The old and new worlds collide in Zanzibar’s capital city, where one small creek separates the historical Stone Town (formerly the capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate) from the developed Ng’ambo, a settlement for African slaves in the mid-1800s and now home to developed office and apartment blocks. Enjoy the unique combination of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences – the city’s spice- and slave-trade legacy.
Acknowledged as the historical and cultural core of the capital, Stone Town’s waterfront is dotted with architectural and traditional delights, from the Old Fort and House of Wonders – the former containing local markets and an arena for small shows while the latter’s terraced walls house a museum of Swahili and Zanzibar culture. The stunning white walls and turquoise stuccos that adorn the balconies of the Old Dispensary are a visual pleasure, while at night the enticing Forodhani Gardens tempt visitors with its market of ethnic seafood.
With Zanzibar Airport a short ride away from Zanzibar City, visitors can jump straight in to the maze of alleyways, waterfront amusements, and idyllic beaches and pastimes available throughout the town. The rest of the island is easily accessed from this area, as are neighbouring islands such as Pemba.
Highlights
- The capital of the archipelago and most developed town in the region
- Stone Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique architecture and culture
- The area is easily accessible with Zanzibar Airport being a short ten-minute drive away
- The old world mixed with the new between Ng’ambo and Stone Town
- Architectural and cultural delights await between the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and Forodhani Gardens
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