Wildlife and Marine Life on Zanzibar

Zanzibar is known for its dazzling blue waters and sand-white beaches, but the island also boasts some natural attractions and wildlife that are worth exploring.

The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre is a unique tropical garden dedicated to the protection of indigenous and rare species of Tanzania. The centre is a conservation and community initiative and on guided tours, visitors can learn about the fascinating life of butterflies, efforts to preserve their habitats and how the project is supporting the local people. A very child-friendly and educational experience.

Jozani Forest in the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park (Zanzibar's only state park) is home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkeys. A morning forest walk in the lush habitat is a wonderful opportunity for some nature therapy, led by guides who are extremely knowledgeable about the bird, plant and animal life and the forest conservation work. Combine a visit to the Butterfly Centre and Jozani Forest for a half-day excursion with a packed lunch provided by the hotel.

In northern Zanzibar is a community-led turtle conservation centre at the Mnarani Nungwi Aquarium ("Mnarani," meaning 'the place of the lighthouse' in Swahili), located in a natural tidal pool. The beach area is a known nesting site for hawksbill and green sea turtles and on a regular basis, conservationists and volunteers release hatchlings and rehabilitated turtles back into the Indian Ocean. The staff here are very informative about Zanzibar's turtles and tortoises. Bring your bathing suit for a chance to swim with the turtles.

Since 2014, Cheetah's Rock has offered a safe haven to wild animals rescued from various distressing circumstances. The conservation centre is open to visitors through pre-booked guided tours. Monkeys, lemurs, zebras, a white lion and a cheetah are just some of the eclectic species that have found a home here. For a flora and fauna day, a visit to Cheetah's Rock can be combined with a tour of the spice plantations, with lunch in the historic Stone Town district.

From The Zanzibar Collection's award winning hotels; a guided reef walk is an easy way to learn about Zanzibar's coastline marine life, with reef shoes available from the hotels' Water Club.

For an excursion further afield, take a coral reef safari from the hotels to a nearby lagoon. This two-hour excursion on a traditional Zanzibar dhow brings you to calm, clear waters where you can explore the vibrant coral life through snorkelling. Being a surface water activity, snorkelling is a great experience for all including children and beginners. Snorkelling gear is available from the Water Club.

All excursions and transport can be arranged direct from the Guest Relations teams at The Zanzibar Collection.