Zanzibar Tour Review: Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave & Mtende Beach

So, if you are thinking of Zanzibar for your next escape, then maybe picture this: warm sunshine, clear turquoise water, and, actually, a crazy blend of natural experiences. Zanzibar is very known for its amazing beaches, yet, believe it or not, there’s a ton more to explore than just chilling on the sand. And actually, the ‘Zanzibar Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave and Mtende Beach Tour’ kinda seemed like a perfect day out, blending, you know, a bit of forest exploration with some local culture and beach downtime.

A Walk on the Wild Side in Jozani Forest

Okay, so Jozani Forest is usually first up and a really important part of this tour. It is almost the biggest patch of indigenous forest left on Zanzibar, so it feels pretty special just stepping inside. Of course, everybody heads there to check out the Zanzibar red colobus monkeys and that’s one reason to be there, which, by the way, are seriously cute and very unique to this little island. It is almost unbelievable to watch them hopping through the trees, not bothered by the gathering crowds.

That said, it’s, maybe, more than just seeing the monkeys. Walking down the forest trails, you get, literally, wrapped up in the smell of the trees and the chirping of unseen birds. Very often, there is, actually, a stillness in the air that feels really restful, more or less, like a million miles away from the busy beaches. The guides that take you in here, know almost everything about the wildlife and plant life, so it’s definitely worth listening to them.

For instance, did you realize, they use quite a few of these plants for medicine? In a way, it actually brings another layer of richness to the stroll, more or less knowing the forest is so much more than just a collection of trees. Also, they are conserving the forest, like your money that you spent there goes a little way into keeping it shielded. If you enjoy getting in touch with wildlife and nature, Jozani is definitely a high point.

Kuza Cave: Take a dip in nature’s pool.

So, next up is Kuza Cave and that can actually be quite another vibe altogether. If you haven’t looked at a photograph, picture yourself wandering down some stairs and suddenly finding yourself inside this cave that opens to the sky above. Cool, fresh water is waiting and it’s usually very welcome after the humidity of the forest.

Is that right that, there’s a bunch of different underground pools there, created over like a thousand years? And I was reading that, there are supposed to be some kinds of healing mineral deposits there or whatever. Whatever the story is, floating around in that clear water feels kind of dreamlike, and makes you forget everything happening up above. Locals hang around here, too, sometimes playing songs or telling stories, it adds something interesting and cultural to the mix.

While it actually isn’t super huge, Kuza Cave definitely packs a punch in making a special memory. Is it not really amazing that nature can make places like these? To be honest, just the thought of getting to jump into such clear, cool water while being on holiday sounds absolutely incredible. So, yeah, don’t forget your swimwear.

Mtende Beach: Tranquility by the Turquoise Tide

Anyway, the final stop on the tour is Mtende Beach, which in a way, offers something totally different. Mtende Beach has this vibe that really makes you slow right down the pace of the rest of the day. I think the most famous picture that you see from here is like, this natural arch made in the rock, which, in short, just looks gorgeous when the sunlight is on the water. Obviously the water’s crystal clear and calm, kinda begging you to just get in.

So, this is, in fact, a spot you’d want to unwind in. And I guess the tour operators understand that because the place is nearly always less crowded than many of Zanzibar’s more famous spots. The locals around, they normally have little spots to grab fresh seafood or fruit juices, or things like that. That’s one more good reason to unwind. Anyway, the simplicity is totally the attraction.

Is that right that you are able to take a stroll, gather seashells, and then just chill watching the sea. The day I went the sunset seemed completely perfect, the sky going a crazy shade of oranges and pinks as the sun dipped past the ocean’s horizon. Honestly it’s this place is postcard worthy and that feeling of peacefulness. This makes you treasure, totally, what holidays should be about.

What to Bring and Other Tips

Okay so, packing smartly definitely gets you ready to make the most of all three settings. Comfortable shoes are highly suggested, specifically when you’re doing that stroll down Jozani. A bit of insect spray’s always sensible in the forest, more or less, that just keeps those bugs off you. And so, for Kuza Cave and Mtende Beach? Don’t forget, of course, swimming gear, sunscreen, also, maybe a beach towel.

I saw some people suggested carrying some money, because very often you feel like picking up some handmade souvenirs. As I was saying, respecting the local rules also means clothing moderately, specifically if visiting places of religious or cultural significance. The tour I joined had transport provided in a little van, though there are places providing privately arranged car-hires.

Basically it seems advisable to check ahead what the tour contains, that means finding if things such as lunch and entrance fees come as part of that price. That is why booking in advance with organizations which have pretty good reviews can provide some real satisfaction. Especially on these tourist places where people tend to increase prices. In a way being a mindful traveler, so speaking respectfully and helping wherever it can actually adds to how satisfying your trips turn out.

Is This Tour for You?

Well, actually this specific tour may suit a couple of things. Is that right that, people wanting a bunch of everything Zanzibar brings? Those who want more of the nature side? Is that what gets them out of bed? In a way the Zanzibar Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave and Mtende Beach Tour presents chances aplenty. If you enjoy seeing wildlife and some nature, you’ll really like Jozani Forest. Actually, just thinking about being next to those lovely red colobus monkeys seems worth the effort.

Cool, naturally formed water holes in caves? To be honest that could also sound very enticing to individuals craving some quiet time and swimming somewhere amazing. And the simple beauty that surrounds Mtende Beach is quite magical and worth going for. Yet, I guess should mention that this may involve a little bit of walking, a slightly bumpy car trip between destinations.

But anyway if you have some mobility restrictions, or hate any disruption, you could then ask operators about modifications or whether other experiences exist more perfectly suited to your taste. If you like an eventful exploration combining nature, culture, or those iconic beaches, then the mix that this package brings offers you fantastic moments on Zanzibar. With a camera, a soul looking to have some travel time, or a bit of an open mind.