Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and covers an area of over 50 square kilometers. It is the only national park on the island. The park features diverse landscapes, including dense native forests, extensive mangroves, and captivating coral rag forests. At its heart lies the iconic Jozani forest, which is home to the endangered Kirk’s red colobus monkeys

These monkeys, named after Sir John Kirk (a British Resident of Zanzibar who brought the attention of zoological science world to the monkeys), face a vulnerable future due to their declining global population. Known for their black faces with long, white hair, a distinguishing pink mark on their lips and nose, and adept tail balancing, they play a crucial role in the park’s conservation efforts since the mid-1990s and makes them a symbol of the park’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage

In the past, locals heavily exploited the park’s resources. As early as the 1930s, commercial activities began when an Arab landowner established a sawmill. Despite subsequent conservation efforts, including forest reserve declarations in the 1950s and 1960s, challenges persisted. Locals continued to fell trees and engage in hunting, threatening the delicate ecosystem. However, a transformative era began in 2004. That year, Jozani Forest merged with Chwaka Bay to form Zanzibar’s first and only national park: Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. This merger marked a significant reduction in resource exploitation. The park’s establishment signaled a commitment to preserving its unique landscapes and biodiversity

Today, this unique national park attracts visitors from around the world who seek to explore its rich biodiversity. With approximately 100 tree species, 50 butterfly species, and 291 plant species, the park promises a delightful natural encounter. Birdwatchers may also delight in spotting various of over 40 bird species, including Saunders’s terns and Mangrove kingfishers, which occasionally emerge from the dense forests

Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park remains open year-round. However, for the best hiking experience across its unique trails, plan your visit during the dry seasons (June to October and December to February) as the park easily floods during rainy seasons, although you may still be able to hike. Knowledgeable park guides enhance the visitors’ experiences by sharing more insights about the park’s ecology and diverse species. To preserve the park’s beauty, follow the rules, maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid littering