Visit Stone Town, Prison Island, and the spice farms of Zanzibar on this day trip. You'll see three of the island's most important cultural and historical sites, plus giant tortoises!
Tour Details
At the indicated time, we'll pick you up from your hotel in Zanzibar. From there, we'll start our walking tour of Stone Town, where you'll visit an organic spice town and explore the historic Prison Island all in one day. Ready?
First, we'll head to Stone Town, the capital city and oldest part of Zanzibar, to explore its historical sites. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage dating back to the 19th century, Stone Town reflects a blend of Arabian, Indian, Persian, and European influences. As you stroll along its charming, narrow streets, you'll see its old slave markets and bustling daily markets, where you can shop. You'll also admire the former palaces, such as the Sultan's Palace, and learn about its tragic history of slave trading.
After this walking tour, we'll hop on the van and head to a spice plantation, where you'll embark on a guided walking tour of a spice farm. Did you know Zanzibar is known as the "Spice Island?" It's the global leader in producing spices like nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the aromas and flavors of the spices, herbs, and tropical fruits such as coconuts, papaya, vanilla, chili, black pepper, and more! You'll witness firsthand the cultivation of spices, herbs, and fruits while listening to the guide explain cultivation methods and uses of these crops.
Hungry? After visiting the spice farm, we'll enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch at the farm, where you can truly savor the diverse culinary uses of spices.
Lastly, we'll head to the pier to take a boat ride to Prison Island. Here, you'll learn about the island's historic use as a prison for slaves in the 1860s. This island is home to large land tortoises, weighing an average of 440 pounds (200 kilograms) and living over 100 years. In fact, on Prison Island, you'll find the Aldabra Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, a major tourist attraction, with a 200-year-old tortoise!
Finally, we'll hop back on the boat and set off to Stone Town, where we'll conclude the tour back at your hotel.