One of the best ways to experience how locals live, once you’re done visiting the game reserves, and the museum in Zanzibar, is perhaps a visit to the local market. Any tour of Stone Town, Zanzibar would not be complete without a tour of Darajani Market. This is not only where traders conduct their businesses, but also where people go to meet a friend, socialize and eat.

Market in downtown Stone Town pulls them all in and fits the bill perfectly. Built in the 1900s, the building that houses the massive market was designed with sufficient access points to allow entry and exit, smooth flow of merchandise and customers, and enough stalls to accommodate more than 5,000 traders. As if this wasn’t enough more vendors sprawl their wares outside the market and once you approach the market, you’re met with a deafening cacophony of noise as traders shout themselves hoarse attracting customers.

If you love eating out, then Darajani market is for you. There is a separate eating area where you’ll encounter recipes fit for a king, including lobsters, shrimp, barracuda, octopus, shawarma, kebabs, and bread. You can also order the famous Zanzibar Pizza; a mouth-watering dish so tasty that it leaves you wanting to come back for more. It’s a mixture of crepe stuffed with loads of meats, chillies and vegetables. All can be washed down with copious quantities of cane juice.

Watch out for vendors selling stale food if it’s your first visit. Eat at places that attract more bigger crowds. This is an indication their food has won a thumbs up.