JOZANI CHWAKA BAY NATIONAL PARK

Zanzibar red colobus monkeys: These friendly primates are the park's main attraction. They have been successfully habituated to humans, making it easy to observe them in their natural habitat as they feed on leaves and interact with one another. Park staff advise visitors to maintain a distance of at least 3 meters from the monkeys.
Diverse ecosystems: The park covers about 50 square kilometers and protects a varied landscape. It features a range of ecosystems, including groundwater forest, coastal scrub, salt marshes, and mangroves.
Mangrove boardwalk: A wooden boardwalk winds through the mangrove swamp, allowing visitors to walk above the waterline and see the unique root systems of the mangrove trees. This ecosystem is vital for protecting Zanzibar's coastline and serves as a breeding ground for marine life and birds.
Other wildlife: While the red colobus monkeys are the star, the forest is also home to other species, including the endemic Sykes' monkey, bush babies, Ader's duiker, and over 40 species of birds.

Guided tours are required: Visitors cannot explore the park on their own and must be accompanied by a guide. A certified guide is included in the park's entrance fee.
Trails and timing: Most tours last between 1 and 2 hours and follow well-maintained trails. A visit is often split into two parts: a walk through the forest to see the monkeys and a separate visit to the mangrove boardwalk.
Visitor facilities: The park has an information center, a small cafe, and craft stalls near the entrance.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as are insect repellent and water.
Best time to visit: While the park is open year-round, the dry season from June to September offers the most pleasant conditions for walking.
Getting there: The park is located on the main island of Unguja, about a 30-minute drive southeast of Stone Town. Many tour operators offer half-day trips that include transport.