Jozani Forest, located in the central east region of Zanzibar Island, is the largest protected forest area on the island and home to the rare and endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey. This national park offers visitors a chance to experience Zanzibar’s unique biodiversity and explore various ecosystems within a relatively small area.

The main attraction of Jozani is undoubtedly the Zanzibar Red Colobus monkey (Piliocolobus kirkii), found only on Zanzibar and listed as endangered with a population of about 2,000-2,500. Unlike many primates, these monkeys have become habituated to humans, allowing visitors to observe them at close range as they leap through the canopy, feed, groom, and care for their young.

Beyond the monkeys, Jozani Forest is a naturalist’s paradise with diverse ecosystems. The tour takes you through groundwater forest, coastal thickets, and mangrove swamps via well-maintained trails and wooden boardwalks. Each ecosystem hosts different plant and animal species, creating a fascinating journey through changing landscapes.

Your knowledgeable guide will point out various plant species used in traditional medicine, explain the ecological importance of the forest, and help you spot other wildlife such as Sykes’ monkeys, bush babies, duikers, over 50 butterfly species, and 40 bird species.

A highlight of the tour is the mangrove boardwalk, which takes you through a magnificent mangrove forest. Here, you’ll learn about the crucial role mangroves play in coastal protection, as nurseries for marine life, and in carbon sequestration to combat climate change.

Jozani Forest represents a conservation success story, where local communities work together with authorities to protect this unique ecosystem. A portion of all entrance fees goes directly to community development projects, making your visit a contribution to both conservation and local livelihoods.