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Uzi Island Cultural Village Tour

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• TOURS IN ZANZIBAR ISLAND

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Uzi island, zanzibar, 8 hrs guided tour.

Uzi island has managed not to be involved in the tourism development and most of Uzis are fishermen and paysants. The islands scenery is fascinating and lush with mangrove, banana plantations and huge mango trees. The island is part of a conservation area and is an eco system with sea weed, corals and a big variation of plants, and sea- and land animals. The island can only be reached by boat or at low tide when the only road to the island surfaces.

Explore Zanzibar Uzi Island Mosses Road

Discovering mangroves, hollow baobab tree and Champaign baobab tree standing tall for more than 100 years

Learn Women’s Economic activities in the Shores

Snorkeling in the Mangrove

Bird watching in the Mangroves

Canoe trip through the mangrove swamps

What You Can Expect

Discover Uzi Island where the cultural heritage of sleepy Island approach to life and slowly slowly attitude is perfect for those wanting to get away for a bit of Do Absolutely Nothing or Visiting the Island’s Culture. Head to Uzi Island of which is the second largest island around Zanzibar, holding a unique distinction in term of its culture and people. The Island is located in the South of Zanzibar and it can only be accessed via a causeway which is accessible during low tide and it is also known as “Mosses Road” . When the water comes up, the road disappears and you might as well travel by traditional Dhow.

Uzi Island has a population of 6,000 peoples but still don’t have any restaurant or bar. Canoe trip through the thick forest and lush mangroves, seaweed farming, bird watching in the Mangroves, discovering lonely beaches and Champaign baobab tree & hollow baobab tree composed of several fused stems makes the Island very unique. The baobab is one the most iconic African trees. It is widespread across the continent, and its fruit is an important traditional food. Uzi Island is an example of Zanzibar before the age of mass development, which someone can say that the things are spared if not backward.

What's Included

Experienced Professional Tour guide

Pick up and drop off from your hotel in private car

Enjoy a freshly-prepared seafood lunch on the island

Snorkeling gear (life jacket, mask & flippers)

Entrances Fees

Boat charter

Mineral Water during the tour

Transport waiting charge

All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included

What's Excluded

Medical Insurance

International Flights

Airport Taxes

Expenses of a personal Nature

Additional Information

Tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Vegetarian lunch option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Bring Towels, swimming suit, and water sport shoes

Not wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions

Bookings can only be accepted for persons under 15 years of age when accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for them.

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•    Urban/West Region, Zanzibar - Tanzania
• +255 773 725 893
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Uzi Island Zanzibar Cultural Village Tour

• Experienced Professional Tour guide
• Pick up and drop off from your hotel in private car
• Enjoy a freshly-prepared seafood lunch on the island
• Snorkeling gear (life jacket, mask & flippers)
• Entrances Fees
• Boat charter
• Mineral Water during the tour
• Transport waiting charge
• All taxes, fuel surcharges and service fees included
• Fast responsive Ambulance Services
• Emergency Medical crew
• Handling for medical evacuation
• Entry/Admission - Uzi Island
• Medical Insurance if needed
• International Flights
• Airport Taxes
• Expenses of a personal Nature
• Hotel pickups commence approximately 7 - 75 minutes prior to this time and it depends on the location of the hotel, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation. Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Ferry Tourist Information Office, R5VV+5MR, Mizingani Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Zanzibar Ferry Terminal, Malindi Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• H253GMveronicat 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Scam listing This listing is a scam. The tour operator never showed up and when we called they claimed the tour was canceled. The restaurant where we were supposed to meet had never heard of the tour operator, and the contact number has a South Korean country code. Don't book this. Read more Written January 7, 2024
• b0ernie0ne 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles How tourism effects on local life and their reality! The ride in the mango tree was funny. This feeling turns quickly into annoyed lack of understanding. When the sailor starts to destroy the boatride with his forcing staccato "tip the captain ! tip the captain !". 40 mns after starting the boat has stopped for disembarking. The captain charged 40 USD in total. These moments reveal insane excess by locals and the lack of evaluate a delivered performance in relation to the price. A sad effect from growing tourism from the western world. . Read more Written December 2, 2023
• Virginia D 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Entertaining, serene and relaxing We went on a sunset cruise on a cloudy day, so missed the magnificent sunsets we had seen in previous days in Stone Town. It didn't matter so much, the Dhow named Inshallah was lovely to sail on, with many visitors opting to go up on the top deck. The view from the lower area was fine. We were treated to delicious snacks including cassava chips, calamari and cheese filled samosas. There was plenty of juice and water for children and beer and wine for adults. Entertainment was provided by the traditional drummer and our host who was an absolute showman. Read more Written June 30, 2023
• rosannec580 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Tumbatu Island tour from Stone Town We booked the tour through the Spice Palace hotel In Stone Town. Picked up at our hotel drove to Nungwi then took a small boat to what we thought was Tumbatu Island. It was so rough We were soaked when we got close to an Island (Not Tumbatu) the 2 fellows managing the Boat told us we snorkel now and go to beach later. It was very rough water. We snorkeled for about 30 minutes . Got back In the boat, again ,it was very rough water. Took us back to Nungwi. Oh and was offered Fruit in the boat. It was just as rough going Back. Again we were soaked. Nobody Mentioned why we didn't get to Tumbatu Island. We paid the driver $70 USD and the Boat operators $80USD . 3 middlemen along The way , so who knows who got what. A real rip off. Read more Written February 17, 2023
• stressedtravelsuk 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Misleading booking We paid 200 dollars for what we were told was a private tour of the forest. We had 10 people with us on our tour and at one point had to share the private taxi booked at the tour guides insistence. As the others in the tour included young bored children the tour raced through in about 30 minutes. The forest is beautiful and well worth a visit but do not go with this operator. Read more Written January 5, 2021
• NathanMcGrugan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Dhow sunset cruise Booked via Expedia and the company couldn't of been more professional, prior to the tour they contacted me to arrange a pick up from my hotel to take me to the boat. The tour it's self was very enjoyable and the staff couldn't of been anymore friendly and informative. I would definitely recommend using them, especially when your trying to arrange tours prior to your arrival. Read more Written December 13, 2020
• Hassan O 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles "Great tour" I spent enjoyable days with Safanta to visit Stone Town and many beautiful places. It was a pleasant tour in my life, they offer very competitive prices, very friendly guide and take care of us very much, everything is well. Wonderful experience unforgettable, highly recommended !! Read more Written May 23, 2020
• cristinafG3713IT 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Spice tour with cooking class We have done a private spice tour with cooking class and had a great time. Communication was really easy through watsup and they have also arranged our transport from nungwi until stonetown together with the tour. They have adapt to our budget and accommodate our requests. Liftia gave us the cooking class and she was also great! Would recommend! Read more Written December 8, 2019
• GlobeTrotting782097 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Absolutely wonderful sunset cruise This was the highlight of our time in Stone Town. The crew was awesome. We had two musicians playing Taarab music during the cruise. We were treated to beverages and aperitifs, the captain was skilled, and it was a most enjoyable cruise. The sunset was beautiful. I would recommend it to anyone who likes sailing and sunsets! Read more Written October 7, 2018

More to explore in Zanzibar Island

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Uzi Island Zanzibar Cultural Village Tour provided by Safanta Tours & Travel

Anza Zanzibar Tours

Your ultimate guide for the African experience

UZI ISLAND – THE UNTOUCHED ZANZIBAR

Only reachable by boat or at low tide  The island can only be reached by boat or at low tide when the only road to the island surfaces. Abdullah our friend will meet up and take us to his home.  Here we will ask someone to climb the coconut tree to pick us some madafuu, the young coconut frequently drunken for its purifying effects. Then we attach the family´s ox to the carriage to take an uncomfortable but highly authentic tour in the islands prime vehicle. We will visit the other village and do some tasting of local food and fruit on the way.

₹ 62,891 onwards

Label : Hidden Gem

Tags : Island

Length : 6 kilometres

Time Required : 2-3 hours

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

Uzi Island, Zanzibar Overview

Uzi Island, located in the southern part of Zanzibar, is a quiet and untouched destination. With a length of 6 kilometres, it's the second-largest among the smaller islands around Zanzibar. Home to around 6000 people, Uzi Island provides a glimpse into rural Zanzibar life, showcasing its simplistic culture and traditions. The island is lush with mangroves, banana plantations, baobab trees, and beautiful white sand beaches.

Uzi Island is part of the Menai Bay Conservation Area, preserving a variety of ecosystems like mangrove forests, sea grass beds, freshwater forests, and coral reefs. Nature lovers can enjoy encounters with dolphins, African Sea Eagles, and protected marine turtles. The residents of the island mainly indulge in fishing and farming. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking through mangrove forests, dhow tours to explore the island, engaging in seaweed farming, and bird watching.

Must Know Before You Visit Uzi Island

• Remember to cover your knees and shoulders to respect local customs on Uzi Island.
• Keep in mind that there are no bars, restaurants, or hotels on the island, preserving its natural beauty.

Read More on Uzi Island

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Top ways to experience Uzi Island and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Uzi Island - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Email : [email protected]
• Call Us Now: +255 777 916 104

UZI ISLAND & MAMA ZANZIBAR

Witness the 50-year-old traditions and culture of Zanzibar at Uzi Island. The Island of Uzi is built with small houses made of clay and stones, as well as limestone, but this island also has many flora and fauna. Reaching Uzi Island only during low tide, we will drive using the causeway that connects the main island via a 2km.5 coral rock road that is surrounded by a variety of mangrove forests with a size of 3 to 7 meters with seawater ponds filled with small crabs. When doing the Uzi Island Tour. You will have a great opportunity to learn about the main economic activities carried out by the community members, such as seaweed farming, traditional beekeeping, boat carving, bamboo fish traps and nets, and farming different vegetables, cassava and bananas. If that is not enough, we will also visit the old school on Uzi Island and see the rural education system. During the tour, please pay attention and listen to your tour guide’s commentary to create unforgettable memories in the Zanzibar Islands.

This is a unique opportunity to meet the inhabitants of the Zanzibar Islands. Generally, the people of Zanzibar are full of hospitality, compassion, and humor who are very proud to welcome guests who visit them. The women of Zanzibar are known for their handicrafts. They use their hands to sew bags and mats and even cultivate seaweed for a profit. You might be surprised to learn about seaweed products, such as soap, lotion, oil, skin care and eating too. Along with maintaining their culture, they teach future generations to take care of strangers and respect one another. You can also see various other activities that give a view of the real life of Zanzibar, such as carving, pottery, and creating traditional fishing equipment. In the end, you will get to know the traditions, cultures, and customs inspired by the women of Zanzibar.

• Sightseeing and Guided Tours
• Countryside Tours

Group Uzi Island cultural village tour from South Coast of Zanzibar

Location:  Tanzania

Activity:  Countryside Tours

Languages spoken:  English

Duration:  8 hrs

Difficulty:  Easy

• Available in 2 days
• Minimum number of persons:  2x
• Explore Zanzibar Uzi Island Mosses Road
• Discovering mangroves, hollow baobab tree and Champaign baobab tree standing tall for more than 100 years
• Learn Women’s Economic activities in the Shores
• Snorkeling in the Mangrove
• Bird watching in the Mangroves
• Canoe trip through the mangrove swamps

All about the trip

Discover Uzi Island where the cultural heritage of a sleepy Island approach to life and slow attitude is perfect for those wanting to get away for a bit. Do absolutely nothing or see the island’s culture. Head to Uzi Island which is the second largest island around Zanzibar, holding a unique distinction in terms of its culture and people. The Island is located in the South of Zanzibar and it can only be accessed via a causeway that is accessible during low tide (also known as “Mosses Road”). When the water comes up, the road disappears and you might as well travel by traditional Dhow.

Uzi Island has a population of 6,000 people but still doesn’t have any restaurants or bars. Experience a canoe trip through the thick forest and lush mangroves, see seaweed farms, watch birds in the Mangroves, and discover lonely beaches and awesome baobab trees. All this makes the Island very unique. Uzi Island is an example of Zanzibar before the age of mass development, where someone can say that things are isolated if not backward.

What is included in the price

• Experienced professional tour guide
• Pick up and drop off from your hotel in a private car
• Enjoy a freshly-prepared seafood lunch on the island
• Snorkeling gear (life jacket, mask & flippers)
• Entrances Fees
• Boat charter
• Mineral Water during the tour
• Transport waiting charge
• All taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees included

What is not included in the price

• Medical insurance
• International flights
• Airport taxes
• Expenses of a personal nature

Instructions

A vegetarian lunch option is available, please advise us at the time of booking if required.

Leave your valuables at the hotel, if possible.

Not wheelchair accessible.

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions.

Bookings can only be accepted for persons under 15 years of age when accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for them.

Hotel pick-ups commence approximately 7 - 75 minutes prior to this time and it depends on the location of the hotel, exact pick-up time will be advised on reconfirmation. Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

COVID-19 CLEAN AND SAFE

All vehicles are disinfected regularly after each ride. We have established set protocols that we follow to make sure all of these high touch areas are disinfected in every vehicle. An emergency plan has been designed which can be followed in case of an outbreak. In the event that a suspected or confirmed case of Covid-19, we have action plans ready to implement. Medical support is available if required. Not all destinations have the same resources, so we anticipate the needs of our customers should they become ill.

General staff training is in place regarding new protocols to prevent the spread of Covid19.

This training is in various stages:

Initial: containing basic information about the illness, personal hygiene, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and departmental procedures.

Follow-up: reinforces the basic points and any improvements made. Plus, follows up employees’ concerns and needs.

What to take with you?

Sunscreen Towel Swimming suit Water sport shoes Waterproof camera, if you have one

Where do we meet and where will the trip end?

You will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in the South Coast of Zanzibar (Makunduchi, Kizimkazi, Jambiani, Fumba, Paje, Dongwe, Pingwe, Bwejuu, or Michamvi). Please let us know the name of your hotel during the booking process.

Same as the meeting point.

Cancellation Policy - Benevolent

• Cancellation more than 4 days prior to the starting date. Clients are automatically refunded the full booking price.
• Cancellation within 48 to 96 hours prior to the starting date. Clients are entitled to a 50% refund of the booking price.
• Cancellation less than 48 hours prior to the starting date. No refunds.

The full Terms and Conditions are available on our website .

This activity is organised by Safanta Tours and Travel comp., Chukwani street, P.O.BOX 3651, Urban/West Region, Zanzibar, Tanzania, +255 778 856 362, [email protected].

We can guarantee you that this agency was checked by our experts. Your money will be safe then. We sell all activities for the same price as the organising agency.

Do you have a question or need more information about the activity?

You can reach our European office between 9am and 5pm CET on weekdays and between 11am and 5pm on weekends and holidays.

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15 truly unmissable things to do in Zanzibar

All the rumours are true: Zanzibar has idyllic white-sand beaches and warm, pale blue waters. 😍 But it also has rich culture and history, beautiful architecture, unusual wildlife, great forest walks, incredible cuisine, and more.

Just to be sure you know where in the world we're talking about ... the famous Zanzibar Archipelago sits among the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean about 30 km (19 miles) off the northeast coast of Tanzania.

Map showing the two main islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago

The two biggest islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago are Unguja and Pemba, which you can see in the map above.

Most visitors fly into Zanzibar City on the west coast of Unguja, and spend all (or most) of their trip on this beautiful island.

Now that you've got the layout of the islands in mind, here's what we think are 15 truly unmissable things to do in Zanzibar when on holiday there!

1. Swim in the ocean and laze on sandy beaches

A pineapple-framed shot of a typical Zanzibari beach

Zanzibar offers that idealised beach holiday we all fantasise about when enduring a tough winter. The white, powdery sands of the beaches invite you to plop down on a towel or deckchair, bury your feet, and just be. And the blue, blue waters make an ocean dip more appealing than ever before!

Spending time in a hammock is a must when on holiday on Zanzibar

An early morning swim? Float in the sea? Snooze in a hammock? Read a book? Worship Hyperion? We highly recommend doing them all when in Zanzibar!

There are many absolutely gorgeous, palm-fringed beaches all around the main island of Umguja to visit. You won't want to limit yourself to just one. So visit a few and give yourself plenty of time to just soak it all in and let the warmth and sea views work their restorative powers on mind and body.

The north of the island has lots of upmarket hotels and resorts

Some of the best beaches on Unguja Island for swimming, strolling, wading and lazing are:

• Bwejuu – a palm-lined beach that's one of the island's quietest.
• Kendwa – a wide beach that's not effected by the tides and has epic sunsets.
• Nungwi – the best beach for night life.
• Kizimkazi – the coastline is raised and drops down to form lovely coves.
• Jambiani – a beautiful, quiet, palm-lined beach.
• Michamvi-Pingwe – a remote sequence of picturesque coves.
• Matemwe – the longest beach in Zanzibar and it has traditional fishing villages where the land meets the sand.
• Pongwe – a beautiful beach that's an arc and offers maybe the best swimming conditions because the nearby reef keeps the water really calm and safe.

Look out for starfish on your Kendwa beach strolls

Is the water warm throughout the year?

Importantly, the water in Zanzibar is swimmable all year round!

The sea temperature in January and February (the height of summer) is around 29 °C (834 °F). And in August and September (which is winter), the sea temperature is around 25.5 °C (78 °F).

The sea water around Zanzibar is perfect for swimming all year round. It never gets too cold, even for fussy swimmers!

Kids swimming in Zanzibar's impossibly blue waters

2. Go on a guided tour of historic Stone Town

Stone Town is the historic centre of what is today Zanzibar City.

For centuries, this port city has been a maritime hub. As such, different civilisations from around the Indian Ocean and even the Mediterranean have interacted and intermingled here, creating a unique society that has clearly been influenced by societies both near and far.

An aerial view of Stone Town on the west coast of Unguja Island

Unsurprisingly, Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best way to learn about the history of Stone Town, as well as its architectural legacy, is to go on a guided tour. You'll wander winding alleys, see carved doorways, pass colourful small shops, marvel at delicately built mansions, and pass pretty minarets.

The history of Stone Town has been shaped by many cultures, including the British, Indians and Persians. But the main influences have been Arabic and Swahili.

You'll also learn about the Omani Sultan's rule in the 1800s, the awful slave trade and its abolition, and the takeover by the British near the end of the century.

Slave Market Memorial and Christ Church, which helped to abolish the slave trade

A guided tour is also an excellent way to familiarise yourself with Stone Town so that you can then meander at another time by yourself, visiting the spots that you wish to explore more. With that in mind, here's our third choice of unmissable things to do in Zanzibar ...

3. Explore Stone Town on your own

While a guided tour of Stone Town is a must to learn about its history, architecture and more, an unguided amble through its warren-like lanes is also a must!

Stone Town is full of beautiful architectural details

We suggest that you give yourself a few hours one morning or afternoon to wander idly through Stone Town's alleyways. This gives you time to shop its bazaars (markets), sample the street food, poke your nose into shops, browse a museum or two, walk the promenade, explore Forodhani Gardens, soak up the atmosphere ...

An armoured embankment in Stone Town

We also encourage the coffee drinkers among you to make time for a traditional coffee ceremony. Various local coffee shops invite visitors to watch the roasting ceremony. The coffee is then served in delicate Arabian cups, and it goes without saying that it is at its best when paired with a sweet treat!

4. Go on a spice tour

A spice tour is an important part of any Zanzibar holiday! See, touch, smell and taste the fragrant spices that are synonymous with the islands.

Spice plantations built during Arab rule brought great wealth to Zanzibar. The archipelago even became the world's number one exporter of cloves. Zanzibaris today still farm cloves, as well as cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon, chilli, and black peppe r.

Nutmeg is one of the many spices grown on Zanzibar

On a spice tour you learn about the growing, harvesting and preparing of spices, as well as how they're used in traditional cuisine.

For those who really love their food, you can take things one step further and combine a spice tour with a cooking class. That way you go home knowing how to replicate the delicious flavours that stole your heart!

During its heyday in the spice trade, Zanzibar earned the nickname the Spice Island.

Just a note to check which spices and seeds you're allowed to bring back to your country before loading up your suitcases to the brim with them!

5. Make some space for street food

Stone Town has plenty of vendors selling appetising seafood kebabs and other tasty specialities.

The street food scene in Stone Town is big

Be sure to visit Zanzibar Street Food Market, where you can sit down with your food if you like. They also host a night-time food market, which is a must on a balmy evening!

Another great food court can be found in Forodhani Gardens. Here, the most popular dish is the Zanzibar pizza, which looks and tastes far from the pizzas of Italy!

6. Visit beautiful Uzi Island

Just off the south coast of Unguja is Uzi Island, a small island with an intertidal causeway. The island is part of Menai Bay Conservation Area, which protects gorgeous mangrove forests, fresh-water forests, sea-grass beds, coral reefs and all the wildlife supported by these intertwined ecosystems.

Menai Bay Conservation Area is a remote and utterly gorgeous ecosystem

What's more is that Uzi Island is mostly untouched by tourism, and so offers a window into an authentic, rural Zanzibari fishing community.

If you have the time, we recommend making a full day's outing of an Uzi Island visit. Though to visit, you must pay attention to the tides. If the tide is in, you paddle to the island on an ngalawa (wooden outrigger canoe), but at low tide you can drive across in a dala dala (bus) on the road that emerges. A visit usually involves a boat ride one way, and a bus ride the other.

Uzi Island can be reached by road at low tide, or by boat at high tide.

While on the island, you can go on a cultural tour in N’gambwa village, and be hosted by a local family who will serve you a traditional lunch. This is a great way to learn about rural life in one corner of Zanzibar.

A secluded beach on Uzi Island

There's time later to swim in the sea at one of the quiet beaches. You can also go on a guided walk (or should we say, wade) through a mangrove forest, which immerses you in a watery world of incredible beauty and ecological diversity. You'll be given reef shoes to wear for the outing.

7. Take a boat ride to Prison Island

Prison Island, so named in the 1800s, was never actually used as a prison

A great thing to do while in Zanzibar is take a short boat ride from Zanzibar City to Prison Island (or Changuu Island). It was never actually used as a prison, even though a prison building was constructed on it in the late 1800s.

A woman on Prison Island, which is locally called Changuu Island

Today the island is known for its Aldabra giant tortoises. Did you know that a group of tortoises is called a creep? It makes sense given their super-slow pace!

Stone Town's beautiful waterfront

Another great thing about visiting Prison Island is the fantastic view you get from the boat on the return journey of Stone Town's waterfront buildings. The row of palaces and mansions along the waterfront – built or commissioned in the 1800s by the sultanate – was designed to impress foreigners, who would arrive by sea.

8. Spot wildlife in Jozani Forest

An ideal outing while in Zanzibar is going on a nature walk in Jozani Forest. After the bustle of Stone Town and the heat of the beaches, it's wonderfully refreshing to step into the cool shadow created by the forest's dense and tangled greenery.

A red colobus monkey

You can choose between a guided nature walk or going it solo. And then you have various paths to choose from, which include gentle hour-long walks and half-day hikes.

There's a host of wildlife to look for in Jozani Forest, including endangered red colobus monkeys.

Some of the other animals living in the forest are leopards, civet cats, mongooses, blue monkeys, lemurs, African pigs, Ader's duikers, and pigmy antelopes.

The Pete-Jozani Boardwalk keeps your feet dry in the mangroves

A walk or hike in Jozani Forest mainly has you walking along winding dirt footpaths. There is also a low boardwalk when you come to the coastal mangroves of Chwaka Bay.

As to birds, you've got plenty of rarities and beauties to try to spot! The forest is full of various species of waterbirds, raptors, shorebirds ... you name it! Some particularly pretty birds to look for are lilac-breasted rollers, purple-banded sunbirds, blue-cheeked bee-eaters, African pygmy kingfishers and golden-tailed woodpeckers.

Lilac-breasted rollers magnificently coloured

Zala Park and Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Those who visit Jozani Forest and want to make a day of the outing often stop in Zanzibar Butterfly Centre, a butterfly breeding centre. Here you can see a dozen or so of the forest's roughly 50 butterfly species by walking around inside a large, netted tropical garden. The project helps to provide employment for locals who can farm and sell pupae.

Dik-diks are tiny antelopes that live in Eastern and Southern Africa

Another great add-on to your Jozani outing is Zala Park, which is just 5 km from the forest. Basically a large garden, Zala Park is home to various reptiles like pythons, chameleons and tortoises. It's also a breeding centre for adorable dik-diks.

9. Eat at the Rock Restaurant Zanzibar

On Michamvi Peninsula on the east coast of Unguja Island is the ridiculously picturesque Rock Restaurant Zanzibar .

It doesn't get more magical than this!

The Rock Restaurant Zanzibar isn't just famous for its setting, however – it's also known for its excellent cuisine! Lobster is its primary speciality, but prawns and calamari also get a lot of love.

Note that this is fine dining, so you might want to look at the menu before going there to check that it's within your budget! Also, you need to book a table in advance as seating is naturally quite limited.

10. Snorkel and dive the coral reefs

We highly, highly recommend that you go snorkelling, diving or scuba diving while on your Zanzibar holiday! The coral reefs surrounding the archipelago's islands are heavenly.

Some of the sea animals you might see are shrimp, pipefish, lungfish, dolphins and sharks. In September and October you could see humpback and sperm whales passing through. And from December to April you might spot manta rays and whale sharks.

Red-knobbed starfish and sea urchins

While conditions are good year round for snorkelling and diving, the very best months for calm waters are mid November to January and June to August.

Zanzibar's clear, calm waters are perfect for snorkelling, diving and scuba diving.

One of the best places to snorkel or dive is Nakupenda Beach, also called Nakupenda Sand Bank. This long sliver of sand is just off the coast of Stone Town and in 2022 it was rated on TripAdvisor as the second best beach in Africa! In fact, the name Nakupenda means "I love you" in English.

Other great snorkelling and diving beaches include Prison Island (as already mentioned), Pungume Island, Mnemba Island, and Tumbatu Island.

Note that the island's western beaches aren't much affected by tides, while the eastern beaches are quite tidal.

But by far the best place of all for snorkelling and diving is the privately owned Chumbe Island off the southwest coast. Chumbe Reef Sanctuary does in fact host over 90% of all the hard coral species of East Africa!

11. Go scuba diving

When it comes to scuba diving, it doesn't get any better than the Zanzibar Archipelago. Seriously.

Scuba diving in the waters off Zanzibar is a super rewarding experience!

Some great spots for scuba diving off Unguja Island are:

• Nyange Reef near Stone Town is gorgeous and the cheapest reef to access.
• The barrier reef off the southeast coast is full of soft corals.
• The heart-shaped Mnemba Atoll off the northeast coast of Unguja has a host of reefs, and there's a good chance of spotting turtles here.
• Leven Bank is an undersea mountain in Pemba Channel (just north of the island) where you could well spot barracudas and moray eels.
• The blue lagoon near Michamvi village is ideal for beginners as the coral gardens here are shallow and sheltered.

12. Interact with wild animals at Cheetah's Rock

Cheetah's Rock is a special reserve on Unguja Island that rescues wild animals, including cheetahs, lions, hyenas, zebras, lemurs, bushbabies, otters and tortoises. It also looks after some animals sent for conservation purposes.

A crouched cheetah under a tree in Cheetah's Rock

Some of the animals at Cheetah's Rock are put back into the wild after rehabilitation, while others who can't be safely released are allowed to live out their lives in safety at the reserve.

A lemur in Cheetah's Rock

One of Cheetah Rock's main sources of income are visits from tourists. Visitors are allowed to interact with many of the animals in really close proximity, a real USP! It's not unusual for visitors to feed and even touch the animals. So visiting this special rescue centre and having safely managed encounters with these beautiful wild creatures is a win–win!

13. Go on a dhow cruise

A great way to spend an afternoon in Zanzibar is to take a two- to three-hour dhow cruise from Nungwi. If timed properly, your cruise should end just after sunset so that you can enjoy the spectacle from the dhow.

Local sailors on traditional dhow boats

The village of Nungwi on the northern tip of Unguja Island is the traditional centre of dhow building in Zanzibar, and you can still find craftsmen at work on the beach making these picturesque vessels.

When it comes to choosing a dhow cruise, note that you can opt for a private ride or join a group one. Drinks are usually included in the price.

14. Visit the seaweed farms of Paje

An iconic Zanzibari image is that of colourfully dressed women working in ankle-deep water in coastal seaweed plantations.

A Zanzibari woman working in a Paje seaweed plantation

The seaweed is grown in rows, as shown below, and makes for one of the prettiest types of farms imaginable!

The seaweed is exported mostly for use in pharmaceutical and cosmetics products. It's local women who do the harvesting, and the trade provides them with much-needed cash. In fact, seaweed has become the archipelago's third largest source of income. It also accounts for nearly 90% of its marine exports.

A seaweed farm

While much of Zanzibar's Unguja Island has been given over to tourist-related infrastructure and activities, we feel it's good to make the effort to visit those areas where traditional industries still thrive, don't you agree?

15. Stay on Pemba Island

Visiting Pemba is an important part of a Zanzibar holiday because you get away from all the development and wealthy tourist spots on Unguja. Pemba islanders live more traditionally. The beaches are quieter. And the nature is more protected.

Pemba has been dubbed the Emerald Island.

Pemba Island is full of farming communities

There are many things to do on Pemba Island, and if you can stay for more than just a day trip, do! There are beautiful coral reefs, as already discussed, so it's a great place for snorkelling and diving. There are also many great nature paths to walk. You can visit the mediaeval Pujini ruins of the Diba tribe, as well as other, more recent historical ruins. And you can go on cultural village tours.

Pemba Island is very, very different from Unguja Island.

A colony of fruit bats on Pemba Island

The island is also home to some great wildlife, including Pemba flying foxes, which are large fruit bats with a wing span of 1.6 m (5 ft 3 in). When you find a roost of flying foxes, you'll be astounded by how large they are – there can be up to 850 bats in a single roost!

A note on sustainable tourism in Zanzibar

We encourage you do to your research before booking with a tour operator or accommodation spot in Zanzibar.

Local artworks for sale on the beach

Sadly, many of Zanzibar's international hotels and all-inclusive resorts send almost all of their profits outside of the country. They even import much of their basic foodstuffs. And they use up the lion's share of the local water supply.

Being a sustainable traveller means doing our best to ensure our visits abroad benefit local economies and communities. It also means trying to minimise our impact on the local environment.

A turtle in Nungwi Wildlife Preserve

There are a few great sustainable tourism tour operators in Zanzibar, such as Colors of Zanzibar and Zanzibar Ecotourism , that you could partner with for your trip.

Swahili is the main language spoken today in Zanzibar, and we encourage you to learn some Swahili phrases before coming here to help you interact with the locals and generate goodwill.

Local girls walking along the beach

Finally, the majority of the inhabitants of Stone Town are Muslim, so please be respectful in terms of how you dress when in town.

Further helpful reading

Since you're reading up on travelling to Zanzibar, here are some other topics that you might find useful:

• How safe is Tanzania?
• Your 2023 Tanzania travel questions answered
• The best time to visit Tanzania

Visiting Zanzibar is, in our opinion, one of the best things to do after climbing Kilimanjaro .

On a Kilimanjaro climb you camp under the stars

While we currently don't organise trips to Zanzibar ourselves, we do run Kilimanjaro climbs and Tanzania safaris , where we take you to world-class reserves like Serengeti National Park to the see the Big Five and the Great Migration!

Many folks heading to Tanzania like to do a Kilimanjaro climb and then reward themselves afterwards with a safari and a visit to Zanzibar. These three destinations together make for the perfect East African getaway in our opinion!

Tours: Zanzibar

This is for Excursions on Zanzibar

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Dolphin Tour

Situated on the southern point of Zanzibar island, Kizimkazi fishing village is home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins and Humpback dolphins, after arriving we take a motorized boat and start searching for dolphins. They can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village.

Green Safari Mangrove tour UZI Island

Kayak the pristine wilderness of a massive mangrove forest and isolated white sand beaches of Uzi Island. Cultural walk through the historic and quaint Swahili fishing village of Unguja Ukuu. After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to Uzi Island.

Historical Stone town tour

It is a three-hour tour which begins at your hotel or entry point where you walk and drive around Historical Stone Town see several historical locations including the Famous Singer Freddy Mercury, and exciting markets, as you stroll through the narrow streets of Stone Town.

Jozani forest (Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park)

Jozani Forest, also known as Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, is the only national park on Zanzibar Island in Tanzania. It is very small (only 50 square kilometres) but a beautiful and tranquil place to visit. It is one of the must-see tours.

North Coast (Nungwi) tour

A full-day excursion to Nungwi beach visit the Portuguese Ruins, the traditional fishing village with residents speaking a peculiar Swahili dialect, the turtles at Baraka Aquarium, A traditional boatyard to learn more about traditional dhow building and at the end of the tour, you can either relax on the sandy beaches or swim

Prison Island tour

After breakfast, we drive to Zanzibar Stone Town to catch our boat to Prison Island. The island lies just off the Old Stone Town, it is also a home to  giant land tortoises  that were imported from Seychelles in the late 19th century and are now under strict conservation.

Safari Blue

Zanzibar’s most talked about sea adventure is, a very special product comprising a full day excursion exploring the very beautiful Conservation area of Menai Bay. Safari Blue’ departs from the fishing village of Fumba as it is the most convenient location exploring the wildlife, isolated sandbanks and rugged island scenery of the Conservation Area.

Sandbank Picnic (Nakupenda Sandbank)

Nakupenda Sandbank is located just off Stone Town, Zanzibar, the boat ride take about 20 minutes. On the sandbank, you will be provided with snorkeling equipment such as masks for Snorkeling purposes.

The spice tour is a half-day (4-hour) guided walking tour that passes through villages and spice plantations. It starts at Kibweni Palace and then walks through to Kidichi. Here are the Persian Baths built by Seyyid Said Sultan for his wife Princess Shehrzard, one of the family members of the Shah of Persia.

Tandem Skydive – Kendwa Beach, Zanzibar

Enjoy the thrilling and incredible experience of skydiving with SkyDive Zanzibar over the most beautiful island in the world, where every jump is a beach jump

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