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Old Fort of Zanzibar
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Historical site
The Old Fort of Zanzibar, also known as Ngome Kongwe, is the oldest building in Stone Town and a prominent landmark of the city. It was constructed by the Omani Arabs between 1698 and 1701, shortly after they expelled the Portuguese from the island. The fort stands on the ruins of a former 16th-century Portuguese church. With its high, windowless coral stone walls and distinctive battlements, it originally served as a defensive structure against attacks by the Portuguese and local rivals. Over the centuries, the building has served various purposes, including a prison, a barracks, and even a depot for Zanzibar's first railway. Today, the fort is a bustling cultural center, featuring an open-air amphitheater used for concerts and festivals. The interior courtyards house art galleries and workshops for local crafts, making the fort a central gathering point for both visitors and residents.
- Location: Tanzania
- Nearby: Prison Island (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 118 | 89 | 163 | 279 | 171 | 28 | 21 | 27 | 41 | 111 | 164 | 141 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Old Fort of Zanzibar in Stone Town is the oldest surviving structure and can be visited. You can explore the thick stone walls, the inner courtyard, and the small museum; entry is charged.
Typical hours
The fort is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. On holidays, hours may vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard and on the walls. In the museum interiors, flash is usually not permitted.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a visit to the fort. The small museum and the view from the walls are the main attractions.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent old town and the slave market square. The Sultan's Palace and the House of Wonders are also nearby.
Getting there
The fort is located in the heart of Stone Town, next to Forodhani Gardens. It is within walking distance from most hotels in the city.
Insider tip
Visit the fort in the late afternoon to enjoy the evening cool and sunset over the sea. The small café in the courtyard has refreshments.
Geography
Facts
- The fort was constructed between 1698 and 1701 using coral stone.
- It occupies the site of a 1550 Portuguese chapel and residence.
- The structure served as a prison and barracks during the 19th century.
- It is the main venue for the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF).
- An open-air amphitheater was integrated into the courtyard in 1994.
- The fort once housed a railway terminal for the island's brief rail era.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Old Fort of Zanzibar (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much time is needed for a visit?
About 45 to 60 minutes are sufficient to explore the fort and the inner courtyard.
Is photography allowed at the Old Fort?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the entire fort area without restrictions.
Is the fort wheelchair accessible?
The inner courtyard is flat and accessible, but the ramparts are uneven and difficult to navigate.
When is the best time to visit?
Late afternoon is more pleasant, and the sunset in the courtyard is impressive.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry to the fort is usually free, though occasionally a fee is charged for special events.
Old Fort of Zanzibar: where is it located?
Old Fort of Zanzibar is located in Tanzania.
Old Fort of Zanzibar: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Old Fort of Zanzibar: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Fort of Zanzibar, also known as Ngome Kongwe, is the oldest building in Stone Town and a prominent landmark of the city.
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History & landmarks
Forodhani Bandstand
A historic pavilion in the Forodhani Gardens, where the famous night market takes place in the evening.
Malindi Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Stone Town, known for its unusual minaret.
Old Dispensary
A magnificently decorated building in Stone Town that reflects Zanzibar's multicultural architecture.
Hamamni Persian Baths
Historical public baths in Zanzibar, built in the late 19th century for the elite.
Christ Church Cathedral
A historical Anglican church in Stone Town, built on the site of the former slave market.
Peace Memorial Museum (Beit el Amani)
A significant museum in a circular building documenting the history of Zanzibar.
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Stone Town of Zanzibar
The historical center of Zanzibar City, renowned for its rich Swahili culture and unique coral stone architecture.
House of Wonders (Beit al-Ajaib)
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Malindi Port (Zanzibar)
The main port of Stone Town, managing passenger and freight traffic to the island of Zanzibar (Unguja).
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Mtoni Palace Ruins
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Unguja
The main island of Zanzibar.
Mangapwani Slave Caves
Natural and artificial caves on Zanzibar that served as a secret hiding place for slaves in the 19th century after the open slave trade w…
Pemba Island
A spice island in Tanzania.