Zanzibar: Jozani Forest, Reptile Park, and Mtende Beach Tour

Zanzibar: Jozani Forest, Reptile Park, and Mtende Beach Tour
Location: Unguja South Region, Tanzania
Country: Tanzania
Rating: 5/5 (based on a single review)
Price: $86 per person
Supplier: mkesha safaris

What we love about this tour
This experience offers an excellent mix of wildlife, nature, and relaxation. You get close-up encounters with endangered red colobus monkeys in their natural habitat, which is pretty rare outside Zanzibar. The visit to the Reptile Park is both educational and fun, especially if you’re into seeing giant tortoises and chameleons. Lastly, the chance to unwind on Mtende Beach with stunning views makes this a well-rounded day trip.

A potential downside is that it’s a full-day tour, so if you’re not a fan of long excursions, it might feel a bit exhausting. Also, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. Overall, if you’re seeking a balanced day of wildlife, scenic sights, and beach time, this tour hits the mark.

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Key Points

Wildlife close-up: See red colobus monkeys in their natural forest environment.
Educational experience: Guides share insights into animal habits and behaviors.
Family-friendly: Suitable for most ages, but not for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.
Cost-effective: At $86, it offers a good mix of wildlife encounters, nature, and relaxation.
Flexible options: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you select that option.
Stunning views: Mtende Beach provides picturesque scenery perfect for photos and unwinding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Jozani Forest: The Heart of Zanzibar’s Wildlife

Once you arrive at Jozani Forest, usually in the mid-morning, you’ll immediately notice the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. The forest is a sanctuary for endangered red colobus monkeys, which are unique to Zanzibar, making the encounter more special than seeing typical wildlife elsewhere. As we learned from reviews, guides like Mohamed are more than just carriers—they’re storytellers who make the forest come alive, explaining the habits of the monkeys, bush babies, and duikers.

Walking through the well-maintained paths, you’ll get the chance to spot these elusive creatures high in the canopy. The forest also hosts butterflies, various bird species, and other small wildlife, which adds to the richness of the experience. We loved the way the guide took time to point out trees and explain their uses, making the walk both educational and engaging.

While the forest is generally accessible, comfortable shoes are recommended. Expect a fair amount of walking, but nothing too strenuous. The best part? The chance to see animals in their natural environment, which feels much more authentic than zoo visits. Plus, the lush surroundings provide great photo opportunities—just remember to keep quiet and respect the wildlife.

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Reptile Park: More Than Just Snakes

After soaking in the sights of Jozani, you’ll head to the Reptile Park. Here, the focus shifts from forest to reptiles, with the chance to see some of the island’s most fascinating creatures. The park is home to Aldabra giant tortoises, which can live to over 100 years, and are a particular highlight for many visitors. We found the tortoises to be surprisingly gentle and curious, often approaching visitors for a closer look.

The Reptile Park also features a variety of snakes and chameleons. It’s a small but well-maintained facility, with guides on hand to explain the habits and behaviors of each species. As one reviewer noted, holding chameleons and the chance to get up close makes the visit engaging, especially for families or animal lovers.

Expect to spend around an hour here, making it a nice contrast to the more active forest walk. The experience is educational and fun, providing insight into the local fauna that might otherwise be overlooked.

Mtende Beach: The Perfect Relaxing Finish

After the wildlife encounters, the tour concludes at Mtende Beach. This stretch of pristine sand and clear waters offers a perfect place to rest, take photos, or enjoy a leisurely swim. It’s one of those spots that makes you want to forget about time for a while and just bask in the scenery.

From the reviews, we know that the views here are stunning, and the atmosphere is peaceful. It’s a great place to unwind after a morning of walking and exploring. Bring your camera for some beachside shots, or just relax with a drink and soak up the tranquil vibe. The beach also offers opportunities for light water activities if you’re feeling adventurous.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $86 covers entry fees, a bottle of water, government taxes, a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off if you select that option. This package offers good value, considering the multiple stops and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

However, food and beverages outside of water aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something at the beach or park. The tour is also not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or those over 95 years old.

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Practical Tips for Your Day

Wear comfortable walking shoes since the forest walk involves some light trekking.
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, especially on the beach.
Don’t forget your camera and binoculars if you want to better spot wildlife.
Cash is handy for any extras, such as snacks or souvenirs.
Photography is allowed, but remember not to touch animals or plants to preserve their safety and integrity.

The tour runs smoothly with English, German, Italian, Spanish, French, Swahili, and Polish spoken guides, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This is a great choice for nature lovers eager to see Zanzibar’s endemic animals up close in their natural habitat. Families will appreciate the mix of wildlife, education, and beach relaxation. It’s also suitable for travelers wanting a balanced day without feeling rushed.

Since it’s a full-day trip, it’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time exploring outside of their hotel. The flexibility of optional visits, like the Butterfly Centre instead of the Reptile Park, adds to its appeal.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded view of Zanzibar’s natural attractions. With opportunities to see rare animals, enjoy scenic landscapes, and unwind on a beautiful beach, it’s a smart pick for those wanting a taste of everything without breaking the bank. The inclusion of a guide who is both informative and personable makes the experience even more enriching.

While the day is packed, it doesn’t feel overwhelming thanks to the variety of stops and the relaxed pace at Mtende Beach. It’s especially valuable for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. If you’re seeking an authentic, fun-filled, and reasonably priced way to explore some of Zanzibar’s most cherished spots, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically takes a full day, starting in the mid-morning and ending at Mtende Beach.

Are food and drinks included?
Only water is included; you’ll need to bring or buy your own food and beverages.

Can I see the animals up close?
Yes, the tour is designed for close encounters, especially with monkeys and reptiles, but always follow guide instructions.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind it involves walking and some outdoor activity.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, comfortable shoes, camera, cash, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, but do not touch or disturb the animals or plants.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides like Mohamed are known for being accommodating, and you can sometimes choose to visit the Butterfly Centre instead of the Reptile Park.

Is the tour accessible for people with health issues?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

What makes this tour a good value?
For $86, you get multiple activities—wildlife encounters, scenic views, and beach relaxation—plus hotel pickup, making it a comprehensive and affordable experience.

In short, if you’re eager to experience Zanzibar’s endemic wildlife, enjoy stunning beaches, and prefer a guided tour that balances education with relaxation, this trip offers a lovely blend of all those elements. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature and unwind, making it a worthwhile addition to your Zanzibar itinerary.