Day trips Guided tours Outdoor activities Day Trips From Plantation & farm tours Nature & adventure Culture & history Tours Educational activities Island tours National parks Jungle tours Safaris & wildlife activities

Explore Zanzibar's countryside, learn about traditional rice farming, and visit Jozani Forest to see the rare Red Colobus Monkey. Enjoy a local meal with freshly harvested rice.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Zanzibar's countryside
• Learn about traditional rice farming techniques from local farmers
• Join the farmers in the paddies during planting or harvesting season
• Visit Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the Red Colobus Monkey
• Enjoy a local meal prepared with freshly harvested rice and vegetables

Description

Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the countryside of Zanzibar, particularly in areas like Uzi or Cheju, where rice farming is an integral part of the local economy and culture. Unlike the coastal tourist zones, this inland region offers a tranquil atmosphere with expansive green fields irrigated by natural water channels. Walk alongside local farmers, learning about the rice-growing process—from seed preparation and field plowing to planting and harvesting. These methods are primarily manual, using simple tools and, in some cases, oxen or cattle. This provides a stark contrast to industrial farming seen elsewhere and highlights the hard work and dedication of the Zanzibari people. During the visit, you may have the chance to join the farmers in the paddies, especially if you visit during the planting or harvesting season. Wearing traditional attire provided for the experience, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the land and the people. Your guide will explain the significance of rice not only as a food source but also as part of Zanzibar’s socio-economic fabric. You may even enjoy a local meal prepared with freshly harvested rice served with Swahili-style vegetables and coconut sauce. From the fields, continue to Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, the only national park in Zanzibar and a protected natural treasure. This forest is the most famous home of the rare and endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey (Piliocolobus kirkii)—one of the most threatened primate species in Africa and found only on this island. As you enter the shaded canopy of the forest, the temperature cools and the air becomes rich with the scent of flora. A guided walk along the forest trails leads you to the heart of the Red Colobus habitat. These monkeys are easily recognizable by their rust-colored backs, white tufts of hair, and expressive faces. Unlike many wild animals, the Red Colobus monkeys in Jozani are relatively unafraid of humans, allowing you to observe them from a close distance.

Includes

Scenic drive to the countryside Guided walk with local farmers Traditional attire for rice farming experience Local meal with freshly harvested rice Guided walk in Jozani Forest Red Colobus Monkey observation

Important Information

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking in fields and forests. Insect repellent is recommended due to the natural environment. Be prepared for close encounters with wildlife, including the Red Colobus Monkeys.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund