Stonetown: Food markets and street food walking tour

Detailed Itinerary

You will have a guide accompany you as you explore the narrow streets of Stone Town and Darajani Market, where you can haphazardly browse souvenir shops and snap Instagram-worthy pictures while learning about Swahili culture.

The narrow streets that make up Stone Town are all very similar to one another. It is strongly advised that you stroll with a tour guide who is familiar with Stone Town if this is your first visit.
During your walking tour of Stone Town, your guide will show you various historical and cultural sites as you stroll through the town’s streets.

One of the oldest Swahili towns still in existence in East Africa is Stone Town. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. When it comes to the historical details of the East African region, Stone Town has a wealth of stories to share.

Explore the oldest area of Zanzibar City to see influences from Portugal, the Middle East, and mainland Africa everywhere you look. There is evidence from archaeology that suggests Stone Town has been inhabited for 20,000 years or more.
The late 17th-century Portuguese fort is the centerpiece of the UNESCO-designated Heritage Site. The fort is perched atop the ruins of an old settlement that existed centuries before the Portuguese. The other main draws in Stone Town are from the mid-1800s and show off the horrifying wealth generated by the slave trade in the region.

As your tour guide leads you through the narrow streets, be sure to snap photos of Zanzibar City’s famed wooden doors. Stone Town’s carved, elaborate wooden doors and growing culinary scene have come to represent the town. Take in the fresh produce at Darajani Market, end the day at the market in Forodhani Gardens with a local beer in hand from a rooftop bar.

Your guide will enlighten you on the fascinating histories of Stone Town and the Zanzibar islands during this tour. You will witness the site of Freddie Mercury’s birth, the former Slave Market, and the historic Darajani Market, which dates back to Sultan Ali Bin Humud’s reign.

Darajani Market offers more than just grocery shopping. The city gets its fresh food, clothes, and other necessities from the traditional bazaar. Notice well-known potatoes and carrots next to regional mainstays like breadfruit and yucca. In addition, the market offers spices, handicrafts, and fabrics that make excellent souvenirs.

The main attraction of Forodhani Gardens is its evening street food market. More senses will be stimulated by the lively and joyous ambiance than just your palate. There are numerous food stands offering Stonetown delicacies in this charming park by the sea. Forodhani Gardens offers a taste of real Zanzibar life and draws both locals and visitors.

“Urojo” soup, a sweet and sour soup, is the best street food. This soup, which is made to order, has Portuguese influences and is also referred to as “Zanzibar mix.” Add items such as chutney, beef, eggs, vegetables, and other hot sauces. Add some cassava chips and savory-fruity broth on top, then enjoy.

Sample the skewered meats known as “mishkaki” and the savoury and sweet Zanzibar pizza. Observe as vendors smash sugar cane and extract the cool liquid. When combined with ginger, the beverage provides a pleasant contrast to the unusual spices.

While you finish your dinner, get ready for an evening of entertainment. In Zanzibar City’s social hub, Forodhani Gardens, young people often stage spontaneous performances. Witness incredible feats of strength, captivating dances, and fearless sea dives.

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