Zanzibar Gems: A Review of Prison Island, Jozani Forest, The Rock, & Kuza Cave

Zanzibar! That spice-scented island, sitting pretty in the Indian Ocean, offers visitors more than just pretty beaches and laid-back vibes. There is that allure of adventure, of historical exploration, of experiencing something authentic. You see, I just got back from exploring some of the island’s must-see spots, and I wanted to share what those spots were really like, not just the highlight reel. My adventures brought me to Prison Island, then Jozani Forest, over to The Rock restaurant, and deep into the heart of Kuza Cave. Hopefully, my take on it all will guide your travels so you can decide what to check out for yourself.

Prison Island: A Sobering Slice of History

So, Prison Island, or Changuu Island, is a spot with a name that suggests way more intrigue than what actually awaits. The island’s history gets rather dark since it was to be a place to house problem prisoners back in the 1860s, though that was never actually put to use. Actually, it became a quarantine spot for those with yellow fever outbreaks, which doesn’t make it sound any better, now does it? Anyway, it seems the main attraction now is a colony of giant Aldabra tortoises. Pretty hard to be scared looking at some giant turtles.

The boat trip there from Stone Town is that brief little ride, about a half-hour maybe, with those amazing views of Zanzibar’s coastline so clearly on display. When you get there, though, it feels that commercialism is quite on display, with those crowds and that scramble for guides. The tortoises themselves? They’re giant, alright; absolutely incredible, actually. That feeling of getting up close with creatures of that size, and that age, can still take your breath away. Sadly, you will find that people sitting on their shells for photos kind of cheapens the mood.

The old prison structure exists, of course, although there’s really not a whole bunch to it. What can you do other than to walk around? You might take some photos. I felt I learned very little there about the history; the guides tended to be far more focused on the tortoises and that selling of souvenirs. You should bring some water and maybe snacks, so you won’t overpay for anything available there. If you’re short on schedule time when visiting Zanzibar, maybe you could skip Prison Island. Though, for that reason alone, I am really happy I went. It showed a very particular view into Zanzibar that might typically be hidden from visitors.

Jozani Forest: Meeting the Red Colobus Monkeys

The Jozani Forest might actually deliver one of those very unique Zanzibar experiences if you get a kick out of seeing primates! What’s unique, so it’s almost too cute, is this place serves as the home to the Zanzibar red colobus monkeys. This is the one spot on the whole earth that you will see this animal existing wild in its natural habitat, isn’t that super?

The entrance fee gets to be what might seem like rather high, more or less. However, it does go to support the conservation efforts, at least that’s my belief. Guides lead you through the forest trails, telling stories all about the plant and animal life. Seeing the red colobus monkeys comes very naturally, not that hard really, I suppose that happens just about every tour that rolls through! Those fuzzy creatures are rather accustomed to humans, too; they frolic, play, eat just nearby tourists. Just be mindful: Don’t touch or feed them, please? Also, there’s that mangrove swamp on site, that trip through is kinda eerie, very scenic, showing off those roots that rise out of the water.

The forest path can get a bit tricky. so be certain to put on some solid footwear. Insect repellent is so vital, seriously. Keep in mind the amount of people there at certain times in the day, it just gets rather crowded. So, if at all you can arrange a visit earlier or later in the day, then I suggest that. I’m very glad I chose to visit Jozani Forest, as I think a really amazing animal encounter awaits.

The Rock Restaurant: Dining with a View

Ok, this! The Rock Restaurant is what you may call Zanzibar’s culinary postcard. Basically, what happened here is, that it was erected atop a rock, like your typical picture-postcard stuff. So, the setting will strike you as almost impossibly amazing.

You access The Rock by walking at low tide. Alternatively, boat service gets offered during high tide. Obviously, if you can time your arrival with the tides, I recommend it to keep costs down. It’s a little steep in price. Yet, you aren’t paying just for the food, which, I will have to say, is good; though you’re truly paying for this experience. Very understandably, reservations will prove totally necessary because it’s super sought after, seriously.

Seafood is basically the main attraction on the menu, and as can be, the preparations feature fresh, local ingredients. Is it quite the finest meal that I had in Zanzibar? Really, probably not. But sipping a cold drink while gazing off at the Indian Ocean… that’s not so easy to beat, and is something memorable. I thought the overall experience might border on the overrated, yet still, I believe it delivers, just that once. I would tell almost everyone to check it out, just prepare yourself to deal with that price tag.

Kuza Cave: An Oasis of Tranquility

So, Kuza Cave tends to be so very much more than just a simple cave; the location ends up being almost like an oasis or cenote that might turn you loose. It’s rather hidden away in the heart of Zanzibar, actually. The visit could also become your little trip into relaxation and culture, pretty unique, truly.

What might stand out is the crystal-clear, turquoise waters in the cave which look appealing for just swimming around, actually. Swimming within the cave is supposed to be extremely rejuvenating and a really cool experience! It’s surrounded by verdant foliage that feels extremely tropical. It’s also a great spot just to pause, relax and appreciate the nature going all around. You will see they make the space welcoming and relaxing.

There tend to be cultural experiences, too. Oftentimes, the local community offers drumming lessons. Another fun experience might come with cooking demos. It’s a chance just to have that connection to Zanzibar culture, like your culture being shared between friends. Kuza Cave feels that unexpected kind of find on the island and can give any visitor a break from the shore. You can even stop in, and get a feeling for it if it will be up your alley!

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

In all, each of these spots offers something uniquely Zanzibar! Really, what’s there to lose trying them out? Prison Island has those historical facts, however, they aren’t delivered well, in a very cookie-cutter manner. The highlight of the trip tends to be the tortoises. Jozani Forest shows up those unique monkeys in this way. Also, The Rock restaurant is there as a very special treat for any trip and worth doing once if you think your travel needs to involve Instagram pictures. Kuza Cave is for the explorer seeking some cultural experience, it would feel quite soothing! I hope what I said helps with your itinerary. After all, experiences may just give you very different and valuable meanings!