Dhow Cruise & Mtoni Palace magical Recital (only Tuesday & Friday)
A Royal Sunset: The Dhow Cruise & Mtoni Palace 1001 Nights Experience
Prepare to be swept away by the romance of the Indian Ocean and the regal history of Zanzibar. We invite you to spend a truly delightful afternoon and evening experiencing the island exactly as the royalty of old once did—from the deck of a traditional sailing vessel to the candlelit courtyards of a magnificent palace. This is more than a tour; it is a step back into a world of elegance, music, and myth.
Stone Town Bay Dhow Cruise
Your journey begins at 4:00 PM as you board a traditional dhow for a peaceful one-hour cruise. As the golden afternoon light hits the shore, you will have the unique opportunity to discover the iconic skyline of Stone Town from the water. This maritime perspective offers a breathtaking view of the Sultan’s palaces and ancient fortifications, providing a serene escape as you sail toward your royal destination.
The Grandeur of Mtoni Palace
Upon arrival, you are welcomed to the Mtoni Palace Ruins, a site that was once the largest and most opulent palace on the island during the reign of Sultan Sayyid Said. As one of the oldest buildings in Zanzibar, the ruins serve as a powerful monument to the island’s golden age.
As evening falls, the palace truly comes to life:
- Living History Tour: At 6:00 PM, join our expert guides for a walk through the ruins, where the stories of the royal court and the Sultan’s legacy are told with passion and detail.
- The 1001 Nights Recital: As the sun disappears, the atmosphere transforms. Under the soft, flickering light of hundreds of candles and the aromatic scent of incense, you will witness a stunning recital of traditional melodies and dances. This performance is meticulously designed to recreate the legendary “1001 Nights” atmosphere, transporting you to an era of Arabian mystery and African soul.
- Swahili Delicacies: During the performance, you will be served a selection of authentic Swahili traditional snacks, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of Zanzibari hospitality.
Support a Living Legacy
Your presence at this evening contributes to a noble cause. A portion of all proceeds from the recital goes directly to the Mtoni Palace Conservation Project. By joining us, you are playing a vital role in the restoration and preservation of this architectural treasure, ensuring its history survives for centuries to come.
Essential Information
- Timing: The experience runs from 16:00 to 20:30, perfectly timed to capture the transition from sunset to starlight.
- Dress Code: To respect the tradition of the palace and ensure your comfort as the evening air cools, we kindly request that you wear a jumper and long trousers (no shorts, please).
- What to Pack: Comfortable shoes for the palace tour and a camera to capture the candlelit magic. (Note: Traditional snacks are included; additional drinks are excluded).
Book This Tour
Are you ready to walk in the footsteps of Sultans? Reserve your place for this magical evening and experience the soul of Zanzibar in its most beautiful light.
Booking Terms & Conditions
Please note that any booking cancelled less than 12 hours in advance will be charged 50 % of the total price.
Any cancellation done less than 6 hours will be fully charged.
Children from 5 to 11 years will be charged 50% of the adult price (sharing with 2 adults for a maximum of 3 children)
A child of 12 years will be charged as an adult.
For a private car during your excursion, a supplement of 15% will be applicable since the prices are for shared excursions.
A 5 % bank fees will be added to the total invoice if you wish to pay by credit card
