Where to Stay in Stone Town

Stone Town must be one of the most interesting places I have visited in all my travels. Narrow streets with small shop, restaurants and people going about their business makes this city majestic.

Stone Town lies on the West Coast of Zanzibar and has the only commercial harbour in Zanzibar. Don't expect a huge harbour its more like a port. The Africa House and the Serena Hotel is one of my recommended hotels as you will experience the best sunset you have ever seen. The Africa house has a Deck with a small bar and getting a seat could proof difficult as it is very popular for sun downer drinks.

There are many hotel and guest houses in Stone Town. Some located on the beach other more in the heart of the city. just keep in mind that the beach at Stone Town is not a swimming beach. You can and are allowed to swim but because of the port and quite high water traffic I would not encourage swimming or lazing on the beach at Stone Town.

My suggestion is selecting a 3 star hotel or guest house but do not overspend to have a ocean view.

Zanzibar Transport

Getting around in Zanzibar can be quite an experience. The main transport for local people are DalaDala's. Nothing more than a small truck with wooden benches they transport +/- 10-20 people each around the island. Tourist can easily make use of daladala's at +/- US$1 per trip, but it may get confusing finding the right daladala to your destination.

Most tourist rather opt to arrange a transfer from the airport to the hotel or around the island. These transfers cost round about US$40 - 50 per person per trip and are done in cars, 4 x 4's and Minibuses.

Another popular local means of transport is the bicycle. You will find thousands of bicycles on Zanzibar all loaded with the wood, milk, materials and other items. Tourist can rent a bicycle at very cheap rates.

Car rental can also be done at +/- US$50 per day but I would not suggest this option as there are no road signs.

Once in Stone Town you will however not need any motorised transport as you can safely walk around and explore the many interesting shops.

Amaan Kendwa

My stay at Amaan Kendwa was a great experience. Located on the North Western side of the Island it must have one of the best beaches with pure white sand and blue water. The sea facing rooms are located +/- 50-70 metres from the ocean but you step right onto the sand once you leave your room.

Rooms have double or twin beds with mosquito nets, aircon (Very Important) and shower, basin and toilet.

They were busy upgrading the rooms during my visit in April 2006.

The restaurant is located right on the beach. A true island experience, having your meal while your feet are in the sand. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Do not expect a buffet breakfast. Breakfast normally consist of toast, an egg, fruit, coffee, cheese and sometimes some yogurt. Lunch and dinners are very tasty and they have quite a variety. Prices are very affordable. Budget +/- $5-$8 for lunch and $10-$15 for dinner.

My private rating for Amaan Kendwa would be 3 star (But just) It falls into the budget group of accommodation.

Their website: http://www.amaankendwa.com/

Before you Leave

A few important notes before you depart to Zanzibar:
(Written for South African Passport Holders)

Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your return

Visa
SA passport holders do need a visa but you can get the visa on arrival in Zanzibar. Hassle free. The cost is US$50 and you would need the exact change. They do not give change

Health
You do require a Yellow Fever Certificate although they have never requested ours when we visited. You can obtain the inoculation and certificate at your local Travel Clinic at a cost of +/- R350.

Malaria
Zanzibar is a HIGH Risk area and I strongly suggest that you take precautions although there are many views about taking Malaria tablets I still suggest that you do take them. Also take along loads of insect repellent and use it. Always sleep under the mosquito nets. 99% of Zanzibar hotels / resort do have them.

Tipping
Tipping can be a sticky subject when travelling abroad but the Zanzibari people are so friendly you would want to tip them. 10% is a good tip.

Tour Guides
When walking the street of Stone Town or on some beaches you might (No, I can almost guarantee that you will) be approached by a so called self appointed tour guide. The Zanzibar Tourism Commission issues licences in the form of an ID card to registered tour guides. If someone should make a nuisance of himself or ask you for a fee for his services, just ask to see his ID. He won't bother you further.

Be wary of these self appointed tour guides (Not that they will endanger your live) but they will take you to the shops they earn some commission. You might be paying to much for an item if you should have your so called tour guide lead you to shops.

Zanzibar and Stone Town is safe. Explore it

Zanzibar Departure Taxes

When leaving Zanzibar you will need to pay a USD25 ($25) Departure tax at the airport. This tax can only be paid in US Dollars and you must have the exact amount as they do not give any change. So remember to keep your $25 separate from your spending money or you might be left stranded or begging.

Zanzibar Airport - Departures