Zanzibar: Stone Town, Prison Island, and Spice Farm Tour

If you’re looking to get a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar in just one day, this private tour from Sweet Apple Tours And Safaris offers a fantastic option. Designed for travelers eager to see the island’s cultural, historical, and natural highlights, it combines a bit of everything—historic buildings, wildlife encounters, and aromatic spice farms—all in a comfortable, private setting.

What we love about this experience is the personalized touch it provides: private transportation, a flexible itinerary, and a chance to indulge your senses. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and bottled water makes it great value for the $160 price tag.

One potential downside? The tour does involve some boat rides and snorkeling, which might not suit everyone—particularly those prone to seasickness or with mobility challenges. Still, it’s an excellent choice for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Zanzibar’s many treasures in a single day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of history, wildlife, and culture without sacrificing comfort or convenience. It’s ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the essentials.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private transportation and a flexible schedule mean you can enjoy the day at your own pace.
Cultural and Historical Insights: Stone Town offers a deep dive into Zanzibar’s past, architecture, and local life.
Wildlife and Snorkeling: Prison Island’s giant tortoises and snorkeling in clear waters are memorable highlights.
Aromatic Spice Farm: Learn about local spices, taste fresh fruits, and smell fragrant herbs.
All-Inclusive Pricing: The cost covers transportation, lunch, bottled water, and entry fees, making it straightforward budget-wise.
Accessible for Most: While not suitable for very young children or people with mobility issues, the tour accommodates most able travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Zanzibar Tour

Starting the Day: Private Pick-up and First Stop at Stone Town

The tour kicks off with a hotel pick-up in Zanzibar, ensuring a smooth start to your day. From there, you’ll head straight to Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar. Known for its winding alleys, bustling markets, and colonial architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see.

Here, you’ll explore some of the most notable buildings—each with its own story. Expect to see the old slave market, the House of Wonders, and other significant sites that reflect Zanzibar’s past as a hub for trade, spice, and slave routes. One reviewer mentions that their guide, Bakari, did a fantastic job explaining the history with engaging quiz questions, making the experience both fun and educational. Bakari’s proficiency in German added extra value, especially if you speak the language.

The charm of Stone Town is the vibrant atmosphere—locals bartering at markets, spice stalls spilling fragrant herbs, and the blend of African, Arab, and European influences. It’s a lively, authentic experience that gives you a real sense of Zanzibar’s cultural melting pot.

Prison Island: Giant Tortoises and Snorkeling

Next, the tour transports you to Prison Island, a short boat ride from Stone Town. This island is famous for its giant tortoises, some of which are over a century old. You’ll get the chance to see these gentle giants up close; they are surprisingly slow, but their size and calm demeanor make for a memorable encounter.

One reviewer noted that the island appeared somewhat worn, but the tortoises were the highlight—”pretty rundown” didn’t detract from the joy of seeing these ancient creatures. Afterward, you can enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters surrounding the island, where the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish make for an enjoyable underwater experience. The water’s calmness and visibility offer great opportunities for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

The boat trip and snorkeling add a bit of adventure, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the stunning ocean views. Expect to spend around an hour or so on the island, which is enough to take photos, pet the tortoises, and enjoy the aquatic scenery.

The Spice Farm: Aromatic Delights and Tasting

From the island, you’ll head inland to a spice farm—a highlight for many visitors. Here, you’ll walk through lush organic gardens and see how local spices and fruits are grown. Your guide will introduce you to a variety of herbs and spices, explaining their uses and significance in Zanzibari cuisine and culture.

The sensory experience is what makes this part special—you’ll smell fresh ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and more, while tasting ripe fruits straight from the tree. The review mentions Bakari’s engaging way of sharing knowledge through quizzes, making the visit both educational and fun. Expect to see and taste a range of fresh produce, which helps explain why Zanzibar is renowned for its spices.

This stop is not just about the senses; it also offers insight into the importance of spice farming to the island’s economy. Many visitors find it fascinating to see how spices like nutmeg and pepper are cultivated and harvested, gaining a deeper appreciation for local farmers’ work.

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Concluding the Tour: Return to Stone Town

After the spice farm, the journey circumscribes back to Stone Town. Some travelers choose to explore the old harbor, markets, or the narrow streets at their leisure. The tour’s flexible design allows you to soak in the sights or head straight to your hotel.

The entire experience generally lasts around 7-8 hours, making it a well-paced day that covers a lot without feeling rushed. The inclusion of bottled water and a hearty lunch ensures you stay refreshed and energized throughout.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour offers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the day comfortable, especially in the tropical heat. Bottled water is provided, along with a delicious lunch to keep you going.

Travelers should remember essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Comfortable clothes are recommended—think lightweight and breathable. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, those with mobility issues, or non-swimmers, due to boat rides and walking.

Important notes:

• The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, French, Italian, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.
• You can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.
• Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Authentic Insights From Previous Travelers

Sally’s review captures the essence of the tour perfectly. She appreciated Bakari’s detailed explanations and fun quiz style at the spice farm. She also describes Prison Island as “pretty rundown,” but enjoyed the chance to see the tortoises and snorkel. Her highlight was the boat trip to a sandbank where she could swim and relax, despite the cold lunch and soft fries.

This feedback reminds us that while some sites may be a bit worn, the experience of seeing giant tortoises and snorkeling remains special. The flexibility at the end allows for personal exploration of Stone Town, making the overall day feel tailored to your interests.

The Sum Up

This Zanzibar tour offers an excellent mix of history, wildlife, and culture, all wrapped into a single day. The private setting enhances the experience, making it more personalized and comfortable than large group tours. The inclusion of a spice farm, historic Stone Town, and Prison Island makes it incredibly well-rounded—perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the best of Zanzibar without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

While not suited for very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s ideal for travelers who value authentic experiences, local insights, and a bit of adventure. For those with curiosity about Zanzibar’s past and present, this tour delivers a memorable snapshot that captures the island’s essence.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The overall experience lasts around 7-8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, bottled water, lunch, and entry fees are included, making it easy to budget without extra surprises.

Can I snorkel at Prison Island?
Yes, snorkeling in the clear waters around Prison Island is part of the experience, with calm conditions suitable for most swimmers.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 5, especially due to boat rides and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for the day.

Is there a language barrier?
The tour is offered in English, French, Italian, and German, so language should not be a problem.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour is private, allowing some flexibility; you can enjoy the sites at your own pace and explore Stone Town afterward if desired.

What is the condition of Prison Island?
It might seem somewhat worn, but the giant tortoises and snorkeling experience outweigh this for many visitors.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Zanzibar tour strikes a fine balance between structured sightseeing and personal exploration, making it a highly recommended choice for those eager to see the island’s highlights without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: