Malindi Mosque
Zanzibar's ancient Malindi Mosque, featuring a rare cone-shaped minaret, offers a glimpse into the island's rich Islamic history and unique architectu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Malindi Mosque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Zanzibar's ancient Malindi Mosque, featuring a rare cone-shaped minaret, offers a glimpse into the island's rich Islamic history and unique architecture.
"Discover the rare cone-shaped minaret of Zanzibar's 15th-century Malindi Mosque. 
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may want a headscarf.
🔑 Ask for Mazaar Key
Inquire at a local shop to access the saint's tomb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cone-Shaped Minaret
Exterior
A rare architectural marvel in East Africa, this unique minaret stands as a testament to historical Islamic design.
Historical Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Explore the ancient walls and basic interior of one of Zanzibar's oldest mosques, offering a glimpse into its past.
Mazaar (Mausoleum)
Adjacent to Mosque
Discover the tomb of a saint, often accessible with a key from a local shopkeeper, adding another layer of historical intrigue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may want a headscarf.
🔑 Ask for Mazaar Key
Inquire at a local shop to access the saint's tomb.
⏳ Be Patient
The caretaker might not always be immediately available.
🚶 Explore Nearby
Discover the narrow streets and cultural touch of Stone Town.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Women may want a headscarf.
🔑 Ask for Mazaar Key
Inquire at a local shop to access the saint's tomb.
⏳ Be Patient
The caretaker might not always be immediately available.
🚶 Explore Nearby
Discover the narrow streets and cultural touch of Stone Town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Malindi Mosque to be a historically significant site, particularly noted for its rare cone-shaped minaret and its age as one of Zanzibar's oldest mosques. While the interior is basic and the upkeep could be better, its unique architecture and proximity to Stone Town's cultural heart make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history and local heritage.
"Malindi Mosque is a mosque in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania, located near the port.[1] It is one of the oldest mosques in Zanzibar, dated to the 15th century.[2] It was built by Sunni Muslims and it has some unusual architectural features, including a cone-shaped minaret (one of just three minarets of this shape in East Africa) and a square platform.
Malindi Mosque is the oldest mosque of Zanzibar, about 500 years old. It is located in densely populated area of Malindi near the Ferry Terminal and mouth of Zanzibar port. It has a unique cone type minaret on a square platform which is very rare in Muslim world. It is the oldest part of Stone Town with narrow winding streets and old style houses with typical cultural touch of Zanzibar. The area is abundantly populated by Muslims. The mosque was originally built by Sunni Muslims and named Minara Mosque.
The Mosque is situated in the Malindi district of Stone Town close to the harbour entrance. The mosque is an old structure and like most of the buildings in the town it is not well kept. The entrance is up a narrow side alley. The inside is very basic with as basic ablution facilities for worshipers. I did not find the caretaker to be too friendly but however did a short tour around the inside. When you exist into the alley again facing you is a blue door with a barred iron grating. This is a tomb of a saint and the door is chained and locked. If you want to go inside you may get the key from the shopkeeper on the corner as you exit the alley. Worth a visit."
MASOUD SALEEM
"Mosque with a Mazaar (Mauseleum) on the side."
Daulat Investments
"Nice Mosque for all prayers include Ijumaa Day"
ABDULRAHMAN PEMBE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Malindi Mosque is located in the Malindi district of Stone Town, Zanzibar, close to the harbor entrance and ferry terminal. It's easily accessible by walking through the narrow, winding streets of Stone Town.
While in the heart of Stone Town, the mosque is situated in a densely populated area. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to the 'Minara Mosque' or 'Malindi Mosque'.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Stone Town. You can ask your driver to take you to the Malindi Mosque or the area near the ferry terminal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no admission fee to enter the mosque for prayer. However, a small donation might be appreciated. Access to the adjacent mazaar may require a key from a local shopkeeper.
As an active place of worship, the mosque is generally open during prayer times. It's best to visit outside of peak prayer hours to avoid disruption.
Yes, a modest dress code is essential. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Women are advised to wear a headscarf.
Non-Muslims are generally welcome to visit the mosque, especially outside of prayer times, provided they adhere to the dress code and show respect.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The mosque features a unique cone-shaped minaret, which is one of only three such minarets in East Africa, making it a significant architectural landmark.
The interior is described as very basic, offering a simple space for worship. You can also find basic ablution facilities for worshipers.
Yes, the tomb is located next to the mosque. The door is usually chained and locked, but you can often get the key from a shopkeeper on the corner as you exit the alley.
Like many older buildings in Stone Town, the mosque is described as not being very well-kept, but its historical significance remains.
Photography rules can vary. It's always best to ask for permission before taking pictures inside a place of worship.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique cone-shaped minaret is a prime subject. The exterior architecture and the narrow alleyways surrounding the mosque also offer great photographic opportunities.
While exterior shots are generally fine, it's polite to ask permission before photographing the interior or individuals. Be respectful of worshippers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining this visit with exploring the nearby narrow streets of Stone Town, which can feel like an adventure for younger ones. The proximity to the ferry terminal means it's easily accessible if you're exploring the waterfront. Remember that it's an active place of worship, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is key.
🕌 Religious & Cultural Explorers
Engage with the local community if possible; understanding the mosque's role in daily life can enrich the experience. Visiting the adjacent Mazaar (tomb of a saint) adds another dimension to the cultural exploration, offering insight into local spiritual practices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The surrounding area of Stone Town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by its narrow, winding streets and old-style houses that reflect a rich cultural heritage. Visiting the Malindi Mosque offers a chance to step back in time and appreciate the enduring legacy of Swahili and Arab influences on the island. The adjacent Mazaar (Mausoleum) of a saint adds another layer of historical and spiritual significance to the site, though access may require a local's assistance.
While the mosque's interior is described as basic, its historical context and unique architectural elements make it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers. It provides a tangible connection to Zanzibar's past and its deep-rooted Islamic traditions.
Architectural Uniqueness
Beyond the minaret, the mosque itself embodies the historical building styles found in Stone Town. While described as basic inside, its ancient walls and simple layout speak to its age and original purpose. The juxtaposition of this historical structure with the bustling modern life of Stone Town creates a compelling visual narrative.
For visitors interested in architecture, the Malindi Mosque offers a fascinating study in historical design and the adaptation of styles across different regions. It’s a testament to the craftsmanship and cultural exchange that shaped Zanzibar's built environment over centuries.
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