Zanzibar is Tanzania’s most famous and iconic island. Known as Spice Island, Zanzibar is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The serene island is as magical as the name. Zanzibar is a paradise for many honeymooners and travelers worldwide to get lost in its culture, history, and beaches. However, Zanzibar is not only about the peaceful, white sandy beaches. The Jozani Forest is a tranquil, 50 square kilometer forest, perfect for taking a nature walk. In addition to the Jozani Forest, Zanzibar is close to another iconic island, known as Prison Island. Although the name may be a bit off-putting, this island is one destination you do not want to miss on your Tanzania Vacation. Our guide will help you learn more about what to expect from a day tour of Jozani Forest and Prison Island.
Selecting a Tour Operator
You can choose from many tour operators and book one online before travelling. Most tour operators can be booked from Stone Town, as this is the most common destination for departure. However, we will recommend booking the tour once you are in Zanzibar. It will be much cheaper and allows you to bargain for the best price. You can also customize your tour or join others to split the costs.
Departure
Depending on the tour you select, you will head to Jozani Forest first or take a dhow to Prison Island. Many tour operators offer pick-up services from your hotel across Zanzibar.
Jozani Forest
The Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the only national park in Zanzibar. It is a beautiful forest filled with the indigenous red colobus monkeys, a species that you can only find in Zanzibar. The species was on the brink of extinction; however, the government has taken significant strides to protect the monkeys. As per records, there are approximately 6,000 red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest.
After you enjoy watching the red colobus monkeys in their natural habitat, you will head to the Pete-Jozani Mangrove Boardwalk. The nature walk will take you through various trails in the mangrove forest. This is a unique and exciting experience, with the trees surrounding you. It is as peaceful as it sounds. You may also glimpse snakes, sykes monkeys, and the Zanzibar tree hyrax. You will also see an array of butterflies and birds.
The nature walk through Jozani Forest will leave you feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.
Prison Island
After completing the Jozani Forest tour, you will head back to Stone Town, where you will depart to Prison Island. You will most likely take a 30-minute dhow cruise to the island. The famous island, also known as Changuu Island, came from its unique history. The island was purchased by the first British minister to convert it into a prison. However, although the prison had been established, it was only used briefly. It eventually was turned into a quarantine zone during the outbreak of yellow fever. It is now a secluded and stunning island that welcomes tourists, famous for its Aldabra giant tortoise.
Zanzibar is a stunning island to visit. Visiting the Jozani Forest and Prison Island is a must when you visit here. It is a surreal experience that will leave you in a state of trance. Travel To Zanzibar This Summer With As Salaam Air and revel in this tropical paradise.
