A red colobus monkey in Jozani Forest, Zanzibar

Day trips · Central

Central Circuit: Jozani Forest, Spice Farm & Mangroves

A short, rewarding day inland that gets you close to Zanzibar's wild side. Meet the rare red colobus in Jozani Forest, taste spices straight off the vine, and slip into the mangroves by kayak — easily extended with an authentic village walk away from the crowds.

The route

Six stops through the heart of the island — national park, spice farm, a quiet beach, and out onto the water.

Map of the central circuit day-trip stops on Zanzibar
Red colobus monkey in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, Zanzibar

01Jozani National Park

Meet the playful red colobus monkeys found nowhere else on earth but Zanzibar, then wander shaded forest trails and the peaceful mangrove boardwalk through Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. Gentle, guided and wonderful for all ages.

Spices growing at a working farm near Jozani, Zanzibar

02Jozani Spice Farm

Smell, touch and taste exotic spices like cloves, vanilla and cinnamon at a working farm. Watch skilled climbers shin up the palms for fresh coconuts, and try tropical fruit picked straight from the source.

A deserted palm-fringed beach on Zanzibar

03Coconut Forest Beach

A tranquil stretch of sand backed by swaying coconut palms — perfect for unwinding far from the crowds. A near-deserted beach with all its wild, unpolished charm.

A colourful butterfly at the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

04Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Step into a netted tropical garden alive with butterflies native to Zanzibar. Learn about their life cycles and support a community project that helps local farmers conserve them — fascinating, and lovely for families.

Kayaking through mangrove channels in Zanzibar

05Mangrove Kayak

Paddle serene mangrove channels framed by lush greenery and birdsong, discovering the vital ecosystem that shields Zanzibar's coast — a peaceful escape on the water and the perfect way to extend the day.

A guided walk through Uzi village, Zanzibar

06Uzi Village Tour

Experience authentic Swahili life in a traditional fishing village where time moves slowly. Walk among ancient baobabs, watch seaweed farming on the flats, and glimpse a side of Zanzibar untouched by mass tourism.

Good to know

  • Jozani is about a 30-minute drive from Jambiani — reception can arrange transport and a guide.
  • Wear closed shoes for the forest and bring insect repellent for the mangroves.
  • Carry small cash for park fees, the spice farm and the village.
  • Want it all arranged? See our Experiences or message us on WhatsApp.

Let us plan your day

Tell us what you'd love to see and we'll build the perfect route, with pickup from the resort.

Plan on WhatsApp