Centred around the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets of Stone Town, Zanzibar City serves as the lively capital of the Zanzibar archipelago. It lies on the west coast of Unguja Island and includes the modern residential area of Ng’ambo, which translates from Swahili as “The Other Side”.
Things to do in Zanzibar
Spend a day exploring atmospheric Stone Town, which was the historic capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate. Its predominantly 19th-century buildings reflect influences from Persia, India and Europe, as well as the local Swahili culture. Don’t miss the former Sultan’s residence of the House of Wonders and the adjacent Old Fort, which was originally built in the 17th century by the Omanis.
Take note of the beautifully carved wooden balconies that adorn the Old Dispensary and learn about the former slave market that lay where the magnificent Christ Church now stands. If you’re interested in the lifestyle of the Zanzibari Royal Family, pay a visit to the Palace Museum where you’ll find antique furnishings, personal belongings and writings of former princess Sayyida Salme.
A short drive north of Zanzibar City is the Mtoni Palace Ruins, a collection of roofless halls and arches that were once home to Sultan Seyyid Said. You can combine your visit with a stop at the Kidichi Spice Farms to learn about the cultivation of local delicacies or enjoy a stroll through the nearby Masingini Natural Forest Reserve.
Getting around Zanzibar
Zanzibar City is around 10 minutes’ drive from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Africa, the Middle East and Europe. Regular ferries travel between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City while both dala-dalas and taxis connect Zanzibar City with towns and villages around the island. Most of Zanzibar City’s attractions are accessible on foot.