My mother and I initially planned our trip to Zanzibar as a leisurely beach vacation with minimal exploration in mind. Our main focus was to unwind, enjoy good food, and soak up the sun. Considering my mother’s recent health issues, we opted for a more relaxed itinerary. Moreover, after encountering an abundance of seaweed during our previous visit to the Dominican Republic, we were particularly eager to enjoy a pristine beach. Consequently, we chose not to schedule any excursions and instead focused on leisurely walks to discover the offerings of Kendwa and its surroundings.
However, as our time in Kendwa progressed, I began to feel a sense of missed opportunity in not visiting the renowned Stone Town. Despite receiving mixed reviews, an inner curiosity compelled me to personally explore its wonders. After expressing my desire to visit Stone Town on several occasions, my mother proposed a solution: we could incorporate a visit on our way to the airport, as it was conveniently located in proximity. Conversely, Kendwa required a lengthier drive of approximately one hour and twenty minutes, making my mother hesitant about sacrificing a whole day for transit purposes.
With this in mind, I contacted various airport transfer companies, negotiating a slightly higher fee to include a stop at Stone Town en route to the airport. Though our time there was limited to around thirty minutes, we were still able to catch a glimpse of the town’s charm and appreciate it, even if only for a short while. Given my personal preference, I did not prioritize museum visits, focusing instead on wandering through the captivating streets adorned with their iconic doors and strolling along the picturesque waterfront promenade. This short visit to Stone Town was truly enriching. The narrow streets had a charming atmosphere, and I took the chance to capture some photos of the famous Stone Town doors. However, it is worth noting that the town can be bustling, with locals approaching visitors to offer their wares or services as guides. Politely informing them of our limited time, we were able to explore at our own pace. The town was home to several welcoming restaurants, offering delightful outdoor dining choices. The old part of Stone Town had a nostalgic charm that reminded me of historic European towns, while the newer section presented a marked contrast to the poor villages we had encountered earlier.
If you’re considering a visit to Stone Town, I highly recommend it. The town’s fascinating charm and surprising beauty bring an interesting element to any Zanzibar trip. However, unless you have a strong interest in closely examining every door and spending time in museums, staying in Stone Town for three to four days, like some people we met, may not be necessary. Nevertheless, including a visit to Stone Town in your Zanzibar adventure is definitely worth it, providing a captivating contrast to the island’s stunning beaches.
Anyah Mroz 