Zanzibar Stone Town with $10 USD

October 3, 2024

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Zanzibar Stone Town is a vibrant hub of history, culture, and markets, where every corner reveals something fascinating. With just 24,500 TZS (around $10), I embarked on a journey through the narrow streets and bustling stalls, discovering local treats, souvenirs, and experiences. Here’s a breakdown of what I bought during my day in this incredible town.

Stone Town Zanzibar

Katlasi – 1,000 TZS

Katlasi Stall

The first purchase of the day was a local snack called Katlasi for just 1,000 TZS. This crispy, fried treat made from chickpea flour and spices is a popular street food in Zanzibar Stone Town. It’s a delicious way to kick off your exploration and get a taste of the local flavors while wandering through the bustling streets.

Katlasi

House of Wonders Fridge Magnet – 5,000 TZS

As I continued through the streets of Zanzibar Stone Town, I picked up a House of Wonders fridge magnet for 5,000 TZS. The House of Wonders, a symbol of Zanzibar’s rich history, was once a grand palace and now stands as a reminder of the town’s cultural fusion. The magnet serves as a great souvenir, representing one of Stone Town’s most iconic landmarks. Currently under refurbishment, The House of Wonders was a Sultan Palace which will be an incredible museum when it opens soon.

House of Wonders Fridge Magnet

Handmade Jewelry – 4,000 TZS

Zanzibar Stone Town is known for its artisanal crafts, and for 4,000 TZS, I purchased a beautiful piece of handmade jewelry. The intricate design reflects the town’s multicultural influences, blending African, Arab, and Indian styles. This jewelry not only adds to my collection but serves as a symbol of the rich craftsmanship that thrives in the heart of Zanzibar Stone Town.

Handmade Jewelry

Kahawa and Kashata – 1,000 TZS

A quick stop at a local café gave me the chance to try traditional Zanzibari coffee (Kahawa) and Kashata, a sweet snack made from peanuts and coconut. For just 1,000 TZS, this combination is a must-try when visiting Zanzibar Stone Town. The coffee is brewed with spices, giving it a distinctive flavor, while the Kashata provides a sweet, crunchy contrast.

Architect Russell having Kahawa and Kashata in Stonetown Zanzibar

Zanzibar Spices – 10,000 TZS

Zanzibar Stone Town is often referred to as the “Spice Island,” so naturally, I had to buy some spices. For 10,000 TZS, I purchased a variety of spices including cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. These aromatic treasures are one of the town’s most famous exports, a reminder of the island’s long-standing role in the global spice trade. The vibrant colors and scents capture the essence of the town’s history.

Zanzibar Spices

Fresh Milk from a Cow’s Breast – 1,000 TZS

Wandering through the markets of Zanzibar Stone Town, I encountered a vendor offering fresh milk straight from a cow’s breast for 1,000 TZS. This unprocessed milk is a truly local experience, providing a direct connection to Zanzibar’s rural traditions. Trying it gave me a new appreciation for the simple yet authentic ways of life in this unique town.

Dates – 5,000 TZS

To finish my day in Zanzibar Stone Town, I bought a quarter kilo of dates for 5,000 TZS. These sweet, nutritious fruits are a popular snack throughout the town, often enjoyed during breaks in the bustling market. Dates are not just a tasty treat—they also speak to the town’s historical connections with the Middle East and its rich agricultural tradition.

Dates

Summery

Exploring Zanzibar Stone Town with just $10 allowed me to immerse myself in the heart of this culturally rich town. From buying fragrant spices to enjoying local snacks, every purchase was an opportunity to connect with the people and traditions that make Zanzibar Stone Town so unique. Whether you’re after souvenirs, delicious food, or a glimpse of history, Stone Town offers something for everyone, all within a modest budget.

Stone Town Zanzibar

Russell M. Henderson is a practicing RIBA Chartered Architect based in Tanzania, East Africa.

Russell (Architect Russell) also makes videos on YouTube , TikTok Instagram & Skillshare sharing thoughtful, honest and pragmatic knowledge while working and living abroad.