Stone Town is the old quarter of Zanzibar Town, the capital of Unguja Island, the biggest island on the Zanzibar archipelago.
The town itself is divided into two by the main 'Creek Road' west is the old quarter, known as Stone Town and east is a sprawl of new build.
Stone Town contains many interesting historical buildings most of which were constructed during the 19th century when Zanzibar was a major trading centre. This was a main port for the slave trade and this history of this can be seen in the 'slave market' still under one of the churches in town. There are many grand buildings, some in ruins but many which have been renovated to a high standard.
The best way to get around is on foot, many of the streets are extremely narrow and not accessible to cars (though mopeds and scooters can still whizz up behind you!). There are lots of interesting craft shops and market stalls and particularly intereting souvenirs include the traditional Zanzibari 'tingatinga' paintings and the many fabrics and of course, spices which the island is famous for.
There is a bank with an ATM machine that accepts western cards if you need to draw local cash and several change bureaus. Tanzanian shillings are recommended for shopping in the markets and local shops, though some of the larger places do accept credit cards. Most shops and markets open every day with a siesta time between about 1300 - 1600 in the afternoon then opening again until early evening.
Most of the hotels that we use in Stone Town are carefully restored old buildings with traditional Zanzibari 4 poster beds and traditional furnishings and antiques. Be aware that Zanzibar does have a mainly muslim culture and some hotels will not serve alcohol. There are a huge range of really good restaurants around the town so you are spoilt for choice for eating out here!
The ferry port is a short walk from the centre of town and ferries cross about 4 times a day between Stone Town and Dar es Salaam. The airport is a 10 minute drive and there are about 7 scheduled flights a day linking the island with the mainland.
Tours of the town can be arranged giving an insight to the cultural heritage of the area where a blend of Arab, Indian, Persian and European have influenced the architecture. Historic buildings with huge, carved wooden doors shaded by balconies line the narrow streets and tours include visits to the town market, slave market, House of Wonders, Sultan Palace and the National Museum.
