Zanzíbar
JOZANI FOREST
The Jozani Forest is one of the essential tours when visiting Zanzibar. It may be called Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, and is also the only National Park on the island.
The forest itself is considered a kind of “natural pharmacy” since there are dozens of natural remedies in it. Wherever you look, you will find plants, bushes and trees from which healing parts are extracted.
One of the best parts of the visit is the encounter with the red colobus monkeys, a species that was in danger of extinction, but currently the census shows numbers between 2,000 and 2,400 specimens. In addition, this species is surrounded by a legend that tells that the Zanzibar leopard feeds on them at night, perhaps one of the reasons why the park is only open during the day…
On the other hand, the Zanzibar Skyes monkeys coexist with them. It is a strange species with black color and white face that is exclusive to the island of Zanzibar. You will not establish much closeness with them since they have an irascible and disconcerting temperament. On the other hand, red colobus monkeys sometimes feed on fruits on the ground and with luck you will be able to see them from very close up, completely relaxed.
In this natural area of 2,511 hectares you can enjoy green trails with a native guide from the island who will show you everything mentioned in addition to 40 species of birds, 50 species of butterflies and other animals such as snakes.
Since it is a short visit, you can wear whatever clothing you prefer, although as a tip, do not use very revealing clothing since the guides are probably Muslims and the first thing is to respect their culture.
If you want to save some time and money, it is cheaper to access from the southeast of the island, if you come from the north or northeast the trip may be longer and, therefore, more expensive.
SAFARI BLUE
The Safari Blue experience is magical in every way, the excursion takes place in protected waters near the island of Zanzibar. You will have the opportunity to sail on one of the traditional dhows (sailing wooden boats).
Without giving any spoilers, we will tell you what you can expect on your trip across the Indian Ocean. The possibility of seeing dolphins jumping and playing, disembarking on a powdery sandbank, enjoying the views of the immensity of the ocean in the company of brightly colored starfish, a delicious seafood and fish barbecue combined with a dessert based on tropical fruits, and of course, snorkeling in coral reefs with colorful species of fish.
The Blue Safari is a yes or yes to do on the island since there are very beautiful beaches around the island, but the feeling of experiencing being on a sandbank is unmatched.
SANTUARIO DE LAS TORTUGAS
Located in the north of the island, in Nungwi, is one of the island’s hidden treasures. This is a turtle sanctuary called Nungwi Mnarani Aquarium. At first we may think that it is a kind of “zoo” but nothing similar to reality.
In 1993 this conservation center opened its doors with the mission of preserving and protecting the island’s turtles. The Green and Hawksbill turtles are the only ones that spawn on the beaches of Zanzibar and here they are responsible for giving many of them a second chance.
It is an endearing place and carrying out this activity also helps a good cause. It is true that we must be careful with this type of places since not all of them carry out good conservation activities, but we have no doubts about this one for several reasons.
The local community is very involved in the project as it provides jobs for more than 10 people.
Report on the current situation of turtles, explaining the problems that exist.
When they reach 2 years of age, the turtles are released into the environment. It always occurs on February 20, in honor of the center’s opening.
They are in ideal living conditions in terms of space and food.
Although you can swim with them, there is very little human interaction since you are supervised at all times by one of the center’s workers.
At SIMBA’S HEART we always encourage activities that help the conservation of species and nature in general. Of course, with respect and assurance that the objective of the project is legal and benefits the environment.
SPICE FARM
There are several spice farms around the island and they are very cozy and interesting places where you can learn first-hand how plants and trees are grown from which tropical fruits and spices with a multitude of uses are extracted.
During the guided tour you will learn interesting and practical facts about each specific species.
The best part is usually at the end, you can hear what they call “The Coconut Song” which we are sure you will know and if not, you will love it. You can taste a lot of fruits one by one until you can’t take it anymore. Each and every one of them comes from the same farm and of course, natural and delicious.
In addition, you will receive a very special gift at the end of the visit, as well as the possibility of buying souvenir soaps or spices at a local store. Despite not being a paradisiacal place nor seeing exotic animals, it is one of the visits that has the best effect on visitors due to the calm, good atmosphere and a full stomach.
STONE TOWN + PRISON ISLAND
Stone Town, the capital of Zanzibar, is another of the essential sites you must see on the island. A city of predominantly Muslim religion, therefore, has the typical activity of an Arab city. It doesn’t rest, you can always do something different throughout the day. The alleys, doors and their smells will captivate you in a very short time for two reasons. One is how special and wonderful it is, both the city itself and the people there, as well as its size, being a small city you can see it in its entirety in one or two days.
For people who volunteer, it becomes a memorable place since they will walk up and down it numerous times haggling in the Darajani Market, visiting the Old Fort, attending Freddie Mercury’s House or getting a little cultural by seeing the Old Slave Market , as well as the Anglican Cathedral.
As a jewel in the crown for travelers, every day at 5:00 p.m. numerous children jump from the pier into the water doing all kinds of somersaults, many people gather and then have dinner in the market. It’s a plan that everyone repeats.
Coming soon.
