Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
1 Day Zanzibar Spice Tour
Our 1 day Zanzibar spice tour shows you why Zanzibar is called the Spice Island. It is a relaxed half-day excursion to a spice farm full of tropical fruits, spices and rare plants. Along the way, the trip also takes in the Kidichi Persian Baths and a swim at Mangapwani beach. As a result, it is an easy and tasty way to spend a day on the island.
Trip overview
On this tour, you learn about Zanzibar spices with all your senses. First, you see how the plants grow. Then, you taste, smell and touch them. Your guide also explains how each spice is used in Zanzibari cooking, as well as in cosmetics and medicine. You can expect to see cloves, nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla and many more.
A short history of the Spice Island
Portuguese traders introduced spices to the island in the early 16th century. However, they failed to build a spice trade. That only changed in the 19th century, when Omani Arabs came to Zanzibar. From then on, they developed the island into a major spice-growing centre, and spices are still grown here today.
Your day on the Zanzibar spice tour
Morning: the spice farm
After meeting your guide in the morning, you drive to the spice farm. Once there, you take a walk through the farm to see the spices and fruits growing. At the same time, your guide shares detailed stories about how each one is grown and used.
Lunch with local guides and farmers
Next, you have lunch at the guides’ centre. Here, you taste Zanzibari spices in real home-style food. In addition, it is a great chance to chat with the local guides and farmers and ask them questions.
Afternoon: return to your hotel
In the afternoon, you drive back to your lodge or to the place where you met your guide in the morning. That marks the end of your Zanzibar spice tour.
Highlights
- Hands-on spice tasting. First, you see, smell, touch and taste fresh spices straight from the plant.
- Famous Zanzibar spices. Look for cloves, nutmeg, pepper, cinnamon, ginger and vanilla.
- Tropical fruits and rare plants. In addition, discover fruits and plants you may never have seen before.
- A spiced local lunch. Enjoy a meal at the guides’ centre with local farmers.
- Kidichi Persian Baths and Mangapwani beach. Finally, add some history and a swim to your day.
Who this tour suits
This tour suits almost everyone. For example, food lovers, curious travellers and families all enjoy it. There is only light walking on the farm, so you do not need to be especially fit. Also, because it takes only part of the day, it fits easily between beach days or after a safari on the mainland.
In addition, the tour is a good choice for a rainy or cloudy day, when the beach is less appealing. Children usually love smelling and guessing the spices. Meanwhile, keen cooks often leave with new ideas and a bag of fresh spices for their kitchen at home.
Best time to go
You can join a spice tour all year round. Generally, the drier months are the most comfortable for walking around the farm. On the other hand, the wetter months bring lush green plants, though you should expect some showers. Since Zanzibar is hot and humid, a morning start is usually the most pleasant.
Tips for your spice tour
- Wear light, modest clothing. Zanzibar is a conservative island, so cover your shoulders and knees in villages.
- Bring sun protection. A hat, sunscreen and water keep you comfortable.
- Pack swimwear. You will want it for Mangapwani beach.
- Carry some cash. Many visitors like to buy spices to take home.
- Ask questions. The guides love to share how spices are used in local life.
Combine with more of Zanzibar
The spice tour is a perfect add-on to a beach stay. For instance, you can spend another day on the water with our 1 day Zanzibar cruise and snorkelling trip. Alternatively, you can explore Stone Town, Prison Island and Jozani Forest on the 7 day Zanzibar holiday, which also includes an in-depth spice tour. Stone Town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more ideas, see our guide to Zanzibar beach holidays.
Every trip with Roots Tours & Travel is tailor-made. So, just tell us your dates and group size. Then, we will plan your Zanzibar spice tour and send you a free quote.
Book Now
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
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