Visiting Zanzibar City, where history meets island charm
As the capital of the Zanzibar archipelago, Zanzibar City is a distinct destination where history, culture, and coastal life converge. Located on the western coast of Unguja Island, it draws in travelers with a unique atmosphere shaped by Arab, Persian, Indian, and African influences, similar to the layered cultural history found in parts of New Orleans.
Stone Town, a journey back in time
The historic heart of Zanzibar City, Stone Town, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Its narrow alleys are lined with historic houses featuring the island's signature carved wooden doors, which reveal the turbulent history of the region. Notable landmarks include the Old Fort and the House of Wonders, both serving as reminders of Arab influence, while the Darajani Market offers a raw, unfiltered look at daily life. A visit to the Slavery Museum, located near the former Anglican cathedral, is essential for understanding the island's somber past.
A lively and authentic atmosphere
Zanzibar City is a working city filled with markets, restaurants, and small shops. Travelers spend hours wandering the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, sampling local specialties like spiced seafood skewers, or watching the sunset from the Forodhani Gardens, where the street food scene hits its stride as the sun goes down.
Proximity to beaches and maritime activities
While Zanzibar City is not a beach town itself, it serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby beaches like Kendwa or Nungwi, which are about a one-hour drive away. Excursions on a dhow (a traditional wooden boat) or snorkeling trips in the surrounding turquoise waters are the perfect way to break up your time in the city.
How to get there
To reach Zanzibar City, you will fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), which is located just 10 km (about 6 miles) from the city center. Flights from the US typically involve a layover and can range from 550,000 to 1,000,000 TZS (about $200 to $375) for the final leg or regional connection, with total travel time often exceeding 20 hours. From mainland Tanzania, a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam takes 30 minutes and costs between 135,000 and 270,000 TZS (about $50 to $100). High-speed ferries also connect Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar in about 2 hours.
On the island, there are corners of nature that have remained mostly wild, and it is very nice to relax there, go hiking, or go diving.
In Zanzibar City, I was pleasantly surprised by the architecture and the cultural activities. The slave market and Prison Island will remind you of the dark times of the African continent.