Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park National Park

Address: Jozani Forest, near Chwaka Bay, Unguja South Region, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Website: https://www.zanzibartourism.net/destinations/jozani-chwaka-bay-national-park/

Hours: Daily 8:00am-5:00pm

Admission: Entrance fee approx. TZS 10,000-20,000 for foreigners (varies); guided tours extra

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is a protected area on Unguja (Zanzibar) that conserves lowland forest, mangrove and coastal bay habitats, and is the principal terrestrial national park on Zanzibar. The park was established to protect the island’s endemic species and important mangrove systems.

The park’s highlights include the Zanzibar red colobus population in Jozani Forest, a network of boardwalks through mangroves, and short walking trails that allow close-up wildlife viewing. Visitors commonly plan 1-3 hour visits focused on the forest trails and the mangrove boardwalk.

The protected area was created to preserve local biodiversity and coastal ecosystems, formalized under national protection in the early 21st century. Management combines conservation with community-based tourism and guided visits.

Geographically the park lies on the central east coast of Unguja, near the village of Jozani and adjacent to Chwaka Bay, roughly a 25-40 kilometre drive southeast from Zanzibar’s main town of Stone Town depending on route.

• Size: About 50 square kilometres in extent, combining lowland forest, mangroves and coastal bay habitats on Unguja (Zanzibar).
• Wildlife viewing: The Zanzibar red colobus monkey is endemic to Unguja and is the park’s signature species; early morning is best for sightings along forest trails.

What to See#

• Jozani Forest: The Jozani Forest lies at the core of the park, an evergreen lowland forest that supports the endemic Zanzibar red colobus and other primates.
• Chwaka Bay mangroves: Chwaka Bay mangrove system consists of tidal creeks and extensive mangrove stands at the park’s eastern edge, important for fish nursery habitat and coastal protection.
• Boardwalk and trails: The park boardwalk and visitor trails provide short, accessible routes through mangrove and forest suitable for wildlife viewing and guided walks.

From Zanzibar City (Stone Town), taxis or tour operators run to Jozani (approx. 45-60 minutes). Many day tours combine Jozani with nearby spice farms or beach stops.

• Take the guided boardwalk trail through the mangrove to spot red colobus monkeys-guides are excellent at locating shy animals.
• Combine a visit with a tour of Jozani village to support local community-run conservation projects.