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Discover Zanzibar’s hidden history: explore Mangapwani Cave with its underground water well, WWII bunkers, and enjoy a guided Stone Town city tour through its most iconic landmarks.

Highlights

• Explore Mangapwani Cave and its underground water well
• Walk through both cave passages, including the endless tunnel
• Experience daily local life at Jaw’s Corner and Darajani Market
• Learn powerful history at the Anglican Church & Former Slave Market

Description

Your adventure begins at the famous Forodhani Park, where your local guide welcomes you beside the ocean breeze and the lively atmosphere of Stone Town. After a short briefing, you board a comfortable van and start your journey heading north to Mangapwani village, a name that carries its own mystery. Along the way, your guide explains why this area is called Mangapwani and the deep history connected to it. Upon arrival, you descend into the Mangapwani Cave, home to an underground water well that once supplied water to the ancient settlements. Inside the cave are two separate passages—one with a clear endpoint and another that seems endless, disappearing deeper into darkness. You will explore both routes safely with your guide, learning how locals used the cave for survival, storage, and secret movement. From the cave, you continue to the World War II bunkers, a hidden reminder of the island’s role during global conflict. Here you walk through surviving tunnels and visit the WWII memorial tower, listening to stories of soldiers, defense lines, and the surprising role Zanzibar played in protecting the Indian Ocean waters. After the northern discoveries, your journey brings you back to Stone Town for a rich and immersive City Tour. The walk begins again at Forodhani Gardens, where the ocean meets culture and daily life. You will explore: • House of Wonders (Beit el-Ajaib) A grand 19th-century palace known for its enormous doors, royal history, and the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator. • Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) The oldest surviving building in Stone Town, once used by Omani soldiers to defend the island. Today it is a lively cultural center filled with art, craft stalls, and history carved on its walls. • Freddie Mercury Museum A tribute to the world-famous singer who was born right here in Stone Town. Discover his childhood home and the early life of the legendary Queen vocalist. • Jaw’s Corner The beating heart of local life. Here you see elders playing bao, sipping black coffee, and discussing everything from politics to football. • Peace Memorial Museum A unique circular building showcasing Zanzibar’s deep political and cultural history, from the sultans to the revolution. • Darajani Market Bustling, colorful, and full of life—this is where Zanzibari people buy spices, fish, fruits, and daily essentials. It is the perfect place to feel the real rhythm of the island. • Anglican Church & Former Slave Market A powerful historical site built on the location of the old slave market. Here you learn the emotional story of slavery, abolition, and how the church became a symbol of freedom. Throughout the entire journey, your guide shares stories, legends, and hidden details that transform each location into a living experience. From underground caves to royal palaces, from WWII tunnels to lively markets—this tour brings together the true spirit of Zanzibar, both past and present.

Includes

Professional licensed local guide Round-trip transport by air-conditioned van Entrance fee to Mangapwani Cave Entrance to WWII bunkers City tour of Stone Town Bottled drinking water

Important Information

• Wear comfortable walking shoes — the cave and city tour require light walking The cave has steps and uneven ground; not recommended for guests with mobility issues Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses — Zanzibar can get very hot The tour may pass through busy local areas, including markets Entrance fees not included can change based on local authorities Ensure you have enough battery for photos; many locations are deeply photogenic

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund