Exploring the Historic Old Fort of Zanzibar Stone Town

The Old Fort, known locally as Ngome Kongwe, stands as the oldest building in Zanzibar’s Stone Town, dating back to approximately 1698. This Omani-built fortification was constructed over the remains of an earlier Portuguese church and now serves as a cultural hub with an active open-air amphitheater. Visitors typically find the site most accessible between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM, though the courtyard often stays open later for specific cultural performances or festivals.

The Evolution of Ngome Kongwe

Omani Military Origins

Omani Arabs initiated the construction of the fort shortly after they expelled the Portuguese from the island in 1698. The structure was designed primarily for defense, featuring thick coral stone walls and high battlements that overlook the Indian Ocean. While much of the original exterior remains intact, the interior has been repurposed multiple times over the last three centuries—serving as a garrison, a prison, and even a barracks for the local military forces.

Transition to a Transportation Depot

During the early 20th century, the fort underwent a surprising transformation when it served as a depot for the Zanzibar Railways. This short-lived railway system, which began operations in 1905, connected Stone Town to the village of Bububu. Remnants of this industrial era are less visible today than the earlier military features, yet the historical layer adds a unique dimension to the building beyond its typical identity as a colonial fortification.

Inside the Walls Today

The Open Air Amphitheater

A significant 1994 addition to the fort is the large open-air amphitheater located in the central courtyard. This venue serves as the primary stage for the Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Sauti za Busara music festival, which draws thousands of international attendees every February. When no festivals are scheduled, the amphitheater remains open for visitors to climb the stone seating and look out over the fort’s interior architecture.

Local Crafts and Henna Art

The inner perimeter of the fort is lined with small stalls where local artisans sell tingatinga paintings, hand-carved wooden sculptures, and woven textiles. I find that the prices here are often slightly higher than in the deeper alleys of Stone Town, but the quality of the henna art provided by the women near the western wall is consistently high. These artists use natural henna to create intricate patterns on travelers' hands and feet, often finishing a complex design in under twenty minutes.

Practical Visitor Information

Timing and Photo Opportunities

Photographers should aim to visit the fort around 5:00 PM when the harsh equatorial sun begins to soften. The golden light hits the coral stone walls with a warmth that midday light lacks, and the shadows in the amphitheater create a much more dramatic visual depth. Visiting at this hour also allows you to avoid the peak humidity that builds up within the fort’s enclosed spaces during the early afternoon.

Nearby Landmarks and Logistics

The fort is situated directly adjacent to the House of Wonders and the Forodhani Gardens, making it a natural starting point for a walking tour of the seafront. Admission to the main courtyard and the shops is currently free for all visitors, which is a rarity for such a significant historical site in Tanzania. However, expect to pay a small fee or purchase a ticket if you wish to attend a live performance or a film screening during festival seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the entrance fee for the Old Fort in Zanzibar?

Entry to the main courtyard and the artisan shops of the Old Fort is free for the public. You only need to pay for access during special events like the Zanzibar International Film Festival or for specific guided historical tours arranged through local agencies. Costs for these events vary annually but usually range from 10 to 20 USD for international visitors.

When is the best time of year to visit for cultural events?

February is the most active month for the fort because it hosts the Sauti za Busara music festival, which brings together performers from across the African continent. If you prefer cinema, July is the ideal time to visit as the fort becomes the main hub for the Zanzibar International Film Festival. Both periods see a significant increase in crowd density within Stone Town.

Is it possible to climb the walls of the fort?

Visitors can climb certain sections of the battlements to get a view of the ocean and the neighboring House of Wonders. The staircases are made of uneven stone and lack modern handrails in several places, so exercise caution if you are visiting with children or have mobility concerns. The view from the top provides an excellent perspective on the strategic placement of the fort relative to the harbor.

How long does a typical visit to Ngome Kongwe take?

Most travelers spend between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours exploring the grounds and browsing the craft stalls. If you decide to sit for a henna session or stop for a drink at the small café inside the courtyard, you might want to budget a full two hours. The site is compact enough to be combined with a visit to the nearby Forodhani Gardens night market.