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

If you’re heading to Zanzibar and want to get a genuine taste of what makes this island so captivating, a day exploring its spice farms, historic streets, and natural wonders is a perfect choice. This tour, offered by Greenness Tour & Safaris for about $65 per person, promises a balanced mix of sensory delights, cultural insights, and relaxing moments on the water.

What’s immediately clear is how well this tour hits the key points that travelers find most appealing: the vibrant spice plantations, the intricate alleyways of Stone Town, and the peaceful, tortoise-filled Prison Island. The experience is designed to be educational and fun, with plenty of opportunities to taste, see, and learn.

One thing to keep in mind—entrance fees for some sites like Prison Island and the slave market aren’t included, so budget accordingly. Other than that, this tour is ideal for those who crave a full, authentic day out, combining nature, history, and local culture in one accessible package.

Key Points

Authentic Spice Experience: Walk through lush plantations, see, touch, and taste exotic spices like cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Historic and Cultural Insights: Explore UNESCO-listed Stone Town’s winding streets, landmarks, and markets, learning about Zanzibar’s diverse influences.
Wildlife Encounters: Meet giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island, some over a century old, and enjoy the tranquil island beaches.
Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning views of the Indian Ocean, especially during the boat ride and sunset return.
Flexible & Affordable: For just $65, the tour combines guided learning, cultural exploration, and leisure—all with hotel pickup and water included.
Practical Tips: Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, insect repellent, and be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overall Impression of the Tour

This Zanzibar tour offers a well-rounded look at the island’s attractions, blending sensory experiences with historical and natural wonders. For many travelers, the combination of seeing spice farms, wandering through Stone Town, and visiting Prison Island provides a memorable snapshot of Zanzibar’s soul.

The tour starts early with a hotel pickup, which is a big plus, saving you the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or arranging transport. From there, the day is structured to maximize your time at each stop—though it does mean a fairly full schedule.

The spice farm visit is a highlight. Local guides lead you through tropical plantations, where you’ll see, smell, and taste dozens of spices. Many reviews mention how interactive and educational this part is, with “lots of fresh fruit to sample,” and the chance to learn about the many uses of spices beyond cooking, including medicinal and cosmetic applications.

Following this, the walk through Stone Town feels like stepping into a living museum. The narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, and bustling markets evoke Zanzibar’s storied past as a trade hub. Key sites like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort give a sense of the island’s blend of Arab, African, Indian, and European influences. Travelers often note that guides are knowledgeable, providing context about Zanzibar’s role in trade, the fight against slavery, and cultural development.

The boat ride across turquoise waters to Prison Island is both scenic and relaxing. The island’s main draw is its giant tortoises, which some visitors describe as “so gentle you can feed them like pets.” The chance to see these ancient creatures—some over 100 years old—is a big hit, especially with animal lovers. Plus, the island’s beaches are perfect for a quick swim or just unwinding after a busy morning.

Participants also appreciate the flexible options for relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. The boat trip back at sunset adds a beautifully peaceful finish to the day, with golden hues reflecting off the ocean.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup & Spice Farm Visit

The tour kicks off early, usually around 8 a.m., with hotel pickup. This is a major convenience, especially if you’re staying outside central Stone Town. Once at the spice farm, a local guide—often someone with a wealth of knowledge—will lead you on an interactive tour through tropical plantations. Expect to see a variety of spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg, and vanilla, many of which are grown for export and local use.

Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed the tactile nature of this experience. “You can see the spices growing on the trees and smell the rich fragrances,” one reviewer notes. You’ll also find tropical fruits like jackfruit, starfruit, passion fruit, and bananas, which are often sampled straight from the trees—an authentic, refreshing treat.

This part of the tour usually lasts around 1.5-2 hours, providing plenty of time to ask questions and really take in the sights and smells. It’s a fantastic way to understand why Zanzibar is famous for its spices and how they’re used beyond the kitchen.

Exploring Stone Town’s Historic Streets

After the spice farm, the tour continues into the heart of Stone Town. A local guide will walk you through winding alleyways filled with coral stone buildings, intricate wooden doors, and lively markets. Key landmarks include the House of Wonders, once the largest structure on the island, and the Old Fort, which dates back to the 17th century.

Visitors highlight the vibrant markets and unique architecture, describing the streets as “a living, breathing museum.” The Darajani Market is an explosion of colors, spices, and local life—perfect for those interested in local culture and everyday life.

Guides tend to share stories about Zanzibar’s history as a trading hub and its role in the fight against slavery, which can be both inspiring and sobering. Many comments reflect appreciation for the depth of knowledge provided: “Our guide explained the significance of each building and the history behind the slave market site, which made the experience much more meaningful.”

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Prison Island & Giant Tortoises

A short boat ride takes you to Prison Island (Changuu Island). The journey itself offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean—especially if you time it for the morning light. Once there, you’ll have the chance to wander among the giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. Feeding them is a popular activity, and many guests find them surprisingly gentle and curious.

The island also offers a peaceful setting with beaches and snorkeling opportunities, where you can see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Reviews mention that the island is “beautiful and quiet,” making it a perfect spot to relax after the busy morning.

Some travelers also use this time to snap photos of the tortoises or explore the island’s historical quarantine station, which adds a layer of educational interest.

Return & Sunset View

The return boat ride offers a chance to reflect on the day and enjoy the stunning colors of the sunset. Many say that this peaceful moment is a highlight, with some describing it as “the perfect end to a busy day.”

The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, usually by late afternoon or early evening, leaving you with ample time to relax or explore on your own later.

Practical Details That Matter

Price & Value

At $65 per person, this tour provides a lot of value. It combines multiple key experiences—spice farms, historic streets, and island wildlife—without the need for separate bookings. The inclusion of hotel pickup, water, and boat transfer makes it especially convenient.

While entrance fees to some sites aren’t included, the overall cost covers most of the main attractions, with the guides offering context that enhances the experience.

Duration & Group Size

Expect a full day around 8 hours, with a relatively small group size, as many reviews mention personalized attention and friendly guides. This makes for a more engaging experience and easier interaction.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must for walking through spice farms and Stone Town. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent will make your outdoor parts more comfortable. Don’t forget your camera—there are plenty of photogenic moments—and water to stay hydrated.

Additional Notes

The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. You can reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to your travel planning. Cancellation is straightforward—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

This Zanzibar tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day that captures the essence of the island—its flavors, its history, and its natural beauty. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that’s easy to book and offers genuine insight into Zanzibar’s culture.

The combination of spice tasting, historic exploration, and wildlife encounters makes it ideal for those looking for a varied, memorable day. Plus, the scenic boat rides and chance to relax on a quiet island provide a lovely balance of activity and leisure.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Zanzibar’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s especially suited for first-timers or anyone eager to understand what makes this island so special.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat transfer to Prison Island, spices like vanilla, guided cultural and historical interactions, visits to key sites, and water.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Prison Island and the slave market are not included. You should budget extra for these admissions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Can I relax or do optional activities?
Yes, there’s time to relax on the beach, swim, or snorkel around Prison Island after visiting the tortoises.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water are recommended for the day.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

Can I reserve this tour without paying upfront?
Yes, you can book now and pay later, with cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

This tour offers a lively mix of Zanzibar’s most iconic experiences—perfect for travelers who want both cultural depth and relaxing moments in one day. It’s a well-organized, value-packed excursion that brings the island’s colors, flavors, and stories to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: