UNESCO Wonders: Discovering Zanzibar’s Stone Town On Foot

Stone Town is a fascinating maze of ‘old’ Zanzibar’s ancient stone buildings, palace ruins, and 19th century Portuguese and Omani architecture coloured with modern markets. Known for its grand carved doors and bustling culture, it’s a must-see for any visitor to Zanzibar. Newmark Hotels & Reserves, along with Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge, invites you on a guided tour where you can explore the enchanting Stone Town on foot.

The Sultan and The Singer
Stone Town is located along a natural harbour on the west coast of Unguja, Zanzibar’s main island. Its characteristic stone houses are believed to have been built by the Sultanate of Oman in the 1800s, and the town became a flourishing trade centre in the Spice Islands.

The town was home to Sultan Said bin Sultan in the mid-19th century, before British rule and Zanzibar’s independence in 1964. The famous lead singer of Queen, Freddy Mercury, was also born in Stone Town on September 5, 1946.

Buildings That Tell a Story
Zanzibar has more than 560 carved doors, with the oldest dating back to 1694 AD. They represented social position and wealth at the time. In 2000, Stone Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique centuries-old architecture with influences from Europe, Arabia, Persia, and India.

Some of its most famous buildings are the Old Fort, the Sultan’s Palace Museum, and the Old Dispensary, with its carved wooden balconies and stained glass windows. Many old coral stone houses have also been converted into buildings for public use, such as banks, giving the town its age-old appeal, where every stone is a testimony to its rich history.

Explore the Beauty of Stone Town On Foot
Newmark Hotels & Reserves is giving all guests of Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge the chance to explore Stone Town on foot when they book a Stone Town/Spice Tour package for two. Simply book a 2-night stay in a deluxe bungalow and enjoy a guided tour as part of the deal.

You’ll be transported from the hotel to Stone Town, where you can view the Sultan’s palace ruins, the iconic carved ornate doors, local fresh produce markets, and other historical buildings such as the House of Wonders and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

This remarkable private guided walking tour allows you to get to know island locals and their everyday activities. Enjoy the ancient structures, cosmopolitan culture, and, of course, shopping!

Duration: 3 hours plus 1-hour transfers
Includes: Transfer, guide, water, and entrance to slave market

Book now with Newmark Hotels & Reserves to delve into this prime destination in Zanzibar. Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge is a luxury beachside hotel offering modern amenities in an indulgent setting. The Spice & City Adventure package includes a guided tour of Stone Town as well as daily breakfast, garden views, and departure transfers.