Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the only national park on Zanzibar and the best place on the island to see the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, a rare species found nowhere else in the world. It is an easy half-day outing from Stone Town or from the south-east coast, and a good change from the beach.
The red colobus monkeys
The Zanzibar red colobus is a medium-sized monkey with a shaggy coat and a distinctive look. It lives in groups in the forest and spends time both in the trees and on the ground. The monkeys are used to people, so a guide can usually take you quite close. Keep a respectful distance, never touch or feed them, and keep your voice low.
What else lives in the forest
Jozani is a patch of groundwater forest, and it supports more than monkeys. You may also see Sykes’ monkeys, many kinds of butterflies and birds, and, if you are lucky, small forest animals. Some of the most unusual residents, such as bushbabies and the shy Ader’s duiker, are active at night or very rarely seen, so do not expect them on a day visit.
The mangrove boardwalk
Part of the park has a raised wooden boardwalk through mangroves. It lets you walk above the tidal roots and see how this ecosystem works, without getting your feet wet. It is a calm, shaded stop that pairs well with the forest walk.
Where is Jozani?
The park lies in the centre-south of the island, on the main road between Stone Town and the south-east beaches such as Paje. That makes it easy to visit on the way to or from the coast. See our guide to where to stay in Zanzibar for how the different areas connect.
What to expect on the walk
Walks are led by a guide. The forest is humid and shaded, so the paths can be damp, especially after rain. Our Jozani Forest tour is a good fit for families, nature lovers and photographers.
Tips for your visit
- Wear closed shoes and light clothing that covers your arms and legs.
- Use insect repellent.
- Bring water and a camera with a zoom lens if you have one.
- Go early in the day or in the late afternoon, when the forest is cooler and the animals are more active.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
When to go
Jozani can be visited all year. In the rainy months, tracks are wetter and some paths muddy, but the forest is at its greenest. Check the seasons guide before you decide.
Why the red colobus is rare
The Zanzibar red colobus lives only on Zanzibar, and its numbers have been under pressure from habitat loss. Protected areas such as Jozani are important for its survival. Visiting with a guide and following the park rules helps protect the monkeys and the forest.
Is Jozani good for children?
Yes. The walks are guided and easy, and children often enjoy seeing the monkeys up close. On our tour, children under 6 travel free and children from 6 years pay half the adult price. Closed shoes and insect repellent make the visit more comfortable.
More Zanzibar day tours
Combine Jozani with a spice tour or a Stone Town walk to see more of the island. See all our day tours, or send us a message to plan it.
