Mtoni Palace Ruins
Explore the evocative ruins of Mtoni Palace, once a lavish harem, and uncover tales of sultans and princesses.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Mtoni Palace Ruins
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the evocative ruins of Mtoni Palace, once a lavish harem, and uncover tales of sultans and princesses.
"A knowledgeable guide truly brings the history of this fascinating palace to life."
🚗 Tuk-tuk to the Ruins
Negotiate your tuk-tuk fare to 7,000-10,000 shillings for a round trip.
💰 Entrance Fee & Guide
Expect to pay around 12,000 TSH for adults, often including a guide.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sultan's Harem Ruins
Main Palace Area
Imagine the lives of the Sultan's many wives and children amidst these historic bathing areas and sauna ruins.
Princess Salame's Story
Palace Ruins
Learn about Princess Salame, daughter of the Sultan, and her life documented in her writings.
Ancient Aqueduct
Near the Baths
Marvel at the engineering of the old aqueduct system that supplied water to the palace complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There & Entry Fees
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Tuk-tuk to the Ruins
Negotiate your tuk-tuk fare to 7,000-10,000 shillings for a round trip.
💰 Entrance Fee & Guide
Expect to pay around 12,000 TSH for adults, often including a guide.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Walk around after the guided tour for great photo ops. Donations appreciated at the boatyard.
☕ Traditional Coffee
Experience traditional coffee preparation on-site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Tuk-tuk to the Ruins
Negotiate your tuk-tuk fare to 7,000-10,000 shillings for a round trip.
💰 Entrance Fee & Guide
Expect to pay around 12,000 TSH for adults, often including a guide.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Walk around after the guided tour for great photo ops. Donations appreciated at the boatyard.
☕ Traditional Coffee
Experience traditional coffee preparation on-site.
🌸 Vibrant Flowers
Admire the many colorful flowers blooming around the ruins.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Mtoni Palace Ruins to be an interesting historical site, particularly when accompanied by a passionate and knowledgeable guide who brings the stories of the Sultan's harem and Princess Salame to life. While the ruins are in a state of disrepair, the historical context and the opportunity for independent exploration and photography are appreciated. Some find the site lacking in depth without a guide, and the adjacent boatyard experience can be a mixed bag.
"Not a lot to see in honesty. The guide (paid for as part of the admission) did his best to entertain and bring things alive, he was a lovely well intended guy but the obvious lack of depth of the subject matter says it all really. Added to the palace walk, to pad things out, is a guided walk around an adjacent boatyard too with an equally lacking subject matter from the guide. Here you're expected to make donations if taking photos as the people here are trying to eek a living out however they can, so all should understand this."
Andy Plummer
"Had a lovely experience here, use a tut tut for 7,000 to 10,000 shillings to get here. (No more)
The guide entrance Fee was 12,000 shillings or $5 each. The guide was very welcoming and his passion for the place and history was amazing, he knew everything about the place right down to all the names and dates, he took his time with us and explained every room in detail. Probably spent nearly an hour here as the guide always very thorough with his tails of history.
Definitely worth a visit and you can also walk round after on your own to get some nice photos."
Paul Waite
"Interesting spot, much like most places near Stone Town, they might be listed for free, but someone will charge you 12000 Shillling to get in and then of course you'll need a guide since this tourist destination has nearly no information posted. Small price to pay."
Micah Wild
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common and recommended way to reach Mtoni Palace Ruins is by tuk-tuk from Stone Town. Travelers suggest negotiating the fare to be between 7,000 and 10,000 shillings for a round trip. This is a convenient and relatively quick option to access the historical site.
While tuk-tuks are readily available for the journey to the ruins, it's advisable to confirm return arrangements with your driver or have a plan for finding transportation back to Stone Town, especially if visiting during off-peak hours.
For budget-conscious travelers, a tuk-tuk is generally the most economical option. Ensure you agree on the price before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.
Public transport options directly to Mtoni Palace Ruins are limited. Tuk-tuks and private taxis are the primary modes of transport for tourists visiting this location.
The journey from Stone Town to Mtoni Palace Ruins by tuk-tuk typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Mtoni Palace Ruins is approximately 12,000 Tanzanian Shillings (TSH) for adults and 5,000 TSH for children. This price is subject to change and it's always a good idea to confirm current rates.
In most cases, the entrance fee includes a guided tour. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, offering detailed insights into the history and significance of the ruins.
While you might be able to enter without a guide, it is highly recommended to take the guided tour. The site has minimal signage, and the guide's explanations are crucial for understanding the history and context of the ruins.
Discounts are typically offered for children. It's worth inquiring about any potential group discounts or special offers when purchasing your tickets.
Operating hours can vary, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours to best appreciate the ruins and for safety. Confirming current opening times before your visit is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the ruins of the Sultan's palace, including remnants of bathing areas, saunas, an aqueduct, and the living quarters of the harem. Guides will share stories about Princess Salame and the history of the site. +1
Yes, Mtoni Palace Ruins offer many opportunities for photography, especially after the guided tour when you can explore at your own pace. The atmospheric ruins and surrounding nature provide unique shots.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to bring your own water and any personal necessities. Restrooms may be available, but their condition can vary.
Mtoni Palace was built in 1828 and served as a residence for the Sultan's harem, featuring advanced engineering for its time, including heated pools and an aqueduct. It's also linked to Princess Salame, who wrote about her life there.
Yes, after the guided tour, you are welcome to walk around the ruins independently to take photos and soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.
📸 📸 Photography
The bathing areas, the aqueduct, and the crumbling walls offer great photographic potential. Exploring after the guided tour allows for more creative shots without rushing.
While there isn't a specific photo fee for the palace ruins themselves, visitors are sometimes asked to make donations if taking pictures in the adjacent boatyard area, where locals are trying to make a living.
Mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the ruins.
Drone usage is generally restricted at historical sites. It's best to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before attempting to fly a drone.
Focus on capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones. Look for details like the intricate carvings (if any remain) and the surrounding lush vegetation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities might be limited. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. The entrance fee is reasonable, with discounts for children, making it an accessible outing. Consider the heat and plan your visit for the cooler parts of the day.
🏛️ History Buffs
Deepen your understanding: Consider purchasing any available books about the palace or Princess Salame to supplement the guided tour. The potential for future renovations also adds an interesting layer to its ongoing historical narrative.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Explore the site after the guided tour to find unique angles and compositions. Be respectful of the site and any local residents you encounter, especially if they are involved in the boatyard activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Mtoni Palace
The palace is also famously associated with Princess Salame, a daughter of Sultan Said bin Sultan. She was born in 1844 and was a favored child. Princess Salame later moved to Germany and wrote extensively about her life in Zanzibar and the palace, providing valuable historical accounts. Her writings offer a unique glimpse into the daily life and customs within the Sultan's court.
Today, Mtoni Palace stands as ruins, but efforts are reportedly underway for potential renovation negotiations between the Omani and Tanzanian governments. Such a project could restore the palace to its former glory, offering a more complete historical experience for future visitors.
Exploring the Ruins and What to Expect
Guides are crucial here, as there's very little information posted on-site. They are often passionate about the history and can vividly describe the palace's past, including the lives of Princess Salame and the women of the harem. The tour typically lasts about an hour, with guides taking their time to explain each area in detail.
After the guided portion, you're encouraged to wander through the ruins independently to capture photographs and reflect on the history. Some visitors also mention a guided walk around an adjacent boatyard, where local artisans are trying to earn a living. While the ruins themselves might seem sparse to some, the historical context and the stories shared by the guides make it a worthwhile experience for those interested in Zanzibar's past.
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