Zanzibar: Jozani forest, Stone town tour & Prison island

This Zanzibar tour offers a captivating mix of wildlife, history, and island adventures, all packed into a manageable day for travelers eager to explore the unmissable sights of Unguja South. From the lush greenery of Jozani Forest to the historic streets of Stone Town and the enchanting Giant Tortoises on Prison Island, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances nature, culture, and fun.

What caught our attention? First, interacting with the native Red Colobus Monkeys in their natural habitat is a rare treat. Second, the visit to Stone Town provides a fascinating peek into Zanzibar’s layered past, blending African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Third, the Giant Tortoises at Prison Island are delightfully interactive, offering memorable photo ops and up-close encounters.

One thing to keep in mind is that some parts of the tour involve walking and boat rides, so it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or very young children. Nonetheless, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a balanced, accessible glimpse into Zanzibar’s natural and cultural highlights—perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

Key Points

• Highlights include Jozani Forest, Stone Town, and Prison Island, offering a mix of wildlife, history, and island charm.
• Interaction with Red Colobus Monkeys is a unique, memorable experience in their natural environment.
• Giant Tortoises provide a fun and touchable encounter on Prison Island.
• The tour’s price of $135 per person delivers good value considering all included fees, guides, and transport.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, adding convenience.
• The tour is best suited for those who can handle a bit of walking, boat rides, and outdoor exposure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Zanzibar Tour Experience

Starting Point: Jozani Forest Sanctuary

Your day kicks off in the Jozani Forest, a lush, green sanctuary that’s home to Zanzibar’s rare Red Colobus Monkeys. We’ve read that visitors often describe the experience as “intimate,” thanks to the guided nature walk that allows you to observe these playful primates in their natural surroundings. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights on the forest’s flora and fauna, which adds depth to the visit.

Travelers mention that interacting with the monkeys is a highlight—“they come close enough for photos”—but also stress the importance of respecting their space. We love the idea that this encounter feels genuine: no cages, no staged photos, just monkeys doing their thing, with just a respectful distance maintained.

Exploring Stone Town

After the forest, you’ll hop into a vehicle and head to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the streets are a fascinating mosaic of architecture, history, and culture. The town has retained its original urban fabric, straight out of a history book, and contains a variety of buildings reflecting influences from Africa, the Arab world, India, and Europe.

Walking through Stone Town, you’ll learn about Zanzibar’s complex past—once a major trading hub—through stories shared by your guide. The architecture, with intricate balconies and carved doors, is a visual treat, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Visitors highlight the “authentic vibe” of the town and appreciate the chance to stroll leisurely, soaking in the sights.

Prison Island and the Giant Tortoises

Next, a 20-minute boat ride takes you to Prison Island. This island’s history is as interesting as its current residents—originally built to contain violent prisoners and sick individuals, it’s now famous for its colony of Giant Tortoises. Visitors describe feeding and touching these gentle giants as a “surreal experience,” with many noting the slow-paced, peaceful environment.

The sanctuary here is well-maintained, and guides often share stories about the tortoises’ origins—imported from Seychelles in the late 1800s—and their care. Some reviews mention that the tortoises are very friendly, making it easy to get close for photos, but it’s also important to be respectful of the animals’ space.

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Practicalities and Value

The tour includes entry fees, bottled water, government tax, a private guide, and private speed boat transportation—making it a seamless, all-in-one experience. The price of $135 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions and the personalized nature of the tour. Guests appreciate the convenience of pickup and drop-off from their hotels (if opted), which saves time and hassle.

In terms of logistics, the tour lasts approximately a full day, with most travelers noting that it’s well-paced, blending outdoor activity with culture. The small group size (private guide) fosters a more intimate experience, and reviews note the guides are friendly, informative, and attentive.

What to Bring and Wear

Given the outdoor and water activities, travelers should bring sunglasses, sun hats, a towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for any extra expenses or souvenirs. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the stone town strolls and forest walks.

Considerations

While the tour is generally suitable for most, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old. The boat ride and walking portions might be challenging for some. Also, the tour does not include lunch or beverages, so packing snacks or planning for a meal afterward is advisable.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience offers a balanced introduction to Zanzibar’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed. The mix of wildlife, history, and island leisure makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the essentials.

The price point offers solid value, especially considering the private guide, boat transfers, and entry fees included. Plus, the flexible booking options, like reserving now and paying later, make planning easier.

While it may not suit travelers with mobility issues or those seeking an all-inclusive day with meals, it’s perfect for those who want a genuine, engaging, and hassle-free taste of Zanzibar’s diverse offerings.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially children comfortable with outdoor activities, walking, and boat rides. However, check for specific age restrictions with the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.

Will I get to see the Red Colobus Monkeys up close?
You can observe them in their natural habitat and may get close enough for photos, but always follow your guide’s advice to respect their space.

How long is the boat ride to Prison Island?
The boat ride is around 20 minutes each way, providing a scenic view and a relaxing trip between islands.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, bottled water is included but additional beverages or snacks are not. It’s good to bring your own or plan for a meal afterward.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes, but expect some walking at Jozani Forest and Stone Town, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the private guide makes solo travelers feel comfortable and engaged.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in multiple languages including English, Spanish, German, Italian, Swahili, French, and Polish.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most reviews affirm the pacing is good, allowing enough time to explore Jozani Forest, Stone Town, and Prison Island without feeling rushed.

This tour from mkesha safaris offers an authentic slice of Zanzibar, balancing wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and island relaxation—all for a fair price that makes it a smart choice for many travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a memorable day, this experience brings together the best of Unguja South in a compact, enjoyable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: