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History · Zanzibar City itinerary

Stone Town History: The Best Itinerary

Stone Town’s past runs deep. Here is how to explore its heritage — with the best-rated tours to book.

At a glance

  1. 1Walk
  2. 2Slavery
  3. 3Forodhani
  4. 4Heritage

An old-city walk

Swahili, Arab and Indian heritage.

The slave-trade history

The market and memorial.

Forodhani night market

Swahili street food by the sea.

Stone Town history — FAQ

What is Stone Town’s history?
A blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian and European heritage, and a former centre of the spice and slave trades.
Where was the slave market?
At the site of today’s Anglican cathedral, marked by a memorial and holding chambers.
Why is it a UNESCO site?
For its outstanding, well-preserved Swahili coastal trading town.