In the centre of Zanzibar Island, where the flat coral plains give way to a rare patch of ancient forest, lives one of the world's most endangered primates — the Zanzibar red colobus monkey. Found nowhere else on Earth, this extraordinary creature is Zanzibar's most iconic wildlife and a visit to Jozani Forest to see them is one of the island's most memorable experiences.
What is Jozani Forest?
Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park — usually simply called Jozani Forest — is Zanzibar's only national park. It protects a rare groundwater forest ecosystem that was once widespread across the island but has been reduced by farming to this single protected patch covering around 50 square kilometres.
The forest is extraordinary — ancient fig trees draped in vines, a remarkable mangrove boardwalk through tidal channels, and the sounds of tropical birds filling the canopy above you.
The Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey
The Zanzibar red colobus (Piliocolobus kirkii) is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. An estimated 3,000 to 5,000 remain — all of them on Zanzibar Island. This is the only place on Earth you can see them.
They are spectacular animals. Adults have striking red-brown backs, white or cream undersides and distinctive black and white faces with a permanently surprised expression. They live in large social groups of 30 to 50 individuals and spend most of their time in the forest canopy feeding on leaves, flowers and unripe fruit.
The monkeys in Jozani are completely accustomed to human visitors — walking among a troop as they move through the trees above you and sometimes at ground level is a genuinely magical experience. They come remarkably close.
The Mangrove Boardwalk
Beyond the monkey viewing, Jozani has a beautiful raised boardwalk that winds through a mangrove forest and tidal creek. The mangroves here support an extraordinary ecosystem — fiddler crabs, mudskippers, kingfishers and monitor lizards are all commonly seen. The boardwalk gives you an elevated view into the heart of the mangrove system without disturbing it.
Other Wildlife in Jozani
Beyond the colobus monkeys, Jozani supports remarkable biodiversity. Sykes monkeys are common. Over 50 species of birds have been recorded including the rare Zanzibar fiscal shrike and several endemic subspecies found only on the island. Vervet monkeys, elephant shrews and various chameleon species also live in the forest.
Best Time to Visit
Jozani can be visited year-round. The monkeys are always present and the forest is beautiful in every season. Morning visits are generally best for monkey activity as the troops are most active in the cooler early hours.
Avoid visiting immediately after heavy rain when the forest trails can become very muddy and the monkeys tend to shelter in the canopy.
Practical Information
Jozani is located in the centre of Zanzibar Island approximately 35 kilometres from Stone Town and 20 kilometres from Paje on the east coast. The drive from Paje takes around 30 minutes.
Entry requires a park fee which supports the conservation of the forest and the local communities surrounding it. A local guide is included in the entry and is essential — they know exactly where the monkey troops are and will share detailed knowledge of the forest ecology and conservation efforts.
We include Jozani Forest in several of our tour packages and can arrange a standalone visit. Contact our team on WhatsApp at +255 688 686 983.
HuShop Team
Paje, Zanzibar · Travel writers & local experts