Zanzibar, an island in East Africa, is a tropical paradise known for its wildlife, adventures, and stunning beaches. With its vast array of national parks, natural reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries, Zanzibar offers some of the best safari experiences around the globe.
Zanzibar has something for everyone, whether it’s viewing elephants, lions, or leopards in their natural settings or taking in the breathtaking waterfalls and forests. In this complete trip, we’ll take you to some of Zanzibar’s best safari spots and provide tips on how to make the most of your time there.
Continue reading to find out all you need to know about exploring the Zanzibar wilderness, from planning your trip and choosing the best safari vehicle to seeing wildlife and learning about the local customs.
1. Best Time To Visit Zanzibar Safari in 2023
When it comes to planning a Zanzibar safari, it’s important to consider the time of year you plan to visit. The best times of year for a Zanzibar safari are typically during the dry season, which runs from June to October, and from December to February. During these months, you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife as they gather around water sources.
One of the best times to visit is from June to October, which is the peak game-viewing season. The weather is dry and the skies are clear, making it easier to spot wildlife. The downside is that this is also the busiest time of year, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds.
Another great time to visit is from December to February, which is the calving season for wildebeest, zebra, and other animals. This is an excellent time to see baby animals taking their first steps and learning to survive in the wild.
It’s important to note that the rainy season, which runs from March to May and from November to December, can make some roads impassable and make it more difficult to spot wildlife. However, the landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, which can make for a more intimate safari experience.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Zanzibar for a safari depends on your priorities and preferences. Consider what you want to see and experience, and plan accordingly. Regardless of when you visit, a Zanzibar safari is an adventure of a lifetime that you won’t soon forget.
2. Top safari parks and reserves in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a land of adventure, and there is no better way to explore the wilds of this unique destination than by visiting its incredible safari parks and reserves. For wildlife enthusiasts, Zanzibar offers a wide range of options to explore the untamed natural beauty of the island. Here are some of the top safari parks and reserves that you should include in your itinerary:
1. Jozani Forest Reserve: Located in the heart of Zanzibar, Jozani Forest Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers. It is home to the rare Red Colobus Monkey, which is found only in Zanzibar.
2. Zanzibar Butterfly Centre: The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is a unique safari park that offers visitors the opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of exotic butterflies in their natural habitat.
3. Ngezi Forest Reserve: Ngezi Forest Reserve is a protected area on Pemba Island, which is part of Zanzibar. The reserve is home to a wide range of endangered species, including the Pemba Flying Fox and the Ader’s Duiker.
4. Chumbe Island Coral Park: The Chumbe Island Coral Park is an award-winning marine sanctuary that is home to some of the most spectacular marine life in Zanzibar. Visitors can snorkel and dive to explore the colourful coral reefs and diverse fish species.
5. Prison Island: Although not a traditional safari park, Prison Island is a must-visit for animal lovers. The island is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, which are over 100 years old and weigh up to 300 kg.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar and want to experience the thrill of wildlife adventures, make sure to include these top safari parks and reserves in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
3. The Big Five and other iconic animals of Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a land of diverse flora and fauna, with many iconic animals that are native to the island. The Big Five are the most famous of these animals, and they include the African elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
1. The African elephant, the largest land animal in the world, can be found in the Zanzibar national parks, where they roam freely. They are a sight to behold with their long trunks, big ears, and ivory tusks.
2. Leopards, on the other hand, are solitary and nocturnal animals that are often hard to spot in the wild. They can be found in the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park, where they roam the forests in search of prey.
3. Lions are also a must-see for visitors to Zanzibar. They are the only social big cats, living in groups called prides that consist of females, cubs, and a few males. You can spot these majestic animals in Mikumi National Park.
4. The Cape buffalo, also known as the African buffalo, is another of the Big Five. They are highly unpredictable and dangerous animals, with a reputation for being very aggressive when cornered or threatened. They can be seen in the Ruaha National Park.
5. Finally, there’s the rhinoceros, a critically endangered species that is highly sought after by poachers. In Zanzibar, there are two species of rhinos: the black rhino and the white rhino. They can be found in the Serengeti National Park, where they are protected from poachers.
Aside from the Big Five, Zanzibar is also home to other iconic animals that visitors can spot in the wild, including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and many species of antelope. A safari through the national parks of Zanzibar is the perfect way to explore the wilds of the island and get up close and personal with these iconic animals.
We hope that you enjoyed reading our comprehensive guide to safaris, wildlife, and adventure in Zanzibar. This island is home to some of the world’s most pristine and diverse ecosystems, and we hope that our guide has helped you plan an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re looking to explore the lush forests of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, discover the pristine coral reefs, or search for the elusive red colobus monkey, there’s something for everyone here. We hope that you have an incredible time exploring the wilds of Zanzibar and making memories that will last a lifetime!
