Stone Town, Spice Tour

Stone Town, Spice Tour & Prison Island – Full Zanzibar Experience (Private Tour)

Discover the true heart and heritage of Zanzibar with this immersive private tour that perfectly blends history, culture, nature, and relaxation. This full-day excursion takes you through three of Zanzibar’s most iconic and unforgettable experiences: the winding streets of Stone Town, the aromatic secrets of a Spice Plantation, and the exotic charm of Prison Island (Changuu Island).

With a private guide and transport, you’ll explore at your own pace, ask as many questions as you like, and fully absorb the sights, scents, and stories of this magical island.

🏙️ 1st Stop: Stone Town City Tour – A Walk Through History

Your journey begins with a guided walking tour of Stone Town, Zanzibar’s ancient trading hub and UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you wander its labyrinthine streets and narrow alleyways, you’ll feel the deep blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European cultures that shaped this vibrant city.

🌟 Highlights of the Stone Town Tour:

• The Old Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral: Learn the dark and moving history of the East African slave trade at the site of the former market and the striking cathedral built to commemorate its end.
• The House of Wonders (Beit el Ajaib): Admire the grandest building in Stone Town, once the Sultan’s ceremonial palace and the first building in East Africa to have electricity and an elevator.
• The Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe): Step inside this massive fortress built by the Omanis in the 17th century, now hosting local markets and cultural events.
• Darajani Market: Walk through the bustling central market where Zanzibari spices, fresh produce, seafood, and handmade goods are traded daily.
• Freddie Mercury’s House: A stop for music fans—the birthplace of the Queen frontman Freddie Mercury (Farrokh Bulsara), marked with a small plaque.
• Forodhani Gardens: Enjoy views of the harbor and learn about this popular evening food market spot, where local delicacies are served under the stars.

As this is a private tour, you can stop at any shop, gallery, or café that catches your eye — perfect for buying souvenirs or sipping fresh coconut water from a street vendor.

🌿 2nd Stop: Spice Plantation Tour – The Secrets of Zanzibar’s Spices

Next, you’ll drive outside Stone Town to one of Zanzibar’s famous Spice Farms, where you’ll discover why the island earned the nickname “The Spice Island” during the 19th century.

🌟 What to Expect on the Spice Tour:

• Guided Walk Through the Farm: Your expert local guide will walk you through rows of fragrant trees, bushes, and vines — introducing you to spices and fruits growing in their natural environment.
• See, Touch & Smell Fresh Spices: Experience the scents and flavors of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, cardamom, turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and more. You’ll be encouraged to smell, touch, and even taste these spices freshly picked from the plant.
• Exotic Fruits: Depending on the season, enjoy sampling fruits such as starfruit, jackfruit, mango, bananas, and passionfruit directly from the trees.
• Coconut Climbing Show (Optional): Some farms offer a fun demonstration by local climbers who scale tall coconut trees while singing traditional songs.
• Herbal & Spice Products: After the tour, browse a small shop where natural spice blends, oils, soaps, and herbal teas are available — all made from the farm’s produce.

🏝️ 3rd Stop: Prison Island (Changuu Island) – History & Nature by the Sea

In the afternoon, you’ll board a private boat from Stone Town to Prison Island, a small islet just offshore but rich in history and wildlife.

🌟 Highlights of the Prison Island Visit:

• The Giant Aldabra Tortoises: Meet some of the world’s oldest and largest tortoises — some over 150 years old. You can feed and gently touch these peaceful giants in their protected sanctuary.
• Historic Ruins: Explore the remnants of the 19th-century prison and quarantine buildings, which once held rebellious slaves and served as a quarantine station for sailors and travelers.
• Snorkeling & Swimming (Optional): If you wish, enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters or snorkel along the shallow coral reefs surrounding the island, teeming with small tropical fish and marine life.
• Scenic Views: The island offers fantastic views back toward Stone Town and across the Indian Ocean — perfect for photographs or simply relaxing on the shore.

🌟 Why This Private Tour Is Special:

• Exclusive & Flexible: Travel in comfort with a private guide and vehicle, allowing you to adjust the tour as you wish — linger longer at favorite spots or skip what you don’t need.
• Full Cultural Immersion: Experience Zanzibar’s history, culture, spices, and natural beauty all in one day.
• Perfect for All Ages: Great for couples, families, photographers, and history or nature lovers alike.
• Local Insight: Your private guide will share stories, legends, and facts that bring each site to life — making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

🌴 Optional Extras You Can Request:

• Traditional Swahili lunch at a local home or café
• Extended snorkeling time at Prison Island
• Fresh tropical fruits tasting at the Spice Plantation
• Photography assistance for memorable moments

Quick Facts

• Tour Type: Full-day private tour
• Starting Point: Stone Town
• Destinations: Stone Town, Spice Plantation, Prison Island (Changuu Island)
• Key Activities: Guided walking tour of Stone Town, spice farm exploration, giant tortoise interaction, historical site visits, optional snorkeling/swimming
• Inclusions: Private guide, private transport (vehicle and boat), entrance fees to sites
• Cultural Highlights: Old Slave Market, House of Wonders, Old Fort, Darajani Market, Freddie Mercury House, Forodhani Gardens
• Nature Highlights: Fresh spices and fruits, Aldabra giant tortoises, coral reefs at Prison Island
• Ideal for: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, couples
• Flexibility: Customizable itinerary, personalized pace