Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Zanzibar, Tanzania · Nature
About Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is the only national park located on the island of Zanzibar. It is internationally celebrated for harboring the rare and endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, a species found nowhere else on Earth. Visitors flock here to explore lush groundwater mahogany forests and vital coastal mangrove ecosystems.
Don't miss
- Observe troops of habituated Zanzibar red colobus monkeys up close in their natural habitat.
- Stroll along the elevated wooden boardwalk winding through the vibrant mangrove swamp.
- Wander under towering mahogany and eucalyptus trees on guided forest nature trails.
- Look out for diverse birdlife, Sykes' monkeys, and native butterflies flitting through the canopy.
Plan your visit
The best time to visit is during the dry months from June to October, ideally in the early morning when the monkeys are most active and temperatures are cooler.
Entry requires a paid ticket at the park gate, which covers a mandatory local guide. Advance booking is generally not necessary unless you are arranging transport through an organized tour.
The park is situated about 35 kilometers southeast of Stone Town. You can reach it in roughly 45 minutes by private taxi, organized excursion, or via local dala-dala minibuses heading toward Paje.
Tips for visiting
- Maintain a respectful distance of at least a few meters from the monkeys to prevent disease transmission.
- Apply plenty of mosquito repellent before heading onto the shaded forest and mangrove trails.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes as forest trails can become damp and uneven.
- Bring small cash in Tanzanian shillings or USD to tip your mandatory local park guide.
- Do not attempt to feed, touch, or startle any wildlife during your guided trek.
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park FAQ
Can I visit the park without a guide?
No, visitors are required to take an official park ranger or guide upon entry. The guide fee is included in your park admission ticket and supports conservation efforts. They also ensure visitor safety and share valuable insights about the local flora and fauna.
Can I touch or feed the red colobus monkeys?
No, touching and feeding the monkeys is strictly forbidden to protect their health and wild behavior. Red colobus monkeys are susceptible to human diseases, so visitors are required to keep a safe distance of at least three meters at all times. Follow your guide's instructions if a monkey approaches you.
Are the mangrove boardwalk and forest trails accessible for everyone?
The forest trails and boardwalk are generally flat and easy to walk, making them accessible to most fitness levels. However, the paths can be muddy after rain, and the boardwalk lacks handrails in certain sections. Wheelchair access is quite limited due to roots and steps.
What should I wear to visit the park?
Lightweight, breathable clothing with long sleeves and pants is recommended to protect against insect bites and thorny brush. Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are ideal for walking along dirt tracks and wooden planks. Do not forget a sun hat and drinking water for your walk.
More things to do in Zanzibar
Stone Town Neighborhood
Wander through a UNESCO-listed maze of narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, and vibrant bazaars.
Prison Island (Changuu) Nature
Take a wooden boat to meet giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel the surrounding reef.
Spice Farm Tour Activity
Discover how vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon are grown and harvested on local farms.
Forodhani Gardens Night Market Food
Feast on street food delights like Zanzibar pizza and fresh seafood skewers by the oceanfront.
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Activity
Explore pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and frequent wild dolphin sightings.
The Rock Restaurant Food
Dine at a world-famous oceanfront eatery perched on an isolated coral outcrop in Michamvi.
Nungwi Beach Landmark
Relax on powder-white sands that allow all-day swimming unhindered by extreme tidal drops.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: klimentgrozdanoski, nike159 on Pixabay.