanzibar City