My First Full Day in Stone Town, Tanzania
I started the day with my amazing guide, driver, and fixer, Mcha, picking me up from the hotel. With his extensive knowledge and friendly personality, he was the perfect companion for today's adventure. Our first destination was the beach, where Mcha had arranged for a Dhow captain to take us to Prison Island.
Prison Island (Changuu Island) is a small island with a fascinating and diverse history. Originally purchased by the British commissioner in Zanzibar in 1893, it was initially intended as a prison for mainland criminals. While the prison was built, it was never used for that purpose. Instead, the island became a quarantine station for yellow fever and cholera patients, later evolving into a retreat for the rich and famous.
Today, the island is best known for its giant Aldabra tortoises, a gift from Seychelles in the late 1800s. These majestic creatures can live over 100 years and weigh more than 200 kg. Seeing and feeding these tortoises up close was an incredible experience. In addition to the tortoises, we also spotted charming Dik Dik antelopes on the island. These small antelopes are known for their quick movements and large eyes. It was a special experience to see them since they are usually quite shy and hard to spot.
We also explored the old prison buildings, which now serve as a museum, learning about the island's history through informative exhibits.
After a few hours enjoying the island's scenic beauty and rich history, we sailed back to Stone Town, where Mcha guided me through the city's inspiring and historic streets.
Stone Town is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleys, charming houses, and historic buildings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its unique architecture, reflecting a blend of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences. However, Stone Town is most striking for its tragic role in the East African slave trade. In the 1800s, it was one of the largest slave markets in the region. Thousands of slaves were brought here from the African interior, held in horrific conditions, and sold across the world.
Visiting the old slave market was a deeply emotional experience. St. Monica's Hostel, where slaves were kept in small, dark cells under inhumane conditions, was especially moving. Seeing the cramped spaces and imagining the suffering endured there was heartbreaking. Nearby is the Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of the former whipping post. The altar is symbolically placed above the location of the post, serving as a powerful reminder of the atrocities that occurred. It was a day of reflection and deep respect for those who suffered during this brutal period in history.
Stone Town's history is also closely tied to Oman, which controlled Zanzibar for many years. The Sultan of Oman moved his court here in the 1800s, helping the city grow as a trading and cultural hub. Omani architecture and culture are still visible in many of Stone Town's buildings and traditions.
Mcha also shared stories about Dr. David Livingstone, the famous British missionary and explorer who played a crucial role in exposing the horrors of the slave trade. Livingstone visited Zanzibar several times, and his efforts helped raise international awareness of the suffering of slaves.
One of the most moving aspects of the day was witnessing the harmony in which people of different religions live together. Throughout the day, I heard calls to prayer from minarets, church bells ringing, and the sounds of Hindu temples — a beautiful reminder of the city's rich and diverse culture. This coexistence is a powerful testament to Zanzibar's long history as a crossroads for different peoples and faiths.
We ended the day wandering through the bustling markets, where the smell of spices and the sound of lively conversations filled the air. Here, I got a taste of Zanzibar's vibrant culture and daily life.
Overall, it was an unforgettable day filled with discovery, history, and reflection. I'm incredibly grateful for Mcha's guidance and look forward to exploring more of this amazing city and country!
Mcha also took me to Beit el-Sahel (the Sultan's Palace), once home to Zanzibar's sultans. The palace provides insight into Zanzibar's history and its cultural connections between East and West. We also visited the House of Wonders, another iconic building that was originally constructed as a ceremonial palace. This building was famous for being the first in East Africa with electricity and an electric elevator.