Darajani Market, Zanzibar Overview

Darajani Market, found on Darajani Road near the Anglican Cathedral of Christ, is the lively main bazaar in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Also called Estella Market, it has been a traditional old food market since 1904, giving a vibrant peek into Zanzibar's culture and local life. It is best visited in the mornings when the shops are busy with fresh produce and an exciting fish auction.

Situated in a historic 19th-century building, Darajani Market is well-organized with sections for seafood, meat, fruits, grains, and spices. It's also a place to shop for various items like electronics and clothing. The market is known for traditional medicines and herbs used in Zanzibari remedies. Darajani Market is not just a shopping place but also a great spot to try local dishes and street food, offering a taste of traditional Zanzibari cuisine. Haggling is customary. Open from early morning to late afternoon, it's a bustling spot for locals and visitors.

What to Buy at the Darajani Market?

Darajani Market is a treasure trove of items to explore and buy:

Fruits and Vegetables: Dive into a variety of tropical fruits like soursops and seasonal durians. You'll also find common fruits such as bananas, jackfruit, avocados, certain oranges, and pineapples.
Spices: Spice up your shopping with turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. For better prices, check out spice stores.
Meat: Despite not being the best-smelling area, the meat section offers beef and goat meat. For a variety of fish, visit the fish market auction early in the morning. Look out for popular fish like Changuu, sailfish, sharks, and octopus.
Dates: Treat yourself to sweet dates commonly grown in Zanzibar from lined-up vendors.
Bread: On the market's outskirts, spot vendors on bicycles with baskets of bread on the back.
Kofia: Explore traditional Zanzibari hats for a cultural touch.
Other Items: Darajani Market has more to offer, including clothes, shoes, DVDs, electronics, household items, toys, knick-knacks, and cooking supplies. It's a one-stop shop for an authentic Zanzibari shopping experience.