Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.
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Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

4.3
·5k reviews·Zanzibar, Tanzania

A 17th-century fort in Stone Town, transforming into a lively evening food market and cultural hub.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Transforms into a food market

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.

Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe)

Best Time

Evenings

Transforms into a food market

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 17th-century fort in Stone Town, transforming into a lively evening food market and cultural hub.

4.3
(5k reviews)

"The fort transforms into a food market at night, offering cheap and well-worth-the-money shawarma."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Arrive before sunset to enjoy the beautiful views and the fort's transformation into a lively market.

💰 Bargain for Souvenirs

Haggle respectfully with vendors for spices and local crafts; prices are negotiable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Food Market

Sunset Food Market

Fort Grounds

As dusk settles, the fort buzzes with a lively food market offering delicious and affordable local delicacies.

Souvenir Shopping

Souvenir Shopping

Fort Interior

Browse numerous stalls selling spices, crafts, and local souvenirs. Haggling is part of the experience!

ZIFF Festival Venue

ZIFF Festival Venue

Fort Amphitheater

The fort hosts the Zanzibar International Film Festival, showcasing local and international cinema.

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Planning Your Visit

Evening Entertainment Hub

The Old Fort transforms into a vibrant hub for nightly entertainment and food markets. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially for sunset views and affordable eats. Arrive before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the atmosphere as it comes alive.

Historical Site & Shopping

While the fort has historical significance, its current appeal lies in the souvenir shops and occasional festivals. It's a great place for a relaxed stroll and some shopping, with many vendors offering spices and local crafts at reasonable prices. The free entry makes it an accessible attraction.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Transforms into a food market
Crowd
Medium
When
During ZIFF
Why
Film screenings & events
Crowd
High
When
Daytime
Why
Quiet stroll & shopping
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

(THE LOVE THERAPIST) OFFICIAL TRAILER OUT NOW . THE FILM WILL BE PREMIER AT THE OLD FORT (NGOME KONGWE) 5th JULY 2024 AT 6PM . TICKETS AVAILABLE #thelovetherapist #2o8live #zanzibarmovies #zanzibarfilm #zanzibar #swahilitiktok #bongofuntiktokers @Anil wa Haneefa @Superi As Supa
@_honey_bee31
10.8K likes • 237.3K views

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Arrive before sunset to enjoy the beautiful views and the fort's transformation into a lively market. Reddit

💰 Bargain for Souvenirs

Haggle respectfully with vendors for spices and local crafts; prices are negotiable. Reddit

How To Spend A Day In The Old Port District of Portland, Maine! ⚓️😍🛳️ 🦀 You’ll start your day with exploring the charming cobblestone paths, historic piers, & 19th century brick buildings on commercial street. 😍 Take in the sights and sounds of the seagulls & boats as they come and go throughout the day. 🕊️🛳️🌊 During your stroll you’ll come across a ton of colorful murals, boutique shops, & restau...
@mekovalentino
8.8K likes • 273.4K views
Ni kesho mapema ndan ya ngome kongwe (old fort) hii sio ya kukosa lets go meet the greats ni burudani alafu ni ya kihistoria
hassan.guten
70 likes • 3.5K views

🍢 Try the Shawarma

Don't miss the chicken tikka shawarma from the food stalls; it's cheap and delicious! Reddit

🎬 Check for Events

The fort hosts various events, including film festivals and cultural performances. TikTokInstagram

Catch @idrissultan at the opening ceremony of ZIFF2023 tonight at 7:15pm at Ngome Kongwe/Old Fort #tukutanezanzibar #tukutaneziff #tukutanengomekongwe
ziffestival
147 likes • 7.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Arrive before sunset to enjoy the beautiful views and the fort's transformation into a lively market. Reddit

💰 Bargain for Souvenirs

Haggle respectfully with vendors for spices and local crafts; prices are negotiable. Reddit

🍢 Try the Shawarma

Don't miss the chicken tikka shawarma from the food stalls; it's cheap and delicious! Reddit

🎬 Check for Events

The fort hosts various events, including film festivals and cultural performances. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Navigate

The fort is compact and easy to explore on foot; you won't get lost. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Old Fort a great spot for evening entertainment, especially the vibrant food market offering affordable and delicious local eats. While its historical significance is noted, the primary draw for many is the lively atmosphere, souvenir shopping, and sunset views. Some reviewers mention it can be a bit run-down and not particularly wheelchair accessible.

"Absolutely great place to walk around and do shopping, a lot of spices and they are so cheap, nice places to eat, you can’t get lost in there walking around, friendly people, just take a taxi or if you already have a hired car drive there plenty of free or cheap parking."

mohamed elkassas

"Not really worth the visit, fortunately it's free.

There's a story behind the fort's construction, extensions etc which is of minor interest.

A few market stalls are set up inside the grounds which don't actually hassle too much. It's all just fairly quiet.

Lots of rubbish and rubble strewn around and the remains of a large fire. But this isn't really that different to most villages I've seen on the island."

Gary Bowdery

"During the day it's just another beach front walk, but night you get to watch the sunset, and the area transforms into a food market. Try the shawarma stalls, cheap and well worth the money. We really liked the guy asking chicken tikka shawarma. The guys selling mixture of meat and fish stick are more expensive."

Azizul Goni

What People Like

Lively evening food market
Affordable local cuisine
Sunset views

What People Dislike

Not wheelchair accessible
Can appear run-down

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Fort (Ngome Kongwe) is centrally located in Stone Town, Zanzibar. You can easily reach it by taxi or by walking if you are staying nearby. If you have a hired car, there is plenty of free or cheap parking available. Reddit

Yes, parking is available near the Old Fort. It is often free or available for a small fee, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! If your hotel is in Stone Town, walking to the Old Fort is a pleasant and easy option. It's a great way to experience the city's atmosphere. Reddit

For the evening market, taking a taxi is a convenient option as it drops you right at the entrance. Walking is also great if you're in Stone Town and want to soak in the ambiance. Reddit

While direct public transport might be limited, local dala-dalas (minibuses) can get you close to Stone Town, from where you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the fort. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, the entrance to the Old Fort is free. However, this may change in the future, so it's always good to check upon arrival. Reddit

The Old Fort is generally accessible during daylight hours for exploring the grounds and shops. The evening food market typically starts around sunset. Reddit

Yes, for special events like film festivals or performances, tickets are usually available for purchase. Keep an eye on local listings or the ZIFF festival website. Instagram

No advance booking is required for the evening food market. It's a walk-in affair, and you can purchase food directly from the vendors. Reddit

Generally, entry is open. However, the fort is not wheelchair accessible, so visitors with mobility issues should be aware of this limitation. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

During the day, you can explore the historical architecture, browse the souvenir shops selling spices and local crafts, and enjoy a quieter atmosphere before the evening buzz. Reddit

In the evening, the fort transforms into a vibrant food market with numerous stalls offering delicious local food. It's a popular spot for sunset views and a lively cultural experience. Reddit

While children can explore the grounds and shops, the main draw for families might be the evening food market. It's a relatively safe and contained area. Reddit

Official guided tours are not widely advertised, but local vendors or guides might offer informal insights into the fort's history. Reddit

The Old Fort is a venue for various events, most notably the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), as well as cultural performances and movie premieres. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The evening market offers a variety of local street food, including delicious shawarmas (especially chicken tikka), grilled meat and fish skewers, and other Zanzibari specialties. Reddit

Yes, the food at the evening market is generally very affordable. Shawarmas are particularly cheap and well worth the money. Meat and fish skewers might be slightly more expensive. Reddit

While the focus is often on grilled meats and fish, you might find some vegetable-based dishes or sides. It's best to inquire with individual vendors. Reddit

The primary dining experience is the street food market. While there might be some small eateries or cafes within the fort complex, the main attraction is the open-air market. Reddit

The food market typically comes alive after sunset. Arriving around dusk allows you to experience the transition and secure a spot before it gets too crowded. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the sunset over the ocean from the fort walls, the bustling evening food market with its vibrant stalls, and the historical architecture of the fort itself. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed within the Old Fort. Be mindful of vendors and other visitors when taking pictures. Reddit

The golden hour just before sunset offers beautiful lighting for photography. The evening market also provides dynamic scenes with its lights and activity. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions for the Old Fort, but it's always advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone in Zanzibar. Reddit

It's polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products. Many are happy to oblige, especially if you are a customer. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Fort offers a mixed experience for families. During the day, it's a safe space for kids to wander and explore the historical grounds. The souvenir shops can be engaging for children interested in unique items. However, the real family fun often kicks in during the evening food market. It's a chance for kids to try new, affordable foods in a lively atmosphere. Just be mindful that the fort is not wheelchair accessible, which could be a challenge for families with very young children in strollers or those with mobility needs. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Old Fort is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers. Entry is free, making it an accessible attraction. The main draw for saving money is the evening food market, where you can enjoy delicious local meals at very low prices, especially the highly recommended shawarmas. Shopping for souvenirs here can also be more economical, provided you engage in polite bargaining. It's a great way to experience local culture and cuisine without breaking the bank. Reddit

🎬 Film Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts

For those interested in arts and culture, the Old Fort is particularly significant as a venue for the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF). This renowned festival attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the globe, with screenings and events often held within the fort's historic walls. Even outside of festival times, the fort itself is a piece of living history, offering a glimpse into Zanzibar's past and its ongoing cultural vibrancy. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Old Fort, also known as Ngome Kongwe, was constructed in the late 17th century by the Omani Arabs. Its primary purpose was to defend the island against Portuguese invasions and other potential threats. Over the centuries, it has served various roles, including a customs house and, more recently, a venue for cultural events. While its military significance has waned, the fort remains a tangible link to Zanzibar's complex past.

The fort's architecture reflects its defensive origins, with thick stone walls and strategic positioning. Although parts of the structure show signs of age and the remnants of past fires, its historical essence is palpable. Visitors can explore the grounds and imagine the fort in its prime, a silent guardian of Stone Town's harbor. Reddit

The Evening Transformation: A Culinary Delight

As the sun dips below the horizon, the Old Fort undergoes a magical transformation. What is a relatively quiet historical site by day becomes a bustling, open-air food market. The air fills with the tantalizing aromas of grilled meats, spices, and local delicacies, creating a vibrant sensory experience. This nightly event is a highlight for many visitors, offering an authentic taste of Zanzibari street food culture.

Visitors rave about the affordable and delicious options available. The chicken tikka shawarma is a particular favorite, praised for its flavor and value. While meat and fish skewers are also popular, the shawarma often steals the show. It's an ideal spot to sample a variety of local dishes in a lively and social atmosphere, making it a must-visit for any foodie exploring Zanzibar. Reddit

Shopping for Treasures

The Old Fort is a treasure trove for souvenir hunters. Inside its walls, you'll find numerous stalls operated by local vendors, offering a wide array of goods. Spices, a hallmark of Zanzibar, are abundant and often at very competitive prices compared to other tourist spots. You can also find intricately carved wooden items, colorful textiles, and other handcrafted souvenirs that make for perfect mementos of your trip.

While the vendors are generally friendly and not overly pushy, haggling is an expected part of the shopping experience. Visitors are encouraged to engage respectfully with the sellers to negotiate prices. This interaction adds to the cultural immersion and ensures you get a good deal on your chosen items. The convenience of free entry and ample parking further enhances the appeal of shopping at the Old Fort. Reddit

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