Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

While Zanzibar is world-famous for its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, the island hides a verdant secret in its interior. Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the island’s only national park and a critical biodiversity hotspot. Spanning approximately 50 square kilometers, this protected area offers a rare glimpse into the ancient indigenous flora and fauna that once covered the entire archipelago. Whether you are a wildlife photographer, a nature enthusiast, or a traveler looking to escape the beach for a day, Jozani Forest offers an unforgettable encounter with nature. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from spotting the rare Red Colobus monkeys to navigating the park’s enchanting mangrove boardwalks.

Established as a national park in 2004, Jozani Chwaka Bay is more than just a forest; it is a sanctuary for endangered species and a triumph of community-based conservation.

The Only Home of the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey

The park’s undisputed stars are the Zanzibar Red Colobus monkeys (Piliocolobus kirkii). Unlike their shy cousins on the mainland, these primates are endemic to Unguja (Zanzibar’s main island), meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. With a population of roughly 2,000 to 2,500, they are an endangered species. However, they are remarkably habituated to humans. Visitors can often observe them at close range as they play, groom, and feed on leaves in the lower branches. Their distinctive white hair, rusty-red back, and expressive faces make them a photographer’s dream.

A Unique Mosaic of Habitats: Groundwater Forests to Mangroves

Jozani is an ecological marvel. It is not a single uniform forest but a mosaic of diverse habitats. The park creates a transition zone from the interior groundwater forest—where ancient mahogany and palm trees rely on the high water table—to the coastal coral rag forests and finally the salt marshes and mangroves of Chwaka Bay. This variety allows a diverse range of species to thrive in a relatively small area.

Beyond Primates: Birds, Butterflies, and the Zanzibar Leopard Legend

While the monkeys steal the show, the park teems with other life. Keep your eyes peeled for Sykes’ monkeys (also known as Blue monkeys), which are often seen high in the canopy. The forest is also home to the shy Ader’s duiker, bushbabies, and over 40 species of birds, including the mangrove kingfisher and little greenbul. Locals may also tell you whispers of the Zanzibar Leopard, a mythical apex predator officially considered extinct, though rumors of sightings persist among island elders, adding an air of mystery to the dense undergrowth.

A typical visit to Jozani is split into two distinct parts: the forest nature walk and the mangrove boardwalk.

The Guided Nature Forest Walk

Upon arrival, you will be assigned an official park guide (included in your entrance fee). The tour begins with a walk through the lush groundwater forest. Your guide will point out medicinal plants used by locals for centuries, towering mahogany trees, and, of course, the Red Colobus troops.

• Tip: The monkeys are most active in the cool morning hours. Listen to your guide’s instructions—while the monkeys are friendly, you should never touch or feed them to protect their health.

Exploring the Mangrove Boardwalk

After the forest trail, a short drive or walk takes you to the other side of the main road to the Mangrove Boardwalk. This elevated wooden path winds through a dense mangrove forest that thrives where the land meets the sea. It is a serene, almost otherworldly experience. Depending on the tide, you might see the twisted roots submerged in water or standing tall in the mud. Look closely at the mud below to spot thousands of fiddler crabs waving their oversized claws and mudskippers hopping between puddles. This ecosystem acts as a natural nursery for fish and protects the island from coastal erosion.

Visiting the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre

Located just near the park (often combined in tours) is the Zanzibar Butterfly Centre. It is a community conservation project where you can walk through a netted tropical garden filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies native to Zanzibar. It is a fantastic add-on, especially for families with children.

Best Time to Visit for Wildlife Viewing

The park is open year-round, but the Dry Season (June to October and January to February) is the most comfortable time to visit. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and the humidity is lower.

• Rainy Season (March to May, November): While the forest is lush and green, heavy rains can make the trails slippery and the mosquitoes more aggressive. However, the park is far quieter during this time.

Entrance Fees, Guides, and Opening Hours

• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
• Entrance Fee: The official entrance fee is approximately $12 USD (or roughly 30,000 TZS) per person for non-residents.
• Guides: A guide is mandatory and their service is included in the entrance fee. However, tipping your guide (usually $5–$10 USD) is a customary and appreciated gesture for their expertise.

How to Get There: Private Taxi vs. Dala-Dala Public Bus

1. Private Taxi/Tour: This is the most convenient option. A round-trip taxi from Stone Town typically costs between $40 and $60 USD. Most hotels can arrange this for you.
2. Dala-Dala (Public Bus): For the adventurous budget traveler, you can take a dala-dala from the Darajani market in Stone Town. Look for bus number 309 or 310 heading toward Paje or Jambiani. Tell the conductor you want to get off at Jozani. The fare is less than $1 USD (approx. 2,000 TZS).

Practical Tips: What to Wear and Bring

• Footwear: Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers. The forest floor can be uneven, and ants are common.
• Clothing: Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) out of respect for local culture, even in the forest. Long trousers are recommended to protect against insect bites.
• Essentials: Bring high-DEET mosquito repellent, water, and a camera with a good zoom lens for the monkeys.

Visiting Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a highlight of any Zanzibar itinerary. It provides a vital connection to the island’s natural history and directly supports the conservation of one of Africa’s rarest primates. Whether you spend an hour or a half-day here, the sight of a Red Colobus leaping through the mahogany trees is a memory that will last a lifetime.