The Jozani Forest Tour is a guided 3–4 hour excursion into Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, Zanzibar’s only national park, located approximately 35 km southeast of Stone Town. The tour includes a guided walk through the forest, a close encounter with the endangered Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey (Piliocolobus kirkii) — found nowhere else on Earth — and a walk along the mangrove boardwalk. It is guided, family-friendly, and suitable for all fitness levels.
- Expert Guides
- Easy Booking
- 24/7 Support
About This Tour
Jozani Forest is not just a walk in the woods — it’s a rare encounter with a species that exists nowhere else on the planet. The Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey (Piliocolobus kirkii) is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated population of under 3,000 individuals, the majority living right here in Jozani.
These monkeys are strikingly calm around visitors, often hanging in the canopy just above the trails or watching you with bright, curious eyes. Our guides have spent years building a deep understanding of the troop’s movements and behaviour — which means you’ll spend more time watching, and less time waiting.
Beyond the monkeys, Jozani is a living forest with layers worth exploring: towering mahogany trees, orchids and ferns, sunbirds and Fischer’s turaco, plus the medicinal plants that Zanzibar communities have relied on for generations.
The tour ends with a peaceful walk along the mangrove boardwalk — a tidal ecosystem so quietly extraordinary that most visitors say it rivals the monkey encounter itself.
Booking and Transportation
We make it super easy to book your Jozani Forest adventure with Blue Green Zanzibar Tours!
You can reserve your spot online (booking form), through WhatsApp, or simply give us a call.
We also offer flexible payment options to suit your needs—credit cards, bank transfers, or good old cash are all welcome.
And to make your experience completely stress-free, we’ll provide comfortable transportation to and from your hotel. Relax, we’ve got everything covered so you can focus on enjoying the magic of Jozani Forest!
The Wildlife & Ecosystems of Jozani Forest
Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park protects a remarkable variety of species and ecosystems packed into a relatively small area of Unguja Island.
Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey
The star of the tour. The Zanzibar Red Colobus (Piliocolobus kirkii) is found exclusively on Unguja Island and is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. With fewer than 3,000 remaining in the wild, encountering them in their natural habitat is a genuinely rare privilege.
IUCN EndangeredTropical Forest & Medicinal Plants
Walk beneath mahogany, podo, and strangler fig trees that form a dense, cathedral-like canopy. Your guide will identify the forest’s medicinal plants — many still used in traditional Zanzibari healing — and explain their cultural significance.
Birds & Butterflies
Jozani is home to over 50 bird species, including the Zanzibar Sunbird, Fischer’s Turaco, and the Palm-nut Vulture. Colorful butterflies — many endemic to Zanzibar — dance through the forest clearings and make for excellent photography.
Mangrove Boardwalk
The mangrove forest at Jozani is one of Zanzibar’s most important coastal ecosystems, protecting the shoreline, nurturing juvenile fish, and sequestering carbon. The elevated wooden boardwalk weaves through the roots and tidal channels — serene, photogenic, and genuinely educational.
Aders’ Duiker & Bush Pigs
With patience and a good guide, you may also spot the Aders’ Duiker — a small antelope endemic to Zanzibar — as well as Zanzibar Bush Pigs and various small reptiles that inhabit the forest floor.
Conservation Success Story
Jozani-Chwaka Bay was gazetted as a national park in 2004, partly in response to the Red Colobus Monkey’s declining population. Local communities are integrated into conservation management — a model that has helped stabilize monkey numbers over the last two decades.
Jozan Forest Tour Itinerary
Duration: Approx. 3-4 hours.
Morning or Afternoon Departure
We offer flexible departure times—choose between a morning or afternoon tour to suit your schedule.
Hotel Pickup
Our friendly driver will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to Jozani Forest.
Arrival at Jozani Forest
Upon arrival, meet your professional guide who will give you a quick introduction to the forest and what to expect during the tour.
Guided Nature Walk
Red Colobus Monkey Encounter
Explore the heart of the forest and meet the famous Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys! Watch these playful, endangered creatures in their natural habitat as your guide shares fascinating facts about their behavior and conservation efforts.Forest Trail Exploration
Walk through lush trails lined with towering mahogany and tropical plants. Discover unique trees, medicinal plants, and spot colorful birds and butterflies along the way.
Mangrove Boardwalk
Head to the peaceful mangrove forest, where you’ll stroll along a wooden boardwalk surrounded by tidal mangroves.
Learn about this important ecosystem and how it supports Zanzibar’s coastal environment.
Leisure Time and Photos
Take some time to soak in the serenity of Jozani Forest, snap some photos, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Return Journey
After the tour, we’ll take you back to your hotel, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
Tour Gallery
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How Much Does the Jozani Forest Tour Cost?
Tour prices start at $25 per person for large groups and $50 for solo travelers. Entrance fees, professional guide, and soft drinks are all included.
Important Note: Transportation costs are not included in the listed prices, as they depend on the distance from your hotel. Please get in touch with us, and we’ll provide a tailored quote that includes transfer costs based on your hotel’s location.
Price Includes
- Proffesional Tour Guide
- Entrace fees
- Soft Drinks
- All government fees
- Transfer from and return to your hotel is available only for the extra costs
FAQs About the Jozan Forest Tour
Can children join the tour?
Absolutely! The tour is family-friendly and perfect for kids who love nature and wildlife.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, guided tours are required to explore the forest. Your guide will provide interesting insights about the wildlife, plants, and ecosystems, making the experience richer.
Do I need to book in advance?
While same-day bookings are possible based on availability, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.
What is the best time to visit Jozani Forest?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October and December to February), but the forest is open year-round and offers a unique experience in any season.
What should I wear?
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.
Are there mosquitoes or bugs in the forest?
Yes, there are insects, especially in the mangrove area. We recommend bringing insect repellent for your comfort.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, you’re encouraged to take photos! Just be mindful of the wildlife and avoid using flash, as it can disturb the animals.
Do I need to bring snacks or water?
We provide bottled water for the tour. If you’d like snacks, feel free to bring some, but please avoid littering in the forest.
Can I combine the Jozani Forest Tour with other activities?
Yes! Many guests combine it with a visit to nearby villages or other attractions like the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre or the Spice Farms.
If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us directly. We’re here to help make this tour an unforgettable experience!
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