Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Get ready for a tropical forest walk. Learn the best routes from Stone Town and what to pack for the humidity.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Pete Village, South Unguja, Zanzibar, Tanzania
GPS -6.2667, 39.4167
Open directionsGetting there
Reach the park by taxi, bus, or organized tour.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Taxi or rental car from Stone Town taking the main road southeast toward Paje. | 45-60 minutes | $20-$40 per taxi | The main road is well-paved; taxi drivers will often wait for you while you tour the park. |
| Bus: Public minibus (dala-dala) routes 309, 310, 324, or 326 from Zanzibar City. | 1-1.5 hours | $1-$2 | Very affordable but can be crowded and make frequent stops. Ask the driver to drop you at the Jozani Forest gate. |
| Tour: Organized half-day or full-day tours booked through operators in Stone Town or beach resorts. | 3-6 hours total | $40-$90 | Often combined with other nearby attractions like the Kuza Cave, a Spice Tour, or the Kizimkazi dolphin cruise. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open 365 days a year from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the dry seasons. These run from June to October and December to February. Best Visit Times
Arrive before 9:00 AM for the best experience. The monkeys are most active and feed low in the trees before the midday heat.
What to bring
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Remember to bring insect repellent and bottled water.
The forest is humid and the mangrove area is exposed to the sun.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your trip.
A straightforward half-day trip to see the monkeys and mangroves before lunch.
- Depart Stone Town
Take a taxi or private transfer southeast toward Paje.
- Monkey Tracking
Walk the shaded trails with your guide to spot red colobus monkeys.
- Mahogany Forest
Learn about Swahili medicinal plants among ancient trees.
- Mangrove Boardwalk
Cross the 1-kilometer wooden path over the salt marshes.
- Return trip
Head back to your hotel or continue to the east coast beaches.
Combine the forest with nearby caves and beaches.
- Forest Tour
Arrive at Jozani Forest and complete the guided trails.
- Kuza Cave
Visit the nearby cave to learn about local culture.
- Paje Beach
Relax on the white sand and purchase lunch.
- The Rock
View the famous restaurant situated on a coral outcrop.
Practical Advice
Wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. Heavy hiking boots are not necessary. Apply insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes in the humid forest zones. What to Wear
Bring small bills in USD or TZS. You will need cash for guide tips and to purchase souvenirs from the local community market near the entrance.
Easiest way to do it
Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave, Paje Beach and The Rock Restaurant
7 h to 8 h 4.7 (112)
- Private transportation
- mineral water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$110per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do I get there from Stone Town?
You can take a taxi for $20 to $40, which takes 45 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, catch a public dala-dala (routes 309, 310, 324, or 326) for $1 to $2. Transport Guide
Do I need to book in advance?
If you arrive independently, you can pay the entrance fee at the gate. If you want a structured tour with transport, book your tour online a few days ahead.
What should I pack?
Bring bottled drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. A lightweight rain jacket is useful during the wet season.