Jozani forest, Visit Sea turtles Sanctuary and Stone town

Planning a trip to Zanzibar? If so, you’re likely eyeing a blend of lush nature, vibrant culture, and incredible wildlife encounters. This tour, offered by Mtende Tours & Safaris, promises just that—a full day of exploring Zanzibar’s most iconic sites for $90 per person. We’re here to give you the real inside scoop on what to expect, the highlights that make it worthwhile, and some practical tips to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to walk among the endangered red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest. Second, the opportunity to swim with sea turtles in a sanctuary that prioritizes conservation. And third, the glimpse into Zanzibar’s history and culture in Stone Town. The only possible downside? It’s a full day, which can feel rushed if you prefer more leisurely, in-depth visits. Still, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and relaxed adventure.

This tour suits travelers who want a practical, guided experience that hits multiple highlights of Zanzibar without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time but a strong interest in nature and local culture.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering wildlife, conservation, and cultural sites
• Expert guides help spot animals and share local insights
• All-inclusive price covers entry fees and guide services, with optional extras
• Flexible booking—pay later and cancel easily if needed
• Authentic encounters with endangered species and historic sites
• Comfortable timing designed to fit a full day without rushing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Discovering Jozani Forest: A Natural Treasure

The day kicks off with a mid-morning arrival at Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, a protected area that is arguably Zanzibar’s most famous rainforest. The guides here are known for being friendly and knowledgeable—one reviewer mentioned how their guide, Isaac, was “super helpful in spotting the monkeys and explaining their habits.” Walking through the dense, green canopy, you’ll have the chance to see the endangered Red Colobus Monkeys, a Zanzibar exclusive. These monkeys are striking with their reddish fur and are a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.

The forest trail isn’t just about monkeys; expect to see bush babies, duikers, butterflies, and a variety of birds. The guide’s expertise really makes a difference, helping you spot elusive creatures that blend seamlessly into the environment. Reviewers appreciated how the guides kept the group engaged, filling the walk with interesting facts about the flora and fauna.

Cross the Mangrove Bridge: A Unique Ecosystem

One of the standout features of Jozani is the mangrove bridge, which offers a different perspective of Zanzibar’s coastal ecosystem. Walking across this elevated walkway, you’ll get a chance to admire the mangrove trees’ tangled roots and learn about their vital role in protecting the coastline. It’s not only picturesque but also educational, especially if you’re interested in conservation efforts.

Swimming with Sea Turtles: A Conservation-Focused Experience

After the forest adventure, the tour moves to the Sea Turtles Sanctuary—a peaceful spot dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating these gentle creatures. Here, visitors are encouraged to swim alongside the turtles, a memorable highlight for many travelers. The sanctuary prioritizes conservation, and you’ll often find guides explaining ongoing efforts to protect local turtle populations.

Many reviewers describe it as a gentle, awe-inspiring moment—“swimming with the turtles was pure magic,” one wrote—reaffirming the value of visiting a site that emphasizes responsible tourism. It’s a relaxed stop, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the water and observe the turtles in their natural habitat.

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Exploring Stone Town: Zanzibar’s Historic Heart

The final leg of the tour is a visit to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding alleys, historic buildings, and vibrant markets. The guided walk offers insights into Zanzibar’s rich history, from Arab influence to the spice trade. You’ll get a glimpse of the local life, with some free time to browse shops or snap photos of the iconic architecture.

While some reviews mention that the visit to Stone Town feels brief, most appreciate the chance to see the key sights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a perfect way to wrap up the day, balancing culture with relaxed sightseeing.

Practical Details & What’s Included

At $90, this tour strikes a fair balance between affordability and value. The price covers entry fees, a knowledgeable guide, government taxes, and water bottles—a nice touch for staying refreshed. Extras like transportation are not included but can be requested at an additional, budget-friendly rate, making it flexible for different travel styles.

What you’ll need to bring includes comfortable shoes, a camera, and some cash for optional purchases or tips. Be sure to check the weather forecast before the day to dress appropriately and carry sun protection or rain gear if needed.

Authenticity and Insider Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that having a guides like Isaac makes all the difference—he was praised for his patience and ability to spot animals, making the experience more engaging. The tour’s timing allows for a full morning in the forest and afternoon activities, so you’ll want to start early for maximum wildlife encounters.

Travelers also appreciated the informative commentary about conservation efforts, especially at the turtle sanctuary. It’s evident that the tour emphasizes responsible tourism, which adds meaning to the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is an excellent pick for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to explore Zanzibar beyond beaches. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a guided, well-organized day without the hassle of self-navigation. If you’re interested in endangered species, historical sites, and local culture, this tour hits all those notes.

However, if you prefer very leisurely, unstructured days or have mobility issues, some parts—like walking through dense forest or uneven paths—might be challenging. Also, travelers over 95 might want to reconsider, as the tour is designed for a typical full-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers entry fees for the parks, a professional guide, government taxes, and water. Transportation isn’t included but can be arranged at a low extra cost if needed.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with the main activities spanning from morning to late afternoon, allowing you to enjoy each site comfortably.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also an option to reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility.

Is it suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially older children who enjoy walking and wildlife. However, very young children or those with mobility issues may find parts of the walk challenging.

Are there any health or weather considerations?
It’s wise to check the weather forecast and your health condition before the tour. Dress appropriately, wear comfortable shoes, and carry sun protection.

Will I see the endangered red colobus monkeys?
Yes, the guides are experienced at spotting these monkeys and other wildlife, so you have a good chance to see them in their natural habitat.

Is swimming with turtles safe?
The sanctuary prioritizes the safety of visitors and conservation of turtles. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll have a safe and memorable experience.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, and Italian, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, cash for tips or souvenirs, and any personal items needed for a full day outdoors.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to experience Zanzibar’s wildlife, history, and local culture in one well-organized day, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of Jozani Forest’s unique flora and fauna, the conservation-focused turtle sanctuary, and the historic charm of Stone Town makes for a comprehensive experience that appeals to many interests.

While it’s a busy schedule, the guides’ expertise and the variety of sites visited keep things engaging from start to finish. The tour’s focus on responsible tourism and authentic encounters ensures that you not only see the highlights but also gain appreciation for the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Zanzibar, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy learning about wildlife, history, and conservation while exploring the island’s vibrant landscapes.

In summary, this experience offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and culture at a reasonable price. Suitable for curious explorers who want to maximize their time and see Zanzibar’s best-kept secrets in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: