Forodhani Gardens - A person holding a paper plate with food on it
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Forodhani Gardens

4.4
·735 reviews·Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar's iconic night market, a vibrant culinary and cultural hub by the sea, offering delicious local food and lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Transforms into a lively food market

CrowdHigh
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Forodhani Gardens - A person holding a paper plate with food on it

Forodhani Gardens

Best Time

Evenings

Transforms into a lively food market

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Zanzibar's iconic night market, a vibrant culinary and cultural hub by the sea, offering delicious local food and lively atmosphere.

4.4
(735 reviews)

"A vibrant food market with amazing local food and a great social experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

Taste the Zanzibar Pizza

A must-try! It's a unique savory crepe filled with meat and egg. Delicious and affordable! :pizza:

Try Fresh Juices

Epic taste! From sugarcane to exotic fruits, these juices are incredibly refreshing. :tropical_drink:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Night Food Market

Night Food Market

A vibrant evening spectacle of local flavors. Taste grilled seafood, Zanzibar pizza, and fresh juices.

Seafront Promenade

Seafront Promenade

Enjoy refreshing sea breezes and sunset views along the historic waterfront. A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Savor iconic dishes like Urojo mix and Shawarma. Don't miss the legendary Zanzibar Pizza!

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Evening Foodie Paradise

Forodhani Gardens transforms into a bustling night market after sunset. Come hungry to sample diverse local delicacies like Zanzibar pizza and grilled seafood. It's a vibrant cultural immersion, perfect for experiencing authentic Zanzibar flavors.

Daytime Strolls & Excursions

By day, it's a pleasant park with sea views and a gateway to Stone Town's history. Beach boys here can help organize island excursions, offering a convenient way to plan your adventures.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Transforms into a lively food market
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Enjoy sunset views before crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Vibrant streets in zanzibar at night

Taste the Zanzibar Pizza

A must-try! It's a unique savory crepe filled with meat and egg. Delicious and affordable! :pizza:

Try Fresh Juices

Epic taste! From sugarcane to exotic fruits, these juices are incredibly refreshing. :tropical_drink:

reddit.com

Which food is safe to eat?

reddit.com

Looking for reasurtants , cafe and things to do in Zanzibar.

Organize Excursions Here

Beach boys offer good deals on island tours. Compare prices and book your adventures. :ferry:

Walk from Ferry Terminal

Just a 5-10 minute walk from the Kilimanjaro ferry station. Easy to find! :walking:

reddit.com

Staying in Zanzibar for a week

Tips

from all over the internet

Taste the Zanzibar Pizza

A must-try! It's a unique savory crepe filled with meat and egg. Delicious and affordable! :pizza:

Try Fresh Juices

Epic taste! From sugarcane to exotic fruits, these juices are incredibly refreshing. :tropical_drink:

Organize Excursions Here

Beach boys offer good deals on island tours. Compare prices and book your adventures. :ferry:

Walk from Ferry Terminal

Just a 5-10 minute walk from the Kilimanjaro ferry station. Easy to find! :walking:

Experience Local Culture

It's a social hub where locals and tourists gather. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere. :people_hugging:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(735 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Forodhani Gardens is celebrated as a vibrant hub, especially at night, offering an authentic taste of Zanzibar through its diverse food market. Visitors praise the lively atmosphere, delicious local delicacies, and the convenience for organizing island excursions. While the crowds can be significant in the evening, the overall experience is highly recommended for cultural immersion and culinary exploration.

"A lovely place to stroll around, especially in the evening. At night, the gardens transform into a lively food market where you can taste a variety of local dishes, from freshly grilled seafood to Zanzibar pizza. The atmosphere is vibrant and authentic, making it a great spot to experience local culture.

You’ll also find many beach boys here offering excursions, which can actually make organizing your trips around the island easier."

Nafissa

"A more traditional section of the beach with stone walls. The local guides do a fantastic welcome to Zanzibar video. A short walk to the market and amphitheatre were local artists perform."

kayode Adewumi

"I liked the place they have very welcoming people. For one not to get confused it is just on your right downtowns from the Kilimanjaro ferry ⛴️ station and it is just a 5-10 min walk. It’s not that far here you get to experience part of stone town. And also the different food 🥘 cuisine that are there. I heard there are 3types and one is Swahili food arabic food and I can’t remember the other one😅. It s was such a lovely experience you also get to do welcome to Zanzibar video at a few of course. But I would recommend this place again and again 🙏🥂👍👌"

grace wanjugu

What People Like

Vibrant night food market
Delicious local food
Authentic cultural experience

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Beach boys can be persistent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Forodhani Gardens is conveniently located just a 5-10 minute walk from the Kilimanjaro ferry station. Simply head downtown from the station, and you'll find it on your right. It's very easy to access and a great starting point to experience Stone Town. Reddit

Yes, Forodhani Gardens is centrally located in Stone Town, making it easily accessible on foot. It's a great place to start exploring the historic area or to relax after a long walk. Reddit

As it's in the heart of Stone Town, walking is the best way to reach Forodhani Gardens. Taxis can also drop you nearby if you're coming from further afield on the island. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Forodhani Gardens is a public park and night market, so there is no entrance fee to wander through the gardens. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase. Reddit

The gardens are accessible during the day for strolling and enjoying the sea views. However, the main attraction, the vibrant night food market, typically opens after sunset and runs late into the evening. Reddit

No, booking in advance is not necessary for visiting Forodhani Gardens. It's a public space, and the night market operates on a first-come, first-served basis for food vendors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The night market offers an incredible variety of local delicacies. You can find freshly grilled seafood, the famous Zanzibar Pizza (a savory crepe), Urojo mix (a flavorful soup), Shawarma, and an array of fresh fruit juices. Reddit

The food at Forodhani Gardens is generally very affordable, offering great value for money. It's an excellent place to try authentic local cuisine without breaking the bank. Reddit

Zanzibar Pizza is a unique local specialty. It's a thin dough base, often filled with minced meat, vegetables, and egg, then folded and fried like a pizza or crepe. It's a savory and delicious experience! Reddit

While many popular dishes feature seafood or meat, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable skewers, fruit juices, and some variations of local snacks. It's worth asking vendors about their offerings. Reddit

The absolute must-tries are the Zanzibar Pizza and the fresh juices. Urojo mix and grilled seafood are also highly recommended for an authentic taste of Zanzibar. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic time is during the evening when the night market is in full swing, with colorful food stalls and vibrant activity. Sunset also offers beautiful light over the sea. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed, especially of the food and the lively atmosphere. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Reddit

You can capture stunning shots of the bustling night market, delicious local food being prepared, the sunset over the Indian Ocean, and the general vibrant street life of Stone Town. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Forodhani Gardens is a fantastic spot for families, especially in the evening. Kids will be mesmerized by the vibrant food stalls and the sheer variety of sights and smells. The Zanzibar Pizza is often a hit with younger palates, and the fresh fruit juices are a refreshing treat. It’s a lively, casual environment where children can experience local culture in a fun and engaging way. Reddit

During the day, it offers a safe space for kids to run around a bit after exploring the historic streets of Stone Town. The proximity to the sea also adds to the appeal. Just keep an eye on them in the evening crowds and ensure they are comfortable with trying new foods.

💰 Budget Travelers

Forodhani Gardens is a budget traveler's dream, particularly for dining. The night market offers incredibly affordable and delicious local food, allowing you to eat like a king without spending much. You can sample multiple dishes for the price of a single meal elsewhere. Reddit

It's also a great place to get information and potentially book excursions at competitive prices. By comparing offers from different vendors, you can secure good deals for island tours, making your Zanzibar adventure more economical.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Forodhani Gardens Night Market Experience

As the sun dips below the horizon, Forodhani Gardens undergoes a magical transformation. What was a pleasant seaside park by day becomes Zanzibar's most famous open-air food court. Rows of stalls light up, grills sizzle, and the air fills with the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine. This is where you come to truly taste Zanzibar. From succulent grilled seafood like kingfish and prawns to the iconic Zanzibar Pizza – a savory crepe filled with meat, egg, and vegetables – the options are diverse and exciting. Don't miss out on refreshing sugarcane juice or other exotic fruit concoctions. Reddit

Beyond the food, the atmosphere is electric. Locals and tourists mingle, sharing tables and stories. You might even catch young acrobats performing spectacular dives into the ocean nearby, adding a thrilling visual element to your dining experience. It’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a casual, yet unforgettable, meal. Remember to haggle politely for prices, especially if you're buying multiple items. Reddit

Daytime Charm and Excursion Hub

While the night market steals the spotlight, Forodhani Gardens offers a more tranquil experience during the day. It's a lovely urban park with palm trees and open lawns, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation. The gardens front the historic Old Fort and offer pleasant views of the Indian Ocean. It's a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of Stone Town's narrow alleyways and enjoy some fresh sea air. Reddit

Forodhani Gardens also serves as a convenient hub for organizing excursions around Zanzibar. You'll find numerous 'beach boys' here who offer a wide range of tours, from spice tours and prison island visits to snorkeling and diving trips. While it's wise to compare prices and be clear about what's included, this can be an efficient way to arrange your island adventures directly from the heart of Stone Town. Reddit

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