Zanzibar: Jozani Forest, Spice farms, & Prison Island

Exploring Zanzibar on a day tour that combines lush forests, fragrant spice farms, and historic islands offers a well-rounded glimpse of this vibrant island’s natural and cultural treasures. This particular tour, priced at $50 per person, promises a full day packed with engaging activities, authentic sights, and memorable encounters.

From spotting the rare Red Colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest to feeding giant tortoises on Prison Island, it’s a busy itinerary that balances nature, history, and local flavors. What we love most about this experience is how accessible and varied it is—there’s something for all, whether you’re into wildlife, food, or history.

However, a potential consideration is that the day can be quite full, which might feel rushed if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, for those eager to pack in multiple highlights in a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Zanzibar’s most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions themselves. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone keen to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural stories in one go.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines rainforest, spice farms, and island visits in a single day.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chance to see Zanzibar’s endangered Red Colobus monkeys and giant tortoises.
• Sensory Tour: Smell, taste, and touch spices and tropical fruits, making it a highly interactive experience.
• Historical Insights: Learn about the island’s use as a prison for rebellious slaves in the 1860s.
• Value for Money: For $50, you get a guided tour with transportation, boat rides, and multiple attractions.
• Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Zanzibar’s Natural Wonders: Jozani Forest

The tour kicks off with a visit to Jozani Forest, Zanzibar’s only national park and a sanctuary for the island’s unique flora and fauna. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll walk through ancient hardwood forests and mangrove swamps, allowing you to appreciate the lush greenery and biodiversity of the area.

One of the main highlights is the chance to see Red Colobus monkeys, a critically endangered species found only in Zanzibar. As one reviewer noted, “Seeing these monkeys in their natural habitat was incredible—they’re so rare and fascinating to watch.” The guides are well-versed in local wildlife, often sharing fascinating facts about the monkeys’ behavior and the forest ecosystem.

The Mangrove Boardwalk provides a different perspective—walking on the elevated walkway through the swampy mangrove forest, you get to observe the complex root systems and learn about how these ecosystems protect coastlines and support varied wildlife. Some guests appreciated the short, informative nature trail, which added educational value to the experience.

What to Expect at Jozani Forest

Expect to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the forest. The guides are typically friendly and eager to give insights into the local plants and animals, making it not just a walk but a mini-lesson in ecology. Be prepared for some humidity and comfortable walking shoes, as the paths are generally well-maintained but can be muddy after rain.

Prison Island: A Cultural and Wildlife Treasure

After the forest adventure, the tour continues with a boat ride to Prison Island, also known as Changuu. The boat trip offers scenic views of the coastline and gives you your first glimpse of the turquoise waters of Zanzibar. The boat ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, and the experience is smooth, with most operators providing life jackets for safety.

Once on the island, the main attractions are the Aldabra Giant Tortoise sanctuary and the historic prison buildings. The Tortoise Sanctuary is home to some impressive creatures, including a 200-year-old resident. Visitors often comment on how majestic these gentle giants are; feeding and petting them is a highlight. One reviewer mentioned, “Watching the tortoises walk around freely and feeding them was a surreal experience.”

The historic prison was built in the 1860s and served as a detention center for rebellious slaves. Its crumbling walls evoke a sense of historical gravity—an important reminder of the island’s complex past. Some travelers appreciate the opportunity to explore the old structures and hear stories from guides about their significance.

Snorkeling and Beach Time

Many visitors also take the chance to relax on the island’s small sandy beaches or snorkel around coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. If you’re interested in swimming or snorkeling, you might find the waters around Prison Island inviting, though this isn’t officially included in the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Spice Farm Experience

The final part of the day takes you to a local spice farm, a highlight for many visitors craving authentic tastes and scents. Here, you’ll learn how Zanzibar’s famous spices like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper are cultivated and harvested.

Your guide will walk you through the spice gardens, pointing out and allowing you to touch and smell various herbs and spices. Many guests have noted the sensory richness of this experience, with one saying, “I loved being able to smell and taste the spices directly from the plants—it’s so much more vivid than just seeing them in a market.”

On-site demonstrations include coconut harvesting and palm leaf weaving, giving a glimpse into local crafts and livelihoods. The tour typically culminates in tasting fresh tropical fruits such as mangoes, bananas, pineapples, and watermelons—refreshing after a day of walking.

Learning About Local Uses

A particularly appreciated aspect was learning how spices are used not just in cooking but also medicinally. Many visitors leave with a new appreciation for the island’s spice trade and local practices.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for an extra charge, making logistics straightforward. The group size tends to be small to medium, facilitating interaction and personal attention from guides.

Timing: The full-day itinerary usually starts early in the morning, with the entire experience lasting approximately 7-8 hours. Be prepared for an energetic day with a busy schedule, but plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos.

Cost and Value: At $50, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines nature, wildlife, history, and culture. When you factor in guide fees, boat rides, entrance fees, and the spice tasting, it’s a solid value for a full day of activities.

Language: Guides are available in multiple languages including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

Booking Flexibility: You can reserve now and choose to pay later, with cancellations allowed up to 24 hours ahead. This flexibility can be helpful if your plans are still fluid.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests have appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities packed into one day. One reviewer noted, “The guides were friendly and informative, making sure we saw the best of each site.” Others enjoyed the opportunity to engage their senses at the spice farm, with one saying, “Touching and smelling the spices was so much more memorable than just reading about them.”

A common praise was the chance to see Zanzibar’s endemic wildlife—especially the Red Colobus monkeys—which many travelers find enchanting. Some reviewers also mentioned the well-organized logistics, from boat rides to transportation, making the experience smooth.

The main drawback some travelers mention is that the schedule can be tight, so a relaxed pace might be hard to maintain. It’s best suited for those eager to see a lot without planning each step separately.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Zanzibar’s natural environment, history, and local culture—all in one day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the island’s highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated logistics. The combination of wildlife, historic sites, and sensory spice experiences makes it a rich and memorable outing, especially at the affordable price point.

If you’re keen on wildlife, love exotic spices, or are curious about local history, this tour provides a meaningful and engaging way to experience Zanzibar’s diverse appeal. It balances structured activities with enough flexibility to enjoy authentic moments, like feeding tortoises or smelling fresh spices.

For those who prefer a slow pace or want to focus on just one aspect of Zanzibar, this might feel a bit rushed. But for most travelers, it’s a fantastic way to get a broad taste of the island’s essence in a single day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional guide, boat to Prison Island, visits to Jozani Forest and spice farms, feeding the giant tortoises, and exploring the historic prison. Tropical fruits and demonstrations are also part of the experience.

Are transportation costs included?
Transport to and from your hotel is available at an extra charge, but the tour provides all other transportation, including boat rides and guided walks.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour typically lasts around 7 to 8 hours, starting early in the morning.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Endangered Red Colobus monkeys are the main primates, and giant tortoises are the highlights of Prison Island.

Is snorkeling part of the tour?
Snorkeling and swimming are not explicitly included but are available on Prison Island if you wish to explore coral reefs around the island.

What can I learn at the spice farm?
You’ll learn about the cultivation and uses of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and other spices, as well as traditional medicinal applications.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with the opportunity to see animals and enjoy interactive spice tasting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sun protection, and a hat are recommended.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Guides speak English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers.

This Zanzibar tour strikes a balance between adventure and education, offering a meaningful way to experience the island’s highlights in a single day. It’s a great choice for those wanting a taste of everything—nature, history, and local flavors—without overextending their travel schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: