JOZANI FOREST RESERVE ON ZANZIBAR & TANZANIA SAFARI

Background

Jozani Forest Reserve, known as Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, is Zanzibar’s largest indigenous forest. Established as a protected area in the 1960s, it serves as a vital sanctuary for the endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey endemic to the island. Over the years, the reserve has become a key ecotourism site, attracting visitors for its unique wildlife, scenic nature trails, and conservation efforts.

Location and Size

Situated in the central-eastern region of Unguja Island, Jozani Forest Reserve lies approximately 38 km southeast of Zanzibar City and Stone Town. Spanning approximately 50 square kilometres (5,000 hectares), the reserve is a key section of the larger Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, situated next to the Chwaka Bay Mangrove Forest, an essential ecological bridge between land and sea.

Key Highlights

• Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys—This is the Home of the rare and endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey (Piliocolobus kirkii), known for its striking fur and social behaviour.
• Mangrove Boardwalk – A scenic elevated walkway through the mangrove swamps, showcasing their role in coastal protection and marine biodiversity.
• Nature Trails – Well-maintained walking paths offer a chance to explore the diverse vegetation and wildlife.
• Bird and Butterfly Watching – The reserve hosts species such as Fischer’s turaco, mangrove kingfisher, and colourful butterflies.
• Medicinal Plants – The forest contains various indigenous plants traditionally used for medicinal purposes.

Vegetation

Jozani Forest encompasses a blend of tropical coastal, swamp, and mangrove ecosystems characterized by towering trees, dense undergrowth, and a broad canopy that shelters various wildlife.

Key plant species include mahogany, raffia palms, and eucalyptus, while the mangrove areas are dominated by Rhizophora and Avicennia species.

Wildlife

Beyond the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, the forest reserve is home to:

• Sykes' monkeys (blue monkeys)
• Bush babies (galagos)
• Aardvarks
• Duikers (small antelopes)
• Reptiles like chameleons, geckos, and tree-climbing boa constrictors
• Over 40 bird species, including crowned hornbills and paradise flycatchers

Climate and weather

Jozani Forest experiences a tropical climate with high humidity and warm temperatures year-round (24°C–32°C / 75°F–90°F). It has two main rainy seasons:

• March–May (Long rains) – Heavy rainfall and high humidity.
• November–December (Short rains) – Lighter showers with continued humidity. The drier months (June–October and January–February) offer the best conditions for visiting.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to explore Jozani Forest is during the dry seasons:

• June–October – Cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and accessible trails.
• January–February: A short dry period is ideal for wildlife spotting. While visits are possible year-round, the rainy season enhances the forest’s lush greenery and bird activity.

How to get there

Jozani Forest is accessible via a 45–60-minute drive from Zanzibar City (Stone Town). Travel options include:

• Private Taxi – Convenient and direct ($30–$50 one way).
• Public Dala Dala (Minibus) – Route 309 ($2–$5 per person, but less comfortable).
• Guided Tours – Many operators offer transport-inclusive packages with guided experiences.

Key Features Along the Way

• Spice Plantations – Enjoy a guided tour of Zanzibar’s famous cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg farms.
• Jozani Village – Experience local culture and traditions.
• Chwaka Bay – A coastal area with mangrove forests and scenic ocean views.

Attractions and activities

Key Attractions

• Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys – The only place to observe these rare primates in their natural habitat.
• Mangrove Boardwalk – A picturesque wooden walkway through the mangrove forest showcasing its ecological importance.
• Jozani Nature Trails – Walking trails through dense tropical forests filled with medicinal plants and wildlife.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching – Encounter Sykes' monkeys, bush babies, duikers, chameleons, tree-climbing boas, and various bird species.
• Butterfly Spotting – Discover rare and vibrant butterflies unique to Zanzibar.

Activities

• Guided Nature Walks – Learn about the ecosystem from experienced guides.
• Monkey Watching – Observe the playful Zanzibar red colobus monkeys.
• Mangrove Exploration – Discover diverse mangrove species and their environmental role.
• Photography – Capture stunning images of wildlife and landscapes.
• Cultural Visits – Engage with locals in Jozani Village.

Accommodation near Jozani forest

While the reserve has no lodges, visitors can find accommodation in nearby areas like Paje, Bwejuu, Jambiani, and Michamvi (20–30 minutes away). Options include:

Luxury ($150–$400 per night)

• Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa (Paje) – Private villas, spa, and beachfront dining.
• The Palms Zanzibar (Bwejuu) – An all-inclusive resort.
• Baraza Resort & Spa (Bwejuu) – A five-star retreat with an Arabian-Swahili theme.

Mid-Range ($60–$150 per night)

• Paje Beach Apartments (Paje) – Comfortable beachfront stay.
• Kisiwa On the Beach (Jambiani) – A Boutique hotel with ocean views.
• Casa Beach Hotel (Jambiani) – A Relaxing mid-range option.

Budget ($20–$60 per night)

• New Teddy’s on the Beach (Jambiani) – an affordable beach hostel.
• Drifters Zanzibar (Paje) – Backpacker-friendly with a social atmosphere.
• Evergreen Bungalows (Bwejuu) – Eco-friendly and budget-conscious.

Costs of visiting Jozani forest reserve

Additional Costs: Tour packages combining Jozani with spice farm visits or Jambiani Beach range from $50–$100 per person.

Travel tips

• Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June–October and January–February) for optimal conditions.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable clothes and sturdy shoes for walking.
• Apply Mosquito Repellent: Important because of the high humidity
• Hire a Guide: Guides enhance your experience.
• Respect Wildlife: Avoid feeding or touching the monkeys.
• Carry Cash: Many places do not accept credit cards.
• Combine Your Trip: Consider visiting Jambiani Beach, Paje Beach, or a spice plantation for a full-day adventure.

Sample one-day itinerary for Jozani forest reserve

8:00 AM – Departure from Hotel

• Pick-up from your hotel in Stone Town or the southeast coast (Paje/Jambiani).
• Enjoy a scenic drive through Zanzibar's countryside—pass spice farms, local villages, and lush coconut plantations.

9:00 AM – Arrival at Jozani Forest Reserve

• Register at the park entrance and meet your local guide.
• Brief introduction about the reserve, its conservation efforts, and what to expect during the visit.

9:15 AM – Forest Nature Walk

• Begin a guided walking tour through the tropical forest.
• Spot the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, Sykes' monkeys, and forest birds.
• Learn about medicinal plants, towering trees, and the forest's rich biodiversity.

10:15 AM – Mangrove Boardwalk Tour

• Walk along the elevated wooden path into the mangrove ecosystem.
• See different mangrove species, spot small fish, crabs, and learn how mangroves protect coastal areas.

11:15 AM – Visit to Jozani Village (Optional)

• Visit the nearby Jozani Village for a short cultural interaction.
• Learn about traditional lifestyles, farming, and local conservation efforts.
• Optional: Buy locally made crafts or refreshments.

Noon – Lunch Stop

• Head to a nearby local restaurant or eco-lodge (like in Paje or Jambiani) for a traditional Swahili lunch.
• Try dishes like coconut rice, octopus curry, or grilled fish with chapati.

1:30 PM – Optional Beach Stop (Paje or Jambiani)

• Spend the afternoon relaxing on the nearby beach.
• Swim, sunbathe, or enjoy beachside drinks while soaking in Zanzibar’s coastal charm.

4:00 PM – Return to Hotel

• Begin your journey back to your hotel.
• Optional stop at a spice farm for a brief tour and tasting.

5:30 PM – Arrival at Hotel (End of the tour.)

What to bring on your safari to Jozani forest reserve

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light clothing & sun hat
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Camera/binoculars