ZANZIBAR, Stone town tour, Prison Island & Spice farm

This Zanzibar tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s multifaceted charm — blending history, culture, and nature in one day. Though I haven’t experienced it myself, numerous reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an engaging, value-packed adventure that appeals to curious travelers eager to uncover Zanzibar’s stories and flavors.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the rich historical context of Stone Town, with its winding streets and colonial architecture. Second, the sensory delight of walking through a spice farm, where aromas and tastes transport you back in time. Lastly, the unique wildlife encounter on Prison Island, especially with the giant tortoises that steal everyone’s heart. The only consideration might be the full-day nature of the trip, which requires some energy and comfort with early starts.

This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and nature without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable for travelers interested in authentic experiences at an accessible price point. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking involved and the boat ride.

• Cultural & Historical Insights: Explore Stone Town’s colonial architecture and learn about its past as a trade hub and slave market.
• Sensory Spice Experience: Walk through a spice farm, touching, smelling, and tasting Zanzibar’s famous spices and herbs.
• Wildlife Encounter: Feed and learn about the giant land tortoises on Prison Island, home to some of the oldest and largest tortoises in the world.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Abdoul speak multiple languages (including French), enriching your understanding.
• Value for Money: At $125 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out, including transportation, entry tickets, and a delicious local lunch.
• Practicality & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, making it accessible and stress-free.

Starting in Stone Town: Walking Through History

Your day begins early with hotel pickup, setting the tone for an immersive exploration of Zanzibar’s historic heart. Stone Town’s charm lies in its narrow alleys, bustling markets, and beautifully carved doors—a testament to its diverse influences. Walking past former palaces, Sultans’ residences, and Arab mansions, you’ll see the blend of Arab, Indian, Persian, and European architecture that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

One of the highlights is understanding the darker chapters tied to this city, notably the slave markets. These sites remind visitors of Zanzibar’s once-thriving trade routes and the complexities of its past. The reviews mention a guide named Abdoul, who speaks excellent French, making the storytelling accessible for French-speaking travelers and adding a layer of depth to the experience.

Expect to spend around 2 hours wandering through the streets, with opportunities to browse local stalls and pick up souvenirs. This part of the tour offers an authentic feel — not just a sightseeing checkmark but a chance to see daily life in Zanzibar.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Spice Farm: Aromas, Flavors, and Culinary Secrets

After soaking in the history, you’ll head to a spice farm just outside the city. Zanzibar’s moniker as “Spice Island” is well-earned. The guided tour here is a sensory journey—walk among cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and more. The guides are typically knowledgeable and passionate, explaining the cultivation processes and the many uses of each spice.

We loved the way the tour encourages touching and tasting, making it more than just a visual experience. You might find yourself peeling a fresh nutmeg or ripping a piece of cinnamon bark, which enhances your appreciation for these ingredients in local cuisine.

According to reviews, the lunch served at the spice farm is a highlight—delicious Swahili dishes seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, showcasing how integral these elements are to Zanzibar’s culinary identity. This part of the trip not only delights the taste buds but also provides insights into the island’s agricultural traditions.

Prison Island: Giant Tortoises & Historic Tales

The boat ride to Prison Island (also called “Changuu”) lasts about 30 minutes and offers relaxed sightseeing from the water. When you arrive, the Aldabra giant tortoises immediately steal the spotlight. These gentle giants, some over 200 years old, weigh around 200 kg and can live over a century. It’s a rare chance to touch, feed, and learn about these animals—something that keeps many visitors engaged and animated.

Beyond the tortoises, Prison Island has a historical story as a former prison for rebellious slaves in the 1860s. While the prison structure is still present, most visitors find the tortoise sanctuary the real star of this stop.

The reviews mention how feeding and interacting with the tortoises is a memorable highlight, and guides often share stories about the island’s past, adding depth to this wildlife encounter. The overall experience feels relaxed, with plenty of time to explore and snap photos.

Practicalities & Logistics

The entire tour spans approximately a full day, with transportation included—a huge benefit considering the logistics of moving between sites in Zanzibar’s traffic. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

The cost of $125 covers the guide, boat trips, entry tickets (like the $15 prison island fee), and the spice farm lunch—making it a good value for a comprehensive experience. Extras like food and drinks are not included but can be requested, giving you the flexibility to enjoy local flavors at your own pace.

Participants should bring sunglasses, a camera, cash, and beachwear if they want to enjoy the water or relax afterward. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or individuals with mobility or animal allergies, based on the physical aspects involved.

This Zanzibar tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of activities that showcase the island’s historical depth, fragrant spice culture, and unique wildlife. With knowledgeable guides like Abdoul and tasty local lunches, it’s a great way to get acquainted with Zanzibar’s essential highlights without the stress of planning each element yourself.

The combination of walking through Stone Town’s streets, touching and tasting spices, and interacting with giant tortoises ensures a memorable, multi-sensory experience. It provides excellent value for the price of $125, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, entry fees, and lunch.

For travelers craving an authentic, well-organized day of discovery that balances learning and leisure, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want a meaningful glimpse of Zanzibar’s diverse facets—history, nature, and gastronomy—delivered by passionate local guides.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive day out, or if you’re eager to understand Zanzibar beyond its beaches, this trip could very well be the highlight of your visit.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes a full day, starting early with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off back at your accommodation.

What is included in the price?
The $125 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guide fees, boat trip, entry tickets (including Prison Island’s fee), and a traditional Swahili lunch at the spice farm.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees for Prison Island are $15, and food and drinks outside of the included lunch are at your own expense unless requested.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and boat rides, so it may not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or people with mobility, back, or heart problems.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Italian, French, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for diverse travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, cash, and beachwear if you want to relax or swim after the tour. Consider sun protection and comfortable shoes.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced introduction to Zanzibar’s cultural tapestry, aromatic spice plantations, and fascinating wildlife. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, engaging day that’s both educational and fun. With experienced guides, delicious local cuisine, and an accessible price, it’s hard to go wrong for those eager to see what makes Zanzibar truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: