Jozani Forest and Uzi Island Mangrove Kayaking Day Trip

This Jozani Forest and Uzi Island mangrove kayaking day trip pairs a guided walk in Zanzibar’s only national park with a paddle through the tidal channels of the island’s southwest coast. The forest visit centres on the Zanzibar red colobus, a monkey found nowhere else on earth and numbering fewer than 2,000 individuals.

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park was established in 2004 and protects the largest surviving stand of indigenous forest on Unguja, roughly 40 kilometres from Stone Town. Troops of red colobus here are habituated to visitors and are usually seen at close range from the trails, alongside Zanzibar Sykes’ monkeys, bush babies and Aders’ duiker. The walk includes the raised boardwalk that crosses the swamp forest at the park’s eastern edge.

Uzi Island lies south of Jozani, a village island reached by a causeway that floods at high tide. Kayaking follows narrow channels through dense mangrove, with crabs, mudskippers and shore birds along the banks. The water is calm and the paddling undemanding, so the trip suits complete beginners as readily as experienced kayakers, with a safety briefing and guides throughout.

Because Uzi is tide dependent, collection times vary and the two activities may run in either order.

After your forest exploration, it’s time to hit the water for an exhilarating kayaking adventure at Uzi Island. Paddle through serene mangrove channels and along the pristine coastline, where crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant underwater world.

Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a beginner, our expert instructors will ensure you feel confident and safe as you navigate the tranquil waters. As you glide past stunning landscapes, keep an eye out for playful marine life. This is the perfect way to experience Zanzibar’s natural beauty from a different perspective.