Peace Memorial exterior
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Peace Memorial Museum Beit el Amani

4.1
·328 reviews·Zanzibar, Tanzania

Explore Zanzibar's rich history, from royal life to the slave trade, in this historic Arab-style building.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Peace Memorial exterior

Peace Memorial Museum Beit el Amani

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Zanzibar's rich history, from royal life to the slave trade, in this historic Arab-style building.

4.1
(328 reviews)

"A must-visit for understanding Zanzibar's past, with informative staff and great views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your ticket includes entry to the Natural History Museum too! :ticket:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Staff can offer detailed briefings and answer your questions. :speech_balloon:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Royal Carts & Tools

Royal Carts & Tools

Main Exhibition Hall

See historical carts used by rulers and traditional tools that tell stories of Zanzibar's past.

Terrace Views

Terrace Views

Upstairs

Enjoy a 360-degree view of Stone Town from the museum's terrace.

Slave Market History

Slave Market History

Exhibits on Slavery

Learn about the significant history of the former slave market and its impact.

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Planning Your Visit

Combine Your Visit

Your ticket grants access to both the Peace Memorial Museum and the Natural History Museum next door. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and fully absorb the exhibits.

Embrace the History

This museum offers a deep dive into Zanzibar's past, from the slave trade to royal life. Allow ample time to read the English information boards and engage with the knowledgeable staff.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The tour of the Former Slave Market site in Stone Town, Zanzibar was definitely eye opening. The construction of the cathedral was intended to celebrate the end of slavery. This was an experience I will always remember. We have so much to be grateful for. Hakuna Matata from Zanzibar! #thingstodoinzanzibar #tanzania #stonetown #formerslavemarket #slavemarket #ChristChurchCathedral #slavechambers
@low_kei__
59.1K likes • 472.2K views

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your ticket includes entry to the Natural History Museum too! :ticket:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Staff can offer detailed briefings and answer your questions. :speech_balloon:

reddit.com

What to pay in advance?

reddit.com

Photos were taken by my grandfather while he was a sailor in the 50s/60s. Probably in a Portuguese colony in Africa at the time but not sure. Does anyone have an idea?

⬆️ Upstairs Terrace

Don't miss the panoramic views from the terrace! :camerawithflash:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Take your time to absorb the rich history presented. :clock1:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your ticket includes entry to the Natural History Museum too! :ticket:

🗣️ Engage with Staff

Staff can offer detailed briefings and answer your questions. :speech_balloon:

⬆️ Upstairs Terrace

Don't miss the panoramic views from the terrace! :camerawithflash:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Take your time to absorb the rich history presented. :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(328 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Peace Memorial Museum to be an informative and essential stop for understanding Zanzibar's history, particularly its past as a slave market. The combo ticket with the Natural History Museum offers good value, and the knowledgeable staff enhance the experience. However, the lack of climate control is a recurring point of concern.

"A single ticket costing Tsh 12,000 gets you entry to this museum and the Natural History Museum next door. On a weekday morning I was the only visitor in both museums. This is the better of the two, there are information boards in English. Both museums could be alot better but if you have some free time...Go upstairs for a 360 degree terrace with views of the surroundings."

Lyndsey

"Great place to learn about the history of Zanzibar and get to see many items showcased there including carts used by rulers to move around the city, traditional tools , kingly seats and so many others. Official govt staff present also to give detailed briefing as possible."

Ally Ally

"Hello welcome to Zanzibar island 🏝"

The island Tour safari

What People Like

Rich historical exhibits
Informative staff
Combo ticket value

What People Dislike

No climate control

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Peace Memorial Museum is located in Stone Town, Zanzibar. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the historic district. Taxis are also readily available to take you to the museum's vicinity. TikTok

Parking in Stone Town can be challenging due to its narrow streets. It's best to rely on walking or taxis to reach the museum. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A single ticket costs Tsh 12,000 and grants you entry to both the Peace Memorial Museum and the Natural History Museum next door. Reddit

Information on advance online ticket purchases is limited. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the museum. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daytime hours. Visiting on a weekday morning is recommended for a less crowded experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases exhibits on Zanzibar's history, including royal carts, traditional tools, and information about the former slave market. Reddit

Yes, a personal guide is often included with the ticket and can provide detailed explanations of the exhibits. Reddit

The museum lacks climate control, which can be a concern for the preservation of some artifacts. Reddit

Take your time to read the English information boards and engage with the staff for a deeper understanding of Zanzibar's history. Reddit

Basic facilities are usually available, but it's advisable to check upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures to ensure you comply with any restrictions. TikTok

The upstairs terrace offers great panoramic views of Stone Town, making it a popular spot for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Peace Memorial Museum can offer an educational experience for families interested in history. While some exhibits might be somber, the displays of royal carts and historical tools can capture children's imaginations. The accompanying Natural History Museum also provides engaging content for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to ensure a less crowded and more manageable experience for children. The guides can also help tailor explanations to be more understandable for younger audiences. Remember to bring water and be prepared for the lack of air conditioning. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, the Peace Memorial Museum is a must-visit. It provides a deep dive into Zanzibar's past, from its royal lineage to its role in the slave trade. The detailed information boards and the insights from personal guides offer a comprehensive understanding of the island's heritage. Reddit

Don't miss the exhibits on the former slave market, which are described as particularly impactful. The upstairs terrace also offers a historical perspective with its panoramic views of Stone Town. Allow ample time to explore and absorb the rich narratives presented within the museum. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Zanzibar's Past

The Peace Memorial Museum, also known as Beit el Amani, is housed in a striking whitewashed, Arab-style building dating back to 1920. It serves as a crucial repository for understanding Zanzibar's complex history. The museum's exhibits cover a range of topics, from the island's natural history to its significant past as a center for the slave trade and the subsequent abolitionist movements. TikTok

Visitors can expect to see a variety of artifacts, including royal carts used by past rulers, traditional tools, and displays detailing the lives of people during different historical periods. The information boards are in English, making the exhibits accessible to international visitors. The museum's pairing with the Natural History Museum offers a comprehensive historical and ecological perspective of the island. Reddit

While the museum provides valuable insights, some reviews note that the lack of climate control could impact the preservation of delicate items. However, the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable staff and explore the historical context of Zanzibar makes it a worthwhile visit for those interested in the island's heritage. Reddit

Experiencing Stone Town's History

The Peace Memorial Museum is an integral part of the Stone Town experience, offering a tangible connection to the island's past. Its location within the historic district means it's easily integrated into a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum's exhibits, particularly those related to the former slave market, are described as eye-opening and memorable, providing a crucial understanding of the human history of the region. TikTok

Many visitors find the personal guides available at the museum to be a significant asset, offering detailed explanations that enrich the learning experience. These guides can answer questions and provide context that might otherwise be missed. The museum's upstairs terrace also provides a unique vantage point, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape, a perfect spot for reflection and photography. Reddit

Combining a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum with the adjacent Natural History Museum is a common recommendation, allowing for a fuller appreciation of Zanzibar's natural and cultural heritage. Despite potential limitations like the absence of air conditioning, the museum's historical significance and the insights it offers make it a highly recommended stop for anyone exploring Stone Town. Reddit

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