What happens on a Zanzibar Spice Tour? This group found out!
Zanzibar isn't just about white sands and turquoise waters—it's a sensory journey that earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” A Zanzibar Spice Tour is an essential rite of passage for any traveler wanting to uncover the island's aromatic soul.
What to Expect
Most tours take place in the lush plantations of Kizimbani Village, just a short drive from Stone Town. You won’t just be looking at plants; you’ll be:
Tasting & Smelling: Guess the scent of fresh cinnamon bark, scratch-and-sniff turmeric roots, and taste exotic fruits like jackfruit, soursop, and custard apple right off the tree.
Learning the "Why": Discover how cloves—Zanzibar's most famous export—were once more valuable than gold.
Seeing the "How": Watch local "Butterfly Men" scale towering coconut trees while singing traditional Swahili songs like Hakuna Matata.
The Full Experience
A typical half-day excursion often ends with:
Palm Weaving: Guides often craft intricate hats, ties, or jewelry out of palm leaves for you to wear.
Authentic Lunch: Many tours include a traditional Swahili lunch featuring Pilau rice, seasonal vegetables, and fish, all seasoned with the very spices you just learned about.
Shopping: You can buy freshly packaged, organic spices like vanilla pods, nutmeg, and handmade soaps to take home.
Quick Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven, sometimes muddy plantation paths.
Carry cash: While you can buy spices at the farm, some travelers find better deals at the Darajani Market in Stone Town.
Stay Hydrated: The tropical humidity is real, so bring water, though you'll likely be offered fresh coconut water during the tour.