Stone Town Tour, Prison Island & Tanzanite Experience
Discover the rich history and culture of Zanzibar on this private guided tour. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage streets of Stone Town, visit the famous Prison Island to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises and learn about the island's fascinating past, then end your journey at the Tanzanite Experience to discover one of the world's rarest gemstones. This tour combines history, culture, local stories, and authentic experiences with a knowledgeable local guide.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Capetown fish market at forodhani
- Please wait outside Cape Town Fish Market, Forodhani, 10–15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. Your guide will be there to welcome you and begin your private Stone Town Heritage, Prison Island & Tanzanite Experience. Kindly keep your phone available in case we need to contact you.
Prison Island(Morning Visit)
Take a short boat ride to Prison Island, a historic site once used as a quarantine station. Learn about its history, explore the old prison ruins, and see the famous giant Aldabra tortoises while enjoying views of the Indian Ocean.
Stone Town Walking Tour with a Guide
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage streets of Stone Town with your local guide. Learn about Zanzibar’s rich history, including the spice trade, Arab and Swahili culture, architecture, and the island’s historical significance. Your guide will share stories and hidden details that bring the city to life as you walk through its narrow streets, markets, and historical landmarks.
Tanzanite Experience & Shopping Time with a Guide
Visit the Tanzanite Experience in Stone Town where your local guide will explain the fascinating geological formation and history of Tanzanite, one of the rarest gemstones in the world found only in Tanzania. Learn how Tanzanite is mined, graded, and valued, and understand its cultural and economic importance to the country. This stop also includes optional time for guests who wish to explore and purchase authentic Tanzanite, handmade jewelry, spices, and local souvenirs.
Ending Point
The tour ends at Darajani Market in Stone Town.
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Private transportation by Toyota Alphard
Professional English-speaking local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Prison Island entrance fee
Fuel (gasoline) fee
Parking fees
Toll fees (if applicable)
Government entrance fees will be paid by us, at $10 per person.
Boat trip
Life jacket
Bottled drinking water
All guiding services throughout the tour
Island entrance fees will be paid directly by the guests by card or cash, at $12 per person.
Lunch and beverages – approximately USD 10–50 per person
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Optional tips for the guide and driver
Tour Important Information
This is a private guided tour combining history, culture, and local experiences in Stone Town.
A moderate amount of walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Please bring cash for entrance fees, personal shopping, and optional activities.
Dress modestly when visiting cultural and historical sites.
This tour is not recommended for guests with serious mobility issues due to walking in Stone Town’s narrow streets.
The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather, ferry schedules, or local conditions.
Important message from the supplier
I am available throughout the week and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate different travel plans. Tours can be arranged for individuals, couples, families, and groups. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. I am committed to providing a friendly, reliable, and enjoyable experience while helping guests discover the best of Zanzibar at a comfortable pace. Special requests can be accommodated whenever possible to ensure a memorable and personalized experience.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Nassir H.
Passionate about sharing the beauty, culture, and hidden treasures of Zanzibar, I specialize in creating memorable experiences for travelers from around the world. From breathtaking beaches and wildlife adventures to cultural discoveries and marine excursions, every tour is carefully organized to provide comfort, safety, and authentic local experiences. My goal is to help visitors explore Zanzibar beyond the ordinary, creating unforgettable memories while discovering the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family, you can expect friendly service, local knowledge, and a personalized experience throughout your journey.
Reviews
Jakob S.
“Perfect mix of nature and culture in Zanzibar”
Nassir was an excellent guide for our private tour of Jozani Forest, Prison Island, and Stone Town. He was friendly, punctual, and clearly knowledgeable about the island’s history and wildlife, and he tailored the day well to what my girlfriend and I were interested in. The tour struck a great balance between nature and culture: seeing the red colobus monkeys up close in Jozani Forest, visiting the giant tortoises on Prison Island, and walking through the winding streets of Stone Town with its history. We left having learned a lot about Zanzibar. Highly recommend this tour and Nassir as a guide.
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Nassir H.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was truly a pleasure showing you and your girlfriend the beauty, wildlife, and history of Zanzibar. I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed Jozani Forest, Prison Island, and Stone Town. It was a pleasure having you both, and I sincerely appreciate your recommendation. I hope to welcome you back to Zanzibar again someday! Karibu sana!
$98/ per person
More tours by Nassir H.
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Jozani Forest, Prison Island & Stone Town Guided Tour
Discover the best of Zanzibar on a private guided tour. Visit Jozani Forest to see the rare Red Colobus monkeys, take a boat to Prison Island to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises, and explore the historic streets of Stone Town. Enjoy a perfect mix of nature, history, culture, and local life with an experienced local guide.
Jozani Forest, Prison Island & Stone Town Guided Tour
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Private Forodhani Night Food Market & Stone Town Walking Tour
Discover the charm of Stone Town after sunset on this private guided evening walking tour. Explore the historic streets with a local guide before visiting the famous Forodhani Night Food Market. Learn about Zanzibar's culture and food traditions as your guide introduces you to popular local dishes and helps you choose the best street food to try. A perfect experience for travelers who want to enjoy the authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Zanzibar.
Private Forodhani Night Food Market & Stone Town Walking Tour
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Salam cave sweeming with turtles & kendwa beach to relax.
Explore North Zanzibar on a private guided tour that combines coastal scenery and local culture. With your professional guide, you will visit villages, learn about Zanzibar traditions, and enjoy views of the Indian Ocean while gaining insight into the daily life of local communities.
Salam cave sweeming with turtles & kendwa beach to relax.
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