spice tour in zanzibar

Zanzibar Spice Tour

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Zanzibar Shore Excursion - City Tour | Spice Tour | Jozani Forest ( 3 in One )

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Zanzibar Spice Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Spice & Fruit Tour

Culture tour.

Explore Zanzibar through its unique culture, art & history.

BEST SELLER

Join one of our most popular tours!

LUNCH INCLUDED

Try Zanzibar’s tasty spices with a traditional local lunch.

Sample Local Spices and Exotic Fruits

Our Spice Tour is one of our most popular excursions in Zanzibar, also known as the “Spice Island.” Zanzibar was once one of the world’s leading producers of spices such as clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This unique tour takes you to an organic farm that grows a wide variety of plants year-round. You won’t just get to see what we farm, but also touch, smell, and taste.

Don’t just read about it, see it!

Check out our Spice Tour video

ABOUT THE TOUR

All the senses.

Spices and herbs were originally introduced to Zanzibar by Portuguese traders in the 16th century, brought from their colonies in South America and India.

Your tour starts with a walk through a local spice farm (shamba). There, you’ll learn how spices, herbs, and fruits are grown and cultivated. Your guide will explain how these crops are used in our cuisine.

You’ll get to smell and sample spices such as clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, vanilla, cardamom, chili, and black pepper; herbs such as lemongrass; and tropical produce such as coconut, papaya, jackfruit, cassava, and oranges. You’ll also enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch at the farm, where you can really taste the different ways of using spices and how they come together in our traditional cooking.

Your tour finishes with a stop at a local spice stand selling fresh packaged spices for you to take home with you (cash only).

Book Your Zanzibar Spice Tour

55 USD per person

Private walking tour

• Transfer from Stone Town and back
• Professional local guide
• Exotic fruit tasting
• Drinking water

Optional visit to a local animal shelter – 30 USD per person (including a 20 USD donation to the shelter).

USEFUL INFORMATION

This tour starts from Stone Town, the main entrance to the Old Fort at 10:00. If you’re not staying in Stone Town, contact us and we can arrange the pickup from anywhere in Zanzibar.

Colors of Zanzibar

Spice Tour 

7 days/week

Variety is the spice of life

WOW invites you on an inspiring walk through a local spice farm. 

Zanzibar, also referred as "The Spice Island", in history one of the world's largest producers of spices.

On this tour you will be introduced into the island's culinary richness, and all Zanzibar's famous spices and herbs.

Taste delicious tropical fruits, discover different spices with all your senses, like vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon,... and many more.

The "WOW" Special edition extends this Tour, and gives you the opportunity to cook a traditional meal together with a local family. 

They will pass all their knowledge of local cuisine to you and explain how they use all their famous spices and herbs. 

Cook on a self-built fire, use traditional tools, and become a part of the traditional lifestyle.

Duration of Spice Tour  1/2 day , can be extended with 

WOW tradidional cooking 

Prison island or Stone Town. 

Prison island + Stone Town full day  (incl lunch)

How to Book ? 

WOW is very flexible and you can enjoy the tours & excursions every day of the week.

To prepare your Tours & Excursions the best way, contact us at least 1 days in advance to make all necessary arrangements, so that we can offer the high quality WOW stands for.

Spice Tour is one of the most popular excursions on the Island. In days past, Zanzibar was known as a spice island, exporting cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cardamom across the world. The spices were brought over from Asia and South America and flourished in the tropical climes. Nowadays the plantations are a tribute to the island's past, swapping spices for tourism, combining both in a spice tour.

Walk through the spice farm with your guide. Touch, smell and taste different spices and tropical fruits. Try to guess which is which, from the crushed leaves, the fruit, shoots and vines and creepers crawling up the Zanzibar Spice Tour trees. Total price 100 USD includes Farm entrance for two people, private transport both ways.

Other Trips

Would you like see more options for trips from Zanzibar? For further activities and trips on the island, please take a look at the other options below to find the best choice for you.

Semi Submarine Cruise

Discover the fascinating Marine Life of the Indian Ocean around Stone Town, on-board the Semi-Submarine. You will enjoy the fresh ocean breeze on the upper deck and the colorful marine life of the Zanzibar archipelago reefs from your window seat under water. Watch divers interact with fish, while listening to our experienced marine-guides.

Jozani Forest

For those who would like to see Zanzibar from another look. We can offer you trip to the last Zanzibar big forest. This place is home for Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys and many other animals. The guide will take you to three different places, where you can watch monkeys in their natural environmental. Visit Mangrove tree lagoon, which protects Zanzibar from tsunami and big fish and make a tour into the big forest.

Swimming with Turtles

In the north of Zanzibar, you can find one of the natural lagoon full of sea turtles. In Baraka Aquarium they are buying the turtles, caught by fishermen and they are releasing them back to the fresh ocean water in the lagoon. Use the unique opportunity to swim with sea turtles. During the visit you can also feed turtles with sea weed or just spend your time in the water. Also, you can take snorkelling mask to dive and watch them in their natural environment.

Quad Bike Tour

Off road adventure will take you through some remote African villages, plantations, viewing baobabs and spice trees, across the fisherman's village and as a last stop the Waikiki Resort. Quads are departing at 9h in the morning. Departure from hotel to the Quad Bike centre is at 8.30h, transfer is included in price. Guests will self drive their quad bikes for 4 hours. The price is per quad regardless if is ridden by 1 or 2 passengers. Your domestic driving licence is required.

Safari Blue

Full Day Snorkelling Experience. You will spend a magical day exploring the South of island in a traditional wooden boat, called "dhow" with professional staff on the board. Enjoy swimming & guided snorkelling in the beautiful pure waters. Watch wild dolphins at play and take a swim in the hidden mangrove lagoon. Feast on our delicious Swahili seafood barbecue on one of the island followed by gastronomic tropical fruit tasting.

This atmospheric and mystical town is the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar. It was constructed from coral stone during the 19th and 20th century. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. While you wonder around the city, your guide will take you on a historical and cultural journey through the old slave market, Darajani market place, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort and the Sultan’s Palace. It is a private tour so the guide will adjust the tour as per your interest.

Horseback riding

A professionally managed stable yard with a qualified teaching and riding instructor. Riders of all levels can experience spectacular sunset beach rides as well as a beautiful scenic trail around and over the golf course to the beach. Prophet, our pony, is perfect for younger children and makes a wonderful photo opportunity. Transport to Horseback riding is extra 100 USD per car.

Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll

Mnemba Atoll is one of the most popular tourist spot with pure clear water. This sea is home for the fish of many kinds and sizes. If you are lucky, you can also see dolphins in their natural environment. Car will pick you up at the hotel in the morning and will take you to the beach where the captain with local wooden boat will wait for you and will take you for 20 minute ride to reach Mnemba Atoll. You can see nice coral ecosystem together with rich variety of fish.

See Zanzibar from different perspective. Explore amazing atmosphere of Kuza cave as Culture Centre of Zanzibar. Visit of this hidden gem in the South East of the Island. Visit includes swimming in the pure and fresh water, cooking lesson with lunch, drumming lesson and many others. You can mix your program as you wish. Possibility of choice between two hour or four hour stay.

Specializing in providing skydives to First Time jumpers, Skydive Zanzibar can get you up in the air and enjoying free fall with only 30 minutes of training as you will be connected to a team with over 20 years knowledge, expertise and experience of providing skydiving in over 10 different countries. Skydive Zanzibar located on Kendwa beach on the north part of the island will offer you once in a lifetime opportunity to land on one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar.

Enjoy pure adventure experience on Safari trip in Tanzania. You can choose from a several different options of national parks located in Tanzania. Safari trip is tailor-made, we will arrange everything upon your wish. Combine your holiday on the beach in Zanzibar with a wild nature in Mainland and experience the best holiday of your life. Our staff will be happy to assist you with everything you need to know about Safari.

Deep Sea Fishing

Explore deep water around Zanzibar from the boat and enjoy fishing, sailing and relax on the board. This trip is great if you do not have troubles to spend a couple of hours on the open sea. Deep sea experience is suitable for everyone, even if you are professional fisherman or you would like to try deep sea fishing for the first time. Choose from different boat types and sizes. All equipment included on the board. The boats are available for half or full day cruise.

Prison Island

Use the opportunity to visit the tortoise sanctuary, which contains a colony of giant tortoise, located in the Prison Island, former place of violent prisoners from the mainland and sick people. The average weight of tortoise is 200 kg, and many of them are said to be over 150 years old. There will be a chance to touch the tortoise and take photos. From Stone Town you will take 20 min ride on small wooden boat to get there.

Motorcycle Tour

Join a professionally guided tour for an insider’s look at the spectacular riding country that Tanzania is or rent one to enhance your holiday experience while on the island. A one day tour that takes you to see a handful of Zanzibar’s beautiful sights and experience one of Zanzibar’s best restaurants for lunch. Pick a ride that will make memories for life.

You are just one click away from a perfect holiday at Tulia. Just make your booking now and we will take care of everything else.

Complimentary services for every reservation:

Prices checked by guests in the last 24h. Secure your room now.

Booking.com rating 9,6 I Tripadvisor rating 5/5

• Kizimbani, Zanzibar
• [email protected]
• (+255) 773 245 320

Welcome to Zito Spice Farm

Zito spice farm provides a world-class spice tour to all of our visitors and learn about all kinds of tropical spices you see inside the farm.

Natural Spice Farm Experiential Tours

Zito spice farm is by far the largest spice farm in Zanzibar, with over 100,000 visitors attending each year, leading the spice farm service in Zanzibar.

Enjoy Our Delicious Traditional Foods From Zito Restaurant

Surrounded by favorable traditional meals cooked with our traditional spices, Zito Restaurant has everything you need to test the true flavor of spice food in Zanzibar.

ZITO SPICE FARM PROMISE TO YOU

Spice tours.

At Zito Spice Farm, we promise to provide you with an unforgettable spice tour experience.

Our tours are designed to take you on a journey through the history, cultivation, and uses of some of the world's most exotic spices. 

DINING FOOD

At Zito Spice Farm, we believe that food is an integral part of the travel experience, and we promise to provide our guests with a delicious and authentic dining experience.

Our dining experience is focused on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on the spices and flavors of Zanzibar.

SHOPPING ORGANIC SPICE

At Zito Spice Farm, we believe that shopping should be more than just a transaction - it should be an experience.

That's why we promise to provide our customers with a shopping experience that is both convenient and enjoyable.

_____________ Take a guided tour of the farm and learn about the different types of spices that are grown on the island. You'll get to see how spices are harvested, dried, and processed, and you'll also have the opportunity to taste some of the spices.

Cooking class

_____________ Join a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Zanzibari dishes using the spices and fruits grown on the farm. You'll get to cook with fresh ingredients and learn new techniques, all while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the farm.

Child Custody

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Fruit Tasting

_____________ Zanzibar is known for its exotic fruits, and Zito Spice Farm is the perfect place to try them. You can taste fruits like jackfruit, passionfruit, and guava, and learn about their health benefits and culinary uses.

Domestic Violence

Take a Nature Walk

_____________ As you walk, you'll learn about the different spices grown on the farm, their uses in cooking and traditional medicine, and their cultural significance. It's a great way to connect with nature and appreciate the bounty of Zito Spice Farm

Civil Unions

_____________ Zito Spice Farm has a shop where you can purchase the spices, fruits, and other products grown on the farm. You'll be able to take home a piece of Zanzibar and recreate the flavors of the island in your own kitchen.

Business Law

Photography

_____________

Zito Spice Farm is a beautiful location for photography enthusiasts. You can take stunning pictures of the colorful spices, the exotic fruits, and some vibrant flora and fauna.

Property Crime

Professional farmer, about zito spice firm.

Welcome to Zito Spice Farm, located on the beautiful island of Zanzibar, where we grow and harvest the finest spices in East Africa. We are a family-owned business, dedicated to providing high-quality, locally-sourced spices to our community.

Our story begins over 20 years ago, when our founder, Mr. Zito, realized that there was a lack of fresh, authentic spices available in our area. He began sourcing and cultivating his own spices, carefully selecting only the finest ingredients to ensure that every batch was of the highest quality.

Over time, word of Mr. Zito’s exceptional spices began to spread, and he soon found himself with a growing number of loyal customers. In 2010, he decided to open Zito Spice Farm, with the goal of sharing his passion for spices with the wider community.

Today, Zito Spice Farm is a thriving business, with a team of dedicated employees who share Mr. Zito’s commitment to quality and sustainability. We work closely with local farmers and growers to source the freshest, most flavorful spices possible, and we take pride in our commitment to sustainable farming practices.

10 Years Of Experience In Spice Farm Tourist.

Since we are the co-owner of the firm, we hire the finest, best local guide who is more experience with the spice farm generally and the environmental aspects of our farm. We believe we can assist you in making your spice farm trip special and unique.

Why Choose Us

Our quality and service go hand-in-hand. We continuously evaluate customer satisfaction and are constantly looking for new methods to exceed our clients’ expectations to assist us accomplish the key values.

Honest prices  – Since we are the co-owner of the spice farm, we have the best prices for tour, and a huge selection of activities from cooking class, shopping organic spice to dining food restaurant. The choice is endless in our farm.

Full support  – contacting us, you get full support, from choosing any activities of tour and ending with advice on what to take with you on a trip.

Unmatched Service – Enjoy peace of mind every step of your journey. We’ll handle all the spice trip details so you can relax and doing spice tour with confidence.

Experienced Advisors –  Our experts are are local farmers too. We’ve been where you want to go and will help you plan, perfect spice tour in Zanzibar.

Zito Spice Farm Working Hours

Zitospicefarm.

Visitors enjoy traditional food in zito spice farm

Visitors enjoy traditional food in zito spice farm ...

Visitor in zito spice farm

Visitor in zito spice farm ...

Tukiwa pamoja na mkuu wa mkoa wa Njombe mh, Anthony mtaka tukibadilishana mawazo juu ya uzalishaji na uimarishaji wa zao la vanila visiwani Zanzibar lakini pia Tanzania kwa jumla .

Tukiwa pamoja na mkuu wa mkoa wa Njombe mh, Anthony mtaka tukibadilishana mawazo juu ya uzalishaji na uimarishaji wa zao la vanila visiwani Zanzibar lakini pia Tanzania kwa jumla . ...

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• Zanzibar Spice tour

Details of Zanzibar Spice tour

Dig into "Spice island's" history and discover what made it an intersection of cultures, religions, and cuisines! 

In the morning we will pick you up at your hotel anywhere in Zanzibar and take you to the world-famous spice farms. Along the way, you will learn about the rich history of the island.

Already ancient sailors reported islands full of scents, and Arab merchants travelled as early as the eighth century to Pemba and Unguja, the islands that make up Zanzibar, for spices. You will learn how the island got its nickname in the 15th century and learn about growing and harvesting spice plants.

You’ll find out why pepper and cloves were so valuable, and you’ll probably find out for the first time that nutmeg wrap is also a very special spice.

The queen of spices, cinnamon, has many healing properties in addition to its intoxicating aroma. To leave you in a frenzy, we won’t reveal all the spices you’ll smell, observe, touch, and taste.

This tour includes:

· Guided 3-hour tour of Zanzibar's spice farms

· Local English-speaking guide

· Transportation: from any hotel in Zanzibar

Our advice:

· All spices and other farm produce sold at the farm, do get some

· Prepare some tips for the guide

· Opt for a local lunch (at your own expense)

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Spice Tour in Zanzibar

Itinerary summary.

On this excursion you'll find tropical fruits, spices and other rare species of plants are among the different vegetation. The Spice Tour in Zanzibar  is not only an excursion but a rare experience to prove out why Zanzibar is referred to as the Spice Island.

What the Trip Includes

Visit the kidichi village.

The Spice Tour begins at Kidichi Village to visit the Persian Baths built in 1850 by Seyyid Said bin Sultan for his wife Princess Shehrzard. They are referred to as "Persian" because their construction was commissioned to Shirazi architects. The word "Hamamni" means "the place of the baths".

Visit the Kizimbani Village

The Zanzibar Spice Tour proceeds to the Kizimbani Village in the Central District to visit the spice farms to see, smell and test varieties of tropical fruits and spices such as black pepper, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, vanilla sticks, lemon grass, nutmeg etc.

Prices for Spice Tour

Pick-up and drop off would be calculated for you separately depending on your location.

Transfers Special Discount

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Book a Spice Tour

How to Visit a Spice Farm in Zanzibar, Tanzania

As you prepare for your adventure in Zanzibar, you will probably discover that the island is known as the “Spice Island.”

This nickname is fully justified, as Zanzibar plays a significant role in the export of spices, which are deeply ingrained in the local customs and cuisine.

Prepare for a unique culinary adventure by visiting a local spice farm in Zanzibar that beautifully captures the spirit of this spice island.

With our travel tips and this guide, you’ll find the essence of this ‘flavorful’ journey. You’ll explore, learn, and even taste the spices right off the plants.

Let’s spice up your travel tales… here is an overview:

Zanzibar’s Spice History

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Zanzibar’s main industries are spices and tourism, with the islands being famous for producing cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper. Tanzania , in particular, produces Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “real cinnamon.” Cloves account for more than 90% of Tanzania’s spice exports worldwide.

As a result, the Zanzibar Archipelago and Mafia Island in Tanzania are often referred to locally as the “Spice Islands.”

Back in 1964, when they formed Tanzania, Zanzibar and Mafia Island were once the largest producers of cloves in the world. The first clove trees arrived on these islands in 1818, brought by Arab traders from Mauritius who had obtained them from Indonesia .

However, due to the fertile soil and tropical climate, the industry quickly flourished. Along with the flourishing slave and ivory trade in the 19th century, cloves, along with other spices, became an important source of income for these islands.

During this period, a series of Arab sultans who ruled these islands encouraged the establishment of clove plantations and threatened those who didn’t cultivate this precious spice with land confiscation.

Spices were introduced to Tanzania, including the rich soils found in Zanzibar, about a thousand years ago. Since then, they have become an integral part of the people’s lives, history and economy. When slavery was abolished in 1897, the former slaves became tenant farmers, free to grow whatever crops they wished, while providing their landlords with crops consisting mainly of cloves and coconuts. Little has changed since then.

Today, thanks to Tanzania’s favourable agricultural climate and soil conditions, a wide variety of spices and aromatic plants are still grown.

The main production area on the mainland is the Eastern Arc, a chain of mountains that runs from north to south along the coast. This region includes highland and lowland areas with their own unique microclimates characterized by cool and humid air, regular rainfall, natural forests and diverse wildlife.

It’s important not to overlook Pemba Island and Unguja Island as they also play a significant role in spice production.

However, most of the farms are not open for tourism. Instead, smaller spice farms in Zanzibar serve as showcases for tourists who want to experience spice farming firsthand. It’s worth noting that these smaller farms follow the same processes and grow similar spices, but on a smaller scale. After all, no one wants to spend half a day just walking across a field.

Almost all of the spice farms are located in close proximity to each other, about 5 kilometers north of Stone Town.

If you’re close to Stone Town, biking is an option, but it can be challenging in Zanzibar. We recommend hiring a professional guide for the safest route if you like adventure.

Another option is to take the public bus known as “dala dala”, but it’s complicated because they don’t usually stop near spice farms. You’ll need to know where and when to ask the driver for directions, which can be tricky with so many farms around.

You can also drive yourself or hire a guide. However, as all spice farms look similar, thorough research is essential. Roads are generally good, except for the last stretch to the farm, which can be rough after rainfall. Care must be taken when driving.

Hiring a guide will provide comfort and convenience. They only work with top-quality spice farms and have extensive knowledge of potential problems that may arise during your visit.

Related Read: The Best Markets in Stone Town, Zanzibar

In general, exploring the spice farms takes about 3 hours if you arrange transportation from Stone Town.

These delightful plantations are relatively small, so there isn’t a lot of walking around. Everything is conveniently arranged to ensure maximum enjoyment for visitors. It’s important to note that people in wheelchairs can participate in this tour as the terrain is level.

If you opt for a spice farm that offers a cooking experience, it may take a little more time, but it adds an extra touch of excitement to your visit!

Zanzibar’s spice tour is like stepping into a live kitchen. It’s an immersive journey that entices all your senses, turning the usual spice encounter on its head. For travelers and food-lovers, it’s not just a tour; it’s a stirring story of Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage and a tribute to its age-old love affair with spices.

This is not just any farm. This is an adventure steeped in history, culture and the tantalizing mystique of Zanzibar’s famous spice trade. When you enter the Spice Farm, nestled among whispering palms and the cobalt embrace of the Indian Ocean, you enter not just a farm, but a symphony of the senses.

The knowledgeable guide at the farm will explain how these spices are cultivated and used not only as medicine but also to add flavor to our delectable dishes. You’ll have the opportunity to touch, smell, and taste these herbs directly from their natural source – it doesn’t get any fresher than this! Moreover, they offer a variety of tropical fruits in season.

As part of your local immersion experience, you can join in harvesting cassava leaves while learning how coconut milk is made. To make things even more exciting, a skilled coconut tree climber will pluck some fresh young coconuts for you to enjoy firsthand.

This is an unforgettable local adventure!

To conclude this remarkable trip, you are invited to indulge in a delightful lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients from the spice farm itself.

And don’t worry if you fall head over heels for those exceptional spices – they’re available for purchase on the premises with guaranteed quality assurance.

Price: $95 Duration: 3 hours Free cancelation up to 24 hours before

What’s included:

• Convenient pickup from the designated meeting point in Stone Town
• Pickup service available at selected beach hotels in Zanzibar (if chosen)
• Expert local guide
• Contributing to the well-being of the local community
• Enjoying a delicious lunch accompanied by an informative cooking lesson
• Drinking water

Strap yourself in for a fragrant adventure that is set to spice up your life more than a notch.

Throughout the tour, you’ll see, taste, touch and smell spices in various ways.

There will be moments when you will be pleasantly surprised and say, “Wow! I didn’t know that!” Just remember that all spices are fresh and may have a stronger flavour than you’re used to at home. So it’s important to take the necessary precautions.

You’ll also explore various other herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, black pepper, turmeric, and many more. And let’s not forget the wide variety of fruits – from the famous jackfruit to rambutan, pineapple to papaya, mango to soursop, breadfruit to durian (“smells awful but tastes amazing”). Note, however, that these fruits don’t grow at the same time; their availability depends on the season.

After walking through the spice garden and learning more about spices, you can enjoy a fruit tasting with an assortment of interesting fruits based on the season.

This fruity adventure will be followed by a cooking lesson using freshly harvested ingredients from the farm for lunch . The meal will be mostly vegetarian (and sometimes vegan) with occasional fish options. It’s all about plant-based cooking.

This hands-on experience allows you to not only learn how to prepare traditional Zanzibari dishes using freshly picked spices but also to acquire specific culinary techniques that are unique to Zanzibar.

The chef leading this class will share his expertise while encouraging your active participation throughout the meal preparation.

It’s worth mentioning that during the tour, there may be instances when local community members try to integrate into the tourist activities. Some people find this awkward, while others see it as a fascinating way to gain insight into Zanzibari culture. Expect situations where locals offer handmade items made from palm leaves, such as purses, hats, rings, and other creative pieces. Sometimes, a talented individual known as the “coconut man” will even climb a coconut tree while singing and collecting coconuts from the top. Tips are appreciated as they directly support the local communities.

Towards the end of a tour, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase spices directly from the spice farm, but keep in mind that while spices don’t expire, they do lose their flavor over time. So this is your chance to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice and use your sense of smell to select quality products.

Be sure to check your country’s customs regulations for importing spices as they may vary.

Group of visitors of the Spice Tour in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Traditional cooking bowl. Spice tour in Zanzibar.

Cooking with stick. Spice tour in Zanzibar.

Tanzanian cuisine is full of indigenous spices and traditional recipes that have been passed down for generations.

Local favorites include refreshing teas made from ginger and lemongrass, and the popular East African rice dish called pilau. Pilau holds a special place in the hearts of families and is made with a delicious combination of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, black pepper, turmeric and garlic.

In coastal areas such as Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Bagamoyo, Zanzibar and Pemba, the cuisine is heavily influenced by the use of spices.

Pilau , a popular rice dish in Tanzania and East Africa, is incredibly popular. It consists of ingredients such as rice, potatoes, beef, goat or chicken (although it can be made without meat for vegans and vegetarians), and pilau masala. When entertaining or gathering for lunch at weddings in Zanzibar, pilau is the most popular dish.

The pilau masala used in this dish is a mixture of ground spices that typically includes cumin, cinnamon, black peppercorns, cardamom cloves, and garlic. Some recipes may even include turmeric powder, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods.

When making fish or chicken curry and beef stew , Tanzanian recipes often call for a widely used curry powder, which can be either store-bought or homemade. The main ingredients in this curry powder are coriander seeds, turmeric, garlic, cinnamon, cumin, chilies, and ginger. Additional elements may consist of grains, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and jaggery.

Black ginger tea is a common beverage enjoyed by many Tanzanians on a daily basis. Spiced tea in particular is well known throughout Zanzibar, where it is prepared using special tea masalas such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg. Some people even like to add dried orange peel, star anise, and vanilla extract to further enhance the flavor.

Maandazi , a type of donut that originated in East Africa, is another popular choice for breakfast and lunch. These puffed savory buns get their unique flavor from the addition of ground cardamom to the flour.

Related read: Forodhani Garden: Where Zanzibar’s Heart Beats

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Spice Plantation Tour

Spice Plantation Tour in Zanzibar

Spice Tours: Zanzibar was known as the spice island during the nineteenth century. Clove cultivating specifically prospered in the island in view of the rich soils and heat and humidity. Later on, ginger, vanilla, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg were presented for huge scope development. Developing of what to do in Zanzibar spices is still mainstream and rewarding on the island. It is feasible for tourists to proceed to visit these plantations to find out about how spices are developed and the significant job they play in the economy of Zanzibar.

While visiting the Spice Plantation, expect to taste and smell items from cinnamon, breadfruit, lime, coconut, cloves, nutmerg, dark pepper, coriander, bananas, jackfruits, mangoes, and dark pepper. You can likewise figure out how to prepare nearby food utilizing the species filled in the estate. Notwithstanding the plantation you are opportune to tour, a Spice tour in Zanzibar is educative and takes somewhere in the range of two and three hours. 

Zanzibar - the "Spice Island" renowned for its spices, for example, cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, pepper and that's just the beginning, is situated in the Indian sea about 40km east of Tanzania and is essential for an archipelago comprised of Zanzibar which is otherwise called Unguja however more broadly known as Zanzibar, Pemba which is located at North-East from Zanzibar and more modest islets encompassing Zanzibar. Importantly, we are the best tour specialist that offers this tour.

Spice Plantation Tour In zanzibar

Spice tour in Zanzibar is a 3 hours guided tour, Tourists will be privileged to find a lot of things including Tropical fruits, Spices and herbs, and a few of the infrequently types of different plants from various vegetation. It is only in excess of a tour, tourists may get a super exciting experience to demonstrate why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island.

While on your tour, individuals ought to hope to see the spices such as curry, Cardamone, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, pepper, tamarind, ginger, menthol, Zanzibar's cloves, and numerous different spices and herbs offered by the sultan of Oman over the Indian Ocean.

At Zanzibartour.co.tz, our guides will deliver to you the point by point description of what the different plants are utilized for, however not every one of them is for food, others utilized for medicinal purposes. 

Notably, there exist tree leaves called neem, which was traditionally utilized as medication for malaria and heartburn. Additionally, the iodine tree delivers a dark red sap utilized to battle disease and wounds. 

Exotic spices and plantations.

A four-hour guided tour of exotic spices and natural products on the plantations. The tour begins at Kibweni Palace and continues to Kidichi. There are likewise Persian showers worked by Seyyid Said Sultan. He dedicated it to his wife named Princess Shehrzard, a relative of the SJA of Persia. The tour gives a brilliant knowledge into a variety of tastes and smells from spices, natural products, spices, and lovely plants and blossoms

Tour the spice plantations of Zanzibar as the historical flashback, it would be an inadequate tour without them. The island is known to have been at one time the leading maker of spices like cloves, cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, and numerous which prompted the Sultans of Oman and the start of slave exchange. Plantations are simply outside the towns of Zanzibar and guests are treated with an itemized portrayal of the spices and their usages.

Zanzibar-The Spice Island

This island on Tanzania's north coast has baited tourists for quite a long time, and it was the impact of the Shirazi Persians and the Omani Arabs that has waited generally on the island. Popular as the Spice Island and the biggest maker of cloves, Zanzibar's east coast beaches are wonderful you can investigate the flavor and organic product plantations and visit Jozani Forest.

The best of everything is the old stone town of Zanzibar. It's a bunch of winding roads fixed with whitewashed coral houses, bazaars, mosques, posts, two previous ruler's castles, two colossal churches, and blurred frontier manors all distinctively bringing out the Islands long history. Zanzibar most popular as the Spice island was the middle for the slave exchange in East Africa and base for David Living stone's undertakings into the unexplored African inside. Smell brimming with the fragrance of cloves and different spices, which actually give work to numerous individuals of Zanzibar.

Take a Spice Tour

Zanzibar is known as The Spice Island because of the spices that grow on the island. You will have the opportunity to taste spices like vanilla, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon just as numerous others, utilized for cooking or in conventional medication purposes. Our guide will clarify what the spices are utilized for and their outstanding properties. Ultimately, you'll wind up placing turmeric in everything!

spice tour zanzibar

Price starting from $20 per individual

3 hours guided tour

Private tour

The price to be paid for Spice Plantation Tourcovers;

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Entrance fee

Conservation fee

Trained, friendly and professional guide

All government Fee & taxes

Hotel pickup and drop-off can be org aniz ed as per your request.

• Available Multilingual Guide (English, French, Italian, German, Russian, and Spanish)

Note: Tourist may book this tour with either Stone town tour, Prison Island or Jozani Forest

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BY OUR CLIENT: To cancel of booked tour/excursion, clients must do so by writing to US. This is when the cancellation will be acknowledged. Meanwhile, cancellation is subjected to some percentage off from the tour cost.

BY US: Cancellation of booked will only occur unusual and unpredictable occasion. Importantly, we do try our possible to avoid such occasion. Notably, another date for the tour will be communicated as soon as possible.  

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Spice Farm Tour Zanzibar

• From North part of Island Available: 100 seats
• From Central part of Island (Stone Town) Available: 100 seats
• From South-East part of Island Available: 100 seats

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A deposit is needed to secure your Zanzibar tour booking, confirming your commitment and allowing us to organize essential logistics like transportation, meals, and expert local guides for a personalized and exceptional experience.

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Infants – 0 to 5 years for Free! Children- From 5 to 12 Years with 20% Discount

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Tour Details

Our Spice Farm Tour will take you on a sensory adventure through Zanzibar’s lush forests and fertile fields, where you will discover the secrets of the island’s world-famous spices.

As you wander through the vibrant greenery, our expert guide will introduce you to the diverse array of spices that grow in the region. From the zesty tang of cinnamon and nutmeg to the fragrant sweetness of vanilla and cloves, you will be transported to a world of bold flavors and heady aromas.

At Spice Farm, we believe the best way to experience these exotic spices is to immerse yourself in their natural habitat. That’s why we have carefully curated a tour that allows you to touch, taste, and smell the spices in their rawest form. You can pluck fresh cinnamon sticks from the tree, crush cloves with your hands, and experience the pungent aroma of cardamom.

But our Spice Farm Tour is not just about the spices. As you explore the farm, you will also have the opportunity to learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage and the history of the spice trade. Our knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating stories of how these spices have been used throughout history, from their origins in the Far East to their arrival in Europe and beyond.

As part of the tour, we also offer a traditional Swahili cooking class, where you will learn to use the spices to create traditional Zanzibari dishes. Our expert chefs will guide you through creating a mouth-watering meal you can enjoy in the stunning surroundings of Spice Farm.

At the end of the tour, you can purchase some of the island’s finest spices to take home with you. From the fiery heat of chili peppers to the delicate sweetness of saffron, you can stock up on a range of spices that will transport you back to the sensory adventure of Zanzibar.

So what are you waiting for? Join us on our Spice Farm Tour and discover the authentic flavors of Zanzibar. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and exotic flavors, this is an experience that you will never forget.

Tour Duration

Price includes.

• Transfer from hotel to location and back to your hotel
• English Speaking Guide
• Entrances fees
• Drinking Water

Price Excludes

• Any Private Expenses

Complementaries

What to expect.

A visit to a spice farm is a must-do activity for any traveler to Zanzibar. The island is known for its extensive spice plantations, which produce everything from cinnamon and vanilla to nutmeg and ginger.

During a spice farm tour, you can expect to:

• Learn about the history of the spice trade in Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean region
• See a variety of spice plants and learn how they are grown and harvested
• Smell and taste different spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves
• Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch or snack made with fresh spices grown on the farm

Overall, a spice farm tour is a fun and educational way to experience Zanzibar’s unique flavors and aromas.

Tour Highlights!

• Learn about the cultural and traditional significance of the spices and herbs
• Smell and taste a variety of exotic spices
• Sip on freshly harvested coconut juice straight from the farm
• Shop for spices to take home as a souvenir
• Capture the beauty of the farm and its surroundings with stunning photographs

(You set the time with the guide after booking) Pick you up from your Hotel

We will pick you up with our car from your hotel at the time you will tell us in the comments on the booking form.

First Stop: Cloves

• Learn about the history of the cloves and their importance in Zanzibar’s economy.
• See how cloves are grown and harvested.
• Taste some of the products made from cloves, including essential oils and teas.

Second Stop: Vanilla

• Discover how vanilla is grown and harvested.
• Learn about the process of pollinating vanilla flowers.
• Taste some of the products made from vanilla, including ice cream and coffee.

Third Stop: Cinnamon

• Learn about the different varieties of cinnamon and their uses.
• See how cinnamon is harvested and processed.
• Taste some of the products made from cinnamon, including teas and baked goods.

Fourth Stop: Nutmeg

• Discover the history of nutmeg and its uses in Zanzibari cuisine.
• See how nutmeg is grown and harvested.
• Taste some of the products made from nutmeg, including spice blends and sauces.

Fifth Stop: Black Pepper

• Learn about the history of black pepper and its uses in cooking.
• See how black pepper is grown and harvested.
• Taste some of the products made from black pepper, including spice blends and marinades.

Sixth Stop: Cardamom

• Discover the history of cardamom and its importance in Zanzibari cuisine.
• See how cardamom is grown and harvested.
• Taste some of the products made from cardamom, including teas and desserts.

End of the tour

This tour is a unique opportunity to learn about the spices that have made Zanzibar famous throughout the world. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for these valuable commodities and their role in the island’s culture and economy.

The tour will end with a drop-off at your hotel or preferred location!

How to find what part of Islands is your hotel

Please have a look at our map:

Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

The tour suits all ages, and families with children are welcome to join this immersive experience.

Will we have the chance to taste the spices during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh spices and learn about their culinary and medicinal uses.

Can we purchase spices or souvenirs during the tour?

Absolutely! You’ll have the chance to buy locally sourced spices and handcrafted souvenirs as mementos of your Spice Farm adventure.

We recommend seeing these as well:

Zanzibar game fishing, from north coast to east & south coast zanzibar, david smith.

Our visit to the Spice Farm in Zanzibar was incredibly enriching. The online booking process was simple and efficient. The farm tour offered a fascinating insight into the cultivation and uses of various spices. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way – from the vibrant colors to the rich scents. The guides were passionate and informative, making it a memorable and educational experience. Highly recommended for those looking to explore the unique aspects of Zanzibar.

The Spice Farm Tour in Zanzibar was an aromatic and sensory delight. Booking was a breeze, and the tour itself was an immersive journey into the world of spices. Walking through the lush farm, learning about and smelling various spices right from their source was truly unique. The knowledgeable guides made the experience even more enriching. This tour is a must for anyone who wants to experience Zanzibar’s famous spice heritage up close.

The Spice Farm Tour in Zanzibar is an unforgettable experience. You’ll explore lush spice gardens, smell and taste exotic fruits and spices, and learn about the farm’s culture and traditions. The knowledgeable guide will explain the history and uses of each spice. You’ll also enjoy a delicious traditional Swahili lunch made with fresh farm ingredients. Don’t miss this unique and educational opportunity to learn about the region’s history and culture and sample some of the freshest and most flavorful spices in the world!

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Spice Tours in Zanzibar | Including Lunch and Fruits!

If you are looking to go spice tours in Zanzibar, this simple guide is for you!

Spice farms tour is a must do activity if you are coming to Zanzibar for your Holiday. This tour is the best way to learn more about how Zanzibar locals grow and uses different spices in our daily life.

We provide spice farm tours for all types of travelers; Sole Travelers, Couples, Families, and Friends. The tour includes lunch and fruits!

We provide a transport, so the driver will come to pick you from your Hotel to the Spice farm. This tour takes 2 hours at the Spice farm. Learn more here .

Get Details of Different Spices with Spice Farms Tour

In this tour , you will test and smell different spices that we grow at our farms. You will also learn how we use spices for traditional purposes. 

At the end of the tour, you will have fresh tropical fruits like Mangoes, Banana, Pineapple, etc with Spiced Rice Lunch (Pilau).

We prepare lunch by considering both Vegetarians and non-vegetarians travelers. And all ingredients is fresh from Zanzibar. You will also do spice shopping at the end of the tour.

Why Should You Go Spice Tours in Zanzibar ?

Zanzibar is now becoming a popular tourist destination in East Africa. Despite having attractive luxury Hotels, Beaches and fascinating History, spices have played its role to attract even more tourists to visit Zanzibar Islands.

Spices play an important part in the daily life of Zanzibar locals, spices are daily used in the Cuisines, traditional cosmetics and medicines etc. In this tour, you will explore all lists of spices that can be found in Zanzibar Islands.

List of Spices You Will Find in the Tour

During Spice tour in Zanzibar, you will be able to see different spice plants, herbs and different tropical fruits tree, because Zanzibar is a tropical archipelagos. 

Zanzibar is a popular known for its production of quality cloves in the world. In this spice farm tour, you will be able to see and learn why Zanzibar is popular for production of this spice. 

Also a Tour Guide will explain how we use cloves in our daily life in Zanzibar like for Medicine, Cosmetics etc.

In Zanzibar, we don’t grow too many Gingers compared to other spices like Cloves, black peppers or Hot Chillies. But you will also find this spice in the farms. We use Ginger mostly in our morning tea, local soups, cooking of Pilau, curries etc.

Turmeric is the member of Ginger Family. It is sometimes known as Indian saffron or the golden spice. This is the common spice grown and used in Zanzibar Islands. We normally use turmeric powder for Curries, local soaps, and Treating wounds

Nutmeg is a spice which is made by grinding the seed of the fragrant nutmeg also known as Myristica fragrans tree. When you go Spice tour, our Tour Guide will explain the whole process involved until we get the powder. 

Nutmeg can be used to make Tea, Porridge, sexual desire for women etc. You can’t miss to see this wonderful spice in your tour in Spice farm. 

Cinnamon is obtained from the back of a cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum verum). Cinnamon is mostly used in flavouring variety cuisines, sweet, snacks, cosmetics, medicine and so on.  Here in Zanzibar Islands, we use cinnamon to make tea, porridge, cooking pilau rice, and bread.

Cardamon is a spice obtained from the seeds of several plants in the genera Elettaria and Amomum in the Ginger family. In Zanzibar, we use cardamom for different purposes like baking variety bread types because of its strong amazing taste and smell.

Black Peppers

Also known as King of Spices, black pepper is very strong and it holds a lot of health benefits in Human body. We constantly grow black peppers in Zanzibar Islands, and you can find this in four different color forms; Black, Green, Red, and White.

We do not grow Vanilla in large scale compared to other spices like Cloves, but of course you must find Vanilla spice in every spice farm in Zanzibar, nut our local farmers here in Zanzibar only grow Vanilla for commercial purpose.

Lemongrass:

Lemongrass, also called citronella, and in swahili Mchaichai. Chai means a tea, we call this plant mchaichai because it is the common ingredient in Zanzibar tea. A tour guide is going further to explain the benefits of lemongrass with its uses during the tour.

Chili Peppers:

Spice Islands of Zanzibar is blessed with fertile soil which can support many types of Chili papers. We grow chili in our gardens and also for commercial use. If you go to any Spice Market , you must find chili peppers at cheap prices.

Spice Tours in Zanzibar is Not Just Spices!

During spice tours, not only spices but you will also find other different tropical fruits trees like Mango Trees, Banana Trees, Lich trees, Jack Fruits, Bread Fruits, etc.

Welcome to the Spice Island

Did you know? Zanzibar is also known as the Spices Island. This best spice tour will show you why Zanzibar is known as Spice Island! a Tour Guide will explain each and everything about spices and how they are used by Zanzibar families in our daily life.

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The Spice Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Zanzibar.  The island got its nickname ‘the Spice Island’ as a result of it being one of the world’s leading producers of spices such as clove, nutmeg and cinnamon during the 19th century. Your tour guide will describe how the various different plants can be used and you will have the chance to smell and taste a variety of spices, herbs and tropical fruits, including clove, lemongrass, nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, vanilla, coconut, papaya, chili, black pepper, jackfruit, cardamom, cassava and oranges.

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Enjoy Zanzibar with Zuri

The Zuri Zanzibar is perfect for anyone that is wanting a truly unique experience as this beautiful resort offers everything that you could need for a dream vacation. If you are looking for something that is off the beaten African tracks, a place that allows you to feel absolute peace and tranquility, then the Zuri Zanzibar is just right for you.

Why You Must Take a Spice Tour in Zanzibar

Everyone who visits Zanzibar ends up taking a spice tour.

It’s inevitable. After all, this cluster of islands off the coast of Tanzania is nicknamed the  Spice Islands , and there was once a time when Zanzibar was the largest producer of cloves in the world.

Spices were first introduced by the Portuguese back in the 16th century, when they were transported over from colonies in Goa and Brazil. It wasn’t until the Omanis arrived, though, several hundred years later, that the spice trade truly thrived.

The Sultan transported 50,000 slaves through Zanzibar each year, forcing a third of them to work on the spice farms in Tanzania — 30% of whom died every year due to the terrible conditions. These spice and slave trades combined to make Stone Town one of the richest cities in Africa.

These days, the production of cloves is declining while tourism is skyrocketing, resulting in much of the spice industry turning towards plantation tours as a way to stay in business.

I chose to base myself in Stone Town for my week in Zanzibar, both to save money  and to take a break from beaches after my recent trip to Mozambique . My plan was to spend most of my time exploring the narrow alleyways of Stone Town while taking the occasional day trip across the island to uncover what makes it so special.

And like every visitor to Zanzibar, the number one activity on my list was taking a spice tour.

Having that knowledge, though — that this was the one thing everybody comes to the Spice Island to do — gave me pause. I knew this would mean practically every tour company on the island was going to be offering inauthentic cookie-cutter experiences, featuring a conveyer belt crammed full of tourists being passed through as frequently as possible. Those are the type of tours that never fail to disappoint me.

I did my research, though, and I came across this tour . It was seemingly the only one on the island that also took you into a local village to meet a family and taste some of the food they grew on their land, before learning how to cook with them in their kitchen. From there, you’d be whisked off to a farm to learn about the spice trade of Zanzibar, while tasting dozens of their offerings. It sounded like my kind of experience, so I crossed my fingers and booked my spot in the minivan.

There can be many downsides to life as a solo traveller, but one of my greatest disappointments is turning up for a tour and discovering I’m the only person on it.

Still, my two [!] tour guides were friendly and chatty, so I was able to get some conversation in, as we discussed our favourite curries, ingredients, and cooking techniques on the drive out to the village.

When we arrived, I was introduced to the family who were going to be inviting me into their home, and they whisked me off for a tour of their garden. Their land was blanketed in cassava plants, and after I stopped to take a photo, my guide urged me to pull up some of the leaves. One of the women joined me, and together we collected food for our mid-morning snack.

We washed the leaves outside the hut and then placed them into a mortar, where I was then allowed to pestle them to pulp. The woman who was helping me cook brought out a coconut and began shredding the meat in preparation for making coconut milk. We added onions and peppers and spices to the milk, dropped in the crushed leaves, then took our bowl to the stove.

It was so delicious.

For something that was so simple and fast to make, I couldn’t get my head around how tasty the dish was. It was a blend of salty, creamy, and nutty, and I devoured the entire dish within minutes. Ever since making it, I’ve been on the hunt for cassava leaves so that I can recreate it, but I’ve found spinach to be a reasonable substitution.

After thanking the family for letting me into their home, we took a quick walk around the village, and I mostly fell in love with this kid:

We said our goodbyes and I was whisked off to the spice plantation, my taste buds tingling in anticipation.

With the scent of cloves and cinnamon filling the air, I clambered out of the van and took my first steps towards the farm. I’d expected there to be a hell of a lot of organisation in a place that needs to keep track of dozens of spices, so I was surprised to discover that — to my eyes, at least — all of the trees and plants had been planted all higgledy-piggledy across the land with little order. It was like wandering through an overgrown forest, with trees, shrubs, bushes, and vines blocking the sun’s rays from reaching me.

My guide motioned me over to something he referred to as the lipstick tree.

Also known as achiote, its seeds are used as a spice (including in cochinita pibil — my favourite thing to eat in Mexico!), as well as in lipstick and body paint, as demonstrated by one of the farm workers who was tagging along on my tour.

Almost any spice you can think of was grown on the land here, and as we trampled through the plants, I was thrilled to be using so many of my senses.

My guide would hack off part of a tree for me, then hand it over to crush between my fingers, smell, and taste, before asking me to guess what its name was. There was a time, back when I first started travelling, when I couldn’t barely tell the difference between onions and garlic, but by this point in my life, I could easily identify anything I was handed.

I was introduced to — deep breath! — cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and ginger root, before moving on to durian and jackfruit, vanilla pods and cocoa, liquorice, breadfruit, saffron, iodine, ylang ylang, lemongrass, and every form of pepper you can think of. Pineapples, mangoes, soursop, bananas… There was so much to discover in this part of Zanzibar, and I was delighted to be sampling a ridiculous amount of it. I love spices.

And I especially love playing with spices when this is what my surroundings look like.

Moments later, something took place that I’d personally describe as awkward as hell.

My guide led me into a clearing and then pointed towards another guy. Taking his cue, he began to scale the nearest palm tree, climbing higher and higher and higher while I slowly realised I was about to be the sole recipient of a performance.

“Welllcoooooommmmme,” he called out from in amongst the coconuts. “Welcome to Afriiiicaaaaaaa. Afriiiicaaaaaaaa!”

And, um, yeah.

I hate these kind of performances that are put on for tourists, and find them awkward and manufactured. I’d much rather, y’know, just sit down and have a conversation and feel like I’m on the same level as this guy, rather than feeling as though I’m being performed to because I’m a tourist.

With my guide watching for my reaction, I attempted to arrange my face into an expression that would convey just how excited I was by this development. Two men jumped out from behind a palm tree, bearing gifts. There was a crown made from leaves, as well as a necklace, and ring. Everyone was smiling at me as the crown was placed atop my head while I was trying not to cringe.

Several minutes later, the song was over, and I watched as the guy slid down the tree and handed me a fresh coconut. Someone hacked it open with a machete and handed it to me to drink.

At least that part was pretty damn cool.

Next up: sampling some of the local fruits!

Now, I’ve travelled reasonably extensively in the tropics, so this wasn’t an enormous learning experience for me. In fact, I felt a bit guilty as my guide was describing all of the fruits for me, expecting wonderment and nerves when I’d already tried them all before.

If you haven’t spent a huge amount of time hanging out in humidity, though, there’ll definitely be some interesting flavours to experience for the first time. Soursop and jackfruit are always a pleasure to eat (I live off of soursop smoothies whenever I’m in Vietnam!), and lychees, starfruit, and green bananas quickly followed.

Lunch comprised lemongrass tea and a Swahili biryani containing nine of the spices I’d just been introduced to, along with fried fish, potatoes, salad, and a tomato sauce. I ate my lunch alone — #solotravel — and prepared myself for the inevitable sales pitch.

I’d spotted a stall close to the exit and as we made to leave, I was introduced to its offerings. I grabbed a couple of bits, despite knowing I’d get better prices in Stone Town. I wanted to support the farm and its community, so paid for some unusual-sounding teas and curry powders to take home with me.

After handing out a handful of tips to my many, many guides, it was time to leave.

Would I Recommend Taking a Spice Tour?

Yes! If, like me, you love trying new flavours, you’ll gain a lot from the tour, and love getting to see how all of your favourite spices are grown. I spent a full week in Zanzibar and this was easily the highlight from my time on the island.

Overall, it was well worth the money I spent for the three-hour experience.

Tips for Taking a Spice Tour in Zanzibar

I took the Zanzibar Food and Spices tour , and booked it because it looked to be the most ethical option based on the reviews I read online. I loved my guides, enjoyed the experience, and would recommend it if you’re looking to get your spice on in Zanzibar. The only downside was the weird, touristy performance put on towards the end of the tour that had me cringing, as well as the expectation that you tip all of your guides. I don’t mind tipping when I travel — and I always tip well — but having to hand over money to five different people as a solo tour participant was a little meh .

It’s a popular tour and does sell out, so do book early to avoid disappointment. You can check availability for your travel details using the calendar below:

As always in Eastern Africa, you’ll want to pack both mosquito repellent and sunscreen . I always recommend getting a high-percentage of DEET before you arrive in the country, as it’s surprisingly tough to find the strong stuff on the ground. And make sure to wear strong sunscreen to protect your skin — if you’re going to be swimming, make sure you opt for a reef-safe option .

I always recommend packing a GRAYL water purifier bottle for travels to countries where you can’t drink the tap water. I’ve used it to drink water all over the world, from Mozambique to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and never once got sick. The filter within the GRAYL kills 99.999% of all viruses, bacteria, and cysts in water, making it entirely safe to drink. Not only that, but it also means you don’t have to ever buy bottled water again, so can both save the environment and your budget.

Bring small denominations of Tanzanian shillings for tipping your guides and buying spices and souvenirs afterwards. I found the spices to be more expensive on the farm than they were in Stone Town, but I still wanted to support the plantation and its owners with my money. When I was sipping cardamom tea in Lisbon months later, it was kind of cool to know I’d wandered past the exact plants it had been sourced from.

I stayed at  Lost and Found hostel in Stone Town while I was in Zanzibar. For an island that’s known for being expensive, this is one of the cheapest and best rated options around. I paid just $11 a night to stay in a double bed dorm room. Yes, that’s right — solo travellers get to sleep in double beds in this hostel!

You can check out my post on how to travel Zanzibar on a budget  for more information on how to save money while you’re on the island. I also have a post on the cost of travel in Tanzania if you’re planning on exploring the country in more depth.

Would you enjoy taking a spice tour on your travels?

Related Articles on Tanzania 💰 How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Tanzania? 🇹🇿 How to Visit Zanzibar on a Budget 🏖 22 Incredible Things to Do in Zanzibar, Tanzania ✈️ A Ridiculous Introduction to Travel in Tanzania

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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21 comments.

Achiote! That’s what the spice in Cuba was called that was used as lipstick during a tour! Thank you :-) The spice tour looks like a fun thing to do on Zanzibar. I haven’t visited much of Africa, but this is really inspiring me!

Yay! I hate sounding like a cliche but my travels in Africa have captivated me like nowhere else in the world, and the only travel that’s really exciting me at the moment is heading to new countries on the continent :-)

Thank you! And yes, I think you’d love it in Zanzibar!

Wow! I love reading about your trips to places that most people (I think) don’t really go to! I never thought anyone would make me want to go to Zanzibar.

Then I’m happy you read my post! Zanzibar is definitely worth visiting :-)

I would love to try out the spice tour! Just so I could find out how deprived my tastebuds are and what other flavors there are actually out there in the world. Thank you for the recommendation. This was an awesome read

Right?! I absolutely love discovering a brand new flavour I’ve never experienced before.

I can’t imagine joining a tour group and discovering you’re the only one there. I’d feel awkward the entire time, probably! But I love love love this post. I haven’t heard much about Zanzibar, and honestly this post is probably the most I’ve read about it! But I kind of want to go there now just for this tour alone.

It was a bit awkward! Especially as I had several tour guides at once, haha.

Wow! seems like an amazing tour full of delicious delicacies. Thanks for sharing Lauren.

It sure was! :-)

For a foodie like me it’s so amazing to have come across such an interesting blog. Loved it.

Oh, thanks so much, Markus! :-)

What a lovely experience! And I’m giving you another thumbs up for your witty title — you literally and metaphorically became a real Spice Girl! I’ve read about this spice tour before, but I never really understood what happens on one. So nice to find your blog that really gave me a clear visualization of the tour, and I loved it! It appears to be an experience that’s not only informative but also lets you know about the life of the locals. The pictures are beautiful, too! I’d definitely try this one when I get to Zanzibar and become a spice girl myself!

Hey, thanks so much, Krisan! :-) It was such a wonderful experience to have in Zanzibar.

Hi there, for some reason your link to the Zanzibar Food and Spices tour goes to one of your posts about Thailand…can you pls send me the correct link? thanks so much for your post!

Oh, haha! That is so weird! The tour is: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=192347&clickref=&p=%5B%5Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.viator.com%252Ftours%252FZanzibar%252FZanzibar-Food-and-Spices-Tour-Including-Traditional-Swahili-Lunch%252Fd5590-6502TZZA%5D%5D

Thanks for the article! It is such a same the tour isn’t available anymore when I opened the link.

It is still available! The link redirects you to a list of tours and the one at the top that’s highlighted in blue is the one I recommend: “Zanzibar: Spice Farm Tour with Traditional Cooking Lesson”. I had a quick look and they have availability for much of the next year.

Hello Lauren!

I wanted to ask if you know the name of the dish you made?

Looks like it’s kisamvu!

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SISO SPICE FARM

Welcome to siso spice farm.

WHAT WE DO:

Spice Tour, Cooking class for swahili foods, Village Tours, Transport for hire, Tours guiders who speaks multiple Languages, we accept internship and volunteer opportunities, we provide accomodation for people who want to experience the real life of Zanzibar and live among the community, we provide organic products such as coconut oil, ginger powder, vanilla etc.

Would you like to live and experience the life among the indigenous?

If the answer is YES, we can help you with that:

Here at siso spice farm we have special program for any of you wjo will like to experience the life and love the life among the indigenous, we have very well arrangements that we hope will be so pleasing and well organised just for you to enjoy and feel the vibes of Zanzibarian life and Tanzania as a whole. For mr information please contact us.

Surrounded by scenic beauty and attractive tourist attractions and amazing land scape of endless spices, indeed we make it convenient for you to visit all the beautiful places, see and taste all the amazing smell and aroma of Zanzibar with our inhouse guide. We can also help you take home these amazing tastes so you can enjoy them with family and friends.

Experience the Life of Zanzibar City

We will help you experience Zanzibar life in its true sense. From living among the residents to eating authentic delicacies you are sure to walk home with memories and wonderful moments.

Meet Mr. Siso: Meet Mr. Siso: Such a humble soul with the experience of more than 20 years in the travelling and tourism industry as well as spice studies. You will never regret meeting him, for he is an easy person to talk to. 

Our Services

• Agriculture and Farming services
• Cooking Classes and preparing Zanzibarian foods ( where we teach you how to prepare most delicious and popular Zanzibarian, Tanzanian and African meals as a whole such as Pilau, Samosa, Briyan etc.)
• Internship and Volunteer Opportunities
• Indigenous and Community life Experience 
• Organic Spice Farming
• Natural Products from Organic Spices
• Best Product…… Very healthy and varieties of oils available in one shop such as coconut oil, sesame oil, peanut oil etc also other products you can check out.
• We are the cheapest and affordable price compare to other Spice Farms.
• Cooking Class and Spice tour = 15 USD per Person – Reservations are required).
• Spice Tour with Lunch = 10 USD per Person – Reservations are required ).
• Spice Tour Only = 5 USD per Person )

COOKING CLASS

Cooking Classes and preparing Zanzibarian foods ( where we teach you how to prepare most delicious and popular Zanzibarian, Tanzanian and African meals as a whole such as Pilau, Samosa, Briyan etc.

SPICE TOUR WITH LUNCH

Full Tour will be given along with the lunch for our lovely customers to improve the experience and enjoy the beautiful and unexplainable taste of Zanzibar and Tanzanian aroma as a whole.

ORGANIC PRODUCTS

We provide the Best and Pure Organic Products…… Very healthy and varieties of oils available in one shop such as coconut oil, sesame oil, peanut oil etc also other products you can check out.

INTERNSHIP & VOLUNTEER

Spices & Zanzibarian Aroma

If you are looking for a relaxing, refreshing, amazing, tastefull and rejuvenating taste of Zanzibar Spices, Foods and enjoyment experience altogether, we offer all of that under one roof. We are here to surve and make your travelling unforgetable forever and always.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Ginger is a flowering plant that originated in Southeast Asia. It’s among…

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) The spice known as turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement…

Lemon Grass

Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon) Lemongrass growing in the tropics (Zanzibar). Lemongrass is an aromatic tropical grass…

Our Inside Pictures

Take a look at some pretty pictures captured in and around our premises.

Stay Connected With Us

What our guests say.

We take pride in serving our guests with the best experience. Read what they say.

Plan an Unforgettable Experience in Siso Spice Farm Today!

We can help you enjoy your stay and experience within your allotted budget.

Book Your visit Now

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Wander With Alex

Zanzibar Island: Beautiful Beaches, Adventure, and Swahili Culture

Posted: February 24, 2024 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

Zanzibar is an island archipelago in the Indian Ocean and belongs to the East African country of Tanzania. This paradise vacation destination offers something for beach lovers, sports enthusiasts, history buffs, animal lovers, foodies, and adventurers.

Spice Island, or as this island archipelago is also known as, got its name from the spice trade. Which is only one of the chapters in the island's rich history. You can learn about it while getting lost in UNESCO World Heritage site Stone Town alleyways, visiting the Slave market, Prison Island, or admiring the Freddie Mercury house.

Outside Zanzibar City, you will find numerous spice plantations, pristine sandy shores, aromatic cuisine, endangered Red Colobus Monkey, rich Swahili heritage, and warm hospitality. It is an ideal tropical island destination for solo travelers, families, and honeymooners.

Best Time to Visit Zanzibar Island

Being only 6° South of the equator, Zanzibar enjoys warm tropical weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and tropical island seekers.

However, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons. The main one is from June to September, and the small dry season is from mid-December to mid-February. During these months, travelers can expect clear skies with sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and pleasantly warm temperatures for visiting spice plantations and historic sites. Calm seas create ideal conditions for exploring the best beaches in Zanzibar for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming in the turquoise waters.

It is important to mention that dry seasons coincide with Zanzibar's peak tourist season. This means higher prices on accommodation and more visitors on the island.

There are two rainy seasons (March to May and October to December), where the weather can still be enjoyable with more showers.

Getting to and Around Zanzibar Island

The best way to get to Zanzibar is by flying into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), located on Unguja Island, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Numerous international airlines offer direct flights to Zanzibar from major cities such as Nairobi, Dubai, and Qatar.

Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and then take a short (40 min) domestic flight or ferry (2 h) to Zanzibar. Ferry services provide an affordable and scenic option for travelers who prefer sea travel.

On the island, various transportation options are available to explore Zanzibar's attractions and easily get around the island. You can choose from local dala dala buses and taxis to rental cars and scooters.

Things to Do in Zanzibar Island

With its pristine beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites, Swahili vibes, and abundant natural wonders, Zanzibar has many amazing things to do for all tastes and budgets. Whether you're seeking relaxation on sun-kissed shores, immersion in the history of Stone Town's doors, or thrilling adventures in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. From snorkeling to culture, below are the best things Zanzibar has to offer that must be included in your Zanzibar itinerary .

Zanzibar Beaches

Zanzibar beaches, with powdery white sand and turquoise ocean color, are postcard-perfect. Most accommodations on Zanzibar's east and north-west sides are beachfront and have a pool. The decision on where you will go will depend on the tide. Beaches on the East side have a bigger difference between the low and high tide than those on the NW.

Jambiani Beach (South East): A quieter village with a nice mix of locals and tourists. Here, you will find pristine sands, opportunities for kitesurfing, and admiring algae farms.

Paje Beach (South East): A livelier beach than Jambiani, but with enough of a tranquil vibe for perfect relaxation. It gets windy and is, therefore, great for anyone who loves kitesurfing.

Matemwe Beach (North East): This less touristy beach is ideal for a quiet tropical getaway. It is close to some great snorkeling spots.

Nungwi Beach (North West): A famous beach where you can swim for a whole day. It is more touristic than the south beaches and has a more lively atmosphere.

Kendwa Beach (North West): Known for stunning sunsets and a vibrant beachfront scene with beach clubs and water sports activities.

Adventures in Nature

Mnemba Island:  Explore the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs off the coast of privately owned Mnemba Island.

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park: See rare red colobus monkeys, diverse bird species, and different types of mangroves.

Prison Island: Take a boat trip and learn why it is called Prison Island. Don’t skip the sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises and relax on secluded beaches.

Spice Farm: Dive into the island's spice trade history, visit one of the spice farms, and sample exotic spices like cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon.

Don’t skip the old part of Zanzibar City, Stone Town. Visit historic landmarks, wander through narrow alleyways, and bargain for souvenirs on vibrant markets in history-rich Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Things to do in Stone Town include:

Old Fort: Also known as Arab Fort, is the oldest building in Stone Town. Omanis built it in the 17th century to protect Zanzibar from potential invaders.

Anglican Church & Old Slave Market: Pay respect to more than 50.000 souls that were sold on the largest and last closed slave market in East Africa. Visit the Anglican church that was built directly on the site of the former slave market.

Freddie Mercury House: Take a photo in front of the house of the famous Queen’s frontman.

Stone Town Doors: Learn the difference between Arabic and Indian doors.

Forodhani Market: At night, visit Forodhani Gardens food market and try local Swahili dishes at affordable prices. Keep reading to find out what those are.

Restaurants in Zanzibar

Zanzibari cuisine is a reflection of the island's turbulent history. It is a fusion of Swahili, Arabic, Indian, and Portuguese influences that can not only be seen in stunning architecture but can also be tasted by dining at local restaurants.

Sample dishes like seafood curry, Biryani (rice infused with spices and topped with tender meats or seafood), and Zanzibar pizza (thin pancake-like crust filled with savory ingredients like minced meat, vegetables, and cheese). Then there are also dishes like Wali wa Nazi (coconut rice), Mshikaki (grilled meat skewers), and Ugali (maize porridge), paired with aromatic curries and flavorful sauces.

For dessert, try Mandazi (coconut doughnuts) and Kaimati (fried dumplings coated in syrup), a wide variety of fresh tropical juices, sugarcane juice, or refreshing coconut water. Here are some of the best places to eat in Zanzibar:

Forodhani Night Market: Street food style food market in Stone Town where you can try local Swahili dishes.

The Rock Restaurant: A unique seafood restaurant on a rock on the east coast of Zanzibar. Enjoy panoramic views and delicious seafood dishes paired with refreshing cocktails. The restaurant is small, so book your table in advance.

Emerson Spice Tea House: Located in the heart of Stone Town. Dine in a historic setting for breakfast, eat Swahili dishes at lunch, or go in for their famous rooftop tea ceremony at sunset.

Zanzibar Island Day Trips and Tours

Zanzibar is big enough to keep your travel itinerary full for a week but also small enough so you can stay on one part of the island and explore the rest with day trips and organized tours all around the island.

Prison Island Tour:  Take a boat trip to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, and visit the giant Aldabra tortoise sanctuary. Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in the clear waters, and explore the island's rich history.

Spice Tour: A must-do in Zanzibar is to visit a spice tour, where you will learn about spices, find out how they are used, and try them. You can also book a cooking class and try to make traditional dishes with local spices.

Jozani Forest Tour: Discover the unique flora and fauna of Jozani Forest, from different types of mangroves, birds, and rare red colobus monkeys.

Stone Town Tour: Wander through the winding streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a knowledgeable guide to get the best stories and local insight on attractions like the Sultan's Palace, baths, doors, and markets.

Zanzibar Island Vacation

Zanzibar may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a tropical getaway. Still, it is a perfect exotic destination with its spicy blend of cultural richness and stunning nature.

It offers a wide range of activities, from snorkeling to kitesurfing, admiring giant Aldabra Tortoises on Prison Island, or searching for Red Colobus Monkeys in Jozani Forest. Listening to happy Swahili beats or following the steps of young Farrokh Bulsara.

There are plenty of opportunities for adventure or for a relaxed time off on the world’s most beautiful beaches. From Paje and Jambiani on the East to lively Nungwi and Kendwa on the West.

Whether you're diving into the colorful underwater world or wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town. Zanzibar has it all combined with delicious food and welcoming people.

Zanzibar Island is one of the dream vacation spots that leaves a mark and makes it to your bucket list of places to return to.

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