Wildlife Encounters: Animals You'll Meet in Zanzibar

While Zanzibar is famous for its beaches, the island is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. From endemic species to marine creatures, here's what you might encounter during your visit.

Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkeys

The Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey is endemic to Zanzibar and one of the most endangered primate species in the world. These distinctive monkeys with their rusty-red backs and black limbs can be found in the Jozani Forest. They're known for their curious nature and can often be spotted in groups feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers.

Aldabra Giant Tortoises

On Prison Island (Changuu), you'll find Aldabra Giant Tortoises, some of which are over 150 years old. These gentle giants were originally a gift from the British governor of Seychelles in the late 19th century. Visitors can feed and interact with these fascinating creatures under supervision.

Dolphins

The waters around Kizimkazi in southern Zanzibar are home to both bottlenose and humpback dolphins. Early morning boat trips offer the chance to spot these intelligent marine mammals in their natural habitat, and in some cases, even swim alongside them.

Sea Turtles

Zanzibar's waters are home to five species of sea turtles: Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback. Snorkeling or diving around the coral reefs offers a good chance of spotting these graceful creatures gliding through the water.

Bushbabies

Also known as galagos, these nocturnal primates can be found in forested areas across Zanzibar. With their large eyes and distinctive calls, they're a fascinating sight on night walks. The Jozani Forest offers guided night tours where you might spot these elusive creatures.

Butterflies

Zanzibar is home to over 50 species of butterflies, adding splashes of color to the island's forests and gardens. The Zanzibar Butterfly Centre near Jozani Forest allows visitors to walk among hundreds of butterflies and learn about their life cycles.

Marine Life

The coral reefs surrounding Zanzibar are teeming with marine life. Snorkelers and divers can expect to see colorful reef fish, moray eels, octopuses, rays, and occasionally reef sharks. The waters around Mnemba Atoll are particularly rich in marine biodiversity.

Birds

Birdwatchers will be delighted by Zanzibar's avian diversity. The island is home to over 200 bird species, including the Zanzibar Red Bishop, Fischer's Turaco, and the endemic Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul. Jozani Forest and the Ngezi Forest Reserve are excellent spots for birdwatching.

When encountering wildlife in Zanzibar, it's important to do so responsibly. Always maintain a respectful distance, never feed wild animals (unless at designated feeding areas with proper guidance), and follow the instructions of your guides. By respecting the island's wildlife, we can help ensure these species continue to thrive for generations to come.