Discover the Historic Old Fort of Zanzibar
Explore the Old Fort of Zanzibar, a historic fortress blending culture and architecture, set against the stunning backdrop of Stone Town's vibrant atmosphere.
The Old Fort in Zanzibar is a must-visit for tourists, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Situated in the heart of Stone Town, this fortress is a beautiful example of ancient architecture, blending elements from different cultures. With its stunning views of the sea and vibrant surroundings, the Old Fort invites exploration and discovery.
A brief summary to Old Fort
- Mizingani Rd, Zanzibar, Stone Town, TZ
- Click to display
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Fort.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Don't miss the local artisan shops within the fort where you can purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
- Check the schedule for cultural events or performances that often take place in the fort's courtyard.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone paths can be uneven, and you may want to explore the fort thoroughly.
- Bring your camera; the views from the fort are stunning, especially at sunset.
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Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Old Fort from anywhere in Southern Zone, start by navigating towards the nearest major city, Dar es Salaam. From Dar es Salaam, take the ferry to Zanzibar. The ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam is located at the city center, and the ferry ride takes about 2 hours. Tickets typically cost around TZS 35,000 to TZS 50,000 (USD 15-20) depending on the ferry service. Once you arrive at Zanzibar's Stone Town, drive towards Mizingani Road. The Old Fort is located directly on this road, and ample parking is available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach Old Fort using public transportation, first, travel to Dar es Salaam. You can take a bus from various locations in Southern Zone to Dar es Salaam, which costs around TZS 15,000 to TZS 30,000 (USD 6-12) depending on the distance and bus company. Once you reach Dar es Salaam, head to the ferry terminal and purchase your ticket to Zanzibar. After arriving at Zanzibar, you can either walk to Old Fort if you're staying in Stone Town (it's about a 10-15 minute walk) or take a local taxi for approximately TZS 5,000 to TZS 10,000 (USD 2-4).
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route without the hassle of public transportation, consider hiring a taxi. Arrange for a taxi to take you from your location in Southern Zone to Dar es Salaam, and then continue with the ferry to Zanzibar. The taxi fare may vary but expect to pay around TZS 100,000 to TZS 150,000 (USD 40-60) to the ferry terminal. After arriving in Zanzibar, you can take another taxi directly to Old Fort for about TZS 5,000 to TZS 10,000 (USD 2-4).
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