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Zanzibar Spice Tour

4.8 (156 reviews)

Discover why Zanzibar is known as the 'Spice Island' on this aromatic journey through working spice plantations with tastings and demonstrations.

TZS 35/per person
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3-4 hours
Spice plantations near Kidichi, Zanzibar
Group Size: 1-15 people

Highlights

  • Discover how spices grow and learn to identify them in their natural state
  • Experience the aromas and flavors of fresh spices through tastings and demonstrations
  • Learn about the historical importance of the spice trade to Zanzibar
  • Watch impressive coconut climbing demonstrations
  • Enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch featuring local spices (optional)

About this tour

Zanzibar earned its nickname "The Spice Island" due to its long history as a major spice producer and trading hub. This sensory tour takes you to working spice plantations where you'll discover how spices are grown, harvested, and processed.

During this immersive experience, you'll:

  • Walk through lush spice plantations with an expert guide who will identify various spices and tropical fruits
  • Learn to identify spices like cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg, and vanilla in their natural state
  • Discover the traditional uses of spices in cooking, medicine, cosmetics, and even dyes
  • Participate in a spice guessing game using your senses of smell, taste, and touch
  • Watch demonstrations of coconut climbing and harvesting techniques
  • Sample fresh tropical fruits in season and taste spiced tea
  • Have the opportunity to purchase fresh, high-quality spices directly from the source

This tour provides fascinating insights into the spice trade that shaped Zanzibar's history and economy. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the spices you use in everyday cooking and learn about their journey from plant to plate.

The experience concludes with a traditional Swahili lunch featuring dishes prepared with the very spices you've just learned about, offering a perfect culmination to this aromatic journey (if lunch option is selected).

Itinerary

Pickup

Morning pickup from your Stone Town hotel or meeting point.

Plantation Tour

Guided walk through working spice plantations with detailed explanations of various spices and their cultivation.

Spice Identification

Interactive spice guessing game using your senses of smell, taste, and touch.

Demonstrations

Watch traditional coconut climbing and harvesting demonstrations.

Tastings

Sample fresh tropical fruits in season and taste spiced tea.

Lunch & Return

Optional traditional Swahili lunch followed by return transfer to Stone Town.

Includes

  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Transportation from/to Stone Town
  • Spice plantation entrance fees
  • Spice and fruit tastings
  • Coconut climbing demonstration
  • Bottled water
  • Traditional Swahili lunch (if option selected)

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off outside Stone Town
  • Additional food and drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guide (optional)
  • Spice purchases

Practical Information

Start Time

9:00 AM or 2:00 PM

Meeting Point

Your Stone Town hotel or central meeting point

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun protection
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera
  • Cash for spice purchases or souvenirs

Accessibility

Easy - gentle walking on plantation paths

Languages

English, French, Italian, German, Spanish

Minimum Age

Suitable for all ages

Book Your Tour

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