Jozani, Rock & Mnemba: A Zanzibar Adventure Review

So, you’re thinking about hitting up Zanzibar and maybe checking out a few cool spots, right? That sounds awesome! Very few places offer the mix of wildlife, grub, and underwater scenes that Zanzibar does, it’s almost too good to be true. I figured I’d lay out my thoughts on this pretty wild combo tour, like the Jozani Monkey trip followed by lunch at The Rock Restaurant, and topped off with some snorkeling around Mnemba Island. Hopefully, this can kinda give you the lowdown so you can figure out if this thing is worth your time and cash.

Chasing Monkeys in Jozani Forest

Jozani Forest is basically that one spot where you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some monkeys, or at least the super rare Red Colobus monkeys which, I mean, is actually a huge deal. Very many destinations across the globe can boast similar attractions! I remember thinking before I went, “Okay, cool, monkeys,” but it’s very unlike any zoo I’ve been to, and seeing them roam completely wild and interact with each other in their habitat? That hits different, it truly does. What adds a bit of depth to the adventure is that, actually, the tour guides there, they know their stuff backwards. As I was saying, they don’t just point out monkeys, they dive into why they’re unique, what they eat, and what challenges they face too it’s almost like a real wildlife lesson!

And speaking of the wildlife, this forest is not, like, only monkeys even if that is the headline act. You might be able to peep other creatures, a bunch of crazy birds, and it’s almost like this super rich selection of plant life, very very beautiful really! Keep in mind that, very much like a proper jungle, the climate can be super hot and humid. Maybe consider bringing some water, like maybe more than you think you need, and maybe toss on some sturdy footwear. You wouldn’t wanna be rocking flip-flops while trying to keep up with some monkeys, alright? It’s basically a decent start to what promises to be an adventurous day, honestly, it really is!

Lunch with a View at The Rock Restaurant

Right, next up? That famous place, The Rock Restaurant. Basically, this restaurant sits on a rock in the ocean which, when you get there, it feels somehow both kinda touristy and truly special, and I just love that juxtaposition! The view? Killer, very likely Instagrammable. Now, listen, people kinda have different feelings about this restaurant but, to me, the location makes the trip alone worthwhile. Very many of those other reviews you read are from fussy foodies I suppose!

Regarding the food? Seafood rules the day. Like your seafood? Okay, you’re set. If not? Hmm, it could be a very good chance to broaden your horizons, you know! Honestly, I wouldn’t come in expecting a food experience that will change the face of cuisine. Very tasty grub it is, the kind you are sure to like, but you’re actually kinda paying for the setting if that makes sense. Depending on the tide, you might even get to walk to the restaurant, it’s almost like an extra free attraction. Make sure to book way ahead, that place gets rammed very, very quickly!

Snorkeling Paradise Around Mnemba Island

Finishing off the day, we get to Mnemba Island. So, this spot is crazy well known as one of the top spots for snorkeling in Zanzibar, and it very rightly holds that title, very much the perfect finish. The water? Super clear, nearly crystal if I was to rate it. The sea life? Insane! When it comes to colors, there is a rainbow to enjoy while swimming around the shallows. If you’re sorta lucky, you may even see dolphins swimming nearby; I couldn’t get enough of them myself.

Many tours will sort of provide the gear and boat ride and that but double check, you know, because it really pays to be safe than sorry. When you’re out there, follow your guide’s directions, and maybe don’t touch anything! Look but definitely don’t touch! The coral could be super sensitive, and you’d actually kinda wanna leave the sea life alone, you know? If the conditions are great, snorkeling around Mnemba is super calming and gorgeous and the kind of experience you’ll just be dying to repeat again and again, it feels just so incredible to spend time appreciating nature like that.

What to Know Before You Go

Here’s what I reckon you should know before going all in on this excursion.

What to bring: Remember sunblock is a must, a hat, sturdy shoes for the forest, and swimming gear! Actually consider a waterproof bag for cameras and phones; getting your equipment wet can be a bummer!
Best time to go: Zanzibar’s dry season which runs from June to October, and December to February, would likely be when you get the best weather which, to be honest, affects everything!
Respect the environment: Super obvious point is super obvious: treat everything, the animals, the plants, the sea, carefully and considerately.
Book in advance: Particularly for The Rock Restaurant, but the snorkeling trips, too, tend to fill up, particularly during peak season. Booking everything in advance should also free up time for some chilling.

Is This Zanzibar Tour Worth It?

So, putting everything together? I reckon this tour is pretty wicked, and I wouldn’t say that about everything. Basically, each part delivers a different cool thing and so it balances super well, it gives you a varied experience in only one day, you know? I would advise that people really consider their interests and also budgets before they do commit. It is quite difficult to visit this part of the world on a tight budget so saving the right amount is worthwhile. If you’re seeking animals, eating with insane scenery, and also checking out under-sea treasures? Go for it, there’s actually no better one-day adventure you can have on the island, arguably.

#Zanzibar #Travel #Adventure #Snorkeling #Wildlife #IslandLife