Zanzibar: Stone town Guided tour and Prison island

Zanzibar: Stone town Guided tour and Prison island

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Explore Zanzibar’s rich heritage with guided tour of Stone Town’s historic sites, take boat trip to Prison Island to see giant tortoises, visit old prison ruins, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

Highlights

Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural traditions of Zanzibar
Learn your self about back history of Zanzibar
Experience local traditional culture of Zanzibar people
Explore prison island and historical of old ruin
Enjoying marine conservation and good snorkeling

Description

## **Zanzibar Stone Town Guided Tour** ### ️ *Step back in time through Zanzibar’s cultural heart…* Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historic old quarter of Zanzibar City. This walking tour immerses you in the winding alleys, ancient architecture, and multicultural heritage of the island. ### ⭐ **Highlights:** * **Old Fort** – Built by Omani Arabs in the 17th century, now housing shops, a cultural center, and an open-air amphitheater. * **House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)** – An iconic building, once the ceremonial palace of the Sultan, and one of the first in East Africa with electricity and an elevator. * **Sultan’s Palace Museum** – Discover the life and legacy of Zanzibar’s former sultans. * **Freddie Mercury’s House** – See the birthplace of Queen’s legendary frontman. * **Darajani Market** – Bustling local market offering spices, produce, meat, and vibrant energy. * **Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral** – A moving visit to the site of one of the last open slave markets in the world, with emotional insights into the slave trade. ### What to Expect: * A knowledgeable, local guide providing historical and cultural insights. * Opportunities to interact with locals and shop for souvenirs or spices. * Plenty of photo ops in narrow alleys, wooden carved doors, and historic squares. ## ️ **Prison Island Experience (Changuu Island)** ### *A scenic boat ride to an island with a unique past and giant residents…* Just a 25–30 minute boat ride from Stone Town, **Prison Island** (also known as Changuu Island) offers a blend of history, nature, and beach relaxation. ### ⭐ **Highlights:** * **Giant Aldabra Tortoises Sanctuary** – Meet and feed some of the world’s oldest and largest tortoises, some over 150 years old. * **Old Prison Ruins** – Originally intended for rebellious slaves and later used as a quarantine station during the yellow fever outbreak. The ruins still stand as a stark reminder of the past. * **Snorkeling in Crystal Waters** – The island’s surrounding coral reef offers a chance to spot colorful tropical fish (snorkeling gear is usually provided). * **Beautiful Beach** – Relax or swim on the white sand beach with turquoise waters. ### What to Expect: * A short boat ride with scenic views of Stone Town’s coastline. * Interaction with tortoises in a sanctuary setting. * Guided walk through historical sites and forest paths. * Optional swimming or snorkeling session. ## ✅ **Tour Info (Typical Combined Tour):** * **Duration**: 4–6 hours * **Departure Point**: Stone Town hotels or arranged pickup * **Inclusions**: Guided tour, boat ride to Prison Island, entrance fees, sometimes bottled water/snorkeling gear * **What to Bring**: Comfortable walking shoes, sunhat, swimwear, sunscreen, camera, water bottles ## **Why You’ll Love It:** * Perfect mix of **culture**, **history**, and **nature** in one experience. * Suitable for individuals, couples, or families.