Stone Town is a labyrinth of crumbling coral stone, not a manicured theme park. Skip the aimless wandering and book a guided walking tour; the history behind the slave markets and ornate carved doors is heavy but essential context. Spend three hours here, then catch a boat to Prison Island for the giant tortoises. Grab a coffee at the rooftop cafe in the Emerson Spice Hotel if you want a view that doesn't feel like a tourist trap.
