Stone Town on foot
2.5 km · half day · UNESCO old town · 7 stops
- Old Fort
- House of Wonders
- Forodhani Gardens
- Hamamni Persian Baths
- Freddie Mercury Museum
- Christ Church Cathedral
- Darajani Market
120 places · Lonely Planet, Time Out, Condé Nast and TikTok virals · no Eater coverage · 5 routes · dala-dala & bajaji
Tap a route and it gets drawn on the map, stop by stop.
Tap a place to see how to get there by dala-dala, taxi, bajaji or on foot.
This interactive map of Zanzibar (Tanzania) brings together 120 hand-picked places: 42 attractions, 41 restaurants, 19 cafés and 18 shops. It also includes 5 walking routes with their stops in order. For every place you get what it is, a practical tip and how to get there by public transport. It is free, works on your phone and needs no sign-up.
· Curated by the HOLASIM team · How we make the maps
Tap a route to see it drawn on the map, stop by stop.
2.5 km · half day · UNESCO old town · 7 stops
12 km · full day · Northern beaches · 6 stops
18 km · full day · East coast & kitesurfing · 7 stops
20 km · half day · Nature & the interior · 5 stops
15 km · half day · Zanzibar's history · 6 stops
Ngome Kongwe · Stone Town
The 1650 Arab fortress is now a cultural hub with an open-air amphitheatre and craft stalls.
Tip: Walk into the inner courtyards for free; at night the ZIFF film festival (July) screens here.
🚇 Walk from Forodhani, 2 min. It's the go-to landmark for orienting yourself in Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapBeit-al-Ajaib · Stone Town
Stone Town's tallest 19th-century palace, and the most photographed façade on the island.
Tip: It partly collapsed in 2020 and remains closed (restoration funded by Oman, no reopening date as of 2025). Snap the façade and its carved doors from the square instead.
🚇 It sits right on the seafront, next to Forodhani. It's perfectly visible from outside.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapChrist Church Cathedral · Mkunazini
Built over the former slave market; below, the holding cells survive alongside Clara Sörnäs's sculpture.
Tip: Climb the bell tower (you can) for the best free 360° view over Stone Town's rooftops.
🚇 On foot from Darajani, 3 min. Museum entrance is on the side door off Creek Road.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · UNESCO
Show on mapOld Dispensary · Stone Town
An 1887 building with the most elaborately carved wooden façade on the whole seafront.
Tip: The wooden-balconied interior is free to visit during office hours, Monday to Friday.
🚇 Right across from the Malindi dhow harbour, a few steps from the ferry pier.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMercury House · Kenyatta Road
The house where Farrokh Bulsara was born, now a museum packed with Queen memorabilia.
Tip: Lines form fast in high season; buy the ticket at the door and go before 10am.
🚇 On foot along Kenyatta Road, between Kelele Square and Shangani, 5 min from the Old Fort.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapHamamni Persian Baths · Stone Town
Zanzibar's first Persian-style public bathhouse, built in 1888 for Sultan Barghash.
Tip: It no longer works as a bathhouse, but a local guide will walk you through the original steam chambers and drains.
🚇 Steps from Darajani market, down an unnamed alley — just ask for 'Hamamni'.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapTippu Tip's House · Shangani
The mansion of the most powerful 19th-century ivory and slave trader in Zanzibar.
Tip: You can't go in (it's private property), but the original carved door is still standing.
🚇 In Shangani, near the Serena Hotel — it's now an apartment building, visible from the street.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapSt. Joseph's Cathedral · Stone Town
The two tallest Gothic spires on Stone Town's skyline, finished in 1898 by French missionaries.
Tip: Free to enter outside mass hours; the original stained-glass windows are still intact.
🚇 On foot, two blocks from the Old Fort, on Cathedral Street.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMalindi Mosque · Stone Town
One of the oldest working mosques in the Malindi quarter, known for its distinctive round minaret.
Tip: It's an active mosque: dress with shoulders and knees covered, and don't enter during prayer times if you're not Muslim.
🚇 In the Malindi quarter, an 8-min walk from the dhow harbour.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapSalme Museum · Shangani
A small, private museum on the princess who fled Zanzibar for love and wrote the first Arabic memoir by a woman.
Tip: It's tiny and guided by the curator herself — book via WhatsApp, there's no walk-in entry.
🚇 A few steps from the House of Wonders, down an unnamed pedestrian lane.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMtini Mkubwa · Shangani
A giant baobab planted in 1911, historically the meeting point for fishermen and dhow builders.
Tip: It's a great spot to photograph dhows heading out to fish at dawn.
🚇 On the seafront path toward the Africa House Hotel, 5 min from Forodhani.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMtoni Palace Ruins
The ruins of the first royal palace built in Zanzibar, in the 1830s, once home to Princess Salme.
Tip: Almost no tourists here — one of the quietest, most photogenic ruins on the island at sunset.
🚇 By dala-dala toward Bububu, or a 15-min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMaruhubi Palace Ruins
What's left of Sultan Barghash's marble harem palace, its columns now wrapped in strangler-fig roots.
Tip: Go mid-afternoon: the light through the columns and roots makes for the best photos.
🚇 On the road to Bububu, by dala-dala or taxi, 12 min from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMalindi dhow harbour
The dhow-sailing harbour and the ferry pier to Dar es Salaam — Stone Town's most classic postcard shot.
Tip: Buy your ferry ticket the day before at the official Azam Marine office to avoid door touts.
🚇 At the end of Creek Road, next to the Old Dispensary; this is where the Azam Marine and Zan Fast ferries to Dar es Salaam depart.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapJozani-Chwaka Bay National Park
Unguja's only national park: native forest and home to the endemic Kirk's red colobus monkeys.
Tip: Entry includes a mandatory guide and the elevated mangrove boardwalk — bring bug spray.
🚇 On the Stone Town–Paje road: dala-dala route 324 or any taxi/tour heading east.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapJozani Sea Turtle and Tortoise Sanctuary
A community-run sanctuary with rescued giant and sea turtles, right next to Jozani forest.
Tip: Easy to combine with the colobus visit the same morning; many tours bundle it at no extra cost.
🚇 A 5-min drive from the Jozani visitor centre.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapZanzibar Butterfly Centre
East Africa's largest tropical butterfly sanctuary, just steps from Jozani.
Tip: It's a community project reinvesting in forest conservation — worth the entry fee even in the rain.
🚇 A 5-min walk or drive from Jozani forest, on the same road.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapPrison Island / Changuu
An island that never actually held prisoners: today it's a sanctuary for century-old Aldabra giant tortoises, with turquoise-water snorkelling.
Tip: Haggle for the boat + entry + snorkel as one combo at the pier — it's cheaper than booking separately.
🚇 Boat from Malindi harbour, a 20-min crossing; arranged right at the pier.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMangapwani Slave Chamber
An underground cave used to hide enslaved people after the 1873 abolition.
Tip: Bring your own flashlight; the local guide tells the story in far more depth than any sign does.
🚇 A 45-min drive or dala-dala ride from Stone Town, along the Mkokotoni road.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMangapwani Coral Cave
A natural coral cave with a freshwater pool once used by local fishermen.
Tip: Easy to combine with the slave chamber on the same trip — just ask your driver to stop at both.
🚇 A few minutes' drive from the Mangapwani slave chamber, same village.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapKuza Cave · Jambiani
A freshwater cenote hidden in the forest, perfect for a swim away from the sea and the strong sun.
Tip: The water stays cool year-round — bring a change of clothes; there's morning yoga some days.
🚇 A 10-min bajaji or taxi ride inland from Jambiani beach.
Featured in: TikTok · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMnarani Turtle Sanctuary · Nungwi
Natural tidal ponds where green and hawksbill turtles are rehabilitated before release.
Tip: At low tide you can swim right in the natural pools alongside the turtles.
🚇 At Nungwi's northern tip, a 10-15 min walk from any resort in the area.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapKizimbani Spice Farm Tour
Zanzibar's classic spice tour: clove, cardamom, nutmeg and vanilla growing right in the forest.
Tip: Guides will weave you hats and necklaces from palm leaves along the way — tipping is customary.
🚇 A 25-min drive from Stone Town, inland along the Kidichi road.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapNakupenda sandbank
A white sandbank that emerges at low tide in the middle of turquoise water, with a seafood lunch included.
Tip: Confirm the tour is timed to that day's low tide — otherwise the sandbank simply doesn't appear.
🚇 Boats depart from Mbweni or Malindi harbour; tours usually pick you up at your hotel.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapMnemba Atoll
A private atoll with one of East Africa's best coral reefs — snorkelling and diving alongside dolphins.
Tip: The island itself is private (a luxury resort), but the surrounding reef is open to the public on a dive tour.
🚇 Boats leave from Matemwe or Kiwengwa; about a 20-30 min crossing to the atoll.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKizimkazi Dimbani Mosque (1107)
East Africa's oldest standing mosque, with a kufic inscription dating back to 1107.
Tip: It's an active mosque: ask permission before photographing the interior, and cover your shoulders.
🚇 In Kizimkazi Dimbani village, at the island's southern tip; usually combined with the dolphin tour.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapKizimkazi dolphin tours
The departure point for swimming with wild bottlenose and common dolphins in their natural habitat.
Tip: Go early (6-7am) — later in the day the dolphins move off and the boats pile up.
🚇 Kizimkazi marina, at the island's southern tip, 1h15 by car from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapNungwi Beach
The liveliest beach in the north, with open-water sunsets and traditional dhow shipyards.
Tip: Unlike the east coast, tides barely affect Nungwi's beach — you can swim almost any time.
🚇 Dala-dala route 116 from Darajani, or a 45-60 min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKendwa Beach
The island's only beach without a strong tide swing: white sand and turquoise water swimmable all day.
Tip: This is the key fact when choosing a beach: if low tide worries you, Kendwa is the only one that's always swimmable.
🚇 Dala-dala route 116 to Nungwi, then taxi/bajaji for the last 3 km, or a direct taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapPaje Beach
East Africa's kitesurfing capital: steady wind, schools for every level and endless white sand.
Tip: The best wind season runs December-February and June-September — book lessons ahead.
🚇 Dala-dala route 324 from Darajani, or a 50-min taxi from Stone Town via the Jozani road.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapJambiani Beach
A genuine fishing village with a very long beach, much quieter and more authentic than Paje.
Tip: At low tide the sea retreats hundreds of metres — the best time to see women harvesting seaweed.
🚇 Dala-dala route 309/310 from Darajani, or a 1h taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapBwejuu Beach
Paje's quiet sister: the same endless white sand, with a fraction of the crowd.
Tip: Perfect for walking end to end at sunset without running into anyone.
🚇 Dala-dala route 309/310, same line as Jambiani, an intermediate stop.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMatemwe Beach
The gateway to Mnemba Atoll: a quiet beach with a direct view of the private island.
Tip: It's the most practical base if diving or snorkelling Mnemba is the main plan.
🚇 Dala-dala route 118 from Darajani, or a 40-min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapKiwengwa Beach
Kilometres of white sand lined with all-inclusive resorts — the most 'postcard' beach on the east coast.
Tip: It's the top pick for families because it stays wide even at high tide.
🚇 Dala-dala route 117 from Darajani, or a 40-50 min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapPongwe Beach
A small, near-private bay between Kiwengwa and Uroa, one of the least crowded on the island.
Tip: Ideal for anyone after a beach without crowds or constant beach vendors.
🚇 45-min taxi from Stone Town; no direct dala-dala line, you need to connect via Kiwengwa.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMichamvi Kae sunset point
A rare geographic quirk: on this east-coast tip, the sun sets over the sea, not inland.
Tip: It's exactly this geographic quirk that made it the east coast's most famous sunset.
🚇 On the Michamvi peninsula, a 1h taxi from Stone Town or combined with a stop at The Rock Restaurant.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · TikTok
Show on mapChwaka Blue Lagoon
A shallow, turquoise bay where local fishermen sail tiny handmade dhows.
Tip: At low tide you can walk long stretches across the bay's sandy floor.
🚇 Chwaka village, on the central east coast, a 35-min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapCarved doors of Kelele Square
The densest cluster of hand-carved teak doors in all of Stone Town, blending Arab and Indian motifs.
Tip: Every door has meaning: the brass spikes are an Indian tradition meant to stop elephants — never actually a local threat.
🚇 In Kelele Square, near Freddie Mercury's house, all on foot through the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · TikTok
Show on mapKibweni Palace · Kibweni
A 1911 presidential palace turned museum, far quieter than the ones in the old town.
Tip: Almost no tourists — a good pick if you've already done the Old Fort and House of Wonders and want something different.
🚇 On the north coast toward Bububu, a 15-min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapPortuguese Arch · Stone Town
A small stone arch, a remnant of the island's 16th-century Portuguese fortifications.
Tip: Easy to walk right past — it's small and built into a modern wall, so watch for the plaque.
🚇 In Shangani, near the Serena Hotel.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapOld Customs House · Stone Town
The harbour's former customs building, a witness to Zanzibar's 19th-century trading boom.
Tip: Easy to combine with the Old Dispensary and dhow harbour visit — all on the same block.
🚇 On the seafront, near the Old Dispensary.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapUroa Beach
A genuine fishing village on the central east coast, without Kiwengwa's tourist scale.
Tip: At sunset you can watch fishermen bring the day's catch straight onto the sand.
🚇 A 50-min taxi from Stone Town, between Kiwengwa and Pongwe.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapBustani ya Forodhani · Stone Town
The seafront gardens fill at sunset with stalls selling Zanzibari pizza, mishkaki skewers and sugarcane juice.
Tip: It's a first-timer price trap: watch what locals order before you do, and start with a fixed-price Zanzibari pizza (egg, minced meat, cheese).
🚇 On foot from anywhere in the old town — it's the central square of the seafront.
Featured in: Time Out · TikTok
Show on mapTea House Restaurant · Hurumzi
A multi-course dinner on Stone Town's highest rooftop, with live taarab music.
Tip: Reservation is mandatory, hours in advance; the menu is fixed, so flag dietary restrictions ahead.
🚇 In Hurumzi, an unnamed alley near Hamamni — ask for directions or go with a guide the first time.
Featured in: Time Out · Condé Nast Traveler
Show on mapLukmaan · Stone Town
The unmissable local canteen: a real Swahili-food buffet at neighbourhood prices, zero staging.
Tip: Go at lunchtime when the stew selection is widest; try the pilau and the octopus curry.
🚇 On foot, 3 min from Darajani market.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on map6 Degrees South · Shangani
A seafood restaurant right on the water with a rooftop terrace over the rocks — a Stone Town sunset classic.
Tip: Book the upper terrace table for sunset — it fills up fast after 6pm.
🚇 In Shangani, right on the seafront, an 8-min walk from the Old Fort.
Featured in: Time Out · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapPatamu (Tatu) · Shangani
A beach-club-style bar and restaurant right in the old town, popular for sunset cocktails.
Tip: Live DJ sets are common on weekends in high season.
🚇 In Shangani, steps from the coast, an 8-min walk from the Old Fort.
Featured in: Time Out
Show on mapMaru Maru Hotel Rooftop
Stone Town's highest, most panoramic rooftop — a full 360° sunset view over the rooftops.
Tip: Arrive 30-40 min before sunset to grab a table by the railing.
🚇 On Gizenga Street, steps from the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Time Out · TikTok
Show on mapKholle House · Stone Town
A restaurant and boutique hotel in a restored 19th-century mansion, elevated Swahili cuisine.
Tip: The inner courtyard with its pool is a good midday escape from the heat.
🚇 Near the Old Dispensary, a 5-min walk from the dhow harbour.
Featured in: Condé Nast Traveler
Show on mapBeyt Al Salaam · Hurumzi
A boutique restaurant in a former merchant's mansion, Swahili-Arab fusion cuisine in an intimate dining room.
Tip: A smaller, more intimate option than Emerson in the same neighbourhood — a good backup if there's no table.
🚇 In the Hurumzi quarter, near Emerson on Hurumzi.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapLivingstone's · Shangani
A beachfront restaurant with tables right on the sand, great for a barefoot seafood lunch.
Tip: DJ sets and beach bonfires happen on weekend nights.
🚇 On the Shangani seafront, next to Livingstone House.
Featured in: Time Out · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapSilk Route · Stone Town
Indian-Swahili cuisine in a Silk Road-styled courtyard, known for its curries and biryani.
Tip: The open courtyard is cool at night, but book a covered table during the rainy season.
🚇 A few blocks from the Old Fort, right in the old town.
Featured in: Time Out
Show on mapSambusa Two Tables · Stone Town
A two-table stall that's been making Stone Town's best homemade sambusas for generations.
Tip: Open only in the late afternoon/evening and sells out fast — arrive early for the full variety.
🚇 Down a pedestrian alley near Kelele Square — the name says it all, literally two tables.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapLa Taverna · Stone Town
Home-style Italian cooking right in Stone Town, a solid pizza-and-pasta break from all the curry.
Tip: A good pick if you're travelling with kids who've had enough of the local spice.
🚇 Near Darajani, in the southern part of the old town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMercury's · Shangani
A seafront restaurant dedicated to Freddie Mercury, with a terrace on the sand and themed nights.
Tip: Saturdays often bring a live band playing Queen covers right on the beach.
🚇 On the Shangani seafront, next to the dhow harbour.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapAfrica House Hotel
Stone Town's most historic terrace bar, a former British social club, with the most photographed sunset in town.
Tip: It fills up well before sunset — head up to the terrace at least 45 min early.
🚇 On the Shangani seafront, a 6-min walk from the Old Fort.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapAmour fast food · Stone Town
A classic little stall for yoghurt, date and fruit shakes — a quick stop between the market and the old town.
Tip: The spiced date shake is the most popular order — cheap and refreshing in the midday heat.
🚇 Very close to Darajani, on the walk into the old town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapJoshi's · Stone Town
The old town's only purely vegetarian restaurant, home-style Indian cooking with no meat at all.
Tip: Ideal if you're travelling vegetarian or vegan — no need to modify anything, the whole menu already qualifies.
🚇 Near Gizenga Street, a few blocks from the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapDhow Palace Hotel · Stone Town
A boutique hotel restaurant with a cool inner courtyard, a solid Swahili option without leaving the old town.
Tip: A good lunch pick to escape the midday sun without losing the local vibe.
🚇 In Shangani, near Kelele Square.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapHarbour Indian Kitchen · Stone Town
Contemporary Indian cooking with harbour views, one of the most recommended new names in 2025 guides.
Tip: One of the few places in the old town with real air conditioning — a good pick during the hottest hours.
🚇 Near Gizenga Street, steps from the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Time Out
Show on mapThe Rock · Michamvi (Pingwe)
The restaurant perched on a rock in the middle of the sea — the single most viral TikTok spot on the island.
Tip: Book weeks ahead and confirm that day's tide schedule — it decides whether you cross by boat or on foot.
🚇 In Pingwe, on the east coast; at high tide a free boat ferries you over, at low tide you just walk.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok · Condé Nast Traveler
Show on mapBlue Lagoon · Chwaka
A simple beach restaurant with the day's catch, facing the turquoise lagoon on the central east coast.
Tip: A good lunch stop if you're heading toward The Rock Restaurant or Michamvi Kae.
🚇 On the coast between Chwaka and Michamvi, a 1h taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKae Beach Bar · Michamvi
A laid-back beach bar on the Michamvi peninsula, hammocks and cocktails right on the water.
Tip: A great spot to wait for Michamvi Kae's 'reverse' sunset, drink in hand.
🚇 On the Michamvi peninsula, near Michamvi Kae, a 55-min taxi from Stone Town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapShanga · Paje
A beach restaurant in Paje with seafood and pasta, popular with the kitesurf crowd.
Tip: A good pick for a light lunch between kite sessions without leaving the sand.
🚇 On Paje beach, walkable from any kitesurf school in the area.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapJambo Beach · Paje
A hotel restaurant right on Paje beach with a direct water view and an international-Swahili menu.
Tip: A relaxed spot for breakfast while watching kitesurfers rig their kites at dawn.
🚇 On Paje beach, steps from the kitesurf schools.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMr Kahawa · Paje
A surf-vibe café-restaurant in Paje, all-day brunch and some of the best smoothie bowls on the east coast.
Tip: It's the kitesurf community's meeting point — a good place to ask around for school recommendations.
🚇 In Paje village, inland from the beach, a 5-min bajaji ride.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapDoors to Zanzibar · Jambiani
A boho-styled beach restaurant in Jambiani with fresh seafood right on the water.
Tip: A good sunset pick with far fewer crowds than Paje.
🚇 On Jambiani beach, walkable from any guesthouse in the area.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMango Beach House · Jambiani
A beachfront restaurant and guesthouse in Jambiani, home-style Swahili-international cooking.
Tip: A good home-cooking option if you're staying in the southern part of Jambiani.
🚇 On Jambiani beach, in the southern half of the village.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapRed Monkey Lodge · Jambiani
A beachfront lodge restaurant at the southern tip of Jambiani, a solid pick for grilled seafood.
Tip: Easy to combine with a visit to Kuza Cave, just minutes away.
🚇 At the far south end of Jambiani beach, toward Makunduchi.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapBlue Oyster Hotel · Jambiani
A boutique hotel restaurant in Jambiani, international cuisine with solid value for money.
Tip: One of the few in Jambiani with a full, varied vegetarian menu.
🚇 On Jambiani beach, in the central part of the village.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapCholo's Beach by Bento · Nungwi
Nungwi's most famous beach bar for a sunset with music and cocktails right on the sand.
Tip: Bonfires and sometimes fire dancers show up after sunset.
🚇 On Nungwi beach, walkable from any resort in the area.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapLangi-Langi Beach Bungalows · Nungwi
A beach-bungalow restaurant in Nungwi, grilled fish with your feet in the sand.
Tip: A quieter alternative to Cholo's for the same sunset, good for couples.
🚇 On Nungwi beach, near Cholo's Beach Bar.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMnarani · Nungwi
A simple restaurant next to the Mnarani turtle sanctuary, a solid stop for fresh fish.
Tip: Easy to pair with the turtle sanctuary visit without moving anywhere else.
🚇 At Nungwi's tip, next to the Mnarani Turtle Sanctuary.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMatemwe Rock · Matemwe
A simple local restaurant in Matemwe, a solid home-style Swahili meal before or after diving Mnemba.
Tip: A budget-friendly pick to round out a day of diving the atoll.
🚇 In Matemwe village, near the beach.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapOne Ocean · Matemwe
A restaurant next to the One Ocean dive base, facing the channel out to Mnemba Atoll.
Tip: Perfect for lunch between two dives without leaving the jetty.
🚇 In Matemwe/Kiwengwa, next to the dive base of the same name.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKendwa Rocks · Kendwa
The restaurant of Kendwa's most iconic resort, on the island's only beach without a strong tide.
Tip: Full-moon Saturdays bring a beach party that's well known across the island.
🚇 On Kendwa beach, the landmark of the whole area.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapCoral Rock Hotel · Jambiani
A hotel restaurant built literally on top of the coral rock, with a terrace looking out to open sea.
Tip: The upper terrace is one of the best free sunset viewpoints on the south coast.
🚇 In southern Jambiani, right on the coast.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapDhow Inn · Jambiani
A guesthouse restaurant in Jambiani with a simple Swahili menu and great value.
Tip: A solid budget lunch option between Paje and Jambiani.
🚇 In northern Jambiani, near Paje.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMtoni Marine Hotel
A beachfront hotel restaurant next to the Mtoni Palace ruins, Swahili-European cooking.
Tip: A good lunch stop to combine with the palace ruins visit.
🚇 A 15-min drive or dala-dala from Stone Town, on the Bububu road.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapPongwe Beach Hotel
A boutique hotel restaurant facing Pongwe's hidden bay, fresh seafood and a relaxed vibe.
Tip: Great for a peaceful lunch away from the Kiwengwa crowds.
🚇 On Pongwe beach, between Kiwengwa and Uroa.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapTangawizi Bistro · Stone Town
A bistro named after ginger ('tangawizi' in Swahili), fusion cooking in an intimate courtyard.
Tip: A good quiet dinner option, less crowded than the famous rooftops.
🚇 Near the Anglican Cathedral, in the southern old town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKarafuu Beach Resort · Michamvi
A beachfront resort restaurant on the Michamvi peninsula, a good seafood stop on the way to The Rock.
Tip: A good lunch pick if you arrive early in the area before dinner at The Rock.
🚇 On the Michamvi peninsula, along the road to The Rock Restaurant.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapBaboo Beach Cafe · Shangani
A beachfront café-restaurant in Shangani, a great breakfast spot with water views.
Tip: A relaxed breakfast option before heading out to explore the old town.
🚇 In Shangani, on the seafront, near the Serena Hotel.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapZanzibar Coffee House · Mkunazini
Stone Town's classic café, set in a restored merchant's house with a rooftop view.
Tip: Head up to the second-floor terrace — one of the best free viewpoints in the old town.
🚇 In Mkunazini, near the Anglican Cathedral, a 5-min walk from Darajani.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapZenji Garden Cafe · Stone Town
A café with a hidden garden courtyard right downtown, a green refuge amid all the stone.
Tip: A good pick for an afternoon coffee out of the direct sun.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, down an inner passage.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapJafferji House & Spa · Stone Town
The rooftop café-restaurant of the most photogenic boutique hotel in the old town, full rooftop views.
Tip: It's open to the public even if you're not staying at the hotel — a good lesser-known tip.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, entering through the ground-floor art gallery.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapLazuli · Shangani
A design-forward, boho-styled café with great smoothie bowls and fresh juices in Shangani.
Tip: One of the few with a full vegan menu and solid wifi for a morning of work.
🚇 In Shangani, steps from the seafront.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapPuzzle Coffee · Shangani
A small, tidy specialty café, one of the pioneers of Stone Town's specialty coffee wave.
Tip: One of the very few spots on the island with genuine 'third wave' espresso.
🚇 In Shangani, near Tippu Tip's House.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMaru Maru Hotel · Stone Town
The street-level café of the Maru Maru hotel, a quick stop before heading up to the rooftop.
Tip: A good morning coffee stop before returning later for the sunset view upstairs.
🚇 On Gizenga Street, on the ground floor of the Maru Maru hotel.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKarafuu Coffee House · Stone Town
A new-wave 2025 specialty café, named after the clove ('karafuu' in Swahili).
Tip: Uses high-altitude Tanzanian specialty beans (Kilimanjaro/Mbeya) — Zanzibar itself grows no coffee, but the mainland does.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, right in the old town.
Featured in: TikTok · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapStone Town Cafe
A simple neighbourhood café in Shangani, a good budget breakfast stop before a day of walking.
Tip: A good pick if you want local prices, without the staging of the newer cafés.
🚇 In Shangani, near Tatu Bar & Restaurant.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapEmerson Spice Hotel · Tharia Street
The tea house at the Emerson Spice boutique hotel, a rooftop alternative to the Hurumzi terrace.
Tip: It's calmer than the Emerson on Hurumzi dinner and needs far less advance booking.
🚇 On Tharia Street, near the Zanzibar Coffee House.
Featured in: Condé Nast Traveler
Show on mapLuis Yoghurt Parlour · Stone Town
The old town's most classic ice cream and yoghurt parlour, a Stone Town after-dinner staple.
Tip: The frozen yoghurt with seasonal fruit is the classic order.
🚇 Right in Shangani, steps from most of the old town's restaurants.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapBuni Bistro · Stone Town
A café-bistro whose name means 'coffee bean' in Swahili, with a solid brunch menu and filter coffee.
Tip: A good relaxed brunch pick before heading out to walk the old town.
🚇 Near the Shangani seafront.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapCafé Turquoise · Stone Town
A small café with a brightly painted terrace, a good morning coffee stop near the water.
Tip: A photogenic pick for a morning coffee before the heat sets in.
🚇 Near the Shangani seafront.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapSwahili Cafe · Stone Town
A locally styled café, good for spiced chai tea and Swahili snacks mid-morning.
Tip: The ginger-and-cardamom chai is the local drink to try before reaching for a coffee.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapCafe Africano · Stone Town
A simple café right in the old town, a good quick stop between the Old Fort and Darajani.
Tip: A good cheap, quick coffee stop halfway between the old town's two busiest walking points.
🚇 Between the Old Fort and Darajani market.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapMr Kahawa · Paje
The go-to specialty coffee spot on the east coast, with cold brew and good filter coffee outside Stone Town.
Tip: The best real coffee option if you're on the east coast and missing Stone Town's level.
🚇 In Paje village, inland from the beach.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice · TikTok
Show on mapCafé Foro · Stone Town
A small café near the House of Wonders, a good quick coffee stop between museums.
Tip: A good short stop before or after visiting the Old Fort.
🚇 Steps from the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapWatu Hodari · Stone Town
A locally styled neighbourhood café, good filter coffee and budget-friendly snacks.
Tip: A good pick if you want local prices, away from the more touristy cafés in the old town.
🚇 Near the Anglican Cathedral.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapZanzi Cafe · Stone Town
A simple café near the Anglican Cathedral, a good coffee stop before climbing the bell tower.
Tip: A good short stop before or after the cathedral visit.
🚇 Steps from the Anglican Cathedral and Slave Market Memorial.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapAsaly House · Shangani
A café-restaurant in a restored Shangani house, a good relaxed brunch option.
Tip: A good brunch pick, quieter than the cafés right on the seafront.
🚇 In Shangani, near Tippu Tip's House.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapSoko la Darajani
Stone Town's chaotic central market: spices by weight, fresh fish, kanga fabrics and everything in between.
Tip: Go early (7-9am) to catch the fish auction, and always haggle on spice prices.
🚇 On Creek Road, a 5-min walk from Forodhani; dala-dalas from downtown also stop here.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMemories of Zanzibar · Kenyatta Road
The most complete gift and souvenir shop on Kenyatta Road, from spices to handicrafts.
Tip: A good place to buy spices pre-packed for the flight home without any spilling.
🚇 On Kenyatta Road, steps from Freddie Mercury's house.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapSasik Patchwork & Covers · Stone Town
Hand-sewn textiles made by a cooperative of Zanzibari women, one-of-a-kind covers and patchwork.
Tip: Every piece is different — buying here supports local artisans directly.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, in the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapMoto Handicrafts · Stone Town
A craft cooperative working palm fibre and recycled materials into design-forward products.
Tip: Every product is made on the island from waste materials — a souvenir with real impact.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapUpendo Means Love · Stone Town
Fashion made from traditional kanga fabrics, reinterpreted into contemporary garments.
Tip: Kanga fabrics always carry a printed Swahili proverb — ask what yours means before buying.
🚇 Near Mkunazini, on the way to Zanzibar Coffee House.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapSurti & Sons · Stone Town
A historic antiques dealer specializing in objects and furniture from the spice- and slave-trade era.
Tip: Ideal if you want a genuine piece of history, not a replica — prices reflect that authenticity.
🚇 Near Kelele Square, right in the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on map1001 Organic · Stone Town
An organic spice shop with vacuum-sealed packs, designed specifically for travelling without spills.
Tip: The clove, cardamom, nutmeg and vanilla combo pack is the most popular edible souvenir.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders.
Featured in: Lonely Planet · Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapReal Art · Stone Town
A contemporary Tanzanian art gallery, a good spot to buy an original painting rather than a souvenir.
Tip: Many artists work in the Tinga Tinga style — ask about the painter before buying the piece.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, right in the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapFahari Zanzibar · Stone Town
A local design concept store, from jewellery to home decor, spotlighting young Zanzibari brands.
Tip: A good one-stop curation of local design if time is tight for shop-hopping.
🚇 In Shangani, near Tippu Tip's House.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapZanzibar Curio Shop · Stone Town
One of several curio and antiques shops in the old town, old coins, maps and colonial-era objects.
Tip: Several curio shops sit right next to each other on this block — worth comparing prices across all of them.
🚇 Near the House of Wonders, alongside several similar antiques shops.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapJafferji Gallery · Stone Town
The gallery and boutique of one of Zanzibar's best-known artist families, original painting and fashion.
Tip: Worth a look even if you don't buy — just to see the distinctive Jafferji painting style.
🚇 On Kenyatta Road, steps from Freddie Mercury's house.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapOne Ocean · Matemwe
A dive shop with over 20 years on the island, the classic launch point for Mnemba trips.
Tip: They rent and sell gear, and run full PADI certifications if you want to learn to dive on the spot.
🚇 In Matemwe/Kiwengwa, on the coast facing the Mnemba channel.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapZenji Boutique · Stone Town
A beach-styled clothing and accessories boutique, easy to pair with the café next door.
Tip: A quick shopping stop in the same building as the café of the same name.
🚇 In the southern old town, near Darajani.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapHabari Art Gift Shop · Jambiani
An African-fashion and made-to-order craft shop on the east coast, traditional tailoring included.
Tip: You can order a made-to-measure kitenge-fabric garment for pickup in a couple of days.
🚇 In Jambiani, on the coastal road heading south.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapKaya Shop & Tearoom · Stone Town
A shop-and-tearoom combo blending local design objects with a small menu of teas and bites.
Tip: A good combined stop for shopping and an afternoon tea break.
🚇 Near the Anglican Cathedral, in the southern old town.
Featured in: Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice
Show on mapDuka la Kanga · Mwanakwerekwe
A kanga and kitenge fabric shop at local prices, off the old town's tourist circuit.
Tip: Prices here run noticeably lower than in the old town's souvenir shops.
🚇 In Mwanakwerekwe, a 10-min taxi or dala-dala from the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapRock Fashion · Stone Town
An urban fashion and accessories shop in the Malindi quarter, a good pick off the Kenyatta Road circuit.
Tip: A good pick if you want neighbourhood prices, not tourist-zone ones.
🚇 In the Malindi quarter, near the dhow harbour.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on mapCholo Shop · Stone Town
A general goods shop in the Mikunguni neighbourhood, a good stop for everyday shopping.
Tip: Not a tourist destination in itself, but a good look at how locals shop outside the old town.
🚇 In the Mikunguni neighbourhood, a 10-min taxi from the old town.
Featured in: Lonely Planet
Show on map