Zanzibar Tourist Attractions

Zanzibar is a group of several islands lying off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean, consisting of Zanzibar Island (locally, Unguja), Pemba Island, and many smaller islands. Zanzibar island is approximately 90km long and 30km wide. There are a number of historically important and beautiful buildings in Stone Town. It is easy to arrange a simple walking tour with a local guide who can teach you some history. These are some of the main tourist attractions at Zanzibar:

The Darajani Market:

The Darajani Market opened in1904, is a perfect spot to buy and sell inside the market with the most active time being between 9 and 11 a.m.. The sloped-roof structure houses a fruit-vegetable and meat market while jewelry, fabric and spices are sold in shops on surrounding streets. An antique fair runs twice each week. The Market is located near the Anglican Cathedral courtyard which was once home to the Great Slave Market, that closed in 1873.

House of Wonders:

Built in 1883 for Sultan Barghash, Beit el-Ajaib [House of wonders] stands four stories high. This was the first building on the island to have electricity and this is why it is named ‘House of Wonders’. Two Portugese cannons, from the 16th century, stand before the enormous carved doors of the marble-floored Museum of History and Culture. It shows the dhow culture of the Indian Ocean, the struggle for independence, Swahili civilization and displays on the history of the Swahili Coast.

Forodhani Gardens:

Forodhani Gardens are a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists. These gardens are perfect for an evening stroll and provides a chance to taste some local delicacies like grilled octopus, goat meat, samosas and other snacks. Next to Forodhani Gardens is the Zanzibar Orphanage, an English Club and an Indian School.

Old Fort:

The Old Fort, also known as Arab Fort or Ngome Kongwe, is located near the aforementioned Beit el-Ajaib [House of wonders]. Built in 1560, the Old Fort is the oldest structure in Stone Town. It was constructed by Omani Arabs to defend against attacks by the Portugese. The relics of an old Portugese church can be seen within the walls. During the 19th century, it was used as a prison and later as a depot for the railway. Now, a partially renovated portion holds the Zanzibar Cultural Center with an art gallery and open-air theatre, where traditional dance and music are performed.

Peace Memorial Museum:

Beit el-Amani [Peace Memorial Museum] is located in two buildings that are one block away from each other. After the first World War, the Peace Memorial Museum served as a rememberance for those lost. Today it is a museum with numerous interesting artifacts including traditional crafts and household items from residents of Zanzibar. Displays in the domed main building showcase David Livingstone’s medical chest, information about the harvesting of cloves and the story of the battleship, the Konigsberg, which sunk during World War I.

Anglican Cathedral:

The Anglican Cathedral was built in 1887 and is located on the site of the old slave market. It was built to honor the end of the slave trade. The high altar of the cathedral was constructed on the location of the whipping post. The stained-glass windows in the Anglican Cathedral are dedicated to David Livingstone who played a major role in the abolition of the slave trade. The wooden crucifix was carved from the tree under which Livingstone was buried in Chitambo.

- Neeti Vijaykumar

Tags: places to go at zanzibar, zanzibar, zanzibar attractions, zanzibar tourist places

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