Darajani Market Guide : The Darajani Bazaar or Market, also known as Estella Market, is situated on the outskirts of Stone Town’s historic alleys in Zanzibar. It was initially constructed in 1904 but was later expanded and refurbished. It bears the name of the Countess Estella, sister of Zanzibar‘s Prime Minister Lloyd Mathews.
One of Stone Town’s primary markets is the Darajani Market or Bazaar. Some of the finest antics frequently occur on the streets outside the market before people enter. Visitors can discover vendors there offering an assortment of goods, including plastic toys and other handicrafts.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE DARAJANI MARKET
- Darajani Market opened in 1904 but was later expanded and renovated.
- Estella Market is another name for it.
- It was given the Countess Estella’s name because she is the sister of Zanzibar’s Prime Minister, Lloyd Mathews.
LOCATION
At Stone Town, Zanzibar, Darajani Market is situated on the edge of the historic alleys. The Darajani Market is specifically located on Darajani Road, next to the Anglican Church of Christ. After navigating Stone Town’s winding streets, arriving at Darajani Market will feel like emerging from a cave.
GETTING TO THE MARKET
When you’re walking through Stone Town, you can suddenly emerge and find yourself at the market — this has happened to many people several times — or alternatively, if you just look at a Stone Town map, you can find the market relatively quickly and maneuver your way there.
After navigating Stone Town’s winding pathways, arriving at Darajani Market is similar to emerging from a cave.
Even though there are many more people, space suddenly becomes available as you arrive at Darajani Market since the lanes are so congested and tiny.
Before actually entering the market, on the exterior streets surrounding the market, is frequently where some of the finest acts take place.
Pop-up sellers can be seen selling a variety of intriguing goods, from indigenous Zanzibari spices and delicacies to plastic toys imported directly from China.
THINGS TO BUY AT DARAJANI MARKET
The major market at Darajani Bazar is a food one. Simply put, it includes everything: spices, beef, poultry, fresh fish, and shellfish.
Also, there are stores selling plastic buckets, clothing, and cell phones. It consists of a number of covered hallways that spill out into the nearby streets.
Going early in the morning while the food is fresh is advised if you want to buy food. Although it will be considerably busier, you won’t regret it once you taste the food.
Shopping there is rather simple because of how well the market is structured.
- Fruits and Vegetables
A complete section is devoted to fruits and vegetables. Tropical fruits come in a great variety and are virtually always available. Certain fruits, though, may be a touch overripe. Fruits including bananas, jackfruit, avocados, several varieties of oranges, and pineapples are among the most extensively consumed,Darajani Market Guide
- Spices
The sale of spices is a typical occurrence in the Darajani Market. A few sellers sell very little Zanzibar spice. Some merchants sell a vast variety of spices for people who wish to purchase the real deal.
- Meat
The meat section, which mainly consists of beef and goat meat, does not smell the best. However, it is worth a visit.
The auction section of the fish market is quite popular. To witness some amazing sailfish or sharks, it is advised to go early in the morning. Moreover, Zanzibar is widely known for its octopus. It is consumed widely. It can be served grilled or in a curry made with coconut milk.
On Zanzibar, there is also another kind of well-liked fish that goes by the name of Changuu. Eating it on the coast is extremely common. The Dar es Salaam Fish Market also sells it.
- Beyond Food Shopping
Also, there are a number of gift shops where tourists can purchase spice packets and other mementos. Visitors can also purchase clothes, shoes, DVDs, electrics, and home goods from the shops and vendors there. Particularly at Kanga St., where stores sell vibrant regional prints and various fabrics, it is worthwhile to pay a visit.
CONCLUSION
Although most people associate Zanzibar with its immaculate beaches, taking some time to stroll through the neighborhood markets is a great way to get to know the island’s culture and watch daily life there.
Spend an hour exploring Darajani Market if you’re ever in Stone Town for a fantastic experience. After shopping at Darajani Market, treat yourself to a delicious octopus curry at Lukmaan Restaurant or a delicious Zanzibari biryani at Passing Show.
